Adam holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Linguistics, and creative writing has always been his greatest passion. For more than 25 years he's been working for several well-known automobile and travel magazines as an editor and expert consultant, but when Adam started his writing path here, at WisePick, it turned out that he's capable of writing practically anything about everything.
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known household appliances manufacturer, so no wonder he knows everything about almost everything you buy for your home.
Last updated: May 24, 2021
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When the weather is chilly, turning on the heat is definitely something you want to do, but in some cases, your room is big, so you worry about costs. Heating a large room can indeed be an expensive endeavor, especially if you use the wrong heater. Finding the best heater for a large room means that you need to get the most efficient solution that gives your home that cozy feel without breaking the bank.
Even though many homes have central heating, an extra heater may come in handy if you have a house with large rooms or high ceilings, or if you want to heat a room or space with draughty windows where you find yourself getting cold often. Sometimes, regular heaters just don’t provide enough heat for a particular room, which means that you need to get some extra power to get that homely feeling.
We spent days reviewing the best heaters for large rooms on the market, using both professional reviews and opinions from regular users who used these appliances to heat their home. Below, you will find a comparison table featuring the nine best heaters you can choose for large rooms, as well as a comprehensive review for each of them. At the end, you can read our buying guide that outlines the most important specifications to consider before buying the heater you need. Now, let’s have a look at the reviews for our top nine choices.
"We liked its safety features; it includes indicator lights for the safety alarm, a metal housing that is built to remain cool, and an anti-tip switch."
We chose the LifeSmart 6 Element as the best all-around heater for a large room that you can find on the market, because it is a solidly-built space heater that offers great results in large spaces, while being economical at the same time. This space heater comes with six heating elements that work together to provide 5,000 BTU’s of heat. This is not only enough to provide warmth even for the largest room, but it is also a guarantee of getting very even heating as well.
Users praised the cabinet-like look of the LifeSmart heater, and particularly liked the fact that it uses infrared heat, because this doesn’t dry the air in a room like electric space heaters often do. The digital controls come in very handy too, because they make it easy to control the temperature of the room, while also letting you know the exact current temperature.
The LifeSmart 6 Element comes complete with a remote control and a washable air filter to make controlling and maintaining it a breeze. Multiple safety features are built-in as well, with a high limit switch and its ability to remain cool to the touch while operating. The built-in wheels at the bottom make it easy to move the appliance for short distances. Finally, there is a 12-hour start/stop timer that makes the heater highly versatile.
Suitable for heating up spaces up to 1000 square feet, the Mr. Heater MHVFB30NGT is our heater of choice for heating extra-large spaces. Featuring a blue flame burner that provides even convection heat, this heater works with natural gas and as such needs no external power. This means that it is a great solution for applications with no electricity or power outages. Users raved about how easy it is to mount this heater on a wall with the supplied bracket. Alternatively, you can use the heater on the floor because it comes with feet that make this possible.
Unlike infrared units, this blue flame heater warms the air without actually radiating heat. This means that you can place it in a narrow area because it won’t warm up objects near it, such as furniture or walls. The ignition is electronic, and there is an automatic low oxygen shut-off system for extra safety.
Users often mentioned that the heater makes it possible to heat a large room without having to run the electric central air furnace as much, and they also mentioned that there is no gas odor coming from unit. The appliance works very well for areas such as basements or attic, and is easy to install without the help of a professional.
What are its best features?
Can heat very large rooms
Doesn’t need electricity
Can be placed anywhere because it doesn’t radiate heat
The Bionaire Silent Micathermic Console Heater has received numerous favorable reviews from users because it can quickly heat a large surface area without emitting combustion oxygen. Featuring two heat settings to suit any space, this unit is particularly safe because it comes with an auto shut-off feature if the unit is tipped over. Moreover, users praised this heater for its design, as it suits just about any decor and adds a bit of a classy touch to any space.
One of the biggest pros of this heater is its portability, as it is very light and comes with handles and wheels for easy transportation, which means that you can move it from room to room without hassle. Moreover, this unit is very quiet and energy efficient. The Bionaire Silent Micathermic Console Heater uses advanced heating technology that combines convection and reflective heating, so it heats the surrounding air quickly while also circulating it into the room for consistent comfort.
