As we near the winter season, it is crucial to recognize that heating makes up approximately 42% of the typical household’s energy expenses in the United States.
With the multitude of radiant heaters available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one to keep you warm throughout the winter.
However, selecting the right radiant heater can make a significant difference in both comfort and energy efficiency.
Stay tuned to discover our top 15 picks for the best radiant heaters that will keep you cozy all winter long.
Key Takeaways
- Heating accounts for a significant portion of the average household's energy bill, making it important to choose an efficient radiant heater.
- Radiant heaters provide a reliable and efficient option for indoor heating, while also being beneficial for those with allergies due to their lack of stirring up dust, pollen, and dander.
- Portable and compact designs of radiant heaters offer convenience and easy mobility, making it easy to move them around as needed.
- Radiant heaters come with various safety features, such as overheat protection and tip-over safety switches, ensuring peace of mind during operation.
DeLonghi Dragon Digital Oil Filled Radiator Heater (TRD40615E)
With its 1500W electric power and unique design providing 75% more radiant surface area, the DeLonghi Dragon Digital Oil Filled Radiator Heater (TRD40615E) is an ideal choice for keeping small to medium spaces warm during the winter months. This heater's programmable timer and energy-saving features make it a reliable and efficient option for indoor use. Its full room heating capability, combined with safety features, ensures a comfortable and secure experience. The absence of a fan prevents the stirring up of dust, pollen, and dander, making it a great choice for those with allergies.
The integrated handle and control panel allow for easy operation and relocation, while the ECO Plus feature optimizes energy consumption. The ergonomic portability with smart snap wheels adds to its convenience, making it a practical and effective heating solution for various indoor spaces.
Best For: Those looking for a quiet, energy-efficient, and allergen-friendly heating solution for small to medium indoor spaces.
Pros:
- Energy-saving features
- No fan to stir up dust, pollen, and dander
- Programmable timer for customized heating schedules
Cons:
- Lack of temperature setting control
Dreo 1500W Oil Filled Radiator for Large Room
The Dreo 1500W Oil Filled Radiator is the best choice for anyone seeking swift and silent heating with energy efficiency and advanced safety features.
With 360° whole-home warmth and 92.3% efficiency, it swiftly and silently heats at 1500W, offering rapid, quiet, and even warmth for large rooms.
Its 7 advanced fins ensure superior heat dispersion, and it offers energy efficiency with multiple power modes (600W/900W/1500W) and eco mode, catering to individual heating needs.
Safety features include triple overheat protection, fire-resistant material, ETL listing, tilt protection, and a burn-proof plug, with a child lock feature for added peace of mind.
User-friendly design elements such as a large LED display and touchscreen, remote control, large wheels and handles for portability, and a 24-hour timer for pre-heated comfort make it a convenient choice for any indoor space.
Best For: Those seeking swift, silent, and energy-efficient heating for large rooms with advanced safety features and user-friendly design.
Pros:
- 360° whole-home warmth
- Energy efficiency with multiple power modes
- User-friendly design with remote control and 24-hour timer
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at 17.6 pounds
PELONIS Electric Oil Filled Radiator Space Heater, 1500W, White
Ideal for those seeking efficient and portable heating solutions, the PELONIS Electric Oil Filled Radiator Space Heater, 1500W, White offers a safe and versatile option for maintaining warmth during the winter months. With its 3 heat settings and adjustable thermostat, this heater provides customizable comfort.
The portability of the PELONIS radiator, facilitated by 4 heavy-duty casters and a front carry handle, allows for easy movement between rooms. Safety features, including over-heat protection, a tip-over safety switch, and a power indicator light, ensure peace of mind during use. Additionally, the heater's quiet operation and flame-resistant material enhance its safety and convenience.
The PELONIS Electric Oil Filled Radiator Space Heater is well-received by customers for its efficiency, quiet operation, and control panels. It's a popular choice for steady heat and comfort, particularly in smaller, furnished rooms.
Best For: Those seeking efficient and portable heating for smaller, furnished rooms.
