The cost of home heating has gone through the roof in the recent past. In March, for instance, USA Today reported that heating costs would go up by 25.7% compared to the previous year. This cost is expected to increase further next year owing to a combination of factors such as inflation and rising costs of energy production.
Consequently, many homeowners are trying to manage the situation by finding economical ways to warm their homes.
In this guide, we will dwell on cost-effective ways to warm to your bedroom by reviewing the best space heaters as well as discussing several considerations to help you pick the right bedroom heater.
Best Space Heater For Bedroom Reviews 2021
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Lasko 754200 Ceramic Portable Space Heater
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If you’ve shopped for a space heater before, then you’ve likely come across the Lasko brand. Established in 1906, Lasko is a Philadelphia-based company that makes quality home heating, ventilation, and air conditioning products, with the 754200 being evidence of their stupendous work.
A compact, 1500-watt ceramic heater featuring a classic design in silver, the 754200 is a modern space heater complete with an in-built adjustable thermostat. Better still, it comes with 11 temperature controls. Simply turn the dial to your desired heat setting and enjoy a comfortable climate. Other features of the 754200 include three quiet heat settings (low heat, high heat, and fan only) and a convenient carry handle.
Thanks to the handle, you can easily carry the heater to the kitchen, home office, bedroom, etc.
The 9.2-inch tall heater weighs 3.5 pounds and is designed for spaces up to 300 square feet. With regards to safety, the 754200 comes with overheat protection and a cool-to-touch exterior. Moreover, the new Lasko 754200 ceramic portable space heater comes fully assembled, so you simply plug it into a wall outlet and enjoy the warmth.
Pros
- ETL Listed
- Built-in carry handle
- Multiple safety features
- Adjustable thermostat
Cons
- No anti-tip-over safety shutoff
2. Lasko Model 100 MyHeat Personal Space Heater
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The least expensive product on this list, the Lasko Model 100 is also well worth the money. Unlike its bigger brother the model 754200, however, Model 100 is built for smaller applications. First off, at just 6.1 inches tall, it’s smaller in size compared to model 754200. It also produces less heat (200 watts) but maintains the 3.5 pounds weight.
Other than that, the ceramic heater generates warmth pretty fast which means that within a few seconds, your room will be at the desired temperature. An in-built fan helps blow the heat out of the heater and throughout the room for even temperatures. Built-in safety features include overheating protection that ensures the unit doesn’t overheat even if left on for an extended period. The cool-to-touch exterior makes the heater even safer during operation. To save energy, set the unit to low power.
As with most Lasko heaters, model 100 is fully pre-assembled. Simply plug it into the wall outlet, turn on the switch, and enjoy comfortable heat. Aside from the bedroom, you can carry the Model 100 to the kitchen, office, etc.
Pros
- Quick ceramic heat delivery
- Small, compact, portable size
- Multiple safety features
- Fully assembled
Cons
- Only effective for tiny spaces
3. Dyson AM09 Fan Heater
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Dyson AM09 is an intelligent heater that can also double up as a cooler. Using a patented air multiplier technology, it projects air throughout the room quickly. During the winter season, you need to set the unit in heater mode so that the air coming out is heated first. In the hot summer season, though, set it to the cooling mode. The air multiplier technology works in both modes, generating a powerful stream of air (warm or cold).
Other notable features of the Dyson include silent operation, a sleep timer, and oscillation control. The Dyson was even awarded the Quiet Mark accreditation for its noise-free operation. The unit has no sharp edges or fast-spinning blades that pose a safety risk to pets and the young ones. Weighing just 5.91 pounds, it’s also incredibly light, making maneuverability a breeze. The base diameter is a mere 8.1 inches.
The only downside is that the Dyson is costly but it’s still worth it if you have the bucks to spend.