Users raved about how this heater was able to bring uninsulated spaces such as attached garages to a comfortable temperature very quickly. They also like that the heat is non-drying and that the unit emanates from both sides panels and the top for consistent results. Finally, this heater has the ability to keep a room at constant temperatures without raising the electricity bill and has two heat settings, so you can program it easily according to your preferences.
Our budget pick is an oil heater that comes complete with an adjustable thermostat for increasing energy saving. What users liked most about this heater is how silent it is and that fact that it heats up very quickly. This energy-friendly heater works with just 700W to heat up a room, and many reviewers mentioned that the heat will last on the surface of the radiator for a long time.
This compact oil heater heats the oil inside to raise the temperature of the room. While its ability to handle very large spaces is reduced, this heater is durable and you don’t need to replace the oil or even perform any other kind of maintenance. The overheat shut-off design means that the heater will turn off by itself when you forget to do it, so there’s no safety risk for your family.
Many of the oil heaters available on the market make a noise while in operation, but that’s not the case with this Air Choice Radiator Heater, which warms up the room very silently. This means that you won’t be disturbed by the noise of the oil heating up inside, as this appliance is specifically designed with a ‘lock-in’ feature that makes it very quiet. This compact heater is suitable for large bedrooms and other spaces such as an RV, but may struggle to heat very large rooms.
The ceramic elements of the Lasko Tower Heater 5165 make this appliance perfect for those who are interested in a consistent and constant heat output. This slim tower-type appliance is easy to store, and only weighs 7.28 lbs., which means that it is easy to move from one room to another. The Lasko Tower Heater 5165 comes with a remote control that lets you control the various settings from a distance, including oscillation, temperature, and the timer.
Even though this heater should be used in conjunction with a primary heating source, it does a very good job with heating large spaces, according to the reviews of numerous users. Users have often mentioned the good results they obtained when warming up living rooms, campers, offices, and bedrooms. Of course, like with any other heater of this kind, many have mentioned that the way a space is insulated can affect the coverage area and performance of the heater.
The Lasko Tower Heater 5165 is a quiet appliance and many users mentioned that the only sound that you can hear when it is operating is similar to that of a small fan. Moreover, the widespread oscillation of the heater distributes the heat evenly throughout the room.
This heater has a cool-touch housing that keeps everyone safe, which is an important feature to consider in a home that has children or pets.
Featuring a high-power output, this infrared heater can heat up a space of up to 1,000 square feet, which makes it an excellent choice for extra-large rooms. The unit contains a high-quality infrared quartz tube that can produce more heat than models that don’t have it, which means that you get plenty of warmth and comfort, no matter the size of the room.
One of the features users liked most about this unit is the integrated humidifier that means that the heater produces a cool mist in the air to make sure the air in the room doesn’t become too dry. The humidifier is very easy to fill up because it has a removable bottle that you can top up quickly as needed. Moreover, the Dr Infrared Heater has an oscillating fan feature that distributes the heat evenly. This means that the heat is dispersed through the room quickly, so the entire space gets heated up in less time.
The Dr Infrared Heater comes with a remote control feature that lets you control the temperature as well as the oscillating fan feature and the humidifier from the comfort of your sofa or armchair. The casters make the unit very easy to move from one point to another, and the quiet operation means that you can use the unit anywhere, including the bedrooms. The unit features a low noise fan integrated into the cabinet, which makes it possible for the heater to be this quiet.
A tower heater with an oak case that looks stylish in any décor, the Duraflame Oscillating Tower Heater 5HM8000-O142 brings 5,200 BTU to the table, while being completely safe for pets and kids because it remains cool to the touch at all times. This oscillation feature of this heater means that the stationary appliance blows hot air in one or more directions, according to your preferences.
The infrared heat generated by this radiator helps to maintain humidity in the air, so you don’t experience any of the symptoms generated by models that dry out the air in a room. This heater looks just as stylish as a mantel fireplace, but offers you the convenience of being able to transport it from one room to another easily. Featuring an adjustable thermostat, the appliance maintains a constant temperature in the room, so you don’t have to worry about fiddling with the settings all the time. Moreover, the tower heater comes with zone heating, so you can shut off heated air in various zones or directions. Thanks to this feature, any unoccupied space doesn’t get heated, so you save money.
