Top 5 Safest Space Heaters – Keep Your House Warm with No Worries

By
Carolina Evans
Carolina Evans
Research Writer
Holds a Master’s degree in Engineering and is keen on her own home’s climate. Sometimes we think that Carolina owns every single product she writes about – that’s ho read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Richard Powell
Richard Powell
Expert Consultant
For 8 years, Richard had been working as an HVAC specialist and AC unit installer since his student years. Now, he’s our main consultant on every technical aspect that may read more
Last updated: August 12, 2023
HVACLifehack.com is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here

With global warming continually affecting the climate, it is hard to predict when the temperatures drop or rise. Instead of suffering through bone-freezing winters or superiorly hot days, you can always get yourself a space heater. Some of these heaters can be used in summer because they have a fan you can employ independently. It is vital that the heater you select be robust and the safest space heater you can find; otherwise, you might end up with a faulty heater when you really need it.

To save you the trouble of scouring through the thousands of heater models available in the marketplace, we have selected 5 models with the Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater as our top pick that are more than efficient in providing good value for money. Further down is a buying guide that indicates some considerations you need to make like, the heater’s output, safety features, and additional features like timers. By the time you are done reading the review, selecting the safest space heater should be a breeze.

Quick Summary

  • Editor's Choice: Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater
    "A compact forced-air heater with plenty of safety features like cool-to-touch surface. Tip-over protection. Auto shut-off. Auto climate control."
  • Best Tower Heater: Lasko 755320
    "A convection heater with a cool-touch housing and a self-regulating ceramic element. Tower heater design. Auto-off timer. Overheat protection."
  • "A ceramic heater with fan-only and forced-air options and cool-touch exterior. GFI plug. Self-regulating ceramic element. Overheat and tip-over protection."
  • "A high-quality space heater from the renowned manufacturer, coming with a 24-hour programmable timer. GFI plug. IP21 protection against water drips. Immersion protection."
  • "A top-quality safe heater with no exposed heating elements and fast-spinning blades. Forced air heating and cooling. Automatic shut off. Intelligent thermostat."

Top 5 Safest Space Heaters Review 2024

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7241 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.6
1
Editor's Choice

Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater

Features
  • Type: forced air
  • Wattage: 1,500W
  • Dimensions: 11.7 x 9.3 x 12 in
  • Weight: 4.8 lbs
  • Warranty: 5 years

Safety featured: tip-over protection; cool-touch exterior; auto shut-off; auto climate control

The Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater is an excellent choice, especially for those with little space to spare. This small model heats small-medium sized spaces using vortex air circulation, which does not use up a lot of energy.

This model has two heat settings (750W/1500W) and an intelligent thermostat that measures the surrounding temperatures to make adjustments and maintain preferred user temperatures. The heater will shut off automatically when the set temperature is attained.

Even when the heater is accidentally knocked over, your surfaces will not get burnt because this model has a tip-over switch. The heater’s surface is cool to touch; hence no accidental burns will not be a problem. It has a comfortable handle, and it offers cable storage for ease of use.

This 4.8lb model is suitable for year-round use because the fan function can be used independently. The manufacturer offers a 5-year warranty for this space heater which will ease any worries you have over the product’s quality.

    Why is it special?
  • This space heater is small, but it does heat areas effectively, thanks to the strong fan. You can use it during summer and winter with no problems, and it has a cool-to-touch surface when you have children or pets around. Plus, it has a warranty; thus, you can use it for at least five years with no issues.
    What are the flaws?
  • The heater cannot survive constant daily use, especially in commercial settings; it will breakdown eventually.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7577 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.3
2
Best Tower Heater

Lasko 755320

Features
  • Type: convection
  • Wattage: 1,500W
  • Dimensions: 7.25 x 7 x 23 in
  • Weight: 7.3 lbs
  • Warranty: 3 years

Safety featured: auto-off timer; cool-touch housing; overheat protection; self-regulating ceramic element

Another splendid product from Lasko is the Lasko 755320 Ceramic Space Heater that uses a convection heating system to disperse heat. The simple-looking heater has a maximum energy output of 1500W, and it offers two heat settings to work with. There is an additional automatic setting that permits the heater to adjust the temperature to the surrounding.

