.jpg)
By Thad Warren
Space heaters are a must-have in the winter months when temperatures drop. During the winter months, the right electric heater can transform even the coldest draftiest room into a warm oasis.
While convenient, electric space heaters have had a reputation of being energy hogs and risky to use on a regular basis. In 2014 a report from USA Today found that 70% of all winter fire injuries were caused by space heaters.
Thanks to improvements in safety and energy efficiency technology there are dozens of heaters that are safe to use and won’t spike your energy bill.
No matter which space heater you decide to use it is still important to take think about how to minimize the risk of an accident and energy usage. While space heaters do not receive Energy Star ratings like other appliances, we recommend investing in a new model with auto-shutoff switches and/or built-in thermostats to reduce the risk of fires and to reduce wasted energy usage.
Here are the top picks for the best energy-efficient electric space heaters for 2022.
We love products that have multiple uses to get the best bang for your buck. The Dyson HP01 isn’t just a space heater it is a cooling fan and HEPPA filter!
This means not only do you get a great heater but a purification system and cooling fan that you can use year-round. In addition to the three main functionalities, it also oscillates 70 degrees and has different settings for heating/cooling a focused stream of air or a wide area. Plus as you would expect it comes with wireless remote control.
The Dyson HP01 is certified asthma and allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America and has the Parent Tested Parent Approved seal.
While it’s a bit pricey we think the cross-functionality makes this the best space heater on our list.
Not everyone wants to shell out hundreds of dollars on an electric heater. The AMILIRE 1500W has a ton of features and power for less than $55.
It’s large enough to heat a small room but compact so that it can easily fit on a countertop or desk. It also has many of the features reserved for units priced over $100 like 60-degree oscillation, multiple heat settings, wireless remote control, programable thermostat, and shut-off timer.
It doesn’t skimp out on safety features either. It has a tip-over shutoff sensor, overheat sensor, and plastic cover that stays cool to the touch to protect against burns.
Keeping a large bedroom or living room warm with a small tabletop heater probably won’t cut it in most places. The Heat Storm Pheonix is designed to heat rooms 200 square feet or larger.
This heater is relatively large at 18.75 x 4.5 x 12.75 inches but can easily be mounted on the wall. It has a large built-in LED display to control the temperature settings as well as display the ambient air temperature.
The Vornado VH202 is a great compact heater with several energy-efficient settings to keep you warm without impacting your energy bill. It has a sleek design that fits well with most modern electronic devices and at 8inches tall can be put just about anywhere.
Includes auto shut off on tip-over and overheating sensor that shuts the unit off when it gets too hot. Made in the USA and includes a 3-year satisfaction guarantee.
The Tradesman 1500 produces 1500-Watt of heat, and it is safe for use on patios and balconies, or in workshops, garages, etc. Its features include an anodized aluminum alloy frame, an aluminum reflector that concentrates heat outward, and a mounting bracket that tilts 30° forwards and backward. Along with a 6ft extension cord.
This great option for shops or garages because of its heat output, mounting options, and protective enclosure.
If sitting around the firepit isn’t doing the trick this infrared patio heater from Briza will. The Briza puts out an incredible amount of heat and get’s red hot in seconds not minutes.
The infrared technology also means that this heater is extremely energy efficient with 93% heating efficiency - much higher than ceramic heaters. It also includes a portable stand or wall mount. With a protective metal shielding, no water or moisture will be able to affect the function of the heater.
