When outdoor temperatures drop, your home is bound to get colder, too—especially the spacious rooms in your house. If those spaces start to feel a little chilly, the best space heaters for large rooms can effectively raise the temperature in them, providing warmth without the need to turn up your home’s thermostat. Our top pick overall is the Vornado Whole-Room Stainless Steel Heater, a powerful unit that’s safe to use around children and pets.
The best space heaters for large spaces can effectively raise the temperature in your main living … [+] areas, providing a comfortable warmth without the need to turn up your home’s thermostat.
If you’re trying to decide how powerful of a model you want, generally speaking, “you need about 10 to 15 watts per square foot of space,” says Brad Roberson, president of heating and cooling company Aire Serv. “However, other factors like insulation, ceiling height and outdoor temperatures can affect the heating requirements.” Also keep in mind that there are different types of space heaters—including ceramic, fan, infrared and oil-filled models—and they all offer different benefits. For example, infrared heaters are energy-efficient but they don’t offer oscillation. Oil-filled heaters, on the other hand, are especially quiet while running but can get very hot to the touch, so they’re not the best option for homes with young children.
Ahead, here are the best space heaters for large rooms to keep you warm and toasty this fall and winter.
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Best Space Heater For Large Rooms Overall: Vornado Whole-Room Stainless Steel Space Heater
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Best Budget Space Heater For Large Rooms: Pelonis Ceramic Tower Space Heater
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Best Upgrade Space Heater For Large Rooms: Shark Air Purifier 3-In-1
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Most Stylish Space Heater For Large Rooms: Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP07
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Best Energy-Efficient Space Heater For Large Rooms: Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
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Best Tower Space Heater For Large Rooms: Lasko All Season Fan And Space Heater
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Best Oil-Filled Space Heater For Large Rooms: Dreo Radiator Heater
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Best Wall-Mounted Space Heater For Large Rooms: Heat Storm Phoenix Heater
Dimensions: 9.9 x 9.4 x 11.7 inches | Weight: 9.8 pounds | Max wattage: 1,500 watts | Heating coverage: Not listed
Pros:
- Automatically adjusts heat and circulation to suit your space
- Square form is less likely to tip over
- Heater exterior stays cool to the touch
Cons:
- Remote control has a limited range
The Vornado VMH600 Heater is a powerful unit that’s safe to use around children and pets, making it a top choice for busy households. This space heater uses the brand’s signature vortex air circulation to push warm air throughout the room, helping to quickly raise the temperature on cold days. It has two heat settings—750 or 1,500 watts—and you can set the unit to your desired temperature using its large digital control panel. Plus, thanks to its automatic climate control, the machine senses how much heat and circulation is required to maintain the set temperature and automatically adjusts its settings accordingly.
This space heater has a moderately sized square form that you can put on the floor or an elevated surface, and because of its blocky design, it’s less likely to top over than other units. Still, it offers tip-over protection and auto shut-off if it overheats, and the exterior of the heater stays cool to the touch
Dimensions: 7.7 x 7.7 x 22.9 inches | Weight: 5.6 pounds | Max wattage: 1,500 watts | Heating coverage: 200 square feet
Pros:
- Reasonable price point
- Oscillation helps push heat throughout the room
- Heats up quickly
Cons:
- May not be effective in extra-large rooms
Large space heaters can get quite pricey, but the Pelonis PTH15A4BGB Ceramic Space Heater can help heat your space for less than $100. This tower heater is suitable for rooms up to 200 square feet, and it has three heat settings, with the high setting delivering 1,500 watts of power.
Thanks to its ceramic design, this unit heats up quickly—the brand claims it will reach 70 degrees in just three seconds, helping to warm up your home faster. It also offers 70-degree oscillation, which helps to spread heat more evenly throughout larger spaces, and it comes with a remote control so you can adjust the settings from across the room.
Best Buy
Shark Air Purifier 3-In-1
Dimensions: 12.6 x 12.6 x 29.5 inches | Weight: 17.6 pounds | Max wattage: 1,500 watts | Heating coverage: 1,000 square feet
Pros:
- Works as space heater, air purifier and fan
- Automatically adjusts settings to maintain set temperature
- Includes HEPA filter
Cons:
- Filters need to be replaced regularly
If you’re willing to spend a little more on a space heater, the Shark Air Purifier 3-In-1 is actually a space heater, air purifier and tower fan, all wrapped into one. It’s powerful enough to be used in spaces up to 1,000 square feet, and it’s equipped with a HEPA filter that’s able to remove the vast majority of allergens from the air while it operates. (Just keep in mind that you will need to replace its filter every six months or so—maintenance that isn’t required with most other space heaters.)
When you have this unit in heating mode, you’re able to set it to your desired temperature, and it will automatically adjust its settings to maintain that level of warmth. It also purifies the air as it heats your space. Like other space heaters, this model has safety features that protect against tips and overheating, and it comes with a remote control that makes it easy to adjust its various settings.
