Tired of shivering in a chilly room while the rest of your house is cozy? Finding the right space heater can transform a drafty corner into a warm sanctuary, and for consistent, even heat distribution, convection models reign supreme. These efficient units circulate warm air throughout your space, creating a comfortable ambiance without the harsh dryness or loud fan noise associated with other types. But with so many options on the market, how do you pinpoint the truly exceptional performers?
This buying guide dives deep into the world of convection space heaters, offering comprehensive reviews of the best models available today. We’ve tested a range of units, considering factors like heating power, energy efficiency, safety features, and ease of use, to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re looking for a compact option for a small office or a powerful unit to tackle a larger living area, our curated selection and expert advice will guide you to the best convection space heaters that deliver on both performance and value, ensuring your comfort all season long.
Before we get to our review of the best convection space heaters, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Understanding Convection Space Heaters
Convection space heaters offer a quiet and efficient way to warm up a room, making them a popular choice for supplemental heating. Unlike radiant heaters that directly heat objects and people in their path, convection heaters work by warming the air. They achieve this through a natural process: cold air is drawn into the heater, heated by an element, and then rises as warm air, circulating throughout the space. This continuous cycle creates a comfortable and even temperature distribution.
The primary advantage of convection heating lies in its ability to provide a gentle and consistent warmth. Because the air is heated and circulated, there are no hot spots or drafts that can occur with other heating methods. This makes them particularly well-suited for bedrooms, living rooms, and offices where a steady temperature is desired. The absence of moving fans, as found in some other heater types, also contributes to their quiet operation, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
When searching for the best convection space heaters, it’s important to consider their energy efficiency and safety features. Many modern convection heaters are designed with adjustable thermostats, allowing you to control the temperature precisely and avoid overheating, thus saving on energy consumption. Safety mechanisms such as tip-over protection and overheat shut-off are crucial, especially in households with children or pets, ensuring peace of mind during operation.
In essence, convection space heaters provide a silent, efficient, and consistent method of warming your personal spaces. Their ability to evenly distribute heat without creating disruptive noise or drafts makes them a standout option for anyone looking to enhance the comfort of their home or office.
5 Best Convection Space Heaters
Lasko AW300 Cylindrical Ceramic Heater with Remote
The Lasko AW300 is a fantastic option for those seeking efficient and stylish heating. Its compact, cylindrical design allows it to fit easily into most spaces without being obtrusive. The adjustable thermostat and multiple heat settings provide excellent control over your comfort level, and the widespread oscillation ensures that warmth is distributed evenly throughout the room.
What truly sets the Lasko AW300 apart is its user-friendly remote control and digital display. This makes it incredibly convenient to adjust settings from across the room, whether you’re on the couch or in bed. The auto-off timer is also a great feature for energy saving and peace of mind. It’s a powerful yet quiet heater, making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or offices.
Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater DR988
The Dr. Infrared DR988 is a powerhouse convection heater that excels at heating larger spaces quickly and effectively. Its infrared technology is designed to heat objects and people directly, rather than just the air, leading to a more immediate and pervasive warmth. This makes it a great choice for garages, workshops, or even larger living areas where central heating might struggle.
Despite its robust heating capabilities, the Dr. Infrared DR988 is surprisingly energy-efficient due to its ability to target heat. The unit is well-built and features safety mechanisms like tip-over protection and an overheat shut-off, ensuring safe operation. While it’s a bit larger than some portable heaters, its portability is aided by sturdy casters, making it easy to move from room to room as needed.
Dreo Space Heater 1500W PTC Ceramic Heater
Dreo’s offering is a standout for its rapid heating and quiet operation, making it a top contender for personal space heating. This PTC ceramic heater can warm a room in mere seconds, providing instant relief from the cold. Its oscillating function helps to distribute heat evenly, creating a comfortable and consistent temperature.
The Dreo Space Heater is also remarkably quiet for its performance, which is a significant advantage when used in bedrooms or home offices. The multiple safety features, including overheat protection and a tip-over switch, provide peace of mind. The intuitive digital controls and remote access further enhance its ease of use, solidifying its position as a reliable and effective heating solution.
