What is the best space heater for large rooms? – Detail Explanations and FAQ
Regardless of what space heater you will choose to purchase, you will need to make sure that the room you intend on placing the best heater for large space in has sufficient insulation because otherwise, the heat emitted by the best electric space heater for a large room will escape through the seams in the ceiling, window frames and doors.
Ideally, you should first thoroughly inspect the specific room with the help of a special electronic tool that will display the room in infrared colors thus helping you understand where the cold spots are.
Alternatively, you could order the service from specialized companies that will travel to your home and conduct the inspection. This method could be a little more expensive however it will definitely be much more effective.
Often, professionals also recommend installing special heat radiant barriers especially if the room is located below ground level such as the basement or in the attic.
Radiant heat barriers work by reflecting the heat energy back into the building thus preventing the heat transfer that would lead to thermal loss and as a consequence rendering the crawl space heater for large rooms inefficient and in some cases even useless.
However, remember that thin aluminum-like foil of heat radiant barrier can either be one or two-sided plus the foil can be coated with various materials so as to give it abrasion and better heat retention. Some windows use a thin film of heat radiant barrier so as to prevent heat loss through them.
Here we talk all the things about what is the best space heater for large rooms?
How do I choose a room heater?
Space heaters for household use vary in their range, normally somewhere between 8,000 BTU and 40,000 BTU per hour.
Moreover, depending on the model space heaters can be powered by electricity, kerosene, propane or even in some cases natural gas.
Furthermore, the majority of space heaters work by using convection of the air in the room but there are still some models that operate by radiant heating.
What is the best space heater for a large room?
Also Read: 10 Best Space Heaters For 2021 By Consumer Reports
Professionals recommend investing in a durable vented unit of space heater for large rooms because such units are much safer to use and do not are far more efficient in terms of thermal energy loss.
This happens because such space heaters do not draw air from inside the room itself plus such models are less likely to affect the overall quality of the air inside the household.
Lastly, if you intend on buying a fuel-powered space heater for a large room then you will need to ensure that you only use approved fuel and never use gasoline as it could lead to a lethal incident because of its extremely toxic fumes.
Plus, never fill the fuel while the heater is still on and hot as well as never fill it to the maximum level.
Also, make sure you carefully read the instructions and always ensure that you correctly store the fuel until the next refill time.
Are room heaters dangerous?
The answer will largely depend on whether you intend on buying electric or fuel space heater as they differ.
Electric radiant heaters are not dangerous for home use provided all necessary precautions are taken into consideration. These precautions include;
- Keeping a minimal distance of 20 cm between the heater and furniture, curtains or other fixtures that could potentially get damaged, discolored or even catch fire.
- Never leave the heater unattended for long periods
- Never leave children under the age of 12 years alone in the room with the heater
- Never the house or even the room while the space heater for a large room is turned on
- Regularly inspect the heater for any damages especially to the electric cord
If you are looking for a space heater that you intend on using only when you will be in the room then you could go for radiant heaters as they are much more efficient compared to convection ones.
However, keep in mind that you will need to stay within the line of the heater because radiant heaters use infrared radiation to heat the room and individuals close to it.
On the other hand, fuel space heaters that have been categorized as unvented are highly recommended to be avoided for indoor use because they emit toxic gases in addition to heat.
Gases such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide and a high amount of water vapor can lead to very low levels of oxygen. Moreover, many US states have banned these space heaters altogether.
Furthermore, there are also vented space heaters that are designed to be located next to the wall so that the exhaust tube can be installed right through the window in a scheme similar to installing a window air conditioning unit.
What are the side effects of room heaters?
Also Read: 10 Best Infrared Heaters By Consumer Report In 2021
The biggest side effect of any room heater is dryness of the air that could lead to coughing and irritated throat as a result.
Plus, according to the latest most efficient space heater consumer report, dry air could lead to irritated eyes and even bleeding nose in small children thus it is important to place a vaporizer somewhere in the room if you intend on leaving the space heater on for long periods of time.
