When the weather starts to turn cold, most people reach for their space heaters. But not all space heaters are created equal.
There are a variety of different types of space heaters on the market, each with its own pros and cons. Here is a guide to the different types of space heaters available, so you can choose the one that is best for your needs.
Space Heater Types
The major types of space heaters used in home heating are:
- Panel space heaters
- Fan space heaters
- Propane space heaters
- Infrared space heaters
- Ceramic space heaters
- Oil-filled space heaters
- Kerosene space heaters
- Battery-powered space heaters
Panel Space Heaters
Panel space heaters are flat and rectangular, making them an ideal choice for heating small to medium-sized spaces. Many models come with a fan, which helps distribute the heat evenly.
Panel heaters are also generally energy-efficient and quiet. However, they can be more expensive than other types of space heaters and can sometimes blow cold air if not placed correctly.
Fan Space Heaters
The main feature of fan space heaters is a metal coil that heats up when the unit is turned on. The warmer the coil gets, the more heat is circulated throughout the room.
These units are often used to supplement central heating systems or to provide extra warmth in a drafty room.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using a fan space heater.
First, make sure that there is plenty of clearance around the unit. It should not be blocked by furniture or drapes, as this could restrict airflow and reduce its effectiveness.
Second, keep an eye on your electricity usage.
Propane Space Heaters
Portable propane space heaters are a great way to heat up a room without having to run the central heating system. They are very efficient, and since they run on propane, you don’t have to worry about cords or outlets.
Most propane space heaters come with an automatic shut-off valve that senses when the unit has been tipped over. This is a great safety feature, as it prevents the heater from continuing to operate if it’s been knocked over.
Some things you’ll want to keep in mind when using a portable propane space heater: never place anything combustible too close to the heater, make sure there is plenty of ventilation in the room, and always keep an eye on the heater while it’s running.
Infrared Space Heaters
Infrared space heaters are a type of electric heater that emits infrared radiation to heat a room or object.
Infrared radiation is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than that of visible light, but shorter than that of microwaves. Infrared radiation has a number of practical applications, including night vision, heating buildings, and medical treatment.
Infrared space heaters work by emitting infrared radiation toward an object or area. This infrared radiation is then absorbed by the object or area, which causes it to heat up.
This heating effect is why infrared space heaters are often used to heat buildings – the infrared radiation is emitted towards the inside of the building, where it is absorbed by people and objects, causing them to warm up.
Ceramic Space Heaters
Ceramic space heaters are small, portable electric heaters that use ceramic heating elements to produce heat. They are a popular choice for people who need supplemental heat in their homes, and they are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Ceramic space heaters are small and portable, and they generate a lot of heat very quickly. They also have a built-in thermostat, so they can be set to automatically turn off when the desired temperature is reached.
Ceramic space heaters work by using electricity to create warmth. The ceramic heating element is designed to convert the electricity into infrared radiation, which then warms up the objects in the room.
Many models also have fans built in to help circulate the air and further increase the warmth.
Ceramic space heaters are a popular choice because they are affordable, efficient, and easy to use. They can be used to supplement central heating systems or to provide temporary heat during power outage.
The downside to ceramic space heaters is that they can be a bit noisy, and they can also be a fire hazard if not used properly.
Oil-Filled Space Heaters
Another popular type of space heater is the oil-filled radiator heater. These heaters are larger than ceramic heaters, but they generate more heat and last longer.
An oil-filled space heater is a device that uses oil to generate heat. The oil is heated, and the resulting heat is used to warm the surrounding area.
Oil-filled space heaters are popular because they are effective at heating large areas relatively quickly. They are also relatively quiet, which makes them a popular choice for use in bedrooms and other areas where noise needs to be minimized.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to using an oil-filled space heater. First, these heaters can be messy, as spilled oil can be difficult to clean up.
Additionally, these heaters can be dangerous if not used properly, as they can easily overheat and start a fire. Finally, they can be expensive to maintain.
Kerosene Space Heaters
Kerosene space heaters are a type of heating device that uses kerosene as their fuel source. They work by burning the kerosene, which then releases heat that warms up the surrounding area.
Kerosene space heaters are a popular choice for people who need supplemental heat in their homes, as they are relatively affordable and easy to use. However, there are some safety concerns with these devices that people should be aware of.
For example, kerosene space heaters must be placed in an open area where there is plenty of ventilation, and they should never be used in an enclosed space.
Battery Powered Space Heaters
Battery-powered (Battery-operated) space heaters are a great way to add supplemental heat to a room without having to use an electric outlet. They are typically small and portable, making them easy to move from room to room.
Most battery-powered space heaters come with an automatic shut-off feature that turns the heater off when it reaches a certain temperature.
This prevents the heater from getting too hot and causing a fire. Some heaters also come with a built-in fan, which helps distribute the heat evenly throughout the room.
Battery-powered space heaters can be used in conjunction with other heating sources, such as wood-burning stoves or furnaces, to help provide extra warmth during cold weather months.
READ MORE: Common space heater problems and solutions.
