Yes, there are several options for electric heaters designed specifically for use in cars. Electric car heaters provide an efficient way to warm the interior of a vehicle without having to idle the engine. This can be especially useful in electric vehicles where idling the engine to provide heat is not an option.
Page Contents
Why Use an Electric Car Heater?
There are several advantages to using an electric heater in a car:
– Reduced engine idling – Idling the engine in order to run the car’s heating system can be inefficient and waste gas. Electric heaters allow you to warm up the car’s interior without having to idle the engine. This can help reduce emissions and save on fuel costs.
– Works in electric vehicles – For electric cars, heating is one of the biggest drains on battery range. An electric heater provides heat without impacting the car’s electric battery range.
– Faster interior warming – Electric heaters can provide focused and rapid heating to swiftly warm up a car’s cabin on cold days. This allows you to get heat without waiting for the entire engine to warm up.
– Compact size – Many electric car heaters are relatively small and can be easily installed in most vehicles. Larger capacity heaters may require some mounting or wiring work.
– Convenience – Electric heaters can be plugged into a regular household outlet for ease of use. Higher capacity heaters may require special high voltage outlets.
Types of Electric Car Heaters
There are a few common types of electric heaters designed for use in cars:
– Ceramic Space Heaters – These function like a traditional space heater using ceramic coils or plates to produce heat. They are an affordable option but lower wattage models may not produce enough heat for very cold conditions.
– PTC Heaters – PTC stands for “positive temperature coefficient” and refers to a ceramic material that increases resistance as temperature increases. PTC heaters ramp up heating quickly and include fans to distribute air. They are efficient and provide rapid heating but are more expensive.
– Carbon Fiber Heaters – Extremely thin carbon fiber filaments produce heating instantly across a large surface area. Carbon fiber heaters are fast-acting but can also be fairly expensive.
Power Options
The power source is an important consideration when selecting an electric car heater:
– 12V Heaters – Heaters that plug into a 12V outlet or cigarette lighter socket are the most common. But 12V heaters max out at around 120 to 150 watts so may not produce enough heat on their own for very cold climates.
– Higher Voltage Heaters – For more power, heaters that run on 120V to 240V and connect directly to the car’s battery may be required. This requires professional installation but enables heaters with capacities of 1500W or more.
– Battery Powered Heaters – Rechargeable battery powered heaters are also available. These offer portability and the convenience of cordless operation. However, runtime is limited per charge.
Choosing an Electric Car Heater
Here are the key factors to consider when selecting an electric car heater:
Heating Power
Consider the size of the space you need to heat and your climate. A larger capacity heater (1500+ Watts) is recommended for very cold regions or larger vehicle interiors. For milder climates or smaller cars, a lower wattage heater may suffice.
Ease of Installation
Lower capacity 12V heaters just need to be plugged into the car’s 12V outlet. Higher wattage may require professional installation to wire into the car’s electrical system. Think about your needs and technical skills.
Safety Features
Look for heaters with overheat protection, tip-over switches, and thermal fuses to prevent fires or dangerous overheating situations. Ceramic heaters have the best safety reputation.
Size and Weight
Make sure the heater will fit comfortably into the space you plan to install it. And verify it is light enough to be secured safely.
Adjustable Thermostat
Models with adjustable thermostats allow you to customize the temperature level and avoid overheating. This provides the most comfort and efficiency.
Fan Included
Heaters with built-in fans circulate the heat more evenly throughout the car’s interior. This helps prevent hot or cold spots.
Price
12V car heaters start around $20, while heavy-duty 1500W+ heaters will run $200+. Make sure to account for installation costs if required.
Top Electric Car Heaters
Based on the criteria above, here are some top electric heaters to consider for warming your car:
| Brand | Model | Power | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wagan | 12V Ceramic Heater | 120W | Ceramic | Ceramic safety, air circulation fan, adjustable mount |
| HeatDemon | Xtreme 240V Heater | 2500W | Metal Sheath | Tip-over safety, high heat output, wall or floor mount |
| RoadPro | 12V Hot Logic Mini Heater | 108W | PTC Ceramic | Compact design, quick heating, includes carry bag |
| Hemosure | Carbon Fiber Heater | 400W | Carbon Fiber | Thin and lightweight, heats evenly, adjustable temperature |
Wagan 120W Ceramic Car Heater
– 120 watts on 12V power
– Small and compact (6.3 x 4.1 x 2.4 inches)
– Ceramic plate heating element
– Integrated air circulation fan
– Adjustable mounting bracket included
– Overheat protection
– On/Off switch with power indicator light
The Wagan ceramic heater is a safe, budget-friendly option for small to mid-size cars. The ceramic plate heating element provides efficient warmth with low surface temperatures for safety. The fan helps circulate warmth throughout the interior. It comes with an adjustable bracket and can also be mounted to the floor. At 120W, it may not be robust enough for larger vehicles or extreme cold. Overall, this is a solid 120V car heater that is easy to install and operate.
