The Complete Space Heater Buying Guide: Types, Costs & Efficiency

Trying to stay warm without cranking up your heating bill? You're not alone. Space heaters have become a go-to solution for many homeowners looking to heat specific rooms efficiently. But with so many options out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

Whether you're setting up a cozy home office, warming up a chilly bedroom, or just looking for a more budget-friendly way to stay comfortable, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about space heaters—from the different types available to what they might cost to run.

Let's dive in and find the perfect heating solution for your space.

Not all space heaters are created equal. Each type uses different technology to generate warmth, and understanding these differences can help you choose the one that best fits your needs.

Ceramic heaters are among the most popular choices for home and office use, and for good reason. These heaters use ceramic plates that heat up when electricity passes through them, and a built-in fan distributes that warmth throughout your room.

What makes them appealing:

They tend to heat up rooms relatively quickly, making them great for when you need warmth fast

Many models feature cool-touch exteriors, which can be reassuring if you have kids or pets around

They're often compact and portable, perfect for moving from room to room

Energy efficiency is generally good, especially for short to medium heating sessions

Things to consider:

They work best in small to medium-sized rooms rather than large, open spaces

The fan can produce some noise, which might bother light sleepers

Continuous use over many hours may increase your electricity costs

Where they shine: Home offices, bedrooms, dorm rooms, or any personal space where you need focused, reliable warmth.

Fan heaters, sometimes called coil heaters, are the budget-friendly option many people start with. They work by heating metal coils and using a fan to blow that heat into your space.

What makes them appealing:

Usually the most affordable option upfront

They deliver heat quickly—great for a fast warm-up

Lightweight and easy to move around

Simple, straightforward operation

Things to consider:

• They can consume more electricity compared to some other types
• The heating elements can get quite hot, so placement matters for safety
• They may dry out the air more noticeably than other heater types
• Not always the quietest option

Where they shine: Garages, workshops, or situations where you need quick, temporary heat and aren't running the heater for extended periods.

If you're looking for something that provides steady, consistent warmth, oil-filled radiators might be worth considering. These heaters contain oil that's heated electrically and circulates through the unit's fins, radiating warmth into your room.

What makes them appealing:

• They operate silently—no fan noise at all
• Once heated, they continue radiating warmth even after being turned off
• Generally energy-efficient for all-day heating needs
• The surface stays relatively cooler than exposed coil heaters

Things to consider:

• They take longer to warm up initially compared to fan-based heaters
• They're heavier and less portable due to the oil inside
• The upfront cost tends to be higher than basic fan heaters

Where they shine: Bedrooms where quiet operation matters, living rooms, or any space where you want consistent warmth throughout the day.

Infrared heaters work differently from the others—they don't heat the air. Instead, they emit infrared radiation that directly warms objects and people in their path, similar to how the sun warms you.

What makes them appealing:

• You feel the warmth almost instantly
• They can be quite energy-efficient since they're not heating unused air
• Operation is typically very quiet
• They don't dry out the air as much as fan heaters

Things to consider:

• The warmth is directional—you need to be in the heater's line of sight to feel it
• They're less effective at warming an entire room evenly
• Moving out of the direct heat path means you'll feel cooler quickly

Where they shine: Outdoor patios, workshops, or situations where you want to warm a specific spot or person rather than an entire room.

Micathermic heaters are a bit less common but offer an interesting middle ground. They combine convection heating (warming the air) with radiant heat (warming objects directly).

What makes them appealing:

• They heat up quickly and distribute warmth effectively
• Typically lightweight and slim, making them easy to position
• Energy efficiency is generally good
• Quieter than traditional fan heaters

Things to consider:

• They often come with a higher price tag
• You might find fewer options available compared to ceramic or fan heaters
• Availability can vary depending on your location

Where they shine: Living rooms, multi-purpose spaces, or anywhere you want efficient heating without the bulk of an oil-filled radiator.

This is probably the question on everyone's mind. The honest answer? It depends on several factors, but let's break it down so you can estimate what to expect.

Most space heaters operate between 750 and 1,500 watts. To put that in perspective, a typical heater running at 1,500 watts uses 1.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity for every hour it's on.

