Ceramic space heaters have a deceptive name as they aren’t actually made entirely out of ceramic. Instead, the ceramic part is the heating element, made with a material known as positive temperature coefficient, or PTC, ceramic.
There are many reasons why you may decide to purchase the best ceramic heaters as opposed to other kinds of electric heaters. They’re not only an affordable but also durable, safe, and efficient form of space heating.
In this guide, we’ll start by discussing the factors you need to keep in mind when buying a ceramic heater. We have also researched and prepared the best ceramic heater reviews so you can just pick the one that fits your needs.
Short on time, here is our list of the best ceramic heaters on the market.
- Lasko 754200 Ceramic Space Heater
- Lasko 6462 Ceramic Space Heater
- Vornado MVH Vortex Ceramic Heater
- Lasko 760000 Cyclonic Ceramic Heater
- Honeywell HCE323V Digital Ceramic Heater
- Lasko 5160 Ceramic Tower Heater
- AmazonBasics Ceramic Heater
- Lasko 751320 Ceramic Tower Space Heater
- Comfort Zone Oscillating Space Heater
- De Longhi TCH7915ER Tower Ceramic Heater
- Lasko 755320 Ceramic Space Heater
- Lasko 5586 Digital Ceramic Tower Heater
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ceramic Heater
When you are looking for the best ceramic heater, there are certain things that you might want to consider first. Since there are countless types of ceramic heaters, knowing exactly what to look for would you pick the best product.
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Wattage
The wattage of the ceramic heater will tell you the exact power of the unit. The higher the wattage, the more heat it will be able to provide. A low-wattage ceramic heater may not be very efficient for large rooms, just as a high-wattage option might prove overkill for less square feet. Get a unit that has an appropriate wattage for the size of the room you are trying to warm.
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Dimension
If the room you are planning to warm up is very small, then the last thing you need is a ceramic heater that will take up all the space. You may be thinking that you need to keep the place warm – but if the wattage is right, whether the unit is big or small won’t really matter. If you don’t have that much space to go around, focus on a smaller portable ceramic heater that you can place in a corner, but that can release enough heating power.
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Warranty
A Ceramic heater tends to have many electrical components, which is why you need to ensure that your unit comes with a decent warranty. The longer the warranty, the better it will be. Most products are covered about one or two years under the warranty, but you can still find manufacturers that offer an impressive three-year length. If the warranty is not specified in the description, make sure to ask previous users about it.
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Heat Setting and Thermostats
For a ceramic heater to be truly energy efficient, you also need to look for heat settings – the more, the merrier. Everyone has individual preferences when it comes to heat, and while you might like things at a certain temperature, your spouse and kids might feel different. You might also want to look for a model with a built-in thermostat that will ensure the room remains at a comfortable temperature.
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Coverage Areas
The coverage area is the room size in which the ceramic heater will be most efficient. For example, if the room is too large, a smaller heater might take too long until it manages to warm up the place. This can leave many owners frustrated, believing that the heater doesn’t work – but in truth, they only got the coverage area wrong.
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Weight
The weight of the unit is also very important to consider. For example, if you are planning on moving it often from one room to another, then you will need a small and portable ceramic heater.
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Safety Features
Ceramic heaters deliver warth – and without the proper safety precautions, this can be quite dangerous. You’ll want to ensure it has the following:
1. Tip-Over Protection
In case the ceramic heater gets accidentally tipped over, you don’t want it to keep running and make room for a hazard. Therefore, you should look for a model that has tip-over protection safety feature. If it does tip over, it will automatically shut itself off.
2. Timer
This safety feature is appreciated by a good many house owners. Sometimes, you may want the ceramic heater to run for a pre-determined amount of time. No matter if you want it to automatically shut itself off in 1 hour or 8 hours, the timer will aid you in that regard.
3. Overheat Protection
A good and reliable heater should also have overheat protection. This way, if you reach a temperature that is considered to be unsafe for a certain component, the ceramic heater should shut itself off. Thus, you extend the longevity of your product.
4. Cool to Touch Housing
If you have kids or pets in your household, you should look into a product that has cool-to-touch housing. This way, even if they unknowingly touch the surface, they will not be burned or harmed in any way.
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Extra Features
Some people might prefer their ceramic heater to have a particular set of features. Some of the most popular are:
1. Auto Mode
A ceramic heater might automatically go from high to low heating settings, depending on the temperature in your room. However, this feature is only available for the models that have a built-in thermostat.
2. Oscillation
If you desire more even heating throughout the room rather than just focusing on a particular spot, then you might want to consider oscillation. This feature will rotate the ceramic heater in various directions, using fans to deliver the heat evenly.
3. Remote Control
We have to admit: sometimes, we are just too lazy to go to the heater. This is why a remote control can be so convenient, as it allows you to control the unit from a distance.
4. Handle
A ceramic heater might be lightweight, but unless it has carrying handles, it can be very difficult for you to carry it from one point to another. This is why you should ensure it has at least one handle.