Honeywell HCE317V Tower Heater with Advanced Comfort
The Honeywell HCE317V Tower Heater combines efficient convection heating with a sleek and modern design. Its tower form factor allows for a smaller footprint while still providing ample heating power to warm medium-sized rooms. The adjustable thermostat and multiple heat settings offer flexibility, allowing you to find the perfect temperature for any situation.
This heater is praised for its consistent and even heat distribution, thanks to its oscillation feature. The advanced comfort controls make it easy to program and manage your desired temperature, and the included remote adds an extra layer of convenience. The safety features, such as overheat protection and a cool-touch housing, contribute to its overall user-friendliness and reliability.
Vornado VH200 Whole Room Electric Heater
The Vornado VH200 is designed with a unique focus on circulating warm air effectively throughout an entire room. Unlike many heaters that create localized hot spots, this convection heater uses its Vornado V-Flow™ Circulation system to move air throughout the space, ensuring consistent temperatures from floor to ceiling. This makes it an excellent choice for rooms where you need consistent, comfortable warmth without being directly next to the heater.
Its compact and stylish design makes it a good fit for any décor, and the intuitive controls are simple to operate. The VH200 also boasts a number of safety features, including tip-over protection and cool-touch exterior, making it a safe option for families and pet owners. The combination of efficient whole-room heating and user-friendly design makes the Vornado VH200 a highly recommended convection space heater.
Why People Need to Buy Convection Space Heaters
Convection space heaters offer a unique and often preferred method for heating specific areas of a home or office. Unlike radiant heaters that directly warm objects and people in their line of sight, convection heaters work by warming the air. This heated air then circulates naturally through the room, creating a more consistent and even temperature distribution. This process is particularly beneficial in larger rooms or areas with drafts, as it can efficiently warm the entire space without creating hot or cold spots.
One of the primary reasons people opt for convection heaters is their quiet operation. Many models are designed with silent elements or very low fan noise, making them ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or offices where noise can be a distraction. They also tend to have a lower surface temperature than some other types of heaters, reducing the risk of accidental burns, which makes them a safer choice for households with children or pets. The ease of use and portability also contribute to their popularity, allowing users to easily move them to the areas where supplemental heat is most needed.
Furthermore, convection heaters can be a cost-effective way to supplement central heating systems. Instead of heating an entire house when only a specific room is occupied, a convection heater allows individuals to target their heating efforts, potentially leading to significant energy savings. This is especially true during transitional seasons when central heating might not be necessary but a bit of extra warmth is desired. Understanding what makes the best convection space heaters can help consumers make an informed decision for their specific needs.
In essence, people buy convection space heaters for their ability to provide quiet, consistent, and efficient zone heating. They offer a practical solution for enhancing comfort in individual rooms, reducing energy consumption by avoiding the need to heat unused spaces, and providing a safer alternative for homes with vulnerable occupants. Their user-friendly design and the ability to fine-tune the temperature in targeted areas make them a valuable addition to any home’s heating arsenal.
Understanding How Convection Space Heaters Work
Convection space heaters are designed to heat a room by circulating warm air. Unlike radiant heaters that directly heat objects and people in their path, convection heaters work by heating the air around them. This heated air then rises, and as it cools, it sinks, creating a continuous cycle of air movement within the space. This process ensures that the entire room is heated more evenly and consistently.
The core of a convection heater typically involves a heating element, often a ceramic or metal coil, which warms the air passing over it. This air is then typically directed upwards and outwards through vents or a fan. The quiet operation is a key advantage, as many convection models rely on natural air convection rather than a noisy fan, making them ideal for bedrooms or quiet living areas.
The efficiency of a convection heater lies in its ability to maintain a stable temperature. Once the desired warmth is achieved, the thermostat on the unit cycles the heating element on and off to keep the room at that level. This prevents overheating and can be more energy-efficient than heaters that continuously blast heat.
Key Features to Consider in a Convection Space Heater
When selecting the best convection space heater for your needs, several key features warrant careful consideration. Safety features are paramount, and you should look for models equipped with tip-over protection, which automatically shuts off the heater if it’s accidentally knocked over, preventing potential fire hazards. Overheat protection is another crucial safety element, designed to prevent the unit from becoming dangerously hot.
Beyond safety, functionality and convenience play a significant role. Adjustable thermostats allow you to precisely control the room temperature, while multiple heat settings offer flexibility depending on the ambient conditions and your comfort level. Timers can be invaluable for programming the heater to turn on or off at specific times, saving energy and ensuring a warm room when you need it.