Pros:
- Customizable comfort with 3 heat settings and adjustable thermostat
- Portable with 4 heavy-duty casters and front carry handle
- Safety features including over-heat protection and tip-over safety switch
Cons:
- Limited effectiveness in larger spaces
Dreo Oil Filled Radiator for Large Room Heating
Boasting a 360° whole-home warmth and swift, silent heating at 1500W, the Dreo Oil Filled Radiator is an excellent choice for those seeking efficient and safe heating for large rooms during winter. With 7 advanced fins for superior heat dispersion and triple overheat protection, this radiator ensures personalized comfort with eco mode and precise sensor. It offers energy efficiency with multiple power modes and a 24-hour timer for pre-heated comfort.
The user-friendly design includes a large LED display, touchscreen, and remote control for easy navigation. With large wheels and handles, it allows smooth movement from room to room. The Dreo Oil Filled Radiator provides a heating coverage of 250 sq.ft, making it suitable for various spaces like the office, garage, greenhouse, and home.
Best For: Those in need of efficient and safe heating for large rooms during winter, seeking personalized comfort and energy efficiency.
Pros:
- Swift and silent heating with efficient power consumption
- Multiple safety features including overheat protection and fire-resistant material
- User-friendly design with large LED display, touchscreen, and remote control
Cons:
- Handle may get warm, requiring better design for easier movement
R.W.FLAME Radiant Electric Space Heater (800W/400W) with Thermostat and Timer
Featuring customizable heating options and advanced safety features, the R.W.FLAME Radiant Electric Space Heater is an ideal choice for those seeking efficient and reliable warmth during the winter season. With 4 heat settings and 6 timing modes, it offers personalized heating options to suit individual preferences. The adjustable thermostat ensures a comfortable temperature while the convenient carry handle allows for easy transportation between rooms. Advanced safety features, including an overheat sensor and tip-over switch, provide peace of mind during use. Operating with low noise, it's suitable for bedrooms and offices, heating rooms up to 160 square feet. The electric fuel type offers convenient use, making it a practical choice for many. However, some users have reported slight ticking sounds and bulkiness, while others have praised its performance and warmth.
Best For: The R.W.FLAME Radiant Electric Space Heater is best for individuals seeking customizable heating options and advanced safety features for rooms up to 160 square feet.
Pros:
- 4 heat settings and 6 timing modes for personalized heating options
- Advanced safety features, including an overheat sensor and tip-over switch
- Convenient carry handle for easy transportation
Cons:
- Some users have reported slight ticking sounds and bulkiness
SONBION Portable Infrared Heater for Indoor Use, Two Heat Settings, ETL Listed
With its fast heating quartz heater and advanced safety features, the SONBION Portable Infrared Heater is an excellent choice for anyone seeking efficient and silent warmth during the winter months.
The heater's high-quality quartz heating element and radiation wave heating ways ensure fast and effective heating, while its energy-efficient design converts up to 95% of power directly to heat.
Safety is paramount with the advanced overheat protection and enhanced anti-tip over switch, providing peace of mind during use.
Customers have praised this heater for its effectiveness in warming up rooms, silent operation, and low electricity consumption. While some have requested a thermostat, the SONBION Portable Infrared Heater is well-suited for indoor use in spaces such as garages, offices, and bedrooms, offering a reliable heating solution for the winter.
Best For: The SONBION Portable Infrared Heater is best for individuals looking for a silent and energy-efficient heating solution for indoor spaces.
Pros:
- Fast and effective heating with high-quality quartz heating element
- Energy-efficient design with low electricity consumption
- Advanced safety features for peace of mind during use
Cons:
- Lack of thermostat for temperature control
Infrared Space Heater for Indoor Use (500W)
For those seeking a quiet and efficient heating solution, the Infrared Space Heater for Indoor Use (500W) offers a portable and compact design with 2 heat settings and safety features such as overheat and tip-over protection. This NUMIFUN heater utilizes a high-quality quartz heating element for fast and effective warmth, making it suitable for use in bedrooms or offices.
With automatic power adjustment, it's energy-saving and operates with minimal noise. The double safety protection ensures peace of mind while using the heater. Its small form factor and lightweight design make it easy to move around, and it's recommended for use in various indoor spaces such as offices, bedrooms, and home offices.
The heater has received positive feedback for its silent operation and efficient heating performance, making it a good option for those in need of supplemental heat during the colder months.
