Finding the best energy-efficient space heater is not an easy task and if you´re considering buying one, you should make the wisest choice according to what you really need. There are many types of space heaters and getting to know all of their specifications doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
The criteria that will make you judge a heater as the best one can vary in many ways depending on what you´re looking for. Safety and cost are the main worries when it comes to choosing the best heater.
However, in this article, we´ll focus specifically on the best energy-efficient space heaters.
Comparison of the Best Energy-Efficient Space Heaters
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How to Choose the Right Energy-Efficient Space Heater
If you have a small space, choose a heater that is sized appropriately. An energy-efficient space heater that has the right size for the space, produces the amount of heat needed to adequately warm the square footage of the room. As convection heaters use fans to create circulation of air in the room, they are good at keeping the heat distributed evenly throughout it.
They are also used for larger spaces because of fans, so you can also opt for a radiant heater as it radiates heat passively keeping a small space warm and cozy. If you have any respiratory issues, use a convection-based one. You will also find energy-efficient space heaters that combine radiate and convection heat, which is great to make the airflow, to keep the warmth, and to heat small or larger spaces.
When choosing the right energy-efficient space heater make sure you calculate power consumption and costs. Determine what technology is more suitable for you, radiation, convection, or micathermic, and choose your power source whether it is electricity or one of the petroleum oils.
The most important feature is the thermostat to regulate heat and save energy, but if the energy-efficient space heater you choose also comes with a programmable timer, a cool-to-touch feature, and a switch-off system that prevents accidents after falling or overheating, then you have what you need.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Energy Efficient Space Heaters
- OUR TOP PICK: Lasko 755320 Ceramic Tower Heater
- BEST ENERGY-EFFICIENT PORTABLE HEATER: Dr Infrared Heater, Portable Space Heater, 1500-Watt
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: AmazonBasics 1500 Watt Ceramic Space Heater
Reviews of the Best Energy-Efficient Space Heaters
Finding the best energy-efficient space heaters relies on your preferences. Consider the size of the space, your source of fuel, and the money you have available before buying a heater. Thinking about consumer’s preferences and needs, here is a selection of some of the best heaters on the market.
Best Overall
Lasko 755320 Ceramic Tower Heater
Specifications
Coverage Area (sq ft): N/A
Power (watts): 1,500W
Dimensions: 7.25″ x 8.6″ x 23″
Weight: 8.6 pounds
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Review
Ceramic space heaters are convection heaters, so this is an efficient heater when it comes to keeping the room warm and saving energy. It distributes the heat evenly throughout the room and is cool to touch. It has several features that make it safe like the overheat protection switch.
Pros
Automatic Oscillation
Heat shut off function
Automatic overheat protection
Compact, portable floor heater
Self-regulating ceramic element
Cons
Maximum Heat Power: 1.50 kW
It can fall, if you have pets or children in the house
Best Energy-Efficient Portable Heater
Dr Infrared Heater, Portable Space Heater, 1500-Watt
Specifications
Coverage Area (sq ft): N/A
Power (watts): 1,500W
Dimensions: 13″ x 12.5″ x 17″
Weight: 19 pounds
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Review
As an infrared space heater, it is ideal for small spaces. It radiates heat directly to what´s in front of it and is a great source of centralized heat. It provides consistent and soft warmth to a space.
Its safety mechanisms decrease any danger associated with the use of heaters. It’s easily portable which allows you to heat a small cold space in an instant. It is relatively small and has a great design. Overall, it has been rated as a great product.
Pros
Remote control
Portable – it has wheels
Overheat protection switch
12hr automatic shut-off timer
Heats up a large room with Auto Energy Saving Mode
Electric thermostat to regulate temperature and save energy
Cons
Although it has auto energy-saving mode, it is better for smaller spaces
Best for the Money
AmazonBasics 1500 Watt Ceramic Space Heater
Specifications
Coverage Area (sq ft): N/A
Power (watts): 1,500W
Dimensions: 7.52″ x 6.34″ x 9.45″
Weight: 3.04 pounds
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Review
This electric-powered heater provides heat through its 1500 watts of power. This model has 3 output options, low, high and fan only. It is cool to touch and has a power indicator light to let you know when it’s plugged in. Easy to transport, small-sized heater.
This 1500 watt ceramic space heater is more suitable for smaller spaces or for those who are looking for a source of direct heat. Its 3 levels of adjustability increase its versatility.
Pros
Very cheap
Black or silver color
Can be used anywhere you want
Overheat protection with auto shut-off
With adjustable thermostat to keep the warmth
Cons
Only 1-year warranty
Best Energy-Efficient Room Heater
Homegear Compact 1500w
Specifications
Coverage Area (sq ft): N/A
Power (watts): 1,500W
Dimensions: 17″ x 12″ x 13″
Weight: 12 pounds
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Review
If you’re heating big spaces, this is a great model to choose. It is a portable, standalone device. It has a new smaller size but keeps the same power. It has two different heat modes and a fan for year-round use.