The other side effects include heat energy waste because most roofs are usually made with tiles, roofing sheets or shingles that tend to transfer a lot of heat energy from the inside to the outside.
However, if you install heat radiant film between the roofing and the interior wall insulation then much of the heat energy will be reflected back into the room instead of escaping outside thus you will ensure a much higher efficiency rate of your space heater for a large room.
The latest studies by various universities have found that heat radiant barriers help save on average about $200 annually on electricity as a result of higher energy efficiency of a space heater.
Furthermore, heat radiant barriers will prove useful in the summer too since the heat from the roof will bounce back outside thus you would not have to use air conditioning as much. However, this will only be possible if the heat radiant barrier you will install be double-sided.
Also, sometimes heat radiant barriers are used around the exterior building wall so as to allow the heated air to rise upwards naturally into the attic.
On average, it has been proven that about 10%-20% are saved on electric bills if heat radiant barriers are used in a room where you regularly use your best large room heater.
Can electric heaters make you sick or do space heaters give off toxic fumes?
Many individuals believe that oil-filled space heaters work by burning the fuel, this is not entirely through because oil-filled heaters are filled with oil but they are heated using electricity only. The oil in the radiator is simply used as a thermal reservoir.
Therefore, space heaters for large rooms do not release any toxic and harmful fumes that could potentially somehow affect the health of the individual.
However, before buying the oil-filled space heater for large rooms, think about whether you would want a traditional space heater or a portable oil filled space heater as they differ in their features and price.
Oil-filled heaters have been around for decades and are much more easy to use plus with oil-filled heaters you would not have to bother with the ashtrays and with dumbing the used firewood from the fireplace.
Moreover, with oil-filled heaters, you would have to do is just turn the button and you wouldn’t have to wait for the fireplace to start burning.
Plus, oil-filled heaters are the ones that offer the user more control over determining what temperature and regime the user needs.
Obviously, if you have a large home and family then you might want to look for a large oil-filled heater that will be capable of heating your room.
Also, always examine the interior and exterior finish to see if it will withstand prolonged use and be resistant to scratches and scuffs.
Is room heater good for baby and skin?
Large room space heaters are loved by millions around the world and thousands are installed every year in the United States for added heating.
Nowadays, space heaters vary in size and build thus they also vary in price hence some parents prefer to install one for additional heat in baby’s room especially during winter months or if the room is drafty.
However, at the same time, parents worry whether this could somehow cause harm to the sensitive baby’s skin. Therefore, when you decide that you need the best space heater for a large drafty room think about how big the room is and how much extra heat you will need in addition to the central heating.
You would also want to think about safety precautions especially if you have pets in addition to small children running around because they could potentially burn themselves by touching or stumbling on the quiet space heater.
In such cases, it would be very wise for you to install some kind of guard around the radiator space heater.
Moreover, think about how wide and deep you want your space heater for a large room to be as that will significantly help you decide what model of best indoor heater for large rooms best will suit you.
Is it safe to leave a space heater plugged in?
Leaving electric home appliances and electronics is never safe because the cord could catch fire or the socket could start giving out sparks that could set certain pieces of furniture and even the curtains on fire.
According to the latest best space heater consumer report over 20,000 fires ranging in sizes have taken place that is directly associated with careless use of household space heaters across the United States.
Moreover, over 250 deaths have taken place as a result of these residential fires plus estimates have also been used to show that over 5500 individuals have received emergency hospital treatment of different degree burns, especially in young children due to ignoring basic safety precautions.
Thus, it is highly advised to never leave the space heater for large rooms plugged in when there is no one at home.
Furthermore, professionals recommend placing the heater away from furniture, flammable objects and any fabrics that could potentially catch fire including the blinds and curtains on the windows.
The best position for a space heater for a large room would be somewhere in the corner if possible or right in the middle of the room.
How do space heaters work?
The working mechanism of large room space heaters is pretty straight forward thus they do not require much maintenance and have proven to work really well without breaking for a prolonged period of time.
The cold water or oil, depending on whether it is a fuel or convection space heater, is heated as it passed through the heating element inside particularly the heating coil.