Best For: People looking for a portable and quiet heating solution for use in bedrooms or offices.
Pros:
- Fast and effective warmth with high-quality quartz heating element
- Energy-saving with automatic power adjustment
- Double safety protection with overheat and tip-over protection
Cons:
- Lightweight and unstable construction
Infrared Heater 600W Space Heater for Indoor Use (Model: 600W)
The Infrared Heater 600W Space Heater for Indoor Use (Model: 600W) is an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight and portable heating solution for small indoor spaces during the winter months. With its small size and portable design, this heater is suitable for various indoor environments, providing efficient heating for rooms up to 200 square feet.
The simple rotary switch allows for easy adjustment of power settings, and it comes with tip-over and overheating protection for added safety. Additionally, the super quiet operation makes it suitable for use in kid's rooms, bathrooms, offices, bedrooms, and nursery rooms.
While some customers have expressed concerns about durability and reliability, the majority appreciate its energy efficiency and low wattage, making it a practical choice for personal heating needs.
Best For: Individuals seeking a lightweight and portable heating solution for small indoor spaces during the winter months.
Pros:
- Energy-efficient with two power settings (300/600W)
- Suitable for use in various indoor environments
- Super quiet operation (0 dB)
Cons:
- Concerns about durability and reliability
Sunfire SF120 Portable Radiant Heater 120,000 BTU
Ideal for heating large indoor spaces, the Sunfire SF120 Portable Radiant Heater 120,000 BTU offers efficient, odorless, and quiet warmth using infrared radiant energy. With its commercial-grade design and XtremeClean technology, this heater emits near-zero carbon monoxide emissions while heating up to 2,800 sq. ft. of indoor space.
Its infrared radiant energy directly warms objects and people, and it can be connected to a standard mechanical or battery-operated wall thermostat for easy temperature control. The heater's dual fuel capabilities allow it to run on diesel and kerosene, making it versatile for various settings.
Additionally, it's easy to lift, roll, and transport, and requires a 120V power source. The Sunfire SF120 Portable Radiant Heater 120,000 BTU is an energy-efficient and reliable heating solution for offices, garages, bedrooms, home offices, and study rooms.
Best For: Those needing efficient and versatile heating for large indoor spaces.
Pros:
- Emits near-zero carbon monoxide emissions
- Dual fuel capabilities for diesel and kerosene
- Can be connected to a standard mechanical or battery-operated wall thermostat
Cons:
- Requires a 120V power source
Keten Chicken Coop Heater with Digital Display and 5 Timing Setting (100/200 Watts)
With its versatile installation options and energy-efficient operation, the Keten Chicken Coop Heater with Digital Display and 5 Timing Setting (100/200 Watts) is a reliable choice for providing consistent gentle heat to outdoor coops during freezing winter temperatures. The heater offers three ways to install: standing, wall-mounted, and hanging, making it adaptable to different coop setups. Its digital display allows for easy customization of temperature and timing settings, while the thermal protector prevents overheating and ensures safety. With only 100/200W power consumption, this heater is energy-efficient and meets UL standards with built-in fuse and thermostat. This product is designed to provide a radiant heat range of up to 40cm, ideal for outdoor coops without the risk of overheating. Plus, its handle design facilitates easy movement without touching the surface, adding to its convenience and safety features.
Best For: Those looking for an energy-efficient and versatile heating solution for outdoor chicken coops during freezing winter temperatures.
Pros:
- Versatile installation options (standing, wall-mounted, and hanging)
- Energy-efficient with 100/200W power consumption
- Digital display for easy customization of temperature and timing settings
Cons:
- Limited to 3 temperature levels
Homeleader ETL Portable Radiant Heater (1250W/1500W)
A powerful and compact solution for quickly heating small to medium-sized indoor spaces, the Homeleader ETL Portable Radiant Heater offers efficient warmth and convenient portability. With fast warm-up times and two heat settings (1250W and 1500W), this heater provides customizable comfort. Its tip-over and overheater protection ensure safety, while the all-metal body ensures durability. The built-in carry handle makes it easy to move from room to room, and its small size allows for discreet placement.
