As winter approaches and temperatures drop, many people look for supplemental heating sources like space heaters to stay warm. With so many different types of space heaters on the market, it can be difficult to determine which is the safest option. In this comprehensive guide, we will examine the different kinds of space heaters, look at safety considerations, and provide recommendations for the safest space heaters for your home.
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Types of Space Heaters
There are several main types of space heaters to choose from:
- Radiant or infrared heaters
- Ceramic heaters
- Fan-forced heaters
- Oil-filled radiator heaters
- Micathermic heaters
Each type works in a slightly different way and has its own pros and cons regarding safety, efficiency, and suitability for different spaces.
Radiant or Infrared Heaters
Radiant or infrared space heaters work by emitting infrared radiation that directly heats objects and people in a room, not the air itself. The heating elements reach high temperatures upward of 1000°F. However, a grill directly in front of the heating element prevents contact burns. These heaters heat up and cool down quickly and are ideal for warming up people in a directed zone instead of an entire room.
Ceramic Heaters
Ceramic space heaters use a heating element protected by a ceramic material. This material radiates heat and helps prevent burns. There is typically a fan to disperse the heat outwards into the room. Ceramic heaters heat up quickly but can use more electricity than some other options. They work well for localized heating needs.
Fan-Forced Heaters
As the name implies, fan-forced heaters use a fan to circulate air across a heated element into the surrounding space. They are efficient at heating an entire room. The intense forced airflow can potentially cause burns if someone gets too close. Models with grills and cool-touch exteriors minimize this risk.
Oil-Filled Radiator Heaters
Oil-filled radiator heaters contain heating elements submerged in oil. As the oil heats up it radiates warmth. The oil retains heat even after the element turns off, providing more consistent temperatures. The exterior does not get hot to the touch. These heaters take longer to heat up but provide steadier, gentler heat without intense blasts of hot air.
Micathermic Heaters
Micathermic heaters utilize both convection and radiant heating. They have a thin sheet of mica behind the heating element. The mica radiates heat while a fan blows air across the element for convection heating. They heat up quickly but also cool down fast once turned off.
Space Heater Safety Features
When choosing a space heater, look for key safety features to prevent fires, burns, and other accidents:
- Automatic shut-off – If tipped over, the heater immediately shuts off.
- Tip-over protection – If knocked askew, the unit turns off.
- Cool-touch exterior – The surface stays cool to prevent burns.
- Overheat protection – If overheated, the unit automatically shuts down.
- Grill or mesh cover – Prevents direct contact with heating elements.
- Power indicator light – Know when the heater is on.
- Thermostat – Set a target temperature so the heater is not constantly cycling.
- Timer – Can be set to automatically turn off after a set number of hours.
- Remote control – Adjust settings from across the room.
- Adjustable heat settings – Customize the heat output as needed.
- Handle – Allows moving without directly touching hot surfaces.
- Base or legs – Keeps the unit stable and prevents tipping.
Prioritize heaters with multiple safety mechanisms to provide redundancy if one fails. The more precautions in place, the safer the heater.
Most Recommended Safe Space Heaters
Based on expert testing, user reviews, and safety ratings, here are some of the top space heaters to consider for safe operation:
| Space Heater | Key Features |
|---|---|
| De’Longhi HMP1500 Mica Panel Heater | Micathermic technology, adjustable thermostat, durable metal exterior with protective finish, tip-over switch, overheat protection |
| Lasko 755320 Ceramic Heater | Adjustable digital thermostat, remote control, oscillation, overheat protection, cool-touch exterior |
| Vornado MVH Vortex Heater | Automatic climate control, tip-over and overheat protection, cool air vortex circulation, 5-year warranty |
| Dreo 24″ Space Heater | 10 temperature settings, 12-hour timer, remote control, LED display, overheating and tip-over shut-off |
| GiveBest Electric Oil Filled Radiator | Silent operation, adjustable thermostat, overheat safety shut-off valve, tip-over switch, carry handles |
This table highlights some popular space heater models with a range of safety mechanisms, efficiency features, and convenience options. However, there are many other quality heaters on the market not listed here.
Positioning Your Space Heater Safely
In addition to purchasing a space heater with adequate safety features, it is also critical to use and position your heater properly to prevent fire hazards:
- Always plug the heater directly into the wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord which can overheat.
- Make sure the electrical outlet and circuit can handle the heater’s wattage.
- Place on a flat, stable, nonflammable surface.
- Keep at least 3 feet clearance from other objects and never place near curtains, under tables, or in high traffic areas where it can be knocked over.
- Never leave a space heater unattended or running while sleeping.
- Always unplug and safely stow away when not in use.
- Do not use in wet environments like bathrooms.
- Check that it carries the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) label to meet safety standards.
Using basic precautions when positioning your space heater will help minimize fire risks and make it much safer.
Other Home Heating Safety Tips
While space heaters can be very useful, also keep in mind:
- Perform regular maintenance on central heating systems and chimneys.
- Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Have furnaces professionally inspected each year.
- Clean lint filters in clothes dryers before each use.
- Do not leave cooking food unattended on the stove.
- Store matches, lighters, and flammable products properly.
- Create and practice a home fire escape plan with your family.
Making fire safety a priority throughout your home provides the best protection according to fire prevention experts.
Conclusion
Choosing a space heater with ample safety features and using proper precautions greatly reduces the risks associated with supplemental heating. Opt for units with tip-over and overheat shut-off switches, adjustable thermostats, cool-touch exteriors, a grille over the heating element, and other safeguards. Position the heater at a safe distance from people, objects, high traffic areas, and flammable materials. Never leave a space heater unattended for extended periods. With the right heater and safe usage, you can stay comfortably warm without worrying about safety hazards.