Best Buy
Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP07
Dimensions: 9.8 x 9.8 x 30 inches | Weight: 12.5 pounds | Max wattage: 1,500 watts | Heating coverage: 800 square feet
Pros:
- Sleek modern design
- Doubles as air purifier and fan
- Connects to Wi-Fi for app control
Cons:
- More expensive than most other units
Dyson air purifiers and tower fans are known for their sleek, futuristic designs, and the brand’s Hot+Cool is a top choice if you’re looking for a product that’s stylish. The pricey unit works as a space heater, cooling fan and air purifier, and it’s effective in spaces up to 800 square feet. It has 10 speed settings—notably more than most other heaters—and long-range air projection, and it oscillates up to 350 degrees, pushing air all around your space.
If you like being able to control devices from your phone, you’ll be happy to find that this high-end unit connects to Wi-Fi, allowing you to monitor and adjust it from the Dyson app. This allows you to see real-time updates on your home’s air quality or schedule the heater to run at a set time each day.
Amazon
Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
Dimensions: 13 x 11 x 16 inches | Weight: 19 pounds | Max wattage: 1,500 watts | Heating coverage: 1,000 square feet
Pros:
- Dual heating system produces more warmth
- Mounted on caster wheels for portability
- Quiet during operation
Cons:
- Bulky, unattractive design
One of the downsides of using space heaters during the winter is that they consume a lot of electricity, especially if you keep them running for several hours per day. If you’re looking for a model that’s energy-efficient, your best option is an infrared heater like the Dr Infrared Portable Space Heater, which will heat up your space quickly and won’t lose heat due to air movement. The brand claims the unit will also provide 60 percent more heat than other space heaters.
While this model isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing, it can provide warmth in spaces up to 1,000 square feet and is surprisingly quiet during operation. It’s mounted on caster wheels that make it easy to move around, and it has a lifetime filter that will save you money on maintenance.
Amazon
Lasko All Season Fan And Space Heater
Dimensions: 12.5 x 12.5 x 42 inches | Weight: 12.5 pounds | Max wattage: 1,500 watts | Heating coverage: Not listed
Pros:
- Space-saving narrow form
- Doubles as a tower fan for year-round use
- Fan booster mode pushes air around the room
Cons:
- Tower form is more prone to tipping
Similar to the best tower fans, tower space heaters typically have a compact footprint that won’t take up much space in your home. The Lasko All Season Fan & Space Heater is a top choice in this category, as it works as both a heater and a regular fan for year-round operation. It has three heat settings and a “fan booster” mode that operates both the fan and heater at the same time, helping to distribute warmth all around your space. This sleek unit also offers oscillation, and it has a carrying handle that makes it easy to move around your home.
Dimensions: 28.5 x 7.6 x 18.5 inches | Weight: 20.6 pounds | Max wattage: 1,500 watts | Heating coverage: 280 square feet
Pros:
- Larger dissipation area for open spaces
- Caster wheels for easy movement
- Energy efficient in eco mode
Cons:
- Not the most effective in extra-large rooms
While oil-filled radiators aren’t generally the best option for large rooms, the Dreo Radiator Heater features eight M-shaped fins that help to spread heat across a much larger area—the brand claims it offers an almost 60% higher dissipation area than other similar models. The radiator has three heat settings, but you can also use the eco mode to set the unit to a specific temperature between 41 and 91 degrees.
Because it’s larger than other heaters, this unit is mounted on four caster wheels that improve its stability and make it easy to move around your home as needed. It also offers tip-over and overheat protection, but keep in mind its exterior will get hot to the touch during operation.
Dimensions: 4 x 19 x 16 inches | Weight: 9 pounds | Max wattage: 1,500 watts | Heating coverage: 1,000 square feet
Pros:
- Wall-mounted design helps save space
- Connects to Wi-Fi for smart features
- Grill stays cool to the touch
Cons:
- Vent direction can’t be adjusted
The Heat Storm Phoenix Heater is designed to be mounted to your wall so it takes up minimal space in the room. You can even mount it over an electrical outlet to prevent its power cord from hanging down, and the grill stays cool to the touch, making it safer for children and pets. The infrared heater can be used as a supplementary heat source in spaces up to 1,000 square feet, and it connects to your home’s Wi-Fi, allowing you to adjust its settings from your phone or via a digital assistant like Amazon Alexa.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
At Forbes Vetted, we want to help you and your family stay comfortable during the winter—without spending an arm and a leg on heating costs.
- We carefully researched the different types of space heaters available today to figure out which options will work best in large rooms, identifying top-rated models from trusted brands like Vornado, Dyson and Dreo.