The 7.3lb model relies on a ceramic heating element and oscillation to ensure heat reaches all corners of the room. This heater, just like the rest, comes with an adjustable thermostat for heat control. You can adjust the temperature using the display or the remote control provided.

Additionally, this model comes with a timer set to run at a specific time of your choosing. The timer is easy to program, but it is good to note that it is not a 24/7 timer; hence you are restricted to eight hours. The heater features overheat protection and a cool-to-touch exterior for safety.

There is no assembly required; the heater comes ready to use straight out of the box; you just need to plug it in. It has a three-year warranty hence you are guaranteed that the quality is dependable.

    What do we love it for?
  • This heater works fast, and it is safe to use as it features an adjustable thermostat and a timer that shuts off automatically. We also appreciate its strong ceramic heating element and the remote control because the elderly can use it without standing.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • The heater produces a humming noise that may irritate those sensitive to sounds. Additionally, the heater emits a chemical smell that will die down after a few weeks.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3703 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.2
Features
  • Type: ceramic, fan, and forced-air
  • Wattage: 1,500W
  • Dimensions: 14.8 x 8 x 19 in
  • Weight: 12 lbs
  • Warranty: 3 years

Safety featured: cool-touch exterior; GFI plug; self-regulating ceramic element; overheat protection; tip-over safety protection

The Lasko CA20100 Ultra Ceramic Fireplace Heater is perfect if you are looking for a heater that provides visuals. This small black model features a space-saving design that is suitable for those with less space to spare. The 12lb heater is fitted with a handle to allow easy portability.

When you purchase this 1500W heater, you can expect to find three heat settings of which one of the settings allows you to access the display feature but produce no heat. This easy-to-use heater relies on a durable ceramic heating feature to give the required heat.

The heater is safe to use because it possesses a cool-to-touch exterior and 6ft cord with a GFI plug. It also has a tip-over switch and overheat protection to avoid any electrical mishaps. There is no assembly required; the heater comes out of the box, ready for use. It has a 3-year warranty; thus, contact the supplier in case any product flaws surface.

    Why is it special?
  • The heater has an attractive fireplace display that sets the ambiance without involving actual fire. It uses a durable ceramic heater that heats quickly and is still more affordable than the other heating elements. We like the easy-to-use settings offered and the safety features provided, especially for those with pets/ children running around.
    What are the flaws?
  • This large model lacks precise thermostat control and a remote for easy accessibility. You also have to put up with a chemical smell that will dissipate as you continue to use the heater.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6568 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.1
Features
  • Type: forced air
  • Wattage: 1,500W
  • Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.3 x 13.3 in
  • Weight: 4.2 lbs
  • Warranty: 3 years

Safety featured: GFI plug; IP21 protection against water drips; immersion protection; 24-hour programmable timer; anti-freeze setting

Next, we have the De’Longhi HVF3555TB Bathroom Safe Fan Heater with a simple design, but it works great. The model is suitable for areas with high moisture content like bathrooms and kitchens because it possesses a waterproof rating of IP21. It has a power output of 1500W, and it is fitted with a GFI plug for safety.

With a 24-hour timer and three heat settings, you can select what time you want the heater to run and the intensity of the heat produced. The heat is distributed using a foot pedal-controlled oscillation. This space heater is suitable for rooms up to 150ft2, and it weighs 4.2lbs, so it is easy to move around with it. The manufacturer installed a comfortable handle and cord wrap to facilitate practical storage and transportation.

Worry less about high electric bills because this heater has an accurate thermostat. Once it reaches the set temperatures, the thermostat cools to prevent producing more heat than necessary. You have the option to use the fan independent of the heating element to keep cool on hot sunny days.

A 3-year warranty backs this heater that features immersion protection and an anti-freeze setting.