HeatDemon Xtreme 2500W Car Heater
– 2500 watts on 240V power
– Large capacity for RV, trucks, and large spaces
– Open coil metal sheath heating element
– Tip-over auto shut-off feature
– High-limit thermostat prevents overheating
– Comes with floor mounting bracket
– 6 foot power cord
For maximum heating power, the HeatDemon Xtreme lives up to its name with 2500W on 240V electricity. The open coil design produces significant heat output to handle large, cold spaces. Safety features like auto shut-off prevent hazards. The industrial-duty metal sheath and thermostat maintain safe operation. This 240V heater requires professional installation but delivers serious heating power once in place. It’s the top choice for heating big spaces like RVs, trucks, and workshops.
RoadPro 12V Hot Logic Mini Car Heater
– 108 watts on 12V power
– 5 x 4 x 2 inches, weighs 1 lb
– PTC ceramic heating element
– Heats up quickly
– Integrated carry handle
– Comes with storage bag
– Protective cover prevents direct contact
For a compact and portable option, the RoadPro Hot Logic Mini Heater is a great electric solution. The advanced PTC ceramic element heats up quickly once plugged into a 12V outlet. It won’t provide as much heating power as a larger unit but takes up minimal space. The protective cover prevents direct contact for safety. And the integrated handle and storage bag maximize portability. For a super small yet effective electric heater, the Hot Logic Mini is ideal.
Hemosure 400W Carbon Fiber Car Heater
– 400 watts on 12-24V power
– Ultra slim carbon fiber heating element
– Heats uniformly across surface
– LCD screen shows temperature
– Adjustable thermostat with memory function
– Just 0.15 inches thick
– Comes with adhesive for mounting
The Hemosure carbon fiber heater provides the innovation of carbon fiber heating in a super slim and customizable package. The carbon fiber element heats evenly across the entire surface. The digital LCD makes it easy to set your desired temperature precisely. And the memory function maintains those preset temperatures automatically. Despite being so thin and flexible, it produces 400W on 12-24V power. The adhesive backing also simplifies mounting. Overall, this is an advanced electric heating option with carbon fiber technology in a slim form factor.
Installing Your Car Electric Heater
Installing your electric heater properly is important for safety and maximum effectiveness. Here are some tips:
Mounting
– Ensure the mounting location is secure and won’t interfere with driving. Never mount in front of airbags.
– Use all provided mounting hardware securely. This prevents dislodging.
– Adjust angle towards central cabin area if possible.
– Allow space for air circulation around the heater.
Wiring
– Use recommended wire gauge for power capacity to avoid fire risk.
– Make sure wires are well-insulated and won’t be damaged.
– Confirm electrical connections are tight and secure.
– Install a dedicated fuse on the electrical circuit.
– Have a professional complete any required electrical work.
Use
– Never leave powered heaters unattended or operate while sleeping.
– Arrange interior airflow to best distribute warmth.
– Adjust thermostat carefully to maintain comfortable temp.
– Check that the heater is securely off when not in use.
Following manufacturer mounting and electrical guidelines carefully will ensure your car electric heater performs safely and effectively.
Safety Tips
Electric car heaters provide targeted interior warmth but also require caution like any electrical heating device:
– Read all manufacturer safety guidelines before use.
– Confirm the heater is designed for in-vehicle use.
– Only operate heaters while awake and attentive.
– Make sure there is ample ventilation in the cabin.
– Check that the heater switches off when tipped over.
– Monitor heating levels and temperatures.
– Do not place anything directly touching the heater.
– Ensure adequate clearance from combustible materials.
– Use ground fault interrupters for any wired connections.
– Check for damage to cords before plugging in.
Exercising common sense safety practices will help avoid electric heater hazards. Also be sure to follow any specific directions from the manufacturer.
Conclusion
Electric car heaters provide a convenient and efficient way to warm your vehicle’s interior without idling the engine. From small 120V portable heaters to heavy-duty 240V solutions, there are options available to suit any car and climate need. Focus on choosing a heater with adequate power for your vehicle’s size, safe heating technology like ceramic or carbon fiber elements, and easy installation. With a quality electric heater installed properly, you can drive comfortably in the cold while saving gas and reducing emissions. Just be sure to follow all safety guidelines provided. An electric heater is a worthwhile investment that pays dividends all winter long through fuel savings and engine-free interior warmth.