5. Fan Only Option
Sometimes, you may not even need the heat along with the fan. For when the temperatures are warm outside, you might want to look for products that have a fan-only option. This way, you won’t have to buy separate fans for summer.
Top Rated Ceramic Heater Reviews (Updated List)
1. Lasko 754200 Ceramic Space Heater – Best Value
No products found.
The Lasko Ceramic Space Heater 754200 is perfect for a home or office as it is a portable device. With three quiet settings of high, low, and fan only, it’s ideal for warming an area quickly and efficiently.
It has an adjustable thermostat so you can maintain your preferred room temperature. The thermostat has eleven different temperature settings, so there’s a lot of leeway with regards to achieving the perfect temperature.
Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to move around so you can direct heat exactly where it’s needed. If you’re sitting on your computer, you can bring it to the study, if you’re keen to do some work on your car you can bring it with you to the garage. It’s suitable for all sorts of spaces, no matter what activity you’re doing.
This well designed energy efficient ceramic heater can warm a space of up to 300 square feet, despite its small size. This heater features a cool to the touch exterior, which allows the body to say cool even when operating. Its overheat protection, for example, means that it will not overheat even if you leave it on for too long.
Pros:
- Adjustable thermostat
- Three heat settings
Cons:
- Not suitable for heating really large spaces
2. Lasko 6462 Ceramic Space Heater
- Choice of 2 Heat Settings - including high heat and low heat plus an Auto setting make this electric space heater ideal for warming up an area in your home or home office. With full-circle oscillation this heater distributes warm air throughout the entire room
- 3 Heat Sweep Settings - allows this space heater to distribute warm air throughout large rooms. The full circle design allows you to select 90, 170, or full 360 degree coverage. While an easy to clean filter ensures the heater runs efficiently
- Adjustable Programmable Thermostat - with digital display allows you to adjust the heater's 1500 watt ceramic heating element. With an easy to read digital temperature display you can select a wide range of temperatures in Fahrenheit or Celsius.. Heating coverage: 300 Sq. ft
- Built-in Safety Features - overheat protection ensures the space heater does not overheat even if left on for an extended amount of time. While a cool touch exterior keeps the heater cool to the touch even after running for hours
- Fully Assembled - allows you to take the heater out of the box and have it working it minutes. Simply plug the heater into a wall outlet, adjust the thermostat, and enjoy the warmth from your new Lasko space heater
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lasko Ceramic Space Heater 6462 has a cool space that almost makes you think of a lava lamp. It’s got a cylindrical body and circular base and has vents and air holes scattered throughout the design. This room heater is ETL listed for safety, so you know right away you’re onto a winner with regards to peace of mind.
At 25 inches high, it’s quite tall, but its design means that it won’t look ugly sitting in your room. Instead, it could be easily mistaken for some sort of technological gadget.
The cool thing about this particular model is its oscillating heat function. It might only have two standard heat settings, but it has three sweep settings for customization. Features a 8-hour timer that shuts down the device when it reaches a certain temperature.
Overall, it’s very easy to use, you can select 90, 170, or a full 360-degree heat emission coverage. The higher the selection, the more energy that will be used, but it will also heat the room more quickly and evenly.
With an adjustable programmable thermostat that has a digital display, you can adjust the heat to your liking. If that isn’t enough, this heater comes with a remote control to help you adjust the room temperature from the comfort of your couch.
Pros:
- Programmable oscillating air features
- Built-in safety features
Cons:
- Could tip over as the heater is top heavy.
- No carrying handle
3. Vornado MVH Vortex Ceramic Heater – The Compact Model
- HEAT DIFFERENTLY — Gently heat all in the air in a small to medium-sized room through vortex air circulation without using intense heat, similar to how a forced air furnace works, just on a smaller scale.
- HEAT SAFELY — Advanced safety features include a cool-touch exterior, tip-over protection, and automatic safety shut-off system for worry-free use.
- HEAT EFFICIENTLY — 3 quiet heat settings (Low/750W, Medium/1125W, High/1500W) to tailor heat output and energy consumption.
- CONTROL YOUR COMFORT — The internal, adjustable thermostat, with seven settings will automatically turn the heater on and off to maintain set temperature.
- SUPERIOR SUPPORT — Our standards are high, and so are your expectations. If our product doesn’t meet them, we’ll replace it, for up to 5 years. Products designed and supported in Andover, KS.
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you looking for a product that is compact and very easy to move from one room to another? In that case, you might want to go for this small ceramic unit. With the ability to cover up to 300 square feet, this one is perfect for small to medium-sized rooms.
This room heater was given an inner thermostat that will ensure the temperature is kept at the right level. You may use the dial to select the desired temperature, and from there on, the temperature will adjust automatically.
The product was also given a fair number of safety features. You have a cool-touch case that releases heat without the red glow, a safety shut-off in case it gets overheated, and an automatic shut-off in case it gets tipped over. It’s the best choice for small apartment that needs some extra warmth.
