Using a space heater is an economical way to warm up a room without installing heat in it. It is generally much less expensive than a kerosene heater, but does have its risks. When buying one, consider the size and location of the space that you want to heat, what the heater is made of, any safety features it offers, and what kind of current it uses.
The first thing to consider is the size of the space to be heated. A small space, such as a bedroom, does not require a large heater. The space heater will usually have a chart or size guideline to assist shoppers in purchasing an appropriate size.
An electric space heater is the only unvented heater that is safe to operate inside the home. Other types of heaters must be vented into the outside air, so if a vent is not practical, an electric appliance is your only safe option.
Most space heaters are safer than they used to be, but there are still risks. Many now have ceramic heating cores that do not get as hot as metal coils, and are much less likely to spark fires. A consumer should always keep a wide open space around the heater, and must not keep it near drapes or furniture. It’s also important that you only buy a heater with a safety cut-off, which should be a standard feature. This will shut the heater off if it overheats or tips over.
A heater with a ceramic coil will probably have a multiple-speed blower, which is a feature that many people prefer. Look for one with an adjustable thermostat for the most efficient heating.