Comparison: Best Space Heater At Walmart (Updated | Dec 16th)

For large rooms, a ceramic or infrared heater with higher wattage, typically 1500W, is most effective. Look for models with widespread oscillation to distribute heat evenly across the space. Infrared heaters are especially good for warming objects and people directly, making them feel warmer faster.

Yes, heaters with timers offer significant value in convenience and energy savings. You can program the heater to turn on before you wake up or enter a room and shut off automatically after you fall asleep. This prevents unnecessary energy use and provides peace of mind by eliminating the risk of leaving it on.

These safety features are absolutely essential and should be considered non-negotiable. Tip-over protection automatically shuts the heater off if it’s knocked over, preventing a potential fire hazard. Overheat protection turns the unit off if its internal components get too hot, protecting both the device and your home.

Ceramic heaters use a ceramic element to heat the air, which is then circulated by a fan, providing quick and widespread warmth. Infrared heaters emit invisible light that heats objects and people directly, similar to the sun, which is more efficient for spot heating. Ceramic heaters are great for general room heating, while infrared is ideal for personal, targeted warmth.

The cost depends on your local electricity rate, but you can estimate it by multiplying the heater’s kilowatt usage (1.5 kW) by your cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and the hours of use. For example, running a 1500W heater for an hour at a rate of $0.15 per kWh would cost about $0.23. Using a timer and lower settings can help manage these costs effectively.

You should only use a space heater in a bathroom if it is specifically rated for such use, typically marked with ‘Bathroom Safe’ or an IPX rating for water resistance. Standard heaters pose a serious shock risk due to the high humidity and potential for water contact. Always prioritize safety and check the manufacturer’s guidelines before placing any heater in a bathroom.

Not necessarily. A higher wattage heater will produce more heat but also consumes more electricity and may be overkill for a small room. For personal use or small spaces like under a desk, a lower wattage model (400-900W) is often more efficient and provides sufficient comfort without high energy costs. Match the heater’s wattage to the size of the room for optimal efficiency.

Key features for energy efficiency include adjustable thermostats, multiple heat settings, and programmable timers. An eco-mode or energy-saving setting automatically adjusts the power output to maintain a set temperature, using less energy. These features allow you to heat your space only as much as needed, preventing waste and lowering your electricity bill.