The safety features of this heater are comprehensive, and users liked the built-in tip-over safety feature that turns the device off if it gets knocked over. Moreover, the overheat protection feature shuts the heater off before it reaches an unsafe temperature.
What makes it special?
Tip-over safety feature
Remains cool to touch
Conserves humidity in the air
What cons did we find?
May sometimes have trouble maintaining constant temperature
What makes the Lasko 760000 different from other heaters is the presence of a fresh air ionizer, a feature that most heaters lack. This ionizer eliminates airborne particles that can affect the health of the users, particularly those who suffer from asthma or allergies. The unit takes the air through the ionizer and only then disperses it throughout the room horizontally or vertically, depending on your preferences.
The multi-function remote control that comes with the Lasko 760000 unit makes it easy to control all the settings without having to get up every time. The heater comes with two quiet settings, which come in very handy if you want to keep the unit running at night and don’t want to hear it.
Users raved about the zero-tolerance design of this unit, which makes it ideal for placing it against a wall, and reduces the possibility of the heater being knocked-up accidentally. This is an especially important feature to have in a house with children or pets.
While the Lasko 760000 is a very slim unit that looks compact, some users have found it difficult to store it during the summer months, because the heater takes up more space than it appears at a first glance. Nevertheless, this ceramic heater heats a room almost right away and is highly versatile thanks to the option of changing the heat flow to go straight out in front, or to flow up in the middle of the room.
Packing a lot of heating power into a classic, low-cost box, the Homegear Infrared Space Heater employs quartz and mica infrared tubes to generate heat for medium and large rooms quickly and efficiently. Many users raved about the convenience of having an LED display that makes it easier to monitor the temperature and use all the functions of the machine.
The unit also comes with a remote control that makes it possible to control all the settings from a distance. Users liked that the Homegear Infrared Space Heater is a very quiet one and you can barely hear it in operation. Moreover, the heater is energy-efficient as it packs a maximum wattage of 1,500 watts, so you can enjoy a warm home without the fear of an inflated electricity bill.
Other users mentioned that the design of the heater makes it suitable for just about any kind of room, and it practically looks as an electric fireplace TV stand. You can select from three colors to suit your interior décor, and the compact dimensions mean that you can easily place it in any space. This compact unit is a perfect solution for heating up a single room when you don’t want to run the central heating system for the entire house. Users mentioned that the unit heats the room quickly and that it holds the temperature well for a heater of its size.
Why are we impressed?
LED display
Quiet
Energy-efficient
What negatives must you be aware of?
No range to keep the temperature at
Things to Consider
Portable space heaters for large rooms are common all over the world because they can create a comfortable atmosphere in a room that would otherwise be difficult to heat. Because there are so many types of room heaters available on the market, we have put together a buying guide, so that you can make an informed choice.
Advantages of having a high-quality heater for large rooms
You may find it difficult to heed a large room because normal heaters have trouble doing their job when they have to deal with a lot of space. With a high-quality heater for large rooms, you get efficient heating and portability in the same unit, so you can easily heat an entire space or just a targeted corner that you may find difficult to bring to a cozy temperature. By choosing a high-quality heater, you can be sure that your room will be heated safely and that you don’t add too much to your electricity bill.
Features to consider when choosing a heater for a large room
Just like in the case of many other home appliances, it is important to consider multiple features before deciding which large room heater would work best for your home. Below we have summarized the most important elements to take into account before parting with your money.
Type of heater
The main types of heaters for large rooms are as follows:
Convective Space Heaters – these models have fans that blow air multiple heating elements and circulate it into your room. While they may make some noise, these heaters are affordable and easy-to-use.
Radiant Space Heaters – these heaters transfer heat to the object or person located directly in their path. While they don’t heat the air in the room, they are perfect for those who want to keep a particular corner of a room warm and cozy. Also, because they don’t blow air, these heaters are a good solution for those with allergies.
Micathermic Space Heaters – combining radiant and convection heating systems, these heaters are a good solution for those who suffer from asthma or other allergies. They don’t have fans and are usually quieter than other models.
Ceramic Space Heaters – based on the convection principle, ceramic space heaters heat up the air and then disperse it throughout the room. They often tend to cover a larger area than radiant models and don’t need any type of fuel to function.
Oil Space Heaters – even though oil may take some time to heat up, these radiators provide warmth for the entire area.