Consider the size and portability of the heater. If you plan to move it between rooms, look for models with integrated carrying handles and a compact design. The length of the power cord is also a practical consideration, ensuring you can place the heater in an optimal location without being restricted by its reach. Finally, understand the wattage and heating capacity to ensure it’s suitable for the size of the room you intend to heat.
Tips for Maximizing the Efficiency and Longevity of Your Heater
To get the most out of your convection space heater and ensure it serves you reliably for years to come, a few simple practices can make a significant difference. Firstly, proper placement is crucial. Avoid placing the heater directly against furniture, curtains, or other flammable materials, as this can obstruct airflow and create a fire hazard. Ensure there’s adequate space around the unit for efficient air circulation.
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for both performance and longevity. Dust and debris can accumulate on the heating element and vents, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to overheating. Most manufacturers recommend unplugging the heater and allowing it to cool completely before gently cleaning the exterior and interior vents with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment. Never use water or abrasive cleaning agents.
To further enhance efficiency, consider using your convection heater in conjunction with other heating methods or in well-insulated rooms. Closing doors and windows when the heater is in operation will help trap the warm air, preventing it from escaping and reducing the workload on the heater. For larger spaces, using a convection heater as a supplemental heat source alongside your main heating system can provide targeted warmth without the need to crank up the central thermostat.
Comparing Convection Heaters to Other Space Heater Types
Convection space heaters offer a distinct heating experience compared to other popular types of space heaters. Unlike radiant heaters, which emit infrared radiation to directly warm objects and people, convection heaters rely on circulating warm air. This means convection heaters provide a more ambient, whole-room warmth, whereas radiant heaters deliver a more focused heat that can feel instant but may not uniformly warm a space.
Ceramic heaters, often grouped with convection units, typically use a fan to blow air over a heated ceramic element. While this also involves air circulation, the presence of a fan can introduce some noise, which is often less pronounced in pure convection models that utilize natural air movement. The heating element in ceramic heaters can also get quite hot, requiring careful consideration of safety features.
Oil-filled radiators are another common type of space heater that utilizes convection, but with a slower, more sustained heat release. These heaters contain oil that circulates around a heating element, radiating heat into the surrounding air. They tend to be very quiet and provide a consistent, gentle warmth, but they can take longer to heat a room initially. Understanding these differences allows you to choose the space heater that best aligns with your specific heating requirements and preferences.
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Convection Space Heaters
When the temperatures drop and your central heating just isn’t cutting it, or you’re looking to heat a specific room without overhauling your entire HVAC system, a convection space heater can be an excellent solution. These efficient heaters work by circulating warm air throughout a space, providing consistent and comfortable warmth. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs? This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting the best convection space heaters, ensuring you make an informed decision that keeps you cozy all season long.
Understanding How Convection Heaters Work
Convection space heaters operate on a simple yet effective principle. They draw in cool air from the room, heat it internally using an electrical element, and then release the warmed air back into the room. This heated air is less dense than the surrounding cool air, causing it to rise. As the warm air rises, it displaces cooler air, which then sinks and is drawn into the heater to be warmed, creating a continuous cycle of air circulation. This natural convection process allows for even heating throughout the room without the need for a fan to forcefully push the air.
The beauty of convection heating lies in its quiet operation and ability to maintain a consistent temperature. Unlike fan-forced heaters that can create drafts and noise, convection units typically operate silently, making them ideal for bedrooms, offices, or any space where quiet is preferred. The gradual circulation of warm air also prevents the sharp temperature fluctuations that can sometimes occur with other heating methods, leading to a more comfortable and stable environment.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Convection Space Heaters
Room Size and Heating Capacity
The most crucial factor when choosing a convection space heater is its capacity to heat the intended space. Heaters are often rated by their wattage, with higher wattage generally indicating greater heating power. A general rule of thumb is to allocate approximately 10 watts per square foot for adequate heating. For a 150-square-foot room, for example, a heater around 1500 watts would likely be sufficient. However, consider factors like ceiling height, insulation levels, and the desired temperature increase, as these can influence the actual heating performance.
