Space heaters

What's behind our space heater Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 13 models in space heaters to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
Overall score is based on a weighted average of safety, temperature control, noise, and ease of use. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed by precise overall score.
Output (watts)
Output represents the maximum rated output of a heater in use.
Safety
Safety indicates results of tests for contact-surface temperatures, safety controls, the likelihood the heater will create a fire hazard, and cord length.
Temperature control
Temperature control denotes how well a heater controlled the temperature in our test room. Top-rated models held room-temperature variations to less than 3 degrees F. With the poorest performers, it varied by more than 6 degrees F.
Noise
Noise represents our measure of the peak operating noise levels of each heater during a typical operating cycle.
Ease of use
Ease of use denotes our evaluation of size, weight, cord length, accessibility, and the ease of use of controls and handles.

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Recommended space heaters

Recommended space heaters are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended space heaters

Space heater buying guide

To find the space heater that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Why shop here?

In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy space heaters in a safe-shopping environment.

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Sales of space heaters are sizzling as millions of homeowners buy into the promise of lower-cost heating in an era of soaring utility bills. But there are also important safety issues to consider, especially if you have small children or pets in your home. Newer models tend to be safer. If you're looking for information about space heaters, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ space heater reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our space heater buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and space heater reviews to help you choose the best space heater for your needs.

Ratings & recommended space heaters

Space heaters (13)

All of our Recommended models scored at least Very Good for temperature control, safety, noise, and easy of use--something none of the spot-heating radiant models managed. All models have overheat protection; our top picks add a tip-over switch and were easy to control and carry. Most also cost under $100, not $300 or more.

CR Best Buys offer the best combination of performance and value; all are Recommended. Recommended models are high-scoring models that stand out for the reasons below.

Space heater buying guide

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 ... Read more

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