In some instances, the water or oil can be heated in a separately installed lower compartment of the space heater.
Additional space heaters are best used during the colder months of the year when the household heating system is being used but does not provide enough warmth.
However, they might not be very efficient for individuals living in warmer states that do not use much of the heating system. Plus, in order to function flawlessly, you will need to ensure regular maintenance sessions with the official service center.
How to choose just the right space heater for a large room?
Firstly, decide where you want an electric space heater for large rooms or whether you want a radiant space heater and whether you can dedicate enough space for it so that the flames and heat emitted would not burn close by things such as curtains or furniture.
Generally speaking, any kind of household space heater is safe to use since they have been around for a very long time thus they have been tested numerous times.
The idea of household space heater has been invented around the 20th century when an American engineer decided to use old sawdust scraps to obtain heat. Once he saw that wood scraps provide enough heat energy to heat up a whole house, he decided to make a bigger pellet stove for sale at that time.
Of course, pellet stoves have since swapped for electric space heaters plus they differ from their original form in size and appearance plus they can now be placed on their own or fixed into an existing chimney.
Moreover, modern space heaters for large rooms are much more durable and sturdier than simple radiant heaters because they are made from cast iron.
Finally, see if your model of choice of space heater for winter has been tested and certified by CSA as safe for home use. Most American and Northern States standards put the safe distance at 20 cm between the space heater and living plants as well as combustible items such as wooden furniture, curtains, and other similar things.
Furthermore, always read about safety precautions before buying and installing your own space heater for home use then you be bound to have a great experience with it.
Moreover, priceless evenings with your loved ones around the warm space heater will allow you to discuss lots of interesting things in a cozy environment.
However, look for fuel-efficient models because this will not only save you money but help the environment too as less carbon dioxide will be released.
Furthermore, look for the ones that have a good dust cover that will protect the large room space heater from getting damaged during the summer months when it will not be in use.
What type of best large room space heater is the most efficient to run?
Nowadays, there are many different best types of space heaters for large rooms that can be found in many shops offline and online, however, not all of them are energy efficient with some models being so inefficient that it could double your electric bill.
Nevertheless, considering that often central heating is not enough for large rooms individuals are forced to still purchase space heaters.
Furthermore, remember that an inefficient space heater for a large room with high ceilings is not only the one that does not heat the room enough but the one that heats the room to quick and too strong.
In this instance, the user will be forced to open the windows or the door to let fresh air in thus allowing the warm air to escape and cold air to enter.
Therefore, the most efficient space heater for large rooms is the one that will heat the room adequately without leaving it cold but also the one that will not overheat it leading to heat wasting.
How much does it cost to run a 1500 watt heater for 24 hours?
According to the latest report by the most efficient space heaters consumer report, it takes the following amounts to run a space heater compared to other electronic appliances.
Appliance | Typical Consumption Per Hour | Cost Per Hour (at 10 cents per kilowatt-hour) |
Space heater | 1,500 watts | 15 cents |
Hair dryer | 1,200 watts | 12 cents |
Electric range burner | 1,000 watts | 10 cents |
Refrigerator | 1,000 watts | 10 cents |
In order to understand just how much an individual will need to pay for electricity provided he uses the space heater for 24 hours straight, take the Cost-Per-Hour and multiply by the number of hours.
Hence, take 15 cents*24 hours= $3.6.
What are the other benefits of a space heater for large rooms?
Compact space heaters are great for small and big rooms were placing a full space heater is not an option.
Before purchasing the space heater itself, think about whether you would want digital or analog space heaters they differ in their features and price.
Analog space heaters have been around for decades and are much more easy to use plus they are considered to be more durable because electrical space heaters can often malfunction.
With space heaters, you would have just turned the button plus electrical space heaters offer the user more control over determining what temperature and regime the user needs.
Obviously, if you have a large home and family then you might want to look for a large space heater. Also, always examine the interior and exterior finish to see if it will withstand prolonged use and be resistant to scratches and scuffs that often occur.
Another thing that a potential buyer of space heater would definitely want to look at is how easy it will be to clean as cleaning will always be the most daunting thing to do.