Pros
- Very compact and easy to place
- Adjustable heat for better comfort
- It has several safety features
Cons
- No carrying handle
4. Lasko 760000 Cyclonic – Best Ceramic Heater with Air Ionizer
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The Lasko Cyclonic Ceramic Heater 760000 has a mixed plastic and metal body that uses cyclonic heating technology to circulate heat quickly and efficiently around the room. A cyclonic heater absorbs cool air through the bottom of the unit and cycles it through the system so that it comes out as warmed air at the top. This creates a pattern of heat that is like a circle or a cyclone — hence the name.
This is another ceramic heater on our list that is ETL listed. In case you didn’t know, the ETL mark signifies that a product complies with North American safety standards, so it has been tested and thoroughly checked. Any stamp of approval like this is welcomed by consumers, especially with regard to safety.
One of the awe-inspiring features of this unit is its fresh air ionizer feature. Air ionizers purify the air by using ions. Ions are negatively charged particles. The odors, bacteria, allergens, smoke, or dust that pollute the environment in your room are positively charged, so, much like the attract/repel law of a magnet, the ions bind to the harmful toxins and dissipate them, creating cleaner and purer air. It’s a real bonus to have this feature on a space heater.
This might be a bulkier unit than some others, but it has still been designed thoughtfully. It can be placed snugly against a wall, so as long as you have the appropriate amount of space, it won’t stand out in your room too much. Its bulkiness is more in its height and width than how far it comes out from the wall. Even better, it comes with built-in safety features like overheat protection and cool to the touch housing. Great for large rooms, and is able to heat around 300-400 square feet.
Pros:
- Unique cyclonic heating technology
- ETL listed for safety
Cons:
- Quite bulky
- No tip over switch
5. Honeywell HCE323V Digital – Best Ceramic Heater for Large Room
- SPACE HEATER – The Honeywell Safeguard Motion Sensor Ceramic Space Heater provides powerful, 1500W whole room heat in any space in a slim, space saving design. This tower heater features easily controlled comfort, a motion sensor and oscillation.
- SAFETY MATTERS: The large room heater offers safety options including a Safeguard motion sensor that shuts off the heater if an object is too close, plus 2x Overheat Protection, thermal insulated wiring, tip over protection and an auto-off timer option.
- INCREASE YOUR COMFORT – Always be comfortable, no matter what season it is. This personal heater has a tower design, so it fits into any room in your home without taking up too much space. It has a sturdy base, oscillation and cool touch plastic housing.
- SMART SAVINGS – Worried about heating costs? An electric heater can help you save up to $276* in heating costs this year. A space heater for indoor use can help you save money while providing soothing warmth.
- HONEYWELL QUALITY: Help improve heating and energy savings in your home, bedroom or office using a Honeywell portable heater. Honeywell offers whole room heaters, tower heaters and oscillating heaters.
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Honeywell Digital Ceramic Heater HCE323V is designed with dual motors for more durable and powerful heat emission. It boasts an impressive 1500 watts of power and includes two temperature settings.
The lower setting uses less electricity, so it is ideal for someone on a budget or who don’t like to consume a lot of energy. The higher setting inevitably uses more power but is suited for those unusually cold nights during the winter when you need a real blast of heat to stay comfortable indoors.
It has an easy to use digital controls and a large LCD display which help you to navigate the device easily, even if you’re not confident with new technological gadgets.
You know you’re opting for something that is ahead of its time when it includes motion sensor capabilities. Yes, this portable ceramic heater will detect when you’re there and modify its heat output accordingly. Safety features include tip over switch, cool to the touch housing for the ceramic element, and overheat safety protection.
Pros:
- Enhanced safety features
- Easily controlled comfort
6. Lasko 5160 Ceramic Tower Heater
- Versatile standing large space heater with adjustable and programmable thermostat with 3 settings: high, low, and auto to set your desired temperature easily
- Large space heater operating with a power of 1500W that warmth quickly through ceramic heating elements, suitable as an efficient indoor tower electric heater for large room
- Portable electric heaters for indoor use with built-in carry handle and compact design measuring 7 inches long, 7 inches wide, and 23 inches tall; suitable as attic, bedroom, or living room heater
- Ceramic tower heaters for indoor use best space heater for a large room with oscillating feature that helps in distributing heat evenly across the room or space
- Easy to use remote controlled heater for large room where you can control settings from across the room for optimal comfort and digital controls for ease of use
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lasko 5160 has a digital display that is large and easy to read. It offers a safe method of space heating using the elongated ceramic element. The fact that this element is longer helps to keep the area warmer for longer.
This is lightweight at just under seven pounds weight and includes a manufacturer’s warranty. It is 23 inches tall and takes advantage of the tower shape to provide widespread oscillating motions. These motions allow the heat to distribute evenly around the room.
This model also includes a multi-function remote control that can be stored on the machine itself when necessary. This allows you to control the heater from a distance. This is very convenient if you’re cozy in bed and don’t want to leave the warm comforter in exchange for the cold night air!