Here's a simple way to calculate your costs:

Cost per hour = (Wattage ÷ 1,000) × Hours used × Your electricity rate

For example, if your electricity costs $0.13 per kWh (roughly the U.S. average), running a 1,500-watt heater for one hour would cost about $0.20.

Let's look at what this might mean for your actual usage:

For a 1,500-watt heater at $0.13/kWh:

• Running 4 hours per day: approximately $1.04 per day, or about $31 per month
• Running 8 hours per day: approximately $2.08 per day, or about $62 per month
• Running continuously (24 hours): approximately $6.24 per day, or about $187 per month

For a 750-watt heater at $0.13/kWh:

• Running 4 hours per day: approximately $0.52 per day, or about $16 per month
• Running 8 hours per day: approximately $1.04 per day, or about $31 per month

Keep in mind that your actual costs will vary based on your local electricity rates and how often the heater actually runs (thermostats cycle on and off to maintain temperature).

Your actual electricity consumption can vary quite a bit depending on:

Room characteristics:

• Smaller, well-insulated rooms require less energy to heat
• Drafty rooms or those with poor insulation will cost more to keep warm
• Ceiling height matters—higher ceilings mean more air to heat

How you use it:

• Setting the thermostat lower means the heater runs less frequently
• Using a timer can help limit unnecessary runtime
• Closing doors and sealing gaps helps retain heat

External conditions:

• Colder outdoor temperatures mean your heater works harder
• Ground-floor rooms or those with exterior walls may need more heating
• Sunny rooms might need less supplemental heat during the day

Here's where it gets interesting. While space heaters do use electricity, they can sometimes be more economical than heating your entire home.

If you're only using one or two rooms regularly, heating just those spaces with a space heater while lowering your central thermostat could potentially reduce your overall heating costs. However, if you're trying to heat multiple rooms or your entire home with space heaters, you'll likely spend more than using your central system.

Not all space heaters are equally efficient. Here's what can make a real difference in your energy bills and comfort level.

Adjustable thermostats are worth their weight in gold. Instead of running continuously, heaters with thermostats cycle on and off to maintain your desired temperature. This can significantly reduce energy consumption compared to heaters that just run at full blast until you turn them off.

Programmable timers let you set specific operating hours. You might program your heater to warm up your bedroom an hour before bedtime and shut off after you've fallen asleep. This prevents all-night operation when you might not need it.

Eco modes are becoming more common and can help optimize energy use. These settings typically adjust the heater's output based on the room temperature, finding a balance between comfort and efficiency.

Proper sizing is crucial. A heater that's too small will run constantly trying to warm your space, while one that's too large might cycle on and off too frequently. As a general guideline, you'll want about 10 watts of heating power per square foot of space. So a 150-square-foot room would benefit from a 1,500-watt heater.

When shopping, you might see various efficiency claims. While space heaters don't typically carry ENERGY STAR ratings (since most electric resistance heaters convert electricity to heat at similar rates), you can still compare features.

Look for:

• Wattage options (many heaters offer 750W and 1,500W settings)
• Thermostat accuracy and range
• Energy-saving modes or features
• Information about the recommended room size

You can make any space heater more efficient with a few simple strategies:

Improve your space:

• Close doors to keep heat from escaping
• Use draft stoppers under doors
• Consider thermal curtains for windows
• Make sure your room has adequate insulation

Smart usage:

• Lower your central heat and use the space heater for the room you're in
• Don't place heaters near windows or exterior walls where heat can escape
• Keep furniture and curtains away from the heater for proper air circulation
• Turn off the heater when you leave the room

Maintenance matters:

• Keep the heater clean and dust-free for optimal performance
• Ensure vents aren't blocked
• Check that filters (if applicable) are clean

Safety should be a top priority when choosing a space heater. The good news is that modern heaters come with several features designed to keep you and your home safe.

Before you buy any space heater, look for certification from recognized testing laboratories:

UL (Underwriters Laboratories), ETL (Intertek), or CSA (Canadian Standards Association) certification means the heater has been tested and meets specific safety standards. This isn't just a nice-to-have—it's essential.