Overall, this is a great option if you have a large space to heat. It has some features that make it safe to use and its different heat modes make it versatile. An integrated fan allows you to use it all year-round.
Pros
ETL Certified
Overheat protection switch
Heats up a medium to large size room
Cons
Not cool to touch
Not suitable for small spaces
Not exactly portable, it could have wheels
Best Energy-Efficient Space Heater For a Large Room
De’Longhi Mica Thermal Panel Heater
Specifications
Coverage Area (sq ft): 300 sq. ft.
Power (watts): 1,500W
Dimensions: 27″ x 10″ x 22″
Weight: 15.43 pounds
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the buyers have given quite positive reviews about this product and highly recommend others to consider buying it. They reported that it’s an energy-efficient product that provides a qualitative amount of heat, thus, warming up the entire space. It’s noiseless and easy to store and move from one room to another.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the most remarkable features of this product is its sleek design. Being a panel heater, it can easily be mounted on the wall or can be placed on the floor. Also, it has attached wheels, which makes it easier to move around or to pick up because it’s so light in weight.
Bottom Line
The De’Longhi heater is an energy-efficient 1500-watt heater that provides enough warmth to heat up the whole room. It has a sleek design and doesn’t make unwanted noise. On overheating, it automatically shuts off, making it safe to use.
Pros
Turns off automatically when it overheats
Due to its sleek style, it can be mounted on the wall
Warmth can be adjusted with the customizable thermostat
Radiates 1500 watts of heating power for full room comfort
Easy to store or place it anywhere due to the attached wheels
Cons
Overheats very quickly
Might cause a fuse or melt the socket through overheat
Best Energy-Efficient Basement Heater
Econohome Space Heater Panel
Specifications
Coverage Area (sq ft): 120 sq. ft.
Power (watts): 400W
Dimensions: 23.5″ x 23.5″ x 0.75″
Weight: 17.8 pounds
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What Recent Buyers Report
People who bought this heater report that it has been a valuable purchase. They say that it is easy to install and ideal for small to medium-sized rooms or basements. Moreover, it is safe to use and not hot to touch. Its sleek design looks quite modern, and it doesn’t make any noise.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The reason why it stands out to us is that despite being a low-wattage heater, it is quite efficient in warming up small spaces. It’s a 700-watt unit that saves up energy and reduces electricity bills significantly as it consumes only 0.4 kilowatt per hour, which is one-third of the amount of electricity consumed by a regular heater.
Bottom Line
The Econohome Space Heater Panel is an energy-efficient product that is ideal for small to medium spaces. It has a no-hassle installation process and is quite safe to use, especially for people suffering from asthma or other breathing difficulties.
Pros
Automatically shuts off to resist overheating
Ideal for people with lung or breathing difficulties
Helps cut down electricity expenditures up to fifty percent
Made up of good-quality material which won’t crack and is durable
Absence of a fan prevents the spread of dust, keeping dust allergies at bay
Cons
Doesn’t heat up a large room
Might give off a chemical smell
Best Energy-Efficient Wall Heater
Stiebel Eltron 074058
Specifications
Coverage Area (sq ft): N/A
Power (watts): 1,500W
Dimensions: 4.81″ x 13.19″ x 18.13″
Weight: 8 pounds
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have experienced a great time with this product. They report that this is a great and valuable purchase as it keeps the room warm, and its sleek and stylish design looks really modern and aesthetically pleasing. It isn’t a hassle to install and is quite energy-efficient. Moreover, it doesn’t make any unwanted sounds.
What Recent Buyers Report
One of the most outstanding features of this product is its automatic on and off regulator. The product shuts off automatically to keep the temperature of the room regulated as desired. It is efficient, smart, and noiselessly heats up space and makes it comfortable in cold winters.
Bottom Line
To sum up, the Stiebel Eltron is a slim wall mount heater that directs heat downwards. It is perfect for warming up small spaces, and its noiseless functioning keeps the space comfortable. It has a built-in thermostat and timer, and it automatically shuts off to keep the room regulated at the desired temperature.