    Why did it make our list?
  • We appreciate this model because of its easy-to-use features and the fact that it can be used in bathrooms. The year-round model is affordable and suitable for small-medium rooms. With the integration of a GFI plug and immersion protection, your family is safe from electric-related accidents.
    What is not ideal about it?
  • This model has an indicator light that stays on as long as the heater is plugged in, which might be a bit distracting at night. The heater also takes some time to heat the room; hence patience is required.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8608 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.0
Features
  • Type: forced air heating and cooling
  • Wattage: 1,500W
  • Dimensions: 8.03 x 6.02 x 23.4 in
  • Weight: 5.9 lbs
  • Warranty: 2 years

Safety featured: no exposed heating elements; no fast-spinning blades; tip-over protection and automatic shut off; intelligent thermostat

The Dyson Hot + Cool Jet Focus AM09 Fan Heater can be used year-round because it provides a heat and cooling system with a patented Air Multiplier technology. The same fan responsible for distributing heat in the room can be utilized independently without the heating element to disperse cool air.

This 5.9-pound model is durable, and it has a cool exterior that only gets warm instead of hot to avoid burns. It is fitted with an accurate, intelligent thermostat that keeps track of the surrounding environment’s temperature. You can adjust the temperature you want between zero and 37 degrees Celsius.

The heater possesses an easy-to-use control panel, but the manufacturer provides a remote control for faster accessibility. Once the heater attains the set temperature, it will automatically shut off to save energy. Your property is safe from fires as the model has tip-over protection.

This I500W looks good in its black and nickel color that easily blends into the décor. You can set when you want the heater to run by programming the timer available. This heater is accompanied by a 2-year warranty that shows the manufacturer is confident in the heater’s abilities.

    What makes it special?
  • This year-round space heater presents a compact structure with no pieces hanging out, which is convenient if you have pets or young children. Furthermore, it has a relatively cool to touch surface, and you can manage the temperatures from far using the remote control.
    What cons did we find?
  • The fan's cooling option could be adjustable to suit the user's temperature needs on hot summer days. Also, the heater is a bit pricey for some.

Things to Consider

Long gone are the days we used to rely solely on fireplaces and fire pits for warmth. Now you can enjoy heating your space without worrying about your house going ablaze or burning your fingers.
Purchasing a reliable space heater is not rocket science if you know what you are looking for. There are thousands of heaters in the market, but only a few are suitable for your space and working budget. Since you are shopping for the safest electric space heater, we have assembled this guide to help you understand the features available and other characteristics to consider.

What safety features are usually included?

Top 5 Safest Space Heaters – Keep Your House Warm with No WorriesBecause we are dealing with items that produce heat, safety features are of the utmost importance. You want a heater that you can use without worrying that it will combust spontaneously if left plugged in. Furthermore, if you have pets or children running around, you want to ensure you don’t end up in the ER for causes that could have been prevented.

Heaters produced nowadays come with several safety features to lessen the anxiety around using heaters at home; these safety features will vary from model to model, but they usually include the following.

Cool-touch housing

While there are heaters in the market whose surfaces still run hot when they have been plugged in for hours, many models are adopting cool-to-touch housing. A surface that remains cool even when the heater has been on for hours is safe for use. You will not have to deal with accidental burns or a scorched carpet/floor. If you have curious children or pets around, selecting a model with a surface that doesn’t get hot is necessary.

Overheat protection

Another crucial safety feature is the overheat protection that prevents the heater from continuously heating even when it has attained the required temperature. A model lacking this feature should be watched closely to avoid accidents. However, most manufacturers are adhering to industry standards, so it is rare to find a heater that lacks overheat protection.

Tip-over protection

Knocking a heater over is a normal occurrence since we can all be a bit clumsy. The issue arises if you knock the heater down and it continues dispensing heat. If the heater fell on its face, the heat produced has nowhere to go; hence it will burn the surface.

To avoid any fires when the heater is knocked over, select a model with tip-over protection. This feature ensures the heater goes off when it gets knocked over; therefore, no heat is produced.

Auto shut-off

The automatic shut-off is another indispensable feature when it comes to heaters. Once your preferred temperature is attained, the safest electric space heater will shut off more heat production to prevent electrical fires. Not all heaters come with this feature, so be sure to confirm if the prospective model has one; it is a must-have for you.

Other key features of a space heater to consider

Top 5 Safest Space Heaters – Keep Your House Warm with No WorriesApart from safety features, heaters possess other features that you should pay attention to. After all, you cannot enjoy the safety features alone because the heater has to function optimally regarding heat production.