Overheat protection is a must-have feature. This automatically shuts off the heater if it gets too hot, preventing potential fire hazards. Most quality heaters include this, but it's worth confirming.

Tip-over protection is especially important if you have kids, pets, or just a busy household. If the heater gets knocked over, it should shut off automatically. This simple feature can prevent serious accidents.

Cool-touch exteriors mean the outside of the heater stays relatively cool even when it's running. This is particularly reassuring if you have curious children or pets who might touch the heater.

GFCI plugs are important if you're considering using a heater in a bathroom or any area where moisture might be present. These plugs cut power if they detect any electrical irregularities.

Cord length and quality matter more than you might think. A sturdy, appropriately-length cord reduces the temptation to use extension cords, which can be a fire hazard with high-wattage appliances.

Child and pet safety features might include control locks, protective grills, or stable bases that are harder to tip over.

Even the safest heater needs to be used properly:

• Keep at least three feet of clearance on all sides
• Never place heaters on furniture, beds, or other elevated surfaces
• Avoid using in bathrooms unless specifically designed for that purpose
• Don't run cords under rugs or across walkways
• Plug directly into wall outlets rather than using extension cords or power strips
• Never leave a space heater unattended for extended periods

With so many options available, here's how to narrow down your choices and find the heater that's right for your specific situation.

Start with your room size. Measure the square footage of the space you want to heat. A small bedroom might be 100-150 square feet, while a larger living room could be 300-400 square feet or more. This will help you determine the wattage you need.

Consider how long you'll use it. Are you looking for quick warmth while you get ready in the morning, or do you need all-day heating for a home office? Short-term use might favor ceramic or fan heaters, while all-day heating might make an oil-filled radiator more economical.

Think about portability. Will you move the heater between rooms, or will it stay in one place? Lightweight ceramic heaters are easy to carry, while oil-filled radiators are better as stationary solutions.

Noise tolerance matters. If you're heating a bedroom or need to concentrate in a home office, a silent oil-filled radiator or infrared heater might be preferable to a fan-based model.

Upfront costs vary widely:

• Basic fan heaters: typically $20-$40
• Ceramic heaters: usually $30-$100
• Oil-filled radiators: often $50-$150
• Infrared heaters: generally $40-$200
• Micathermic heaters: typically $80-$200

Operating costs depend on usage, but remember that a cheaper heater that runs inefficiently might cost more in the long run than a pricier, more efficient model.

Durability and warranty are worth considering. A heater with a good warranty and solid construction might cost more initially but could last for many years, making it a better value overall.

For home offices: Consider a ceramic heater with adjustable thermostat and quiet operation. You'll want something that maintains a comfortable temperature without being distracting.

For bedrooms: Oil-filled radiators or ceramic heaters with quiet operation and tip-over protection work well. Look for models with timers so you can have warmth when you need it without running all night.

For large rooms: You might need a higher-wattage heater (1,500W) or even multiple heaters. Oil-filled radiators or micathermic heaters can provide more even heat distribution.

For bathrooms: Only use heaters specifically rated for bathroom use, with GFCI protection and appropriate moisture resistance. Wall-mounted options are often safer than portable units.

For small spaces or desks: Compact ceramic heaters or small infrared heaters can provide personal warmth without heating an entire room, which can be more energy-efficient.

Taking care of your space heater isn't complicated, but a little maintenance can help it run more efficiently and last longer.

Regular dusting is important. Dust buildup on heating elements or fans can reduce efficiency and potentially create safety issues. Before cleaning, always unplug the heater and let it cool completely.

For most heaters, you can:

• Wipe down the exterior with a soft, dry cloth
• Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from vents and grills
• For stubborn dust, a slightly damp cloth works, but make sure everything is completely dry before plugging in again

Filter cleaning applies to some models. If your heater has a removable filter, check it monthly during heavy use and clean or replace it as needed. This simple step can significantly improve performance.