Pros
- Focused and diffused air distribution
- Year-round heater and cooler
- Intelligent thermostat control
- Multiple safety features
Cons
- Most expensive on this list
- You must use the remote
4. Lasko 751320 Ceramic Tower Space Heater
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The third Lasko product on this list, the model 751320 is a powerful medium-sized space heater designed for room-to-room applications. The 1500-watt heater features a built-in handle, two quiet settings, and wireless remote control. It also has a built-in timer that allows you to set the desired temperature for a specific period. Once the period ends, the heater goes off automatically.
Color-coded LEDs and an LED control panel sit at the top of the heater for convenient accessibility. There’s even an LED indicator for high and low heat. The 751320 uses a self-regulating ceramic heating element. The remote control device has six buttons to help you control the oscillation, timer, heat setting, temperature, and power ON/OFF.
The tower heater also packs multiple safety features and controls such as automatic overheat protection and a cool-to-touch exterior. It is ETL listed, stands tall at 23.5 inches, and weighs 7.5 pounds.
Pros
- Moderately priced
- Self-regulating ceramic heating element
- Automatic overheat protection
- Heats up to 300 square feet
- Built-in carry handle
Cons
- Can get a bit loud
5. DeLonghi EW7707CM Comfo Temp Full Room Radiant Heater
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The De’Longhi ComfoTemp EW7707CM is an oil-filled portable heater and, for the price, one of the best space heaters you can get for your bedroom. It produces a lot of radiant heat while maintaining low surface temperatures, making it safe even in areas frequented by kids and pets. The unit is also maintenance-free as the oil is permanently sealed and doesn’t burn, so you never have to worry about refilling the heater.
The user-friendly control panel is one of the first things you’ll notice. Some of the features on the panel include an adjustable thermostat and three heat settings. Additionally, you’ll see a ComforTemp button for maintaining optimal temperatures in the room automatically. The 23.1-pound heater measures 27 x 6.5 x 15.5 inches.
In addition, the 1500-watt EW7707CM comes pre-assembled, with no installation required. Its safety features include thermal shutoff that prevents the unit from overheating and the cool-to-touch body.
Pros
- Pre-assembled with patented Smartsnap wheels
- Multiple heat settings for personalized comfort
- Comfort temp technology
- Maintenance-free system
Cons
- It’s a bit large and heavy
6. Vornado VH10 Vortex Heater with Adjustable Thermostat
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The VH10 is a modern heater with a stylish exterior and enhanced heating capability, making it one of Vornado’s most efficient space heaters. It uses a unique airflow system known as Vortex Action, creating a twisting current of air that effortlessly circulates throughout the room with the help of a fan. The warm air flows gently but fast enough to warm the entire room in just a few seconds.
The controls are easily accessible and user-friendly. There are two heat settings to choose from and an adjustable thermostat that allows you to easily regulate temperature consumption between the Low (750 watts) and High (1,500 watts) points. And an integrated carrying handle, conveniently located on the unit provides easy portability. The VH10’s 6-foot cord is tucked away at the bottom of the heater for safety reasons.
Additional safety features include the cool-to-touch cabinet that remains only mildly warm even after many hours of use. The heater also automatically turns off when excess heat is detected. Plus it has an anti-tip-over protection that shuts off the unit when it’s tipped over. With regards to size, and weight, the unit measures 12 x 11.7 x 9.3 inches and weighs just 5.1 pounds.
Pros
- Vortex Action airflow circulates warm, gentle air
- Two heat settings and adjustable heater
- Coo-to-touch, anti-tip-over, and overheat protection
- Backed by a 5-year satisfaction guarantee
Cons
- No remote control
- No timer
Best Space Heater For Bedroom Buying Guide
So, you’re ready to go shopping? The following are practical considerations to help you pick out the right heater for your bedroom. Keep in mind that this is buying guide for master bedrooms. If you need a heater for your baby, you can check our review for the best space heater for baby’s room.
Why Do You Need a Bedroom Heater?
If you don’t have any other form of heating in the home, then it’s ideal to invest in the best heater for bedroom, or any other type of electric heater for home. However, assuming that you already have a whole-home heater with ductwork extending to the bedroom, why would you need an additional space heater for the room?