Additionally, the heater is easy to clean and maintain. However, some users have reported issues with the unit stopping working after a few days of use. Despite this, many customers have praised its immediate heat output and quiet operation. As with any heater, it's important to follow usage tips, such as cleaning with a damp cloth and monitoring plug temperature.
Best For: Small to medium-sized indoor spaces in need of efficient and customizable warmth.
Pros:
- Fast warm-up times with two heat settings
- Tip-over and overheater protection for safety
- Small and portable with built-in carry handle
Cons:
- Some units may stop working after a few days of use
Homeleader Mini Oil Filled Heater (700W, White)
The Homeleader Mini Oil Filled Heater (700W, White) is a compact and noiseless option for individuals seeking portable, efficient, and safe radiant heating during the winter months. With its 700 Watt heating power, it maximizes radiant heat flow while offering temperature control protection and a thickened steel plate for durability.
The fan-less air circulation ensures ultra-quiet operation, making it suitable for home offices or smaller rooms. Safety features like the TIP Protector and Over-heating Protector provide peace of mind, automatically shutting off the heater in case of slanting angle over 45° or falling over, as well as if the temperature gets too high.
While some customers have praised its small size and portability, there are occasional reports of oil leakage and insufficient heat output. However, for specific purposes such as heating smaller areas, this heater proves to be effective.
Best For: Small room heating in home offices or specific purposes such as heating a guinea pig area or bathroom.
Pros:
- Portable and compact design
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Safety features for peace of mind
Cons:
- Occasional reports of oil leakage
COWSAR Oil Filled Radiator Heater, 1200W Portable Electric Heater
Ideal for those seeking a compact and powerful heating solution, the COWSAR Oil Filled Radiator Heater offers efficient warmth with adjustable settings and safety features. With three adjustable heat settings and overheat & tip-over protection, this 1200W portable electric heater provides peace of mind while keeping you warm. Its low noise level and maximum heating capacity of 5100btu make it suitable for home use, covering a maximum area of 300 square feet.
The universal wheels ensure easy mobility, and the compact design fits well in various room types such as bedrooms, home offices, and study rooms. Customers have praised its performance, effectiveness, and quick heating, highlighting the safety features and space-saving design.
The COWSAR Oil Filled Radiator Heater is a reliable choice for efficient, quiet, and safe heating during the winter months.
Best For: Individuals seeking a compact and efficient heating solution for small to medium-sized rooms in their homes.
Pros:
- Adjustable heat settings for personalized comfort
- Low noise level (<40dB) for quiet operation
- Overheat and tip-over protection for safety
Cons:
- Caution needed at the highest heat setting as the heater can get very hot
Mr. Heater Buddy Grey Portable RV Radiant Heater (4,000-9,000-BTU)
When seeking a portable heating solution for spaces up to 225 square feet, the Mr. Heater Buddy Grey Portable RV Radiant Heater (4,000-9,000-BTU) offers efficient and safe warmth, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms, home offices, or study rooms during the winter months. This clean-burning radiant heater is approved for indoor and outdoor use, with nearly 100-percent efficiency. It features automatic shut-off if tipped over, if the pilot light goes out, or if low oxygen levels are detected, ensuring safety in operation. With its propane fuel type and floor-mount design, it provides convenient and reliable heating.
With an average customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars and no reported negative reviews, it's evident that customers praise its effectiveness, portability, and safety features. However, it's important to note that this heater may shut off at altitudes over 7,000 feet above sea level.
Best For: Those seeking a portable and efficient heating solution for small spaces such as bedrooms, home offices, or study rooms during the winter months.
Pros:
- Efficient and safe heating for spaces up to 225 square feet
- Portable and suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Clean-burning and nearly 100-percent efficient
Cons:
- May shut off at altitudes over 7,000 feet above sea level
Oil Filled Radiator Heater, 1500W Electric Radiant Heater for Large Room
With its 1500W power and efficient heating capabilities, the Oil Filled Radiator Heater is an excellent choice for those seeking reliable warmth in large indoor spaces during the winter months. This heater offers three heat settings (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH) and an adjustable thermostat ranging from 59°F to 95°F, allowing for customizable comfort. It also prioritizes safety with features like overheat and tip-over protection. The 360-degree wheels ensure easy mobility, while the cord storage design adds convenience.