- We consulted two heating experts: Rukky Ojakovo, business unit director of heaters at Lasko, and Brad Roberson, president of heating and cooling company Aire Serv.
- Our expertise isn’t limited to outside knowledge, either. Members of our team have tested (or personally used) products from many of the brands included on this list, as well as a variety of fans and air purifiers.
How We Chose The Best Space Heaters For Large Rooms
After thorough research and consulting with experts, we looked for space heaters that are powerful enough to provide warmth in large rooms.
- We prioritized models that can effectively be used in spaces of 300 square feet or more, and some of the options listed can heat rooms as large as 1,000 square feet.
- We selected options in a variety of styles, including tower, oil-filled and wall-mounted space heaters, allowing you to select the option that will work best in your home.
How To Pick A Space Heater For A Large Room
It’s never too early to start thinking about heating devices—after all, winter is just around the corner. Here’s what to keep in mind as you shop for space heaters that can handle large spaces.
Heater Type
There are several types of space heaters that you’ll encounter as you shop, including ceramic, fan, infrared and oil-filled heaters:
- Ceramic Heaters: This type of space heater works by heating up ceramic plates inside the unit, and typically, a fan then blows the warmth out into your room. “Ceramic heaters are the most common heater types because of their safety and versatility,” says Rukky Ojakovo, business unit director of heaters at Lasko. They’re also generally compact and heat up quickly.
- Infrared Heaters: While ceramic heaters warm the air in your home, infrared heaters actually warm up the objects around them. These heaters emit electromagnetic rays that warm up furniture, walls and even people around them. Infrared heaters are the most energy-efficient option, but they can only send heat in one direction.
- Fan Heaters: This type of space heater is generally the most affordable, and they operate similarly to ceramic units. The main difference is that they use a metal filament or coil to produce heat, not a ceramic plate.
- Oil-Filled Heaters: As their name suggests, oil-filled space heaters (often called oil-filled radiators) have fins that are filled with oil, and the fuel is warmed up via electric heating elements. These units produce radiant heat, and they often stay warm for longer periods after the heater is turned off, making them fairly energy efficient. Oil-filled heaters are also silent, as they don’t have a fan component, but they’re generally bulky and get hot to the touch.
Coverage Area
You’ll want to consider the size of your room when selecting a space heater—if you buy a unit that’s too small, it may not be able to warm up the space.
“For larger spaces, consider a tower or whole-room heater to effectively heat the entire area,” recommends Ojakovo. “These heaters distribute heat more effectively across larger areas with larger blower systems and oscillation features, making sure every corner is receiving adequate warmth. This approach will ensure that you get the most out of your space heater for both comfort and efficiency.”
Some space heaters do list their recommended coverage area in square feet, but unfortunately, this isn’t standard across product specifications. If coverage isn’t listed, you’ll want to look at the unit’s size and wattage to get a sense of its heating abilities.
Features
When selecting a space heater, there are a variety of features you may want to prioritize: “Look for safety features such as tip-over protection and overheat shutoff, as safety is paramount,” says Roberson. “Features like adjustable thermostats and timers can enhance convenience, too.”
For large rooms, space heaters with powerful fans and oscillation can help increase their efficiency, moving the warmth around the space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is The Safest Space Heater For A Large Room?
If used incorrectly, space heaters can be dangerous and are a common cause of house fires each year. To safeguard your home and family, it’s crucial to select a model with safety features and ETL certification. Our top recommendation for heating large rooms is the Vornado VMH600 Whole Room Heater. This model boasts a cool-touch exterior, tip-over protection and a 2-stage automatic safety shut-off. Additionally, its low center of gravity enhances stability, reducing the likelihood of accidental tipping.
Nevertheless, even the most reliable space heaters can be hazardous if mishandled. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to safety guidelines when operating these devices. As advised by Roberson, place the heater on a level, non-flammable surface away from walls and objects. Never leave heaters unattended and turn them off when not in use. Keep the surrounding area clear, ensuring that children and pets stay away to prevent accidents.
What Size Space Heater Do I Need For A Large Room?
Our experts advise selecting a space heater that provides 10 to 15 watts of power per square foot of space. However, this becomes a challenge for extra-large rooms, as most residential space heaters typically cap at around 1,500 watts. In such instances, it’s recommended to opt for a unit equipped with oscillation and a powerful fan, enhancing the heater’s ability to warm up a larger area.
For those dealing with the heating needs of an extra-large room, it’s crucial to recognize that even the most potent space heaters have limitations. “In larger spaces, the heat generated by a space heater might not be distributed evenly, making it challenging to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the area,” says Roberson. “If you need to heat a significant space, it’s often more efficient and practical to rely on central heating systems or consider multiple space heaters strategically placed throughout the room.”
Are There Heaters That Last 24 Hours For A Large Room?
Some space heaters come equipped with 24-hour timers for continuous operation. The Dreo Radiