Having a source of heat in your car during the winter can make a big difference in comfort and safety. Portable heaters allow you to warm up your car’s interior quickly without having to idle the engine. There are a few different types of portable heaters that can work well in automobiles.
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Types of Portable Car Heaters
When choosing a portable car heater, you’ll typically be deciding between the following options:
- Electric heaters – These plug into your car’s 12V power outlet and heat using electric coils or ceramic plates. Most provide between 100-1500 watts of heat.
- Propane heaters – Also called catalytic heaters, these burn propane fuel to provide from 2500-5000 BTUs of warmth. Mr. Heater and Wave are popular brands.
- Wood pellet heaters – Designed for truckers, these heaters burn small wood pellets and vent the exhaust outside.
Within these categories, there are heaters made specifically for cars as well as small portable heaters that can work inside a car but aren’t car-specific. When choosing, make sure any portable heater you use in your car is designed to operate safely in that environment.
Key Features to Look for in a Car Heater
Here are some key features and considerations to keep in mind when shopping for a portable car heater:
- Built-in safety features – Tip-over switches, auto shut-off, and overheat protection are must-haves for safe operation.
- Power source – 12V electric or propane/butane combustion are the most common options. Make sure it’s compatible with your vehicle.
- Heat settings – Look for at least a high/low setting to control warmth.
- Warm-up time – The faster the heater can warm up your car, the better.
- Heating coverage – Smaller heaters may only warm the immediate area while others can heat an entire cabin.
- Portability – Compact, lightweight designs allow for easy storage and transport.
- Safety certifications – Look for UL, CSA, or ETL marks to ensure electrical and fire safety.
Electric Car Heaters
Electric portable heaters offer a convenient heating option since they simply plug into your car’s cigarette lighter or 12V power outlet. Here are some pros and cons:
Pros
- Plug-and-play convenience
- Compact, lightweight designs for portability
- Lower purchase cost than propane
- Safer than combustible heat sources
- Lower noise than fuel-burning heaters
Cons
- Limited heat output compared to combustion heaters
- Can drain car battery if used for extended periods without engine running
- May lack safety features like tip switches
- Exposed heating elements can pose burn risk
Our Top Picks
| Brand | Model | Heat Output | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wagan | TechHeater 200 | 200W on high | Tip switch, overheat protection |
| HeatMaxx | Premium 12V | 120W on high | Tip switch, auto shut-off |
| RoadPro | RPSL-681 | 300W on high | Tip switch, auto shut-off |
Propane Car Heaters
Propane-powered portable heaters use combustion to provide intense heat quickly. Though less convenient than electric, propane can heat larger areas faster. Considerations when using propane heaters in cars:
Pros
- Very powerful – up to 18,000 BTU heat output
- Heats vehicles quickly
- Compact tanks are easy to store
- Fuel is inexpensive
Cons
- Risk of carbon monoxide if not properly ventilated
- Refilling tanks can be inconvenient
- Fuel can run out if used extensively
- Requires ventilation for safety
Our Top Picks
| Brand | Model | Heat Output | Tank Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater | Buddy Portable | 4,000-9,000 BTU | 1-lb tank |
| Texsport | Portable Outdoor | 2,890 BTU | 16.4-oz tank |
| Camco | Olympian Wave-8 | 8,000 BTU | 1-lb tank |
Wood Pellet Car Heaters
As an alternative fuel option, wood pellet heaters are a choice mainly used by truckers and RV owners. Here’s an overview:
Pros
- Burns renewable wood fuel
- Vents exhaust outside vehicle
- Pellets are compact and easy to store
- Up to 35,000 BTU heat output
Cons
- Requires installation and venting
- Pellets must be purchased and refilled
- Ash buildup requires cleaning
- Only practical for larger vehicles
Our Top Pick
Espar D2 Diesel-Fired Heater – Up to 20,000 BTU output. Fuelled from vehicle’s diesel tank. Automatic altitude adjustment. Optional thermostat. Requires professional installation.
Safety Tips
To safely use a portable heater in your car, keep these tips in mind:
- Crack windows to ensure airflow and avoid CO poisoning.
- Mount or place heater on flat surface so it cannot tip over.
- Use a low-watt or low BTU setting to conserve car battery.
- Unplug electric heaters when not in use to prevent battery drain.
- Keep flammable objects away from portable heaters.
- Do not leave portable heaters unattended.
- Make sure your heater has auto shut-off function in case it tips over.
- Read manufacturer guidelines before using in enclosed space.
Conclusion
The best portable heaters for cars offer safe, convenient warmth when you need it. Look for models with adequate power output, built-in safety features, and the ability to heat your vehicle’s cabin space quickly. While electric heaters are the simplest to use, propane models pack more heating power and wood pellet heaters are a rugged option for larger vehicles used for long periods. Whichever type you choose, always follow safety guidelines and never leave a portable heater running inside a car unattended.