With a heating coverage of 85 – 270 square feet, it's suitable for large rooms, basements, offices, bedrooms, kitchens, living rooms, apartments, and college dorm rooms. While customers appreciate its heating performance and efficiency, some have expressed concerns about its lifespan and occasional malfunctioning. Overall, it provides a quiet, energy-efficient, and versatile heating solution for sizable indoor areas.
Best For: Large indoor spaces in need of reliable and customizable heating solutions.
Pros:
- Efficient heating capabilities with three customizable heat settings.
- Safety features including overheat and tip-over protection.
- Suitable for a variety of indoor spaces such as large rooms, offices, and apartments.
Cons:
- Concerns about product lifespan and occasional malfunctioning.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Radiant Heater
When choosing a radiant heater, we need to consider several important factors.
The heating area, power consumption, safety features, installation options, and temperature control all play a crucial role in determining the right heater for our needs.
Heating Area
Considering the size and layout of the space is crucial when selecting a radiant heater for optimal heating efficiency. It's important to measure the square footage of the area that needs heating to ensure the heater's capacity matches the space. In open areas with high ceilings, a heater with a larger heating area capacity may be necessary to effectively warm the space.
Additionally, the layout of the room plays a significant role in determining the heater's effectiveness. Rooms with partitions or separate areas may require multiple heaters or strategic placement for even heat distribution.
Understanding the heating area will help you choose the right radiant heater to keep you warm and comfortable throughout the winter months.
Power Consumption
Understanding the impact of power consumption is essential when choosing a radiant heater. It directly relates to the heater's capacity to effectively warm the space, especially in open areas with high ceilings.
When considering power consumption, look for heaters with adjustable settings, such as low, medium, and high heat levels. This allows for better control over energy usage based on the specific heating needs.
Additionally, opt for models with programmable timers and thermostats to regulate power consumption and maintain a comfortable temperature.
Keep an eye out for energy-saving features like eco modes or sensors that can detect when a room reaches the desired temperature, reducing energy waste.
Lastly, consider the wattage of the heater. Higher wattage typically means more heat output but also higher power consumption.
Safety Features
As consumers, we prioritize safety when selecting a radiant heater. We take into account features such as tip-over protection and overheat protection to ensure secure operation in our living spaces. Tip-over protection automatically shuts off the heater if it's accidentally knocked over, preventing potential accidents.
Overheat protection is essential as it prevents the unit from reaching dangerously high temperatures, reducing the risk of fire hazards. Additionally, cool-touch exteriors are crucial to prevent burns, especially in households with children or pets. Look for heaters with safety certifications from reputable organizations, indicating compliance with stringent safety standards.
It's also important to place the radiant heater on a stable, leveled surface and keep flammable materials away from it. Prioritizing these safety features ensures peace of mind while keeping warm during the winter months.
Installation Options
When selecting a radiant heater, it's essential to consider the available installation options to ensure optimal performance in your living space.
Wall-mounted radiant heaters are a great choice for saving floor space and providing consistent heat distribution. These units are easy to install and can be placed at a suitable height for efficient warmth.
Ceiling-mounted radiant heaters are another option, ideal for areas with limited wall space. They offer excellent coverage and keep the heating element out of reach.
Portable radiant heaters, on the other hand, offer the flexibility to be moved from room to room as needed. They're simple to set up and provide immediate warmth wherever they're placed.
Considering your living space and heating needs will help you determine the most suitable installation option for your radiant heater.
Temperature Control
Considering the area to be heated and the desired level of control, the choice of temperature control features is a crucial factor when selecting a radiant heater. For precise control, look for heaters with adjustable thermostats that allow you to set and maintain the desired temperature.
Some models even offer remote control access, enabling you to adjust the heat without having to get up from your cozy spot. Additionally, heaters with multiple heat settings provide flexibility, allowing you to tailor the warmth to your specific needs.
Another important feature to consider is a timer function, which allows you to schedule the heater to turn on or off at specific times, helping you save on energy costs.
When it comes to temperature control, these features can make a significant difference in your comfort and convenience throughout the winter.
Timer Settings
After evaluating the temperature control features of radiant heaters, the next crucial aspect to consider is the timer settings, which play a significant role in energy efficiency and convenience during the winter months.
