When the winter chill settles in, a space heater is a cost-effective solution for heating only the parts of your home or office you use. When choosing a model, consider factors like initial cost and long-term energy efficiency to find the heater that best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Electric models have a heating element covered with mica and use either convection or a blower fan to distribute warm air in a room. They usually feature a digital display that allows you to select the preferred temperature. Some have a built-in timer that shuts them off after a pre-determined period of operation. They also offer a fan-only mode for circulation without heat, which is useful year round.
Portable electric heaters have a handle or wheels that make it easy to move them from room to room. Some have an oscillation setting that helps to distribute heat evenly, eliminating cold spots and maximizing comfort. All of them should have an automatic shut-off to prevent overheating or fires caused by accidental contact with objects and people. They should always be kept at least three feet away from flammable objects or clothing.
Oil-filled models are larger and use a diathermic oil to provide both radiant and convection heat. They are slower to warm up and cool down than electric models, but they tend to feel more comfortable and retain heat longer after being turned off. They also have a safety switch that turns them off if they tip over. space heater