Off-season storage matters too. When you're done using your heater for the season:

• Clean it thoroughly before storing
• Keep it in a dry location
• Cover it to prevent dust accumulation
• Store the cord neatly to prevent damage

Heater won't turn on:

• Check that it's properly plugged in
• Verify the outlet is working (try another device)
• Look for a reset button on the heater
• Make sure any safety switches (like tip-over protection) aren't engaged

Not producing enough heat:

• Clean dust from vents and heating elements
• Check that the thermostat is set appropriately
• Ensure the heater is properly sized for your room
• Verify that vents aren't blocked by furniture or curtains

Strange smells:

• A burning smell when first used each season is often just dust burning off—this should dissipate quickly
• Persistent burning smells or plastic odors warrant unplugging the heater and having it checked
• Any smell of melting plastic is a serious concern—stop using immediately

Unusual noises:

• Some clicking as thermostats cycle is normal
• Rattling might indicate loose parts
• Grinding or scraping sounds aren't normal and suggest the heater needs attention

When to replace vs. repair:

• For inexpensive heaters, replacement often makes more sense than repair
• If your heater is several years old and showing multiple issues, it might be time for an upgrade
• Any safety concerns (damaged cords, cracked housing, malfunctioning safety features) warrant immediate replacement

While modern heaters have safety features, it's generally not recommended to leave them running unattended while you sleep. If you do choose to use one overnight, make sure it has automatic shut-off features, tip-over protection, and overheat protection. Oil-filled radiators with thermostats tend to be safer for extended use than fan heaters. Consider using a timer to turn it off after you've fallen asleep.

Yes, space heaters can be used safely in bedrooms if you follow proper precautions. Choose models with safety certifications, tip-over protection, and cool-touch exteriors. Keep them at least three feet away from beds, curtains, and other materials. Oil-filled radiators are often a good choice for bedrooms because they operate quietly and maintain more consistent temperatures.

At the average U.S. electricity rate of about $0.13 per kWh, running a 1,500-watt heater continuously for 24 hours would cost approximately $4.68. However, most heaters with thermostats don't run continuously—they cycle on and off to maintain temperature, which can reduce actual costs by 30-50% depending on your settings and room conditions.

Ceramic heaters don't inherently use less electricity than other electric heaters—most electric heaters convert electricity to heat at similar efficiency rates. However, ceramic heaters often heat up quickly and distribute warmth effectively, which can mean shorter run times to achieve comfort. Models with good thermostats and energy-saving features can help reduce overall electricity consumption.

For a 150-square-foot room, a heater with around 1,500 watts should work well, following the general guideline of 10 watts per square foot. However, you might get by with less if your room is well-insulated, or you might need more if it's particularly drafty or has high ceilings. Many heaters offer multiple wattage settings (like 750W and 1,500W), giving you flexibility.

While it's technically possible to use multiple space heaters throughout a house, it's generally not the most efficient or cost-effective approach. Space heaters work best for zone heating—warming specific rooms while keeping your central heat lower. Trying to heat an entire house with space heaters would likely cost more than using your central heating system and could overload your electrical circuits.

Neither is universally "better"—they serve different purposes. Infrared heaters excel at providing instant, directional warmth and work well for spot heating or outdoor use. Ceramic heaters are typically better for warming entire rooms evenly. Your choice should depend on whether you want to warm a space or warm yourself directly, along with considerations like noise tolerance and room size.

Choosing the right space heater comes down to understanding your specific needs—the size of your space, how you'll use it, your budget, and what features matter most to you.

For most home and office situations, ceramic heaters offer a solid balance of quick heating, safety features, and reasonable operating costs. If you need all-day warmth and value quiet operation, an oil-filled radiator might be worth the higher upfront investment. And if you're looking for targeted, instant warmth, infrared heaters can be remarkably efficient.

Remember that the most efficient heater is one that's properly sized for your space and used thoughtfully. Combining a good space heater with simple efficiency measures—like closing doors, sealing drafts, and lowering your central heat—can help you stay comfortable while managing your energy costs.

Whatever you choose, prioritize safety features and proper usage. A certified heater with overheat protection, tip-over switches, and a cool-touch exterior will give you peace of mind along with warmth.

Stay warm, stay safe, and here's to finding the perfect heating solution for your space!