Space heaters with porcelain and ceramic finishes are great because dust and dirt particles are less likely to stick to them hence they can be easily cleaned with little effort and mild soap solution. But, they can be easily scratched and scuffed so you should be careful when handling them.
But, if you are the type that cleans only once a week or worse less often, then you might want to go for another finish that has been specially designed to repel dust particles.
Also, look for the best space heater that comes with a warranty and clear instructions as this will ensure you will not have a hard time setting up the space heater while the manufacturers’ warranty will protect from any damages the space heater might sustain during exploitation.
Lastly, it might make sense to regularly check the space heater for large rooms for any visible damages as any problem that is immediately spotted will be easier to rectify than one that has been left for a long period of time.
How to install a ceiling space heater?
Most of the heat is transferred through the roof hence most professionals recommend installing the ceiling space heater right under the ceiling because that will also prevent the heat from escaping in the winter. Don’t forget about the heat radiant barriers that are installed by a staple gun that is used to fix it to the underside of the roofing regardless of whether it is made from shingles or tiles.
Some individuals prefer to lay the heat radiant barrier over the attic floor so as to prevent the heat from below floors escaping however this method will not ensure proper attic insulation.
Why heat radiant barriers became so popular?
Heat radiant barriers have gained wide popularity in the last few decades because they significantly help reduce heating and cooling bills, especially for large houses.
Depending on where exactly you live you might want to use heat radiant barrier in the attic especially in the summer or around your external house walls to prevent heat being lost during the winter.
The latest tests and studies have shown that on average heat radiant barriers help reduce about 20 to 30% of energy lost provided that they’re installed properly.
How effective are the radiant heat barriers?
As mentioned above by using heat radiant barriers you can save on your electrical and cooling bills because they help prevent about 30% heat loss however this will only occur if you install the heat barrier properly and if you cover all the spots that will lead to energy loss.
Installing heat radiant barriers is not difficult but you will need to follow the instructions that are usually given by the manufacturer in the form of a booklet in the packaging box.
If you will not find any instructions you can contact the manufacturer through customer support or look up the information on the internet as there are many different guides on how to properly install heat radiant barriers.
Choosing a heat radiant barrier from a manufacturer that offers good customer support is important for another reason since it will give you someone you can contact in case you get any problems or questions plus always give preference to heat radiant barriers that come with a warranty.
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Where to use heat radiant barriers?
Heat radiant barriers can be very effective but only if they are correctly installed hence it is crucial to ensure that only a professional installer is hired.
Moreover, always check the building code in your state before starting the home improvement. Plus, you could also check local energy-saving programs as they could help you save money on your purchase. Some states have a money-back scheme for energy-saving projects.
Also, keep in mind that it is always easier to insulate a new home than an already existing one especially it the attic has been designed in a close formation.
How to install heat radiant barrier?
Before you begin installing the heat radiant barrier make sure you inspect the area to ensure that everything is fine and that no repairs are needed in those particular spots.
Once that is done, take a marker and mark all the necessary spots then proceed to drill the spots with an electrical drill.
If you have any old heat radiant barrier already installed you will need to remove it or make sure that it is still properly intact.
Once the new heat radiant barrier is installed make sure that the air around it and inside is properly compressed.
Moreover, remember that there are many different heat radiant barriers that range in length and thickness so you’ll have to decide what total area you’re going to cover in heat radiant barriers and then purchase needed roles depending on those criteria.
Once you have covered all the ducts with heat radiant barrier, make sure that no spots are left because otherwise the heat energy will be lost through those spots.
Professional contractors recommend going through several steps before actually beginning to install the heat radiant barriers. For instance, make sure to find out the following;
- Model and type of heat radiant barrier
- Where exactly you will be installing it
- Building code of your state or county
- State of your plumbing and air ducts in the attic
Once you decide to install the heat radiant barrier yourself, make sure to contact the manufacturer so as to clear any questions you might have. Plus carefully read the instruction manual and maybe even watch a few videos. Some states will require you to register the upgrade.