Pros
Noiseless operation ensures peaceful surroundings
Being a 1500-watt heater, it warms up the room fast
Has a built-in thermostat which indicates the set temperature
Comes with a slim design that is suitable to be mounted on walls
Downward heating design warms up the floors and ensures even warmth throughout the room
Cons
Doesn’t have a long lifespan
Might glitch when turning on and off
Best Energy-Efficient Garage Heater
Cadet RCP502S
Specifications
Coverage Area (sq ft): N/A
Power (watts): 5,000W
Dimensions: 21″ x 10.25″ x 18.5″
Weight: 30 pounds
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What Recent Buyers Report
Satisfied users have reported a lot of positive reviews about this product. They alleged that this is the perfect unit for large spaces like garages, and it keeps the room warm for a decent time. The adjustable thermostat is convenient in customizing and attaining the required room temperature.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The most outstanding feature of this product is that it has a long period. It will last quite a few years while providing the required heat for your garages or large spaces without dying on you. Moreover, its fan-only option will keep serving you throughout the summer months, thus making it versatile.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Cadet RCP502S is the perfect heater to warm up large spaces or garages. It is a noiseless and energy-efficient product and has a long cord. It can be mounted on the wall or placed on the floor.
Pros
Includes a 6-foot long cord
Features a long-lasting body and is quite strong
Being a 5000-watt heater, it is suitable for large spaces
Can be mounted on the wall or placed on the floor for usage
Has a fan-only switch which can be used during the summer months
Cons
Has a fan which can promote dust allergies
Thermostat doesn’t provide a target temperature indicator
What is a Space Heater?
A space heater is the most suitable heater you´ll find to heat a single, small area. It is an efficient way to heat a chilly space for a short period of time. In contrast, a central heating system is used to heat many areas. A space heater is a good option when a central heating system is not completely effective in heating a specific space in the coldest time of the year. You can choose between different types of heaters.
Space heaters are powered by electricity or by petroleum oils like propane, natural gas, fuel oil, or wood pellets. Although the ones powered by electricity are very efficient when it comes to warming a room, they will make you spend some money on electricity bills.
Different space heaters excel at different tasks and the most energy-efficient one depends on how or where you´re going to use it. In terms of technology, you´ll find convection heaters, infrared heaters, and micathermic space heaters. They come in different styles and designs to meet your heating needs and expectations.
What Makes a Good Energy-Efficient Space Heater?
Getting the grips on specifications of energy-efficient space heaters will educate you on how to make the ideal choice. When buying an energy-efficient space heater consumers should look for features that save energy, money, improve safety, and that is aesthetically appealing. One of the most important features is the thermostat and you can find heaters with programmable or adjustable ones. A programmable thermostat lets you regulate the room temperature and cycles the heater on and off to maintain the warmth. Adjustable thermostats don´t maintain the temperature but still adjust the heat based on your options.
On the other hand, programmable timers are also one of the most interesting features of energy-efficient space heaters. You can set a heater to turn on and off at specific times and that you´ll save you a lot of energy. Multiple heat settings and energy-saving modes are therefore common features in energy-efficient heaters, as well as automatic oscillation that lets you distribute heat evenly through space.
For some, transportable energy-efficient space heaters are a plus because some homes use space heaters as their main source of heat. For those who have pets or children, a cool-to-touch heater is a plus in what relates to safety. Some modern energy-efficient space heaters have switches that turn off whenever the heater falls or overheats.
Indeed, all high-quality models are silent and have an appealing design, besides having a multitude of heat settings that make energy-efficient space heaters a convenient appliance for those who want to save money, energy, and heat a space properly not forgetting aesthetics.
You will find portable floor heaters, wall heaters, space heaters, and baseboard heaters.
Floor heaters are compact and have a space-saving design, wall heaters are installed on interior walls and provide an extra source of heat, space heaters are suitable for tight places and baseboard heaters keep the environment warm from the floor to the ceiling.
When buying an energy-efficient space heater also keep in mind that there is convection heating, radiant heating, and micathermic heating.
Convection heating is used in small spaces and is a good technology if you have pets or kids because ceramic space heaters have a cool-to-touch mode as the heating discs are hidden inside. Radiant heating delivers heat to areas directly in front of the heater like infrared heaters. Micathermic heating combines silence and efficiency and the process of convection allows the heat to flow in the room, heating the space evenly. It is also good for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.
For buyers, the most important is to heat a room evenly, to save energy, and to feel safe at the same time, so look for features that can assure that.
Energy Efficient Space Heaters vs Normal Space Heaters
Energy efficiency is a measurement of the quantity of energy used to power a space heater compared to the energy that it produces. Heat is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) and getting to know the energy that is produced for a certain amount of input energy is key when buying a heater.
Energy-efficient space heaters will make you save money and will heat a space more effectively as opposed to normal space heaters. Nowadays, energy-efficient space heaters are all about saving as much energy as possible and heating a room as effectively as possible. Power consumption and cost are very important to consumers, that is why normal space heaters are losing track in the market.
