Space heaters are a practical solution for keeping individual rooms or spaces warm, especially when central heating is unavailable or impractical. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right space heater can feel overwhelming. This buyer’s guide breaks down key factors you should consider to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a wall heater.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
- Type of Space Heaters
- Key Factors when buying a Space Heater
- Top Brands for Space Heaters
- Recommended Space Heaters by Room Type
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Types of Space Heaters
The first step in choosing a wall heater is understanding the different types available, as each has its unique benefits. The most common types of wall heaters include:
Electric Space Heaters
Electric heaters contain heating elements (e.g., metal coils or ceramic plates) that convert electrical energy into heat. The heater often includes a fan to blow heated air around the room or relies on natural convection, where warm air rises and cooler air sinks, creating circulation. Electric (Convection) heaters are better suited for gradually warming an entire room and maintaining a consistent temperature over time.
Infrared Space Heaters
Radiant heaters emit infrared radiation, which is a form of electromagnetic energy. This radiation travels through the air without heating it and is absorbed by objects, people, and surfaces that are within the line of sight of the heater. Radiant heaters are more efficient for targeted, quick heating, especially in drafty or open spaces where convection heat might be less effective.
Gas Space Heaters
Powered by natural gas or propane, these heaters are more efficient for larger rooms or colder climates.
Hydronic Space Heaters
These units use heated water or another fluid to radiate warmth, providing more consistent, long-lasting heat.
Micathermic Space Heaters
A hybrid of radiant and convection heating, they’re efficient and provide quiet, fan-less operation.
2. Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Space Heater
a. Room Size and Heating Capacity
The size of the space you’re heating is crucial when selecting a wall heater. Heaters are typically rated by their power in watts or BTUs (British Thermal Units). One watt = 3.41 BTU’s. The requirement is based on the geographical location and the quality of construction. Homes in colder climates and with poor insulation and sealing will require more heat per square foot. See our article on “How to Calculate BTU per Square Foot”. A general rule of thumb is:
Watts per Square Foot
You need about 10 watts or 35 BTUs of heating power per square foot of space depending on your location and the quality of your home’s construction. The map below can be used as a rule of thumb for the various areas. For example, a 1,500-watt heater will effectively heat a 150-square-foot room based on 10 watts or 35 BTUs per square foot. As the map shows the amount of heat required is based on where you live and the outside design winter temperature and whether you have. newer home built with the latest energy efficient windows and sealed tight to prevent cold air infiltrate the home.
How to calculate Watts or BTUs per Square Foot.
If the heater indicates that it provides 1,500 watts then this can easily be converted to BTUs as follows. 1500 watts x 3.41 BTUs/Watt = 5,115 BTUs. Take the total Watts or BTU’s and divide it by the square footage of the room as follows.
1,500 Watts / 150 Ft2 = 10 Watts/Ft2
or
5,115 BTUs / 150 Ft2 = 34.1 BTU/Ft2
A lot of the manufacturers seem to use 10 Watts per square foot as the standard when indicating the size of the room that the heater will cover. It’s up to you to determine if this is the correct amount of heat based on where you live and the condition of your home. Remember the older your home, the more likely it lacks upgraded energy efficient windows and wall insulation, and probably leaks cold air into the home through cracks.
b. Power Source and Energy Efficiency
Space heaters come in electric or gas varieties, with each having different energy consumption patterns:
Electric Heaters: Easier to install, but they can be more expensive to run in areas where electricity costs are high. Modern electric heaters come with energy-saving features like programmable thermostats and timers.
Gas Heaters: Generally, more cost-effective to run in colder climates or large spaces, but they require more complex installation (especially vented models) and regular maintenance to ensure safety.
Look for models with an Energy Star rating or similar energy certifications to ensure you’re choosing an energy-efficient option. This can save you money in the long term.
c. Installation Requirements
If you’re not using a floor mounted or tabletop version, then you’ll need to consider whether you’ll need professional assistance for the installation. Wall heaters typically come in two types of installation:
Surface-mounted heaters: These units attach directly to the wall and are easier to install. They take up some space but can be installed quickly.
