Staying Warm This Winter with Space Heaters
As the weather turns colder, many homeowners start looking for ways to heat up small spaces in their home without turning up the thermostat on their central heating system. Space heaters can be an effective solution for warming up a home office, bedroom, or other small area without breaking the bank.
The History of Space Heaters
While space heaters may seem like a modern convenience, they actually have a long history of keeping people warm. Some of the earliest space heaters were developed in the 1800s when scientists were experimenting with ways to capture and redistribute heat energy. These early models used the combustion of oil, natural gas, or kerosene to generate heat.
Fun Facts About Space Heaters
- The first electric space heater was invented in the 1920s, allowing more portable and cleaner heat than previous models.
- NASA used space heater technology to keep astronauts warm in the Apollo space capsules in the 1960s and 1970s.
- Over 10 million space heaters are sold annually in the United States alone.
How Space Heaters Evolved
In the last century, space heater technology has continued to improve with new features added for efficiency, portability and safety:
| 1930s | First electric space heaters introduced |
|---|---|
| 1960s | Fan-forced heat added for better heat distribution |
| 1970s | Added safety features like auto shut-off and tip-over switches |
| 1980s | Thermostat controls introduced |
| 2000s | Energy efficiency improved with ceramic and infrared models |
Today's space heaters now incorporate the latest technology to provide targeted, energy-efficient heat on demand to the consumers who need it.
Top products in ♨️ Space Heaters
Key Types of Space Heaters
When shopping for a space heater, you'll encounter a few main types that each work in slightly different ways to heat your space. Knowing the pros and cons of each can help you choose the right option.
Ceramic Space Heaters
Ceramic space heaters work by passing electricity through a dense ceramic core to create heat. The ceramic holds the heat and uses a fan to blow the warm air into the room.
- Pros: Energy efficient, heats quickly, adjustable thermostat, quiet operation
- Cons: Can dry out the air in a room
Infrared Space Heaters
Infrared space heaters use glowing quartz rods or reflected light to create radiant heat that directly warms objects rather than just the air.
- Pros: Energy efficient, no fan needed for quiet operation
- Cons: Doesn't heat the air much, only works on line-of-sight path
Oil-Filled Space Heaters
Oil-filled space heaters use electric current to heat oil in a sealed chamber. The heat then radiates through the chamber surface.
- Pros: Silent operation, retains heat well, portable models
- Cons: Slow to heat up, heavy, risk of leaks
Micathermic Space Heaters
Micathermic models utilize a heating element behind a sheet of mica minerals that evenly radiate out gentle warmth.
- Pros: Thin profile, efficient, heat up quickly, adjustable thermostat
- Cons: Can dry out air in room
With an understanding of these main space heater types, you can better evaluate your heating needs and match them to the right model.
Why Space Heaters Are a Great Heating Solution
For targeted heating needs, space heaters offer several benefits that make them a practical choice over central heating alone.
Warm Small Spaces
One of the biggest advantages of space heaters is their ability to heat small spaces efficiently without raising temperatures in the whole house. This makes them ideal for use in:
- Home offices
- Bedrooms
- Bathrooms
- Basements
- Garages
Energy Efficient Operation
Modern space heaters are designed for energy efficient operation to keep electricity costs low. Features like automatic shut-off timers, thermostat controls, and efficient heating elements minimize energy waste.
Portability
The compact size of most space heaters allows you to easily move them from room to room as needed. Their portable nature gives you flexible heating options.
Cost Savings
Using a space heater is less expensive than constantly running your central heating. The focused heating minimizes energy consumption.
Safety Features
Top space heaters on the market now include safety features like:
- Automatic shut-off if tipped over
- Overheat protection
- Cool-touch exteriors
This enhances safe operation and peace of mind.
Precise Temperature Control
Many space heaters include thermostats or remote controls. This allows you to easily adjust the temperature to your exact comfort needs.
With these many benefits, it's easy to see why space heaters can be a useful heating solution for many homeowners.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Space Heater
With a wide range of space heaters available, it's important to think about your needs and preferences to choose the right model. Here are some key factors to consider:
Heating Capacity
Consider the room size you want to heat and buy a space heater with appropriate heating capacity. Models range from small portable heaters for 100-200 sq ft rooms to larger fixed heaters for 500+ sq ft spaces.
Safety Features
Look for important safety features like:
- Tip-over auto shut-off sensors
- Overheat protection
- Cool-touch exterior
Energy Efficiency
Check the wattage rating and estimated energy costs. More efficient ceramic and infrared heaters can save on electricity bills.
Noise Level
Consider noise output measured in decibels (dB). Radiant and oil-filled models are near silent while fan-forced types can hum at 40-50 dB.
Temperature Controls
Adjustable thermostats or remote controls allow convenient temperature customization.
Portability
Smaller portable heaters maximize placement flexibility with cord-free repositioning. Larger models offer fixed heating.
Extras
Added features like timers, air filters, and eco modes offer additional value.
Weighing your needs in these areas will ensure you select the ideal space heater for your situation.
Top Brands for Quality Space Heaters
When shopping for a space heater, sticking with a top brand can give you confidence in getting a high-performing and reliable model. Here are some of the top brands to consider:
Lasko
Lasko offers a wide selection of ceramic, infrared, and fan-forced space heaters. They are known for quality construction, safety features, and quiet operation. Popular models include the Ceramic Portable Heater and Bladeless Ceramic Tower Heater.
DeLonghi
DeLonghi specializes in stylish oil-filled radiator space heaters with patented "Chimney Effect" heat circulation. Their TRD40615E model includes a programmable timer and thermostat.
Dyson
Dyson is beloved for their bladeless fan heaters that provide powerful heat airflow without choppy air. The AM09 model is an ultra-slim tower design.
Honeywell
Honeywell is trusted for durable and customizable space heaters with options like digital thermostats and remote control. The HCE200B HeatGenius Ceramic Heater includes a motion sensor.
Dr. Infrared
Dr. Infrared focus on infrared quartz and carbon fiber space heaters designed to provide soothing therapeutic warmth. The DRI1025B model includes dual heating systems.
Sticking with industry-leading brands like these will give you the best chances for a quality and long-lasting space heater suited to your heating needs.
Space Heaters Outlines Pdf
Here is an outline for a PDF about space heaters, based on the search results:
I. Introduction
II. Safety Tips for Using Portable Space Heaters
III. Rules and Regulations for Space Heaters in Specific Settings
IV. Types of Space Heaters
V. Choosing the Right Space Heater for Your Needs
VI. Maintaining and Cleaning Your Space Heater
VII. Top-Rated Space Heaters on the Market
VIII. Conclusion
Indoor Space Heaters Outlines Pdf
Here is an outline for a PDF about indoor space heaters, based on the search results:
I. Introduction
II. Safety Tips for Using Portable Indoor Space Heaters
III. Rules and Regulations for Indoor Space Heaters in Specific Settings
IV. Types of Indoor Space Heaters
V. Choosing the Right Indoor Space Heater for Your Needs
VI. Maintaining and Cleaning Your Indoor Space Heater
VII. Top-Rated Indoor Space Heaters on the Market
VIII. Conclusion
