Comparison: Best Space Heater That Uses Least Electricity (Updated | Dec 16th)

For heating a single person or small area, an infrared heater is often most efficient as it warms objects directly, not the air. For heating a whole room, a ceramic heater with an adjustable thermostat and multiple heat settings is a great choice. All electric heaters are 100% efficient at converting electricity to heat, so the key is to use less energy to achieve your comfort level.

Infrared heaters use less electricity by heating you directly, making them ideal for spot heating. Ceramic heaters heat the air in a room quickly, while oil-filled radiators provide steady, long-lasting warmth but are slower to heat up. Ultimately, the heater with the best thermostat that cycles off the most will save you the most money.

An adjustable thermostat is the most important feature, as it allows the heater to turn off once the desired temperature is reached. Multiple heat settings (e.g., low, high) let you use only the power you need. A programmable timer and an eco-mode that automatically adjusts power can also significantly reduce energy consumption.

Not necessarily. While a higher wattage heater uses more energy per hour, a powerful heater might heat a room faster and then shut off. A lower-wattage heater may have to run continuously to maintain the same temperature, potentially using more electricity over time. The efficiency of the thermostat and how well the heater retains heat are more important factors.

You can estimate the cost by finding the heater’s wattage, converting it to kilowatts (kW) by dividing by 1000, and multiplying by your electricity rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh). For example, a 1500W (1.5kW) heater running for one hour on a $0.15/kWh plan would cost about 22.5 cents. Using the lowest effective wattage setting will minimize this cost.

Yes, always look for heaters with tip-over protection, which automatically shuts the unit off if it’s knocked over. Overheat protection is also critical, as it prevents the heater from becoming dangerously hot. For models with plastic casings, ensure they are cool-to-the-touch to prevent burns, especially important in homes with children or pets.

A more expensive heater can be a better value if it has superior features like a precise thermostat, multiple settings, and better safety features. These features can lead to lower electricity bills and greater peace of mind. However, a well-reviewed, basic model with a good thermostat can be just as effective for smaller spaces without the high upfront cost.