Getting started

Our tests of the latest electric space heaters show that they provide more-consistent heat than those we last tested. And while they have the most current safety features, space heaters cause an estimated 21,650 home fires and 1,512 fire-related injuries and deaths each year, according the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Fuel-fired models carry their own risks.

All of the tested space heaters will comfortably warm a chilly room. But remember, the only way to potentially save money is to use a heater in one room and leave the rest of the house chillier.

When you shop for an electric space heater, look for a label from a recognized testing laboratory such as UL (Underwriters Laboratory), ETL (Intertek), or CSA (Canadian Standards Association) verifying that the heater's construction and performance meet U.S. voluntary safety standards.

Also, fuel-burning space heaters are more dangerous than electrics. We suggest that you consider them only for emergency use--say, during a winter power outage.

Our experts and the NFPA offer the following safety advice:

Types

Space heaters that burn fuel are dangerous, and even electric space heaters pose significant risks of fire and electrical shocks if you don't use them safely. Here are the types of space heaters to consider.

Convection models are best for heating an entire room because they spread their heat over a wide area. Those with a fan spread warmed air quicker, but they also add noise. Radiant versions, which use an electric-ribbon element or a quartz tube, are ideal for spot heating, but their heat dissipates quickly when they're turned off.

These produce prodigious heat. But because of their open flame, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and the hazards associated with handling the fuel, we recommend against their use indoors except during emergencies, and then only in areas with good ventilation.

Features

Safety is vital when using a space heater. Look for features that make the units easier and safer to use. Here are the important safety-related space-heater features to consider.

If you'll be moving the heater from room to room, look for a lightweight model with a handle that provides a safe grip. Most electric models are lighter than fuel-operated ones.

For fuel-fired models, this feature shuts off the heater's fuel flow when it senses a reduction in the amount of oxygen in the air due to the buildup of carbon dioxide.

Those on the electric models we tested were at least 70 inches long, providing more placement options. If you have to use an extension cord, choose a 12- or 14-gauge model. Overloaded, undersized, or frayed power cords are a major cause of fires, injuries, and deaths associated with space heaters. Inspect electric-space-heater cords for damage regularly.

A thermostat maintains the temperature you set, saving you the hassle of turning the heater off and on as the room temperature varies. Heaters with multiple output settings conserve energy by letting you choose the lowest setting that keeps a room comfortable.

As their names imply, these features automatically turn off the heater if it's knocked over, if the grille is touched, or if the unit overheats.