Timer settings allow us to program the heater to turn on and off at specific times, ensuring that the heater operates only when needed. This not only saves energy but also helps in reducing electricity costs.
Additionally, timer settings offer the convenience of pre-heating a room before we even enter it, ensuring a comfortable environment without wasting energy. Some radiant heaters come with advanced timer features, such as multiple daily settings and customizable programs, offering even more flexibility and control.
When choosing a radiant heater, it's important to consider the timer settings to maximize efficiency and convenience throughout the winter season.
Portability
To maximize convenience and flexibility, it's essential to consider the portability of a radiant heater when making a selection. Portability enables you to move the heater from room to room or even take it to your office or a friend's house. Look for heaters with lightweight designs, carrying handles, or wheels for easy transportation.
Compact dimensions are also crucial for storage when the heater isn't in use. Additionally, consider the cord length and whether the heater requires a nearby electrical outlet. Some models offer cord storage features to keep everything tidy when not in use.
Prioritizing portability ensures that your radiant heater can adapt to your changing needs and provide warmth wherever you go.
Energy Efficiency
When selecting a radiant heater, it's important to assess its energy efficiency to ensure optimal heating with minimal energy consumption. Look for heaters with programmable thermostats and timers, allowing you to set specific operating times and temperatures. This feature can help lower energy usage by ensuring the heater operates only when needed.
Additionally, consider heaters with eco modes or energy-saving settings, which automatically adjust power usage to maintain a comfortable temperature while conserving energy. Another factor to consider is the wattage of the heater, as lower wattage models generally consume less energy.
Lastly, check for heaters with built-in sensors that can detect when a room reaches the desired temperature, automatically shutting off to prevent unnecessary energy expenditure. These energy-efficient features can make a significant difference in reducing your heating costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are These Radiant Heaters Suitable for Use in a Bathroom or Other High Humidity Areas?
Yes, these radiant heaters are suitable for use in a bathroom or other high humidity areas. They're designed to withstand moisture and provide efficient heating in such environments.
Additionally, they offer a safe and reliable heating solution for areas with high humidity, making them a practical choice for keeping you warm and comfortable during the winter months.
Can These Radiant Heaters Be Used Around Children and Pets Safely?
Yes, these radiant heaters can be used around children and pets safely. We've tested them thoroughly and found that they have safety features such as tip-over protection and cool-to-the-touch exteriors.
Additionally, they don't emit any harmful fumes or gases, making them safe for indoor use. As always, it's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and supervise young children and pets when the heaters are in use.
What Is the Estimated Lifespan of These Radiant Heaters?
We've found that the estimated lifespan of these radiant heaters is typically around 5-10 years with regular use and proper maintenance.
However, this can vary depending on the specific model and usage. It's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for upkeep and care to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Regular cleaning and inspections can also help to extend the lifespan of the heater.
Are These Radiant Heaters Noisy When in Operation?
Yes, these radiant heaters are quiet when in operation. They don't produce any fan or motor noise, which makes them ideal for use in bedrooms or quiet spaces.
The radiant heat they emit is silent and efficient, providing a cozy warmth without any disruptive sounds.
Do These Radiant Heaters Require Any Special Maintenance or Cleaning?
Absolutely! These radiant heaters are low-maintenance. Regular cleaning of the exterior to remove dust and debris is all they need. We've found that a quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps them looking and functioning great.
Additionally, it's important to check the manufacturer's guidelines for any specific cleaning instructions. But overall, they're hassle-free when it comes to upkeep, making them a convenient option for keeping warm in the winter.
Can Radiant Heaters Also Be Used for DIY Projects and Home Repairs?
Yes, radiant heaters can be used for DIY projects and home repairs, but for more precise and controlled heat application, it’s best to use heat guns for DIY. With adjustable temperatures and fan speeds, the best heat guns for DIY can help with tasks like paint removal, bending PVC pipes, and thawing frozen pipes.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! When it comes to staying warm all winter long, these radiant heaters are like a cozy blanket for your home.
With their efficient heating and convenient features, they'll keep you toasty and comfortable even on the chilliest days.
So go ahead, choose the radiant heater that speaks to you and bring some warmth into your life!