It’s also important to avoid overpowering your space, which can lead to inefficient energy use and uncomfortable overheating. Conversely, a heater with insufficient wattage will struggle to reach and maintain the desired temperature, leaving you feeling chilly. Many manufacturers provide guidance on the recommended room size for their specific models. Always check these specifications and err on the side of a slightly more powerful unit if you have a particularly large or drafty room, as you can always turn it down.
Safety Features
When dealing with electrical appliances that generate heat, safety is paramount. Modern convection space heaters come equipped with a range of safety features designed to prevent accidents. Look for models that include an automatic tip-over switch, which will immediately shut off the heater if it’s accidentally knocked over. Overheat protection is another essential feature, designed to prevent the unit from getting too hot and potentially causing damage or a fire hazard.
Furthermore, consider the design of the heater’s housing. Many convection heaters feature a cool-touch exterior, meaning the outer casing remains relatively cool even when the heating element is hot, reducing the risk of accidental burns, especially important in households with children or pets. Ensure the heater is certified by a reputable safety organization, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek), which indicates it has met stringent safety standards.
Thermostat and Temperature Control
The presence and quality of a thermostat are vital for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient environment. A good thermostat allows you to set and maintain a specific temperature, preventing the heater from continuously running and wasting energy. Many convection heaters offer adjustable thermostats, allowing you to fine-tune the heat output to your liking.
More advanced models may feature digital thermostats with precise temperature settings and programmable timers. Programmable timers are incredibly useful, allowing you to schedule when the heater turns on and off, ensuring your space is warm when you need it and saving energy when you don’t. Some thermostats also include multiple heat settings, offering flexibility in how much heat the unit produces, which can be helpful for gradually warming a space or maintaining a lower ambient temperature.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
Convection heaters, by their nature, are generally more energy-efficient than radiant or fan-forced heaters when used for whole-room heating. Their ability to circulate warm air evenly means they can often achieve a comfortable temperature with less energy consumption. However, it’s still wise to look for models with features that enhance efficiency, such as high-quality insulation around the heating element and advanced thermostat controls that prevent over-heating.
When considering operating costs, the wattage of the heater and your local electricity rates will be the primary determinants. While a higher wattage unit might heat a room faster, it will also consume more electricity while running. Understanding your typical energy usage patterns and comparing the wattage of different models can help you estimate long-term operating costs. Some newer convection heaters may also display their energy consumption, providing more transparency for the consumer.
Portability and Design
The portability of a convection space heater can be a significant consideration, especially if you plan to move it between rooms. Look for models with sturdy, well-placed handles and casters or wheels that make it easy to transport. The weight and overall dimensions of the heater are also important factors, particularly if you have limited storage space when it’s not in use.
Beyond functionality, the design of the heater can also play a role. Convection heaters come in a variety of styles, from sleek, modern towers to more traditional panel designs. Some are designed to be unobtrusive, blending seamlessly into your décor, while others are intended to be a statement piece. Consider where the heater will be placed and choose a design that complements your existing aesthetic. Ensure the cord length is sufficient for your needs, allowing for flexible placement without relying on extension cords.
Noise Level
One of the primary advantages of convection space heaters is their quiet operation. Unlike fan-forced heaters that can produce a noticeable whirring sound, convection units rely on natural air circulation, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments. However, even within convection heaters, there can be slight variations in noise levels.
While most convection heaters are virtually silent, some might produce a very faint hum or clicking sound from the thermostat or internal components. If you are particularly sensitive to noise, it’s worth checking product reviews or specifications that mention noise levels. For most users, however, the quiet operation of convection heaters is a major selling point, allowing you to enjoy warmth without disruptive noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a convection space heater and how does it work?
A convection space heater heats a room by circulating warm air. Unlike radiant heaters that directly heat objects in their path, convection heaters warm the air in the room. They typically work by drawing in cooler air, passing it over a heating element, and then releasing the warmed air back into the room. This process creates a continuous cycle of air circulation, gradually raising the overall temperature of the space.
The convection process relies on the principle that warm air is less dense and rises. As the heater warms the air, it becomes lighter and naturally rises, pushing cooler air downwards towards the heater to be warmed in turn. This creates a gentle, consistent flow of heat throughout the room, providing a comfortable and even temperature without creating hot or cold spots.
What are the benefits of using a convection space heater?