Recessed heaters: These are installed within the wall, saving space and providing a more seamless look, but they often require professional installation, as they involve cutting into the drywall.
Gas heaters, especially vented models, require professional installation due to the need for gas line connections and ventilation systems.
d. Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when buying a wall heater, particularly for homes with children or pets. Here are some key safety features to look for:
Overheat Protection: Shuts off the heater if it gets too hot, preventing fire hazards.
Tip-Over Protection: Shuts off the heater if it is knocked over (especially important for surface-mounted heaters).
Cool-to-Touch Housing: Ensures the outer casing doesn’t get too hot, reducing the risk of burns.
Thermal Cutoff: Automatically turns off the heater if it detects abnormal operating conditions.
Oxygen Depletion Sensor (for gas heaters): Monitors oxygen levels and shuts off the heater if they drop too low, ensuring proper air quality.
e. Noise Level
While most wall heaters operate quietly, some can be noisy, especially models that use fans for heat distribution. If you’re sensitive to noise or plan to use the heater in a bedroom or office, look for heaters that offer quiet operation:
Fanless heaters: Infrared or micathermic heaters typically operate silently.
Low-noise fans: Some electric wall heaters have quieter fans designed for noise-sensitive environments.
f. Thermostat and Temperature Control
Having a thermostat allows you to control the room’s temperature more precisely, which can improve energy efficiency. Some models offer:
Manual thermostats: You adjust the temperature by turning a dial.
Programmable thermostats: These allow you to set a heating schedule, reducing energy consumption by automatically turning off when the room reaches the desired temperature.
Smart thermostats: Some heaters are compatible with smart home systems, allowing you to control them remotely through a smartphone app.
g. Design and Aesthetics
Wall heaters come in a variety of designs, from basic white units to more stylish models with sleek, modern finishes. If the heater will be installed in a visible area, consider how the design fits with your room’s decor. Additionally, consider whether you prefer a surface-mounted heater (which protrudes slightly) or a recessed unit that sits flush with the wall.
h. Cost
Wall heaters range in price depending on their type, size, and features. Here’s a general idea:
Electric wall heaters: $100 – $400
Gas wall heaters: $200 – $1,000 (installation not included)
Infrared wall heaters: $100 – $300
Hydronic wall heaters: $300 – $700
Factor in the cost of installation, especially for gas and recessed units, as this can add significantly to the overall expense. Consider the operating cost as well, based on the power source and energy efficiency of the unit.
3. Top Brands for Wall Heaters
While shopping for a wall heater, consider trusted brands known for their reliability, efficiency, and safety features. Some of the top brands include:
Cadet: Known for its efficient electric heaters and wide range of wall-mounted units. Check current pricing here – Cadet Wall Heater
Stiebel Eltron: Offers stylish, high-performance electric and hydronic heaters. Check current pricing here – Stiebel Eltron Wall Heater
Dyna-Glo: Specializes in powerful gas and propane wall heaters. Check current pricing here. – Dyna-Glo Heater
Broan-NuTone: A popular brand for both electric and gas heaters, with a focus on energy efficiency. Check current pricing here – Broan heaters
Mr. Heater: Known for gas heaters and infrared heating solutions. Check current pricing here – Mr Heater
4. Recommended Wall Heaters by Room Type
Bathrooms: Electric heaters with waterproof features and integrated thermostats (e.g., Stiebel Eltron models) are ideal for bathrooms.
Bedrooms: For quiet operation, choose fan-less infrared or micathermic models with precise temperature control.
Living Rooms & Offices: Hydronic wall heaters or gas heaters offer consistent warmth and efficient heating for larger spaces.
Garages & Workshops: Gas or infrared wall heaters are powerful enough for uninsulated spaces and large rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Space Heaters
For large rooms, convection heaters with fan assistance, such as oil-filled radiators or ceramic heaters, are best. These heaters provide consistent, even heating throughout the room and are ideal for spaces up to 400 square feet. Be sure to select a heater with a high enough wattage (usually between 1,500-2,000 watts) for larger areas.