It has two temperature settings – low and high. Even better, the heater does not become hot to the touch after prolonged use.
Pros:
- An elongated ceramic element for extended warmth
- Automatic overheat protection
Cons:
- The display could be placed more conveniently
- No tip over switch
7. AmazonBasics Ceramic Heater – The Budget Pick
- Compact personal space heater in Black; small enough for tables or desktops
- 500 watts of power; efficient ceramic coils heat up in seconds
- Tip-over protection for extra safety
- Product Dimensions: 5.9*3.2*6.0 inches
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for something that’s not very expensive, then you might want to give this heater a try. It might not have all the bells and whistles associated with a fancier ceramic heater, but it’s one of the best portable ceramic heater you can buy for the price.
The heater has a space area of 500 sq ft, but even so, it is powerful enough to heat a small space quite efficiently. The ceramic elements heat up quite quickly, and they keep warm for a time even after the ceramic heater had been shut off. This means that the room will stay warm for a longer time.
This tiny portable heater is quite compact and can easily fit within a small room, inconspicuously. Its small size allows you to place it on top of your desk, while not taking up too much space. Weighing just over one pound, it’s lighter than any other ceramic heater reviews on the list.
It’s the perfect thing to have around if your office is usually set at a ridiculously low temperature, and you have no means of changing it.
Pros
- Available in a variety of colors
- Includes various safety protection features
- Can fit in small spaces
- Very affordable price
- Heats up quickly
Cons
- No thermostat
- Doesn’t specify a warranty
8. Lasko 751320 Ceramic Tower Space Heater – Best room heater
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The Lasko Ceramic Tower Space Heater 751320 is a 23-inch tall ceramic heater. Its tower name is due to the tower shape that is a common one for ceramic heaters. This allows for a longer ceramic element to be built into the design so that you can heat a room for longer periods in a more effective manner.
There is an easy to use timer and a programmable thermostat, both of which help you to customize and select the settings that best match your particular needs with regards to temperature and overall environment.
It also has widespread oscillation, which means that the air circulates in more than one direction. This is a more energy efficient system than air being circulated from only one direction because it allows the warm molecules to disperse throughout the room more quickly. This results in a room that becomes comfortable in a much faster time, and a room that is heated more evenly.
Pros:
- Oscillating air technology
- Easy to use timer
Cons:
- Only two heat settings
- No tip over protection
9. Comfort Zone Oscillating Space Heater – Best Portable Ceramic Heater
- FAST, EFFICIENT HEATING: Our oscillating space heater uses a forced-fan circulation to heat as it rotates from side to side, quickly & evenly warming an entire room while maintaining a consistent temperature.
- ETL CERTIFIED & BUIT TO BE SAFE: In addition to being ETL Certified, this unit includes an overheat protection sensor and an automatic fail-safe that cuts power to the unit if it's accidentally tipped over.
- OPTIMAL COMFORT: A digital thermostat prevents overheating & stuffiness, while an 8-hour timer with auto shutoff allows you to program the unit in advance to maintain a steady comfortable temperature.
- LOWER ENERGY COSTS: Frostbite weather shouldn’t take a bite out of your paycheck. Our energy-saving ECO mode adjusts heat output to lower costs, while its ceramic build prevents producing too much heat.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, PORTABLE POWER: This heating appliance is easy to move from room to room or take on a road trip. A remote control enables easy adjustment, while the stay cool housing helps prevents burns.
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This electric space heater offers fast, efficient heating which uses a forced fan circulation. This design heats as it rotates from side to side so that hot air is dispersed more evenly throughout the room.
This product is ETL certified so you can feel safe and secure when using it as it complies with safety regulations. The safety features include an overheat protection sensor, so the device does not overheat. There is also a tip-over protection system that cuts power if the machine is accidentally knocked over.
This model also has an Eco mode which helps you save money by reducing the heat output to reduce running costs. It has a large digital and remote control that’s super easy to use, and its compact design makes it easy to move from room to room. This portable heater can also be brought along on a road trip to make your RV super cozy during weather.
Pros:
- Overheat protection sensor
- Digital thermostat
Cons:
- Unlike some other models, the oscillation only goes to 70 degrees
10. DeLonghi TCH7915ER Tower Ceramic Heater – Quietest Ceramic heater
- Fast, Even Heating. Ceramic heater offers wide range heat distribution with motorized oscillation in 1500 watts of power, best for small spaces and individual comfort
- Exclusive Quiet Technology- Reduces noise by 50% so you can stay comfortable without causing a clamor
- Automatically Saves Energy ECO Plus function automatically adjusts heat and power settings saving you up to 40% on energy bills* *When compared to operation at maximum power. Internal laboratory tests.
- Built-In Safety Features includes two-stage overheat protection with thermal shutoff and thermal fuse to prevent overheating and an internal tip-over switch that automatically turns the unit off if it falls over.
