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Quick Answer
Yes, there are several types of heaters that can be safely used in the bathroom, including:
– Electric wall heaters – These are installed high up on the wall away from water sources. They should be plugged into a GFCI outlet for safety.
– Electric radiant floor heating – This is installed under tile floors to provide gentle warmth. The heating elements are insulated and safe for damp environments.
– Hydronic or electric towel warmers – Towel warmers can provide heat and dry towels. Electric models use internal heating elements while hydronic versions circulate hot water from the home’s plumbing system.
– Infrared heaters – Infrared or quartz tube heaters don’t rely on air convection and directly heat objects instead. They can be safely wall-mounted away from water sources.
The key is choosing a heater designed for bathroom use with ample safety features. Proper installation away from water along with GFCI outlets or circuit breakers are also essential. Maintenance should be done according to manufacturer guidelines. With the right type and setup, there are certainly good heating options for bathrooms.
What to Look for in a Bathroom Heater
When selecting a heater for the bathroom, there are a few key factors to consider:
– Moisture Resistance – The heater must be designed for high humidity environments and resistant to moisture. Safety features like auto shut-offs if tipped over are important.
– Placement – It should be installed high up on walls or ceilings, at least 3 feet away from bathtubs and shower enclosures. This prevents accidental contact with water.
– Output – Choose a model with appropriate wattage for the size of your bathroom. Most small to medium bathrooms require 500-1500W.
– Mounting – Pick a heater that can be securely wall mounted or recessed to prevent tampering and accidental falls.
– Safety Certifications – Check that it is ETL/UL certified to meet safety standards for bathroom electrical appliances. GFCI protection is ideal.
– Run Time – Some heaters are meant only for short operation, while others can run for hours. Select based on your usage needs.
– Built-in Thermostat – Models with adjustable or programmable thermostats allow better temperature control.
Electric Wall Heaters
Electric wall heaters are a common bathroom heating option. They use electric heating elements encased in a moisture-resistant housing and are installed high up on walls. Pros include:
– Provide directed warmth right where needed
– Energy efficient to run for short periods
– Compact, lightweight, and easy to install
– Many budget-friendly options
However, they can present safety issues if not properly installed away from water sources and outlets. While they can provide a heat boost when needed, they may not be suitable as a primary heating source.
Radiant Floor Heating
Electric radiant floor heating consists of electric wires or mats installed under the floor surface. The warmth gently radiates upward over the whole floor area. Benefits are:
– Provides consistent, even heat without drying the air
– No exposed elements or risk of burns
– Hygienic and easy to clean
– Long life if installed correctly
Downsides are higher upfront costs for installation and being fixed in place. This works best as a primary bathroom floor heating system.
Towel Warmers
Towel warmers are available in electric and hydronic versions. They provide heat while neatly holding towels.
– Electric models use an internal heating element while hydronic versions connect to hot water pipes.
– Provides a drying rack and warmth for after baths and showers.
– Compact wall-mounted size with models to match decor.
– Can be switched on as needed.
However, they only provide localized heat and not for overall room heating.
How to Install a Bathroom Heater Safely
Proper installation is crucial for safety when using heaters in bathrooms:
– Carefully follow all manufacturer guidelines for mounting locations and minimum clearances from water sources like sinks, tubs, and showers.
– Only use wall studs or solid backing to securely mount heaters. This prevents them from vibrating loose or falling.
– Install wall heaters at least 3 feet above sinks and 6 feet above bathtubs and showers. Mount on ceilings at least 7-8 feet high if possible.
– Check that the circuit is GFCI protected – either use a GFCI outlet or install a GFCI breaker.
– Use a dedicated electrical circuit following the heater’s amperage requirements. Don’t overload shared circuits.
– Keep electrical cords and connections up off the floor and away from water.
– Never use an extension cord with bathroom heaters.
– Inspect that all seals and housings are intact with no gaps or holes.
– Confirm the heater is ETL/UL certified for bathroom use before installation.
Bathroom Heater Safety Tips
To safely run your bathroom heater:
– Keep the heater away from all combustible materials like towels and shower curtains.
– Check that wall-mounted heaters are firmly secured on a regular basis.
– When not in use for long periods, switch the heater off via circuit breaker or unplug electric models.
– Check for signs of water leaks, moisture, or corrosion and disable a damaged heater immediately.
– Only use the manufacturer recommended maintenance products and follow usage guidelines.
– Keep electric cords neatly coiled when not in use and avoid running them under mats or rugs.
– Never leave children or pets unsupervised in rooms with active heating units.
– Install tamper-resistant covers or pads over thermostats.
– If a heater trips a safety shut off, immediately switch power off and have it inspected by an electrician before re-use.
Top Bathroom Heater Options
Here are some top-rated bathroom heater models to consider across the various types:
| Type | Brand & Model | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Heater | Broan Model 688 | – 1250W forced fan heat – Moisture resistant – Built-in thermostat – Surface mounted |
| Celing Heater | Heat Storm HS-1000-WX Deluxe | – 1000W infrared quartz – Wall or ceiling mount – IPX4 waterproof rating – Remote control |
| Radiant Floor Heat | WarmlyYours TempZone | – Custom electric mats – Thin profile – 25 year warranty – Programmable thermostat |
| Towel Warmer | Amba Radiant Hardwired | – Electric heated rail – Built-in timer – 208W output – Wall mounted – Chrome finish |
Be sure to compare wattages, dimensions, and certifications to find the right model for your space. Read reviews and buy from reputable brands for the best safety and performance.
Conclusion
With mindful product selection and proper installation, there are definitely good options for safely adding heat to bathrooms. The key is choosing an electric heater designed specifically for bathroom use, mounting it completely out of reach of water, and ensuring adequate GFCI electrical protection. This allows you to enjoy the cozy warmth and comfort of a heated bathroom safely.