To size a space heater correctly, calculate the BTUs or watts needed for your room. For a rough estimate, multiply the square footage of the room by 10 watts (or 34 BTUs) per square foot. For example, a 150-square-foot room would need about 1,500 watts or 5,100 BTUs for adequate heating.
Convection heaters warm the air in a room and distribute it either naturally or with a fan, making them ideal for heating entire rooms. Radiant heaters, on the other hand, emit infrared radiation to warm objects and people directly, providing targeted warmth and are ideal for small spaces or individual use.
Space heaters can be energy efficient when used for zone heating, which means only heating the rooms you’re using. Look for models with eco modes, adjustable thermostats, and timers to optimize energy usage. Some units with smart technology allow you to control them remotely, further improving efficiency.
For safety, it’s generally recommended to avoid leaving space heaters on overnight. However, some models are specifically designed with safety features like overheat protection, tip-over switches, and timers for safer use in bedrooms. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and place heaters away from flammable objects.
Yes, space heaters do increase electricity usage, especially if used continuously. The average space heater uses 1,500 watts per hour on high settings, which can add up. To minimize impact, use heaters only when necessary, choose energy-efficient models, and consider units with programmable timers or eco modes.
Fan-forced heaters are typically noisier than non-fan models, as the fan circulates air to distribute heat faster. Noise levels vary by model; if quiet operation is a priority, consider an oil-filled radiator or radiant heater, which provide near-silent operation.
Key safety features to look for include overheat protection (auto shut-off if the heater gets too hot), tip-over protection (shuts off if knocked over), cool-to-touch surfaces, and automatic shut-off timers. These features help reduce risks and make the heater safer for use around children and pets.
Only use heaters specifically designed for damp or humid environments in bathrooms. Look for heaters with waterproof casings and safety certifications for bathroom use. Never use a standard space heater in the bathroom, as it poses an electric shock hazard. Heaters intended for bathrooms often come with additional safety measures, such as GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection, to prevent electric shocks in wet conditions.
Wi-Fi-enabled space heaters can be a worthwhile investment for smart home users. They allow remote control via smartphone apps, letting you adjust temperatures and timers from anywhere. This feature is especially helpful for saving energy, as you can turn the heater on right before you arrive home instead of leaving it running.
In many cases, you can install an electric wall heater yourself if you have basic electrical and DIY skills. However, because it involves wiring into your home’s electrical system, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and adhere to local electrical codes. For more complex installations, such as hardwired units, it’s recommended to hire a licensed electrician for safety.
Fan-forced heaters use a fan to blow warm air into the room and provide quick, even heating, but they can make some noise during operation.
Radiant heaters use infrared radiation to heat objects and people directly rather than heating the air. They offer instant warmth and are typically silent, but their heat is more localized compared to fan-forced models.
Electric wall heaters are generally low maintenance. Periodically dusting the vents and ensuring that the heater’s airflow isn’t obstructed can help maintain performance. Models with filters may require occasional cleaning or replacement of the filter. It’s also a good idea to have a professional check the unit if it’s hardwired and used frequently, to ensure electrical components are functioning properly.
Wall heaters can be cost-effective for zone heating, where you heat only the rooms you’re using rather than the entire house. They are most cost-effective in smaller spaces or as supplemental heating. However, their operating cost depends on factors like local electricity rates, insulation, and how frequently you use the heater.
The lifespan of a wall heater varies based on usage, build quality, and maintenance, but a well-maintained electric wall heater can last between 10 to 20 years. Units with fewer moving parts, like radiant heaters, may last longer than fan-forced models.
Final Thoughts
Space heaters can be an excellent solution for targeted, efficient heating in homes or small spaces. By choosing the right type and size for your needs and following proper installation and maintenance procedures, you can ensure that your space heater operates safely and cost-effectively for many years.
Choosing the right space heater depends on several factors, including the size of the room, installation requirements, energy efficiency, and budget. By carefully considering these aspects and reviewing the different types of space heaters, you can find the perfect unit to keep your space warm, safe, and comfortable. Make sure to weigh your options against the features that matter most to you and opt for a reliable model from a trusted brand.