There are four main reasons;
1. Complementary heating
The heat from the whole-home heater may be inadequate. Older central heaters, for example, might not generate enough heat to warm the entire house to the desired level. If your central heating system doesn’t provide enough heat, supplementing with a space heater will help bridge the gap.
2. Controlled space heating
When you eventually go to bed, you may not need heating in some rooms. The sitting room, for example, won’t need heating anymore because no one will be there to benefit from the heat. Unfortunately, traditional whole-house heaters are either ON or OFF for the entire house. Space heaters give you greater control over home heating by allowing you to have heat only where it’s needed.
3. Energy-saving potential
Thanks to greater control of overheating in the home, space heaters promise incredible energy savings, especially if you choose the most energy efficient space heater. When you go to bed, you can turn off the whole-home heater and the space heaters in other rooms. This way, you remain warm throughout the night without wasting energy/money heating unoccupied spaces.
4. Quieter night operation
Finally, buying a smaller heater for the bedroom allows you to sleep better because the heaters are less noisy than whole-home heaters. An air-forced home furnace produces a lot of noise. The blowing fans will easily keep the kids awake and make it difficult for you to fall asleep. Bedroom space heaters produce sound too. But, they are much quieter, thus support healthy sleep.
Best Bedroom Heater Technologies
As you begin your search, one of the first things you need to understand is how space heaters work. The heaters use three leading technologies;
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Convection heating
Convection is the most common single-room heating technology. As the name suggests, the method relies primarily on natural air convection where warm air rises and cold air sinks to take up the vacated space.
In convection heating, the air is drawn into the heater and passed over a hot heating element. The heating elements can be made from many different materials, including ceramic, tungsten, etc. Warm air coming out at the other end is then blown into the room and circulated via convection. Oil-filled heaters are one of the best examples of convective space heaters. Remember that some convective heaters (known as fan-forced systems) use fans to aid the heat dispersion process.
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Radiant heating
In radiant heaters, heat chiefly travels via radiation. Radiation is where heat travels in the form of electromagnetic waves. Infrared heaters are the most common radiant heaters. The good thing is that they don’t transfer heat to the surrounding air. Instead, radiant heaters warm the objects directly in their paths. These objects, in turn, radiate some of the heat back to the surrounding air.
Radiant heaters provide near-instant heat, making them a popular choice for bedrooms. The heat, however, can’t travel long distances. Most infrared heaters use either quartz tubing or a tabular heating element.
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Micathermic heating
Micathermic heating combines convective and radiant heating qualities. Heat radiates off a panel and is then circulated throughout the space via convection currents. The heaters are mostly fan-less. For this reason, they are impressively quiet, making them a great candidate for bedrooms and other applications where quiet operation is necessary.
The fan-less operation also means that the heaters don’t re-circulate dust and other harmful particles. As such, they are a wonderful option for people with allergies and asthma.
Space Heater Designs
Once you understand the working mechanisms, take time to understand the different design styles of space heaters. Space heaters come in at least four design styles;
Floor installed
Floor heaters are compact and often feature a horizontal design (though some are vertical). They are installed very close to the floor (just three or so inches from the wall). Most floor heaters take in cold air through the bottom of the unit and release warm air from vents at the top of the unit.
Wall-installed
Wall heaters are almost similar to floor heaters except that they are installed much higher on the wall. Some are installed on the wall while others are recessed into the wall. Most micathermic panel heaters are wall-mounted.
Related:Best Wall Mount Electric Fireplace
Baseboard heaters
Baseboard room heaters are a contemporary way of adding supplemental heat to a room. They operate like an iron radiator, taking in cold air and releasing warm air. And the heat is circulated via convection. Baseboard heaters can be placed at any corner of the room.
Related: Best Thermostat for Hot Water Baseboard Heat
Freestanding heaters
Finally, freestanding heaters stand on their feet. Some come with legs for easy of maneuvering while others are designed to stay in one place, thus don’t need legs. The freestanding design is the most popular style among bedroom heaters. They are mostly convective heaters, with or without fans.