However, don’t panic because the process is not difficult as you would only need to decide where you want it to be placed then proceed to actually put it there.
With heat radiant barriers, you would not have to worry about spending extra finances on heating in the winter and cooling in the summer as your home will become much more energy-efficient.
Lastly, remember that before you decide to purchase and install heat radiant barriers you will need to inspect your attic and basement to make sure that no repairs are needed in that area.
Plus, you will need to remove any old heat radiant barriers that you might have then proceed to calculate the total area that you’re going to cover in heat radiant barriers so that you know what length and thickness the rolls must be.
Furthermore, once you have installed the heat radiant barrier it might be a good idea for you to either call a handyman or borrow from someone a thermal scanner so as to see whether you have covered all the spots that the heat can get away from.
Tips for best heat radiant barrier installation
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It is highly suggested for individuals to lay heat radiant barriers early morning when the attic and the roof are the coolest.
Moreover, it would be wise to gather all your supplies at once so that you would not have to run back and forth gathering the tools and other necessary stuff.
Depending on whether your attic is well lit or not, you will have to bring additional lighting so as to properly lit the floor or the roof you are about to insulate. Furthermore, it will be wise to avoid continuing the insulation once the sun has risen so as to prevent any heat from being trapped between the roof and heat radiant barrier.
Most professional contractors recommend installing heat radiant barriers either early morning or late at night because that is the time when the walls, basement, and attic are the coolest.
Just like with any other installation make sure you gather all the necessary supplies before beginning so that you would not have to go back and forth collecting different things around the house.
Moreover, think about whether your attic or basement has sufficient lighting because if they don’t you would need to think about how you’re going to light up your working space so that you can see everything clearly.
How to start using the best space heater for large rooms?
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Firstly, look to see whether there is a power socket nearby because you would need to plug in the electric space heater in order to start using it.
Thirdly, see if the electrical space heater of your choice has been tested and certified by the CSA as eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
Lastly, remember that most American and Canadian standards put the safe distance at 20 cm between the electric space heater and living plants as well as combustible items such as wooden furniture, curtains, and other similar things.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we would like to remind you to always go for the best space heater for a large room that you can afford. Moreover, try and look for double-sided heat radiant barriers as they will enable you to save on heating and cooling costs.
Plus, pay attention to whether the aluminum foil is perforated or not and make sure it has a deflection percentage of at least 80% because anything lower will not be very effective especially if you live in an old house.
Having a space heater for indoor use can be useful around the household especially if you a large household. Moreover, a space heater will enable you to quickly and efficiently warm the needed room without any hassle.
However, keep in mind that the most important factor to pay attention to when purchasing the space heaters the internal heating mechanism. Always ensure that you can find the needed space heater parts for repairs if needed.
By choosing a weak space heater you will risk overheating the space heater and possibly breaking it down thereby requiring expensive repairs.
Also, a space heater that comes with the weak internal heating system might shut down in the middle of work and will only start again once the heating coil has cooled down thus slowing down the process of warming up the room.
On the other hand, by picking a space heater with a very powerful healing ability despite having a small room you will end up using much more electricity than needed thus spending more money.
Moreover, keep in mind the size of your room and look to see whether the length of the electrical cord will be sufficient. If not, then you might need to buy a socket extension.
Plus, look to see whether the manufacturer offers any warranty so that you can be sure you will have the support you need if your space heater for a large home will break down due to technical or construction mistakes made by the manufacturer during design or assembly stage.
Also, remember that it is always worth buying a durable space heater from a trusted manufacturer even if that will mean spending a little above your intended budget.
Furthermore, if a space heater will break down for various reasons do not attempt to repair it by yourself if you are not an engineer or electrical technician because you could make matters worse.
Lastly, always check the thickness and width of the heat radiant barrier roll you wish to buy then compare to the roof or attic size to see whether one roll will be enough for you or not.
Also, always look for the best indirect water heaters that come with warranty and clear instructions as this will ensure you will not have a hard time setting up the heater while the manufacturers’ warranty will protect from any damages the heater might sustain during use in your household.