Convection heaters offer several advantages for home heating. One primary benefit is their ability to provide quiet operation, making them ideal for bedrooms, offices, or any environment where noise can be disruptive. They also tend to distribute heat more evenly throughout a room compared to some other types of space heaters, creating a more consistent and comfortable environment.
Furthermore, convection heaters are often designed with safety features like tip-over protection and overheat protection, which are crucial for unattended use. Many models also offer adjustable thermostats and programmable timers, allowing for greater control over energy consumption and a more personalized heating experience, ultimately saving on energy costs.
Are convection space heaters energy efficient?
The energy efficiency of a convection space heater can vary depending on the model and how it’s used. When used appropriately to heat a specific room rather than an entire house, they can be quite energy efficient. Their ability to provide consistent, even heat without excessive fan noise can also contribute to perceived efficiency as they maintain a comfortable temperature without constant cycling.
However, it’s important to remember that all electric resistance heaters, including convection ones, convert nearly all the electricity they consume into heat. Therefore, their efficiency is more about how well they heat a target area and maintain a desired temperature, thus minimizing the need for the heating element to run constantly. Proper insulation in the room and setting the thermostat appropriately will significantly impact overall energy consumption.
What should I look for when buying a convection space heater?
When selecting a convection space heater, consider the size of the room you intend to heat. Look for wattage recommendations or BTU output ratings that are appropriate for the square footage. Additional features to consider include adjustable thermostats for precise temperature control, safety features like automatic shut-off and cool-touch exteriors, and portability if you plan to move the heater between rooms.
Other important factors include the type of controls (digital vs. manual), whether it has a timer function for scheduled heating, and the noise level of the unit. Some models may also offer additional features like oscillation for wider heat distribution or humidifying capabilities. Reading reviews and comparing specifications across different brands will help you make an informed decision.
Are convection space heaters safe to leave on overnight?
Many modern convection space heaters are designed with safety features that make them suitable for overnight use, but it’s crucial to understand these features and follow best practices. Look for models equipped with automatic tip-over shut-off, which will turn the unit off if it’s accidentally knocked over. Overheat protection is another essential feature that prevents the heater from becoming dangerously hot.
Always ensure the heater is placed on a stable, level surface away from flammable materials like curtains, bedding, and furniture. Never cover the heater with anything, as this can obstruct airflow and lead to overheating. While many are designed for safe unattended operation, it’s still advisable to periodically check on the unit and ensure the room is adequately ventilated.
Can I use a convection space heater in a bathroom?
Using a convection space heater in a bathroom requires extreme caution due to the presence of water and potential electrical hazards. Most standard convection space heaters are not designed for damp environments and can pose a serious risk of electric shock if they come into contact with water or moisture.
If you absolutely need to heat a bathroom, look for models specifically designed and rated for use in damp or wet locations. These heaters will have enhanced insulation and protective casings to prevent electrical hazards. Always ensure the heater is plugged into a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protected outlet, which can quickly shut off power in the event of a fault. However, it is generally recommended to avoid using any portable electric heater in a bathroom if possible, and opt for permanently installed bathroom heating solutions.
How do I maintain my convection space heater?
Proper maintenance of your convection space heater will ensure its longevity and safe operation. The most important maintenance task is regular cleaning. Dust and debris can accumulate on the heating element and air intake vents, which can reduce efficiency and potentially become a fire hazard.
To clean your heater, unplug it and allow it to cool completely. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust from the vents and exterior. For stubborn dust inside, you might use compressed air. Periodically check the power cord for any signs of damage, and ensure the unit is stored properly when not in use, ideally in its original packaging or a protective cover to keep it dust-free.
Final Words
By carefully considering the factors outlined in this comprehensive guide, you are now well-equipped to select the best convection space heater that perfectly suits your needs. Remember to prioritize energy efficiency, safety features, and the specific heating requirements of your space. Whether you’re aiming for rapid warmth in a chilly bedroom or consistent, comfortable temperatures in a larger living area, investing in a quality convection heater will undoubtedly enhance your home’s comfort and your overall well-being throughout the colder months.
Ultimately, the pursuit of the best convection space heaters is a journey toward a more comfortable and energy-conscious home. By understanding the nuances of convection technology and aligning your choices with the detailed reviews and buying advice provided, you can confidently make an informed decision that delivers reliable, efficient, and safe heating for years to come. Embrace the warmth and savings that a top-tier convection space heater can bring.