So, what are these other features to consider and how do they affect the heater’s functionality? You might be thinking they are complex features, but in reality, they are not. We will answer your queries in the section below; and, without wasting any more time, let us dive in:

Type

There are two types of space heaters that we will cover in this review, and those are oil-filled space heaters and those that rely on fans.

Oil-filled space heaters are convenient when you need high amounts of heat dispersed continuously. The oil absorbs the heat and continues distributing it, even when the heater is switched off. These models operate relatively silent, and they are not prone to electrical faults. However, they take some time to heat up compared to the fan-relying models.

Fan-based heaters need the fan to move at high speeds to disperse the heat produced. They are relatively affordable, portable and they take a short time to heat a space. Unlike the oil-filled heaters, these models quit dispersing heat the minute they are unplugged.

Both these types of heaters will possess a heating element, whether made of ceramic, mica, or natural gas. The quality of the heating element matters to facilitate long-term durability, hence, select wisely.

Timer

Top 5 Safest Space Heaters – Keep Your House Warm with No WorriesSome heaters feature a timer, and some don’t; it all depends on your requirements. Heaters with timers are convenient when you want the heater to run at a specific time without manually turning it off or on. Models with 24/7 timers are preferable because they do not limit the time you can set to have the machine running.

Thermostat

The safest, most efficient space heaters have a controllable thermostat. A thermostat is essential in raising and maintaining the user’s preferred temperature. A controlled thermostat gives you room to set the temperature to a specific digit, but some models only work with pre-set temperatures according to the available heat settings. Regardless of the type of thermostat you use, make sure that it is accurate and functions optimally.

Controls

Even the safest small space heater will feature well-placed controls that are easy to use. The controls should be located in an area that doesn’t force the user to stoop low to reach them. If the controls are too low, there should be a remote control to save you the frustration of moving up and down just to set the right temperature.

The controls should be well illustrated and of good quality so that you can enjoy a long service life.

Dimensions and weight

The larger the heater, the more likely it will be heavy. Small-sized heaters are not bulky; in fact, their size makes them easily portable. You can carry them to the office or camping with no problems as they come with handles.

Larger models need more energy to move, but some manufacturers fit wheels to make moving the heater from room to room possible.

Warranty

A warranty is essential, specifically if it is your first time purchasing a heater. Most heaters come with 2- to 5-year warranties that guarantee that the product is worthwhile. The manufacturer can solve any issues that stem from production flaws if the warranty is still valid.

FAQ

Are electric heaters safe?

Compared to having an open fire, yes, electric heaters are very safe. There are various industry standards set in place to ensure that any heaters produced are safe to use, whether industrially or domestically. This not only goes for the US but worldwide because electrical fires are dangerous. That is why you find that manufacturers take their time to fit safety features such as overheat protection, tip-over protection, and automatic shut-off. As long as the heater is away from continuous contact with water, it should not cause any risk as long as it has quality safety features fitted.

Can I use a space heater in the bathroom?

Yes, indeed you can, but there is a requirement set to ensure that it is safe for use. The safest space heater for RV or bathroom use will have some form of waterproof protection. You can check if the heater is waterproof by checking its IP rating. The higher the IP rating, the safer the heater is to use around high humid environments. Heaters without any waterproof protection will develop electrical faults, or you will notice that some metallic parts start to rust. If the IP rating is not specified, consult the supplier for confirmation before making a purchase.

Our verdict

There are many worthy space heaters in the market, and we were lucky to come across some of the safest space heaters on offer. Before you select your preferred model, here is a quick summary of our best performing models:

The Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater is suitable for those who have small spaces to heat or need a portable model they can carry around. Lasko 755320 relies on a ceramic heating element and oscillation to ensure heat reaches all corners of the room. The Lasko CA20100 Ultra Ceramic Fireplace Heater is perfect if you are looking for a heater that provides visuals. This small black model features a space-saving design that is suitable for those with less space to spare.

We hope that this review has been helpful in your search for the safest space heater. Let us know in the comment section how the heater you chose worked out.

9,6
Total Score
Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater - Editor's Choice
Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

X