- Cool Touch handle and controls allow you to easily operate and relocate your heater at any time during or after use.
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The DeLonghi Safe Heat Tower Ceramic Heater TCH7915ER is a streamlined product which DeLonghi has worked to improve from earlier models. The silent system in place here reduces the noise this machine emits by less than half versus the earlier DeLonghi ceramic tower heaters.
It’s nice to know that staying warm doesn’t have to be a noisy process, especially if you’re doing a quiet activity where background noise can be very distracting. With 1500 watts of power, it’s great for medium sized room, such as bathroom and offices of up to 150 square feet.
TheLCD display will make sure that you can actually monitor the current temperature and adjust the heat easily thanks to its control panel.
This model also includes a variety of features that make it economical and energy efficient. There is a 24 hour timer so you can program the heater to come on when you need it to. This is much better than leaving it on for long periods just because you want to ensure the house is warm for a particular time.
There are also some settings that will come in handy, particularly the EcoEnergy function which turns down the heat to maintain a comfortable environment while also saving you up to 40% on energy bills.
Pros:
- Silent system
- EcoEnergy heat setting
Cons:
- The display could be better
11. Lasko 755320 Ceramic Space Heater – Best Overall
- ✅【2 QUIET SETTINGS】 This electric space heater features 2 quiet heat settings (high heat and low heat), plus an adjustable thermostat that will maintain the temperature in the room. The optional widespread oscillation feature on this heater evenly distributes warm air throughout the room.Cord Length: 6'.
- ✅【REMOTE CONTROL】 Use the multi-function remote control to turn the heater on/off, set the timer, turn the oscillation on/off or adjust the thermostat. For an added convenience, there is storage for the remote control on the back of the heater so it won't get lost.
- ✅【ADJUSTABLE TIMER】This tower space heater features an auto-off timer function. Set the timer from 1-8 hours (in 1-hour increments) and the heater will automatically turn off after the selected timer.
- ✅【BUILT-IN SAFETY FEATURES】 Overheat protection ensures the space heater does not overheat even if left on for an extended amount of time. While a cool touch exterior keeps the heater cool to the touch even after running for hours. This heater is ETL listed for added safety.
- ✅【FULLY ASSEMBLED】Comes fully assembled and ready to use, just take the heater out of the box and have it working it minutes. Simply plug the heater into a wall outlet, adjust the thermostat, and enjoy the warmth from your new Lasko space heater. This space heater stands 23" high and 7 inches wide and weights only 7.29 pounds. The lightweight design and the built-in carry handle makes it easy to move from room to room.
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lasko Ceramic Space Heater 755320 has two quiet settings for heating a room. These are high heat and low heat. High heat is for during those cold winter months when you need a powerful blast of heat to supplement your main heating system. High heat settings are generally required only in short bursts, so it won’t run up your utility bill. Lower heat settings help to maintain a comfortable environment and use less energy.
This also has an adjustable thermostat so you can control how much energy you’re using and heat the room according to how often it’s used.
It has a convenient carrying handle; great for those times when you’re alone in the house and moving from room to room. It’s lightweight and portable so it won’t be too difficult to carry around with you.
It also includes an overheat protection to ensure no overheating even when left on for a long time. The cool to the touch exterior means that there is little danger of injury if someone accidentally touches the surface as it doesn’t get hot to the touch after running for hours.
Pros:
- Quiet when it runs
- Adjustable thermostat
- Safe to use
Cons:
- Only two heat settings
12. Lasko 5586 Digital Ceramic Tower Heater
- ✅【2 QUIET SETTINGS】This portable tower space heater offers a high heat setting and a low heat setting, plus and adjustable thermostat setting that will maintain the temperature in your room. This electric heater ideal for warming up a bedroom, home office, kitchen or any in your home.
- ✅【BUILT-IN TIMER】The auto off timer function allows you to program from 1 to 8 hours, in 1-hour intervals. The heater will automatically turn off after the selected time.
- ✅【REMOTE CONTROL】 The multi-function remote control allows you to turn the heater on/off, adjust the heater's temperature, set the timer, turn on/off the oscillation from a distance. Plus, there is storage for the remote control on the back of the heater so it won't get lost.
- ✅【WIDESPREAD OSCILLATION】The widespread oscillation feature on this portable space heater evenly distributes a comforting warmth around your room.
- ✅【BUILT-IN SAFETY FEATURES】This heater is ETL listed and comes with built-in safety features including overheat protection which ensures the space heater does not overheat even if left on for an extended amount of time. And, the cool touch exterior keeps the heater cool to the touch even after running for hours
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lasko 5586 is the kind of ceramic heater you could see adorning the floor area of a penthouse apartment. It has a modern, minimalist feel to it, with the brushed stainless steel and black color scheme complementing most contemporary decor.
It features a safe ceramic element, which is also elongated so that it can circulate and retain heat more effectively.
It includes overheat protection and has a sturdy circular base, which makes it safer around pets and children. It also has a cool-to-touch exterior so that you don’t have to worry so much about potential injuries when it’s in use.