Wattage and heat settings
The wattage of a portable heater refers to its maximum output of electrical power, and generally, a heater with a higher wattage will be able to generate more power. Keep in mind, however, that the relationship between efficient room heating and wattage is not always a straightforward one. This means that you shouldn’t compare different models just based on wattage. Various heaters come with different numbers of settings.
As a rule of thumb, the greater the number of settings, the more temperature control you have when using the heater.
An eco-mode (at around 500 Watts) is always welcomed when it comes to saving money on your electricity bills.
Heating area
Not all heaters can heat the same room size, so it’s essential to make sure the model you choose fits your needs. Some models may boast capacities for large areas, but this doesn’t mean that you should use them as the sole heating units of the home. Moreover, keep in mind that infrared models can be used for specific zones in a room, and may not be able to heat the entire space. These portable heaters should always be considered as supplemental heaters to your central heating system or furnace.
Timer
A timer gives you control over the amount of time the heater remains turned on for. This feature comes in handy for those times you don’t want to babysit the appliance, but need to turn it off after a specific amount of time – when you leave the house for work, for example, or if you want your room to be warm when you come back.
Thermostat
A heater with efficient thermostat control can save you money, because you can keep the room at your chosen, precise temperature. The thermostat will turn the appliance on and off as required, to maintain a constant temperature.
Remote control
Opting for a heater with a remote control means that you can control the temperature and switch the appliance off from the comfort of your sofa. Not all models have this feature, though, but our best all-around choice, the LifeSmart 6 Element does boast this addition.
Safety – overheat and tip-over protection
It’s essential to consider the safety features of a portable heater because these appliances can theoretically be fire hazards. This aspect is even more important if you have kids or pets in your home.
Look for a model that comes with tip-over protection, such as the Bionaire Silent Micathermic Console Heater, for example, which switches off automatically when tipped over. Another useful safety feature is overheat protection, which means that the heater turns off automatically when it reaches a certain temperature to avoid overheating.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the portable heater are important because you need to make sure the appliance you buy fits well in the designed space. Most models fit well into a corner and have wheels so you can easily position them exactly where you want.
Weight
The weight of the heater is an important feature to consider because these are portable appliances. As such, you may want to move the heater around quite a lot in your room or even the house, so the weight should be manageable. If the model you choose has wheels, its weight is not much of an issue, though.
Warranty
Most of the heaters for large rooms available on the market come with a one-year warranty, which means that you are covered for parts and labor during the period. Some brands offer users the option to purchase an additional warranty.
Ceramic heaters may cause the skin to become dry with prolonged use, but they do so less than radiant models, because they heat up the air and then disperse it throughout the room.
The cleaning method for a heater filter may differ from one model to another, so it’s essential to consult the owner’s manual beforehand. As a rule of thumb, you should turn the heater off, disconnect it from the outlet, and remove its cover. Using a brush, free any loose dust from the elements and filter, and use the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove any traces of dust inside. Once you’re done, you can use a slightly damp sponge to give all interior surfaces a quick clean (not for electric space heaters with non-removable covers).
The cheapest way to heat a home is through a standard central heating system, and electric heaters may add something extra to the bill. However, if you opt for an energy-efficient model in addition to central heating, you may reduce the amount of the bill tremendously. Moreover, if you’re worried about the bill, opt for a model with an auto switch-off feature to make sure you never forget it on and waste electricity.
Some gas heaters may emit a smell, especially when it comes to the first uses. Common causes for the smell include using the appliance for the first time in a while, clogged filters, or a leak in the exchanger. If it is gas that you smell, you should turn the appliance off immediately and consult a heater repair specialist.
Our Verdict
Finding a heater that can warm a large room can prove to be a difficult task, but it’s essential to understand exactly what you need in terms of size, shape, style, and power. Our best all-around model, the LifeSmart 6 Element is a good choice for most users because it combines ease of use and great heating results with the energy efficiency needed to avoid high energy bills. If you’re more interested in an infrared model, have a look at the Mr. Heater that does an excellent job at heating very large spaces such as basements. Finally, if you want your new heater to be highly effective, yet silent, opt for the Bionaire Silent Micathermic Console Heater. No matter what kind of heater you need, don’t forget to make sure its power and wattage are suitable for the space you want to keep at a comfortable temperature.
