Best cheap space heater deals for July 2022

Electric heaters are less efficient but typically safer and more versatile than petroleum-fueled models. Electric heaters can be further subdivided into convection heaters, radiant or infrared heaters, ceramic heaters, and panel heaters (also called mica thermic heaters).

Convection heaters are generally the most energy-efficient electric heaters, especially for large, enclosed spaces. Convection heat works by warming the surrounding air. And though it can take a little while for a room to heat up, the warmth will linger even after you turn off the device.

Radiant or infrared heaters direct heat at specific people (or objects). They warm up rather quickly, but the hot air dissipates just as fast the minute you turn off the heater.

Ceramic heaters circulate air while focusing the heat where it’s most needed. And they can remain cool to the touch.

Finally, you can also purchase panel (or mica thermic) heaters which combine both radiant and convection technology. These appliances often heat up rapidly and distribute warm air throughout the room.

Heat distribution — The best energy-efficient heaters distribute hot air around the room quickly and evenly. This means that they don’t just provide warmth to whichever people or objects are directly in front of them. They are designed to have a wider distribution and push air farther away. Space heaters made with oscillation systems are especially adept at even heat distribution, and since they are relatively fast at heating rooms, you don’t have to use them for as long a time.

Timers — Timers are a great way to conserve energy. You can set specific times/parameters for when your heater turns on and off to prevent running the heater unnecessarily.

Thermostats — Most energy-efficient space heaters have easy-to-use thermostats, so you don’t expend additional energy.

Programming capabilities — Some of the more high-tech heaters on the market are programmable so you can set temperatures for different times of the day. A handful of space heaters are smart devices you can control them via your phone.

Automatic shutoff — You don’t want a space heater to run indefinitely. Aside from being a safety risk, that is simply not efficient or cost-effective. The best heaters shut off automatically once they’ve been running for a while.

Overheating safety/kill switch — Overheating protection features cut power if your heater gets too hot. That way, you don’t have to worry about damaging electric circuits or starting a fire.

We want to mention safety issues. There are risks involved when space heaters are misused; they can lead to everything from burns to house fires.

• • Avoid leaving the heater running in unattended rooms.
  • Don’t leave a space heater running overnight while you’re sleeping.
  • Don’t place space heaters on a rug or near any object that’s combustible or flammable.
  • Space heaters should not be used with extension cords or power strips and avoid using your heater near anything wet.
  • Look for space heaters with a kill switch; these machines automatically turn off should they ever accidentally tip over.
  • Look for a space heater with a protective housing that remains relatively cool to the touch, even after the device has been on for a while.

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