It can be easily moved to different rooms as and when you need. The built-in carry handle is pretty simple, but it gets you where you need to go.
Pros:
- Sleek modern design
- Elongated ceramic element
Cons:
- The handle could be more ergonomic
Buying Guide: How to Select The Best Ceramic Space Heater
Ceramic room heaters are one of the different types of electric heaters, and come in many shapes and styles. They also come in different kinds of sizes and power ratings, with some small enough to be carried around effortlessly and others big enough to require wheels to move around. This buying guide should help you find the best ceramic heaters for your needs.
Types of Ceramic Heaters
Ceramic space heaters can be categorized by how they work and style. Each category comprises of multiple subcategories.
Convection Ceramic Heater
Most of the ceramic space heaters you’ll come across are convection. Two main steps are involved in the heating process;
- The heating and transfers heat to tightly packed aluminum fins within the heater through a ceramic heating element.
- The continuous uptake of cold air from the bottom of the heater and pushing of this air up the heater.
Cold air from the base of the heater is forced through the heated fins and warmed in the process. This hot air is then pushed out of the unit and dispersed into your room with the help of a fan.
Convection plays a vital role in the heating process. The law of convection in fluids states that under gravity, hotter and less dense material rises while cold, while denser material sinks.
This is exactly what happens in convection ceramic heater. Any cold air that finds its way to the top of the unit is automatically pushed down to the bottom for reheating as hot air forces its way up and out of the unit. This process occurs naturally under gravity.
Radiant Ceramic Heater
Radiant ceramic space heaters are slightly different compared to other types of heaters. While they also depend on electricity to heat a ceramic plate that releases the heat that eventually helps warm our rooms, the way the heat reaches the air is different than in a convection heater.
Instead of the ceramic element heating air and then pushing it into your rooms with the help of a fan, in radiant heaters, the warmth from the PTC travels into your rooms through radiation.
Radiation is the emission or transmission of energy (heat) in the form of waves and particles through space or a material medium. In this case, heat leaves the heating elements and travels as waves, heating items, including you and your loved ones, along its path.
Both convection and radiant ceramic heaters have their strengths and weaknesses. Convection heaters are better at heating larger rooms because the heat energy resides within the air. The heat, however, is rarely hot enough, irrespective of your distance from the heating source.
Radiant heaters, meanwhile, are better at generating high levels of heat, making them excellent when looking to warm just a small space close to the radiator. However, the heat waves rarely travel more than a few meters. This makes a radiant heater a poor choice if you’re looking to warm an entire room.
Compact Ceramic Heaters
Compact ceramic heater, as their name suggests, is a small, lightweight heater ideal for heating bedrooms and other small rooms. They can be easily carried around and come in modern designs to add decor to your interiors. They are also very quiet.
The only downside is that their small size means they are prone to tipping over. If one of your kids or a pet accidentally knocks the unit, it’ll undoubtedly tip over, creating a fire hazard. For this reason, a compact ceramic heater must be placed on the floor, in a secure place away from traffic or any other objects such as chairs or bed frames. Also, set the heater away from flammable items such as curtains.
Ceramic Tower Heaters
These are one of the most popular heaters, especially for people looking to warm a single room. This popularity is mainly due to the heater being taller, thus able to emit more heat per unit time, resulting in the potential to warm up much larger areas compared to similarly rated heaters.
Additionally, ceramic tower heaters feature oscillation technology that helps with heat distribution. Instead of relying exclusively on convection to warm spaces, the heater has in-built oscillators that help circulate hot air around the room faster and more efficiently.
Ceramic Wall Heaters
Ceramic wall heaters are designed to be permanently installed on the walls rather than carried around from one room to another. This makes them less portable compared to compact ceramic heaters and ceramic tower heaters.
However, they’re a great option in situations where a portable heater might not be ideal. In the kids’ room, for example, you may want a more permanent heater to prevent accidents. The same applies to the bathroom. It’s very risky to place a portable heater on the floor of your bathroom. Ceramic wall heaters are excellent alternatives in both of these situations.
How Ceramic Space Heater Works
We already touched on how ceramic space heaters work when discussing convection versus radiant heaters. But, we didn’t go into the details.
Composition
Contrary to what the name suggests, ceramic heaters are NOT entirely made of ceramic. Instead, most a ceramic heater comprises a combination of ceramic plates, metallic heating elements, electric fan and plastic casing. The real reason they are named “ceramic” heaters is that the heating element is made of ceramic.
Why Ceramic?
There are a couple of reasons. First, ceramic absorbs heat much faster than metal coils and emits more heat too. Various studies show that ceramic plates release 85 to 90 percent of the heat they absorb into the atmosphere. Metal coils, by comparison, only release about 60 to 70 percent.
Also, ceramic has been shown to cool down faster once the heater is switched off. This quality makes ceramic a much better material for portable heaters.
