When used safely (plugged into an outlet—not an extension cord—and kept at least 3 feet away from drapes, bedding, and furniture), a space heater lets you keep a small area toasty without having to make the rest of the house feel like a sauna. Use our mini-guide to find out which is the best space heater for your chilliest room.
4 Best Space Heaters
1. Radiator Space Heater
Model
DeLonghi oil-filled radiator, about $91
How It Works
- Shaped like the traditional fixed kind, these heaters are filled with oil warmed by electricity.
- Oil retains heat well, so the devices give off warmth for a while even after they’re turned off.
Best For
- Living rooms and bedrooms
2. Fan-Forced Space Heater
Model
Honeywell Cool Touch Energy Smart fan-forced heater, about $60
- A built-in ventilator blows air over heated metal coils.
- The air current can be adjusted to focus on only part of a room—like where you sit.
Best For
Workshops and offices
3. Ceramic Space Heater
DeLonghi ceramic heater, about $95
- Electricity heats up metal embedded in ceramic plates; the heat radiates to surrounding areas.
- Available in many shapes, they stay cool to the touch while providing quick, focused heating.
Small offices and sunrooms
4. Baseboard Space Heater
Lasko Low Profile Heater, about $70
- Air moves through copper tubes inside that are heated by electric cables. Many have integrated thermostats.
- These quiet, low-profile devices easily heat large spaces.
Basements and family rooms