Energy-efficient space heaters offer multiple heat settings and multiple power levels. These levels are measured in watts, amps, or BTUs. The higher the heater´s BTU rating, the better its performance. You can calculate using this formula or use the calculator below:
Heater Wattage Rating X 3.413 (the number of BTUs that equal 1 watt) = BTU Output
A BTU (or British Thermal Unit) rating is useful when comparing the energy output because BTUs measure the heating capacity of various fuels and heating units, that is why they´re a useful rating when comparing the energy output. For example, an 800-watt heater would deliver 2,730 BTUs and a 1,500-watt space heater would produce roughly 5,120 BTUs of heat. Energy-efficient space heaters are generally more expensive than normal space heaters, but the market is changing and the price range also depends on design and style. That is why you can find the price of a heater ranging from 25$ to more than 2,000$. Before making your choice, try to understand what might be the cost of operating a certain space heater. Costs will depend on the type of heater and the room size. Large rooms such as basements will cost more to heat.
This equation might help you out:
Kilowatts Per Hour x Electricity Rate x Operating Time = Daily Operational Cost
To determine the kilowatts per hour, see what is on the heater and divide it by 1,000 (a 1,500-watt heater will use 1.5 kilowatts per hour). The cost per kilowatt-hour is listed on your electric bill. Then you just have to know how many hours a day you´ll be using the heater. Here’s an example: 1.5 Kilowatts Used Per Hour X $0.10 kWh X 12 hours = $1.80 a day. Approximately $54 a month. You may use the calculator below to get an estimate on your electricity cost when running your heater.
Other differences the consumers might find interesting between efficient energy space heaters and normal space heaters concern safety and noise. The most efficient ones have a multitude of features that will prevent them from overheating and wasting energy.
Can You Find an Affordable Space Heater That’s Also Energy Efficient?
Energy-efficient space heaters do not have to be extremely expensive or overpriced. You can easily get space heaters, which are of good quality without breaking the bank. Customers may venture off to buying expensive products that are energy-efficient because they consider products that are less in price as cheap.
That is a common misconception as you can find high-quality space heaters at an affordable price that won’t break down quickly. Many trusted companies are known for their durable products and appliances. They can fulfill your need for an energy-efficient heater without going overboard with the price point.
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind
Before considering buying a space heater, you might want to keep a few things in mind. These include:
For People Prone to Dust Allergies
First and foremost, if you are someone who has breathing difficulties, asthma, or lung problems, you might want to stay away from fan heaters as they quickly collect dust. When the fan rotates, the dust on it will disperse and spread, thus triggering allergies or increasing them. Therefore, a panel heater or infrared heater shall be more suitable.
Energy Efficiency
While considering buying a space heater, look for ones which are low wattage and energy-efficient. These heaters will not only perform their function actively but will also help you save a decent amount of money.
Low wattage heaters are not only budget-friendly but are also valuable in the long run. Many such products help in reducing electricity bills and are light on the pocket.
Space Consideration
Look for a heater which will be suitable for the area you want it for. For instance, you might not want a heavy-watt heater for a small room or office. Find a heater that will suit your needs perfectly and not cause any uncalled-for difficulty in the long run.
Conclusion
Choosing the most energy-efficient space heater will make you come across technical specifications that will make you learn a lot. Consider the space you want to heat and buy your heater according to its size. Finding the ideal space heater is not easy, but once you get there, you will have a cozy space at the ideal temperature. Choosing an energy-efficient space heater that is not the most suitable for the space you want to heat will make it too hot or slightly cold.
For that matter, think about if you want a convection heater, a radiation heater, or a micathermic one. Make a cost analysis and then choose if you want a space heater powered by electricity or by petroleum oils. The most modern space heaters are silent and cool to touch, so if you have children or pets take a look at those made of ceramics.
See what suits you more and make sure your energy-efficient space heater is ETL certified and has a set of features that make it safe when overheating or falling. A thermostat and a programmable timer are essential to save energy. And remember, convection heating is the perfect option to evenly distribute heat throughout a space.
People Also Ask
Many questions pop up in the minds of customers who are considering buying a space heater, and they want answers for it. They might have questions about various aspects of different space heaters. For this reason, this section aims to answer some of the frequently asked questions.
Ceramic heaters tend to be quite energy-efficient and consume less heat. They take less electricity and give off the required amount of heat while being easy on the pocket. These heaters help boost savings.
Infrared space heaters are the most energy-efficient out of all space heaters. They use all of the energy provided to them and convert it into heat, so they provide the right value of your invested money. The room stays warm for a longer duration as compared to other heaters, and the user saves a considerable amount of money in electricity costs.
Energy Star is the government-trusted symbol established to reduce greenhouse gas emissions caused by the inefficient use of energy and ensure that the product is energy-efficient. So, if a heater has Energy Star written on it, it’s an energy-efficient product that will help you save money.
Space heaters do use less energy as compared to central heat. So, if you want to heat one or two rooms, then opt for a space heater. However, if you require heating a large number of rooms, then opt for central heating because turning on space heaters in every room of the house will take up a lot of energy.