The Heating Process
The heating process is simple. Electric current passes through the ceramic plates and coils. As it becomes hotter, it transfers that heat to aluminum fins within the unit.
While this goes on, a fan, strategically placed within the heater, blows cold air into the unit, directing it through the aluminum fins. As a result, the cold air is heated as it passes through the ceramic plates, coming out at the other end as warm air. This heated air is then forced out of the unit and into your rooms.
The fans on the heater typically help to blow out hot air around the room quickly. One way they achieve this is by pulling in cold air from your room while pushing hot air into the heater, creating another convection process outside the radiator. It means that any air that has lost its warmth is automatically “sucked” back into the heating unit for re-warming. This process keeps rooms warmed round the clock.
Ceramic Heater Safety Tips
You may have a lot of in-built safety features on, but for the best ceramic heaters to run smoothly, you might want to follow the safety tips below:
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Avoid Humidity
This is a no-brainer, but since ceramic heaters use electricity, you should ensure they stay as far from humidity as possible. This way, not only will you protect the heater from malfunctioning, but you will also be preventing fire hazards.
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Avoid Extension Cords
Since ceramic heaters draw quite a bit of electricity, you should ensure that they do not overheat from the power source. To avoid this, you might want to plug them straight into the wall and avoid the use of extension cords.
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Cord Precautions
Depending on your needs, you might want to check the cord of the unit. Make sure that its length is appropriate for what you need and that it doesn’t look thin or flimsy. Ideally, you should look for a unit that has a retractable cord so that you don’t go tripping over the remaining cord.
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Safety Certification
Each ceramic heater should have a safety certification document. Look for something released by a trustworthy and reputable company – this way, you will get some peace of mind.
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Always Place It on a Stable Flat Surface
You don’t want your ceramic heater to tip over – so, to avoid this, you might want to ensure that you place it on a flat surface. Plus, if the product has tip-over safety, it must be placed on a flat surface to actually work.
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Choose the Right Location
When you’re choosing the location of the heater, make sure that you don’t place it somewhere inconvenient – like a place where people might accidentally trip over it. Install it somewhere out of dangerous reach, and direct it towards the area you want to heat.
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Give the Heater Enough Space
They may come with a cool-touch surface, but even so, ceramic heaters might still prove to be a safety hazard. This is why you should ensure the unit stays at a 3-foot distance from anything flammable.
Ceramic Heater Advantages
Using a ceramic heater comes with a host of benefits. The following are just a few reasons that makes them the best space heaters for both small and large room.
- Portability: The portability of a ceramic heater is a significant advantage. Except for wall mounted types, all ceramic heaters can be carried from one room to another with ease. If you’re reading a book in the living room, you can take your portable heater there and when retiring to bed, bring the heater with you.
- Warm larger areas: This especially applies to convection ceramic heaters that utilize a fan. Aside from pulling cold air into the heater, another essential purpose of the fan is to circulate hot air. This action often ensures that the heated reaches even adjacent rooms in a small house. Convection ceramic heater with oscillators works even better at heating large areas.
- Cost-effective: Although they consume electricity like most other heaters, ceramic heaters won’t burn as big a hole in your pocket as other space heaters. There are two main reasons why. First, the ceramic heating elements used in these heaters heats fast and retains the heat for long periods, meaning the unit won’t be consuming electric power throughout. Secondly, since they are designed for small spaces, it’s designed in such a way that it doesn’t draw a lot of power from the mains.
- Extra features: Ceramic heaters also feature multiple controls to boost convenience. Advanced ceramic heaters, for example, feature timers, touch sensors, manual heat adjustment controls, thermostats, digital displays, fan speed adjustment, and remote control, putting power in the user’s hands. Some modern ones even have mobile apps, making it possible for users to control the appliances without leaving the sofa.
Costs Associated with a Ceramic Heater
Ceramic heaters come at a certain cost – sometimes, going further than what you originally thought. Here are the costs that you have to keep in mind:
- Purchase Cost: Depending on your budget, you might want to go for a low-priced or a high-priced heater. Bear in mind that the cheaper the product, the more you might have to pay in other areas.
- Installation Costs: The installation cost here is practically zero, as all you have to do is plug the product in. This is exactly what makes it so convenient.
- Running Costs: Every heater uses a certain amount of energy to create heat. The more electricity it draws, the more heat you’ll get – but the higher the bills will be.
- Maintenance Costs: Maintenance costs are also near zero, similar to the installation costs. All you have to do is ensure the filters stay clean.
- Repair Costs: Ceramic heaters are electric products – so, if they develop faults, you have to repair them. The cheaper the product, the higher the repair costs might get.
Include the associated costs as well when you are buying a ceramic heater and see whether you can afford it in the long run or not.
Are Ceramic Heaters Energy-Efficient?
Ceramic heaters are some of the most energy efficient heaters out there.
As we mentioned earlier, most of them release up to 90% of the electric energy in the form of heat. This means that if the heater takes in 100 watts in electric current, it will release up to 90watts worth of heat. By comparison, most heaters only release around 60 to 70 percent of the energy they take in.