Related:Best Freestanding Electric Fireplace Reviews
Features to Consider when Choosing a the Best Bedroom Heater
Space heaters differ in so many ways. The following are the top factors to consider when choosing one for your bedroom.
- Size: Size here means the amount of space the heater can comfortably warm. To choose the right size heater for your bedroom, begin by measuring the size of the room. Then, find a heater in that size range, adjusting for factors such as ceiling height and quality of insulation.
- Thermostat: It would be ideal for the heater to have a built-in thermostat so that you can adjust the room temperatures to your needs. Once the thermostat is set to a specific temperature, the heater will work hard to maintain the selected temperature.
- Timer: Aside from the thermostat, it would also be wise to find a heater with a timer. Timers are designed such that you can set the heater to run for a specific amount of time, say eight hours. Once that selected period ends, the heater automatically goes off.
- Automatic shutoff: Do not confuse the timer with automatic shutoff. With automatic shut off, the heater automatically goes off if a potentially dangerous situation is encountered. The heater will, for instance, go off if internal components become too hot or if the unit tips over.
- Noise: First off, all heaters produce some level of noise. Even the most silent ones produce some small noise. What you don’t want is rumbling noises that make it difficult to sleep. Fan-forced heaters, therefore, become a huge question mark. If you must buy a fan-forced heater, check the noise rating first. Radiant heaters are some of the quietest heaters around.
- Remote control: With the remote control, you can operate the heater from anywhere within the room. This means you don’t have to get out of bed to change the setting on the thermostat. You can do that from the comfort of your bed.
- Length and quality of power cord: First off, you want a cable that is long enough. This will give you much-needed flexibility with regards to heater placement. You can place the heater wherever you feel like. Aside from the length, though, ensure that you’re getting a quality cord. Poor quality cords melt easily, creating a preventable fire hazard.
Other Bedroom Heater FAQs
The following are answers to other bedroom heater questions to help you make the right decision;
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Are space heaters energy-efficient?
Yes; but, not all of them. As with any electronic appliance, some heaters consume more energy than others. Check the model you plan to buy to determine how much energy it consumes when in operation.
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Can space heaters save money?
Yes. Since the heaters give you greater control over space heating, you stand to save significantly. At night, for instance, rather than have the whole-house heater running, you’ll have only the bedroom heater ON. The result – energy and cost savings! Here is how you can determine if your heater will use a lot of electricity.
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Can space heaters cause CO poisoning?
No. Space heaters don’t produce carbon monoxide (CO) since they don’t burn fuels. Only fuel-burning heaters cause carbon monoxide. We want to stress that you should avoid using fuel-burning heaters in the bedroom.
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Is it safe to sleep with a space heater ON all night?
No. Even though most space heaters feature automatic shut off in case of overheating, leaving the heater ON the whole night opens the door for all kinds of safety concerns, not to mention the hefty electricity bills. Check out other reasons why it’s not safe to leave a space heater on all night.
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Where should I place the heater?
Ideally, the heater should be placed on a flat, solid surface. More importantly, ensure sufficient clearance. The heater should be placed at least two feet away from any flammable items such as window curtains, paper, books, plastics, and furniture.
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How can I know that I’m buying a safe heater?
No heater is 100% safe. However, some incorporate certain features such as anti-tip-over shutoff and overheat protection, making them inherently safer than the rest. Labels such as UL, UCL, CSA, and ETL are other signs that you’re buying a safe heater. If you’re not sure how to choose a safe heater, you can check our review for some of the safest space heaters.
Summary
Even if you have a whole-home heating system with ducts extending to the bedroom, you will benefit significantly from a bedroom space heater. The heaters are cheaper to run, make much less noise, and provide complementary heat whenever the central heater proves inefficient. Make sure to choose the correct style/design and size, though. Also, check to ensure that you’re getting a safe heater.