Also, all ceramic heaters feature a specially designed fan meant to distribute warmth throughout your rooms evenly. They are designed to automatically shut OFF and ON to save on energy when the place is already warm enough.
Are Ceramic Heaters Safe?
The short answer here is, YES, ceramic heaters are safe to use. Although no heater is entirely risk-free, ceramic heaters are a lot safer compared to traditional space heaters. The following are a few reasons why;
- Plastic cover: In most ceramic heaters, the outermost cover is made of plastic. There’s a reason for this – plastic doesn’t conduct heat. So, although the plastic cover will get warm, you don’t have to worry about getting burnt.
- No hazardous emissions: Ceramic heaters are one of the few types of space heaters that don’t emit a single poisonous gas. There is no carbon monoxide, no sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. This makes the appliance safe for both humans and the environment.
- Anti-tilt features: Not every ceramic heater comes with this feature. So, you’ll have to check carefully. However, where the feature exists, you don’t have to worry about fire if the unit accidentally tips over as the anti-tilt function automatically shuts off the appliance in case it tips over.
Despite these safety features, though, you’re still advised to practice caution when using ceramic heaters. We have reviewed some of the safest space heaters. You can read further on Are Infrared Heaters Safe to Leave On Overnight?
Ceramic Heater vs. Fan Heater
How ceramic and fan heaters work is almost similar. In both cases, electricity passes through heating elements, which, in turn, heat the air passing through the appliance.
But, there are a few differences. While the heart of a ceramic heater is the ceramic heating element, fan heaters mostly rely on an internal fan for performance. The following are other key differences between the two;
- Heating time: Fan heaters have a much shorter heating time. It only takes a few seconds for your rooms to become warm.
- Noise: Fan heaters, however, are noisier than ceramic heaters. The ever-revolving fans are the primary cause of the high noise levels.
- Working in damp environments: While ceramic heaters also don’t perform well in humid areas, there are a few ceramic heaters such as wall mounted options that can be used in bathrooms. Fan heaters, meanwhile, must NEVER be used in damp or wet areas.
Ceramic Heater vs. Oil Space Heater
Oil filled heaters are another alternative you’re frequently come across when shopping for ceramic heaters. The most important thing you need to know when comparing these types of heaters is how they work.
Although some models use radiation, ceramic heaters are mostly convection heaters. They depend on warm air rising to take the position of cold air, forcing cold air down in the process. That’s how convective heaters warm spaces.
Oil filled heaters, meanwhile, are mostly radiant. The heat transmitted from the heating elements is used to heat oil residing within the heater, and the hot oil then emits heat that travels through the home/room, warming any items on its path.
With regards to which one you should buy, the following points should help you make the best decision;
- Startup time: Oil filled heaters can take up to several minutes to get your room to the desired heating temperature. Ceramic heaters are much faster.
- Safety risk: The metal surface of oil-filled space heaters are hot to the touch while in use. Ceramic heaters become hot too, but not as much making them safe to use.
- Size and portability: Oil filled heaters are relatively large compared to ceramic heaters. Ceramic heaters are more portable.
- Have allergies? – For people with allergies, the drier, allergen-free air from radiant, oil-filled heaters might be better for you.
Ceramic Heater vs. Infrared Heater
Ceramic heaters are also often compared to infrared heaters. An infrared room heater is just another type of radiant heaters. The heater works by transmitting infrared rays in a straight line, and the rays heat everything lying on their path.
Like other space heaters, both ceramic and infrared heaters have their advantages and disadvantages. If choosing between the two, the following are a few things to take into account;
- Infrared heaters work better in poorly ventilated areas: If you’re buying a heater for the garage or basement, for example, an infrared heater would be a much better choice than a ceramic heater.
- Infrared heaters are 40% more energy efficient: This is beneficial mostly in poorly ventilated spaces such as the garage.
- Ceramic heaters heat a more extensive area: If your primary motivation, however, is to find a heater capable of warming an entire room rather than items close by, a ceramic heater would be your best option. Infrared heaters can only heat things within a few feet of the heater.
Read: Gas heater for basement
FAQs
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What are the pros and cons of a convector and ceramic heater?
The advantages of convector and ceramic heaters is that they heat the room quite quickly and that they also use less electricity compared to other space heaters. The disadvantage is that they are typically small – this means that they will deliver a smaller amount of heat.
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Do ceramic heaters smell?
While it’s not always the case, ceramic heaters can indeed smell. Most of the time, the smell is caused by dirt and dust buildup, so make sure that you keep the intake vent clean.
Conclusion
With so many great products to choose from, it’s clear that today’s ceramic heaters are truly innovative products that utilize the best design elements of modern heating technology. We hope that our buying guide has helped you to pick the best ceramic heater on the market. If you’re still on the fence about what to buy, you might go with out top overall pick – Lasko 755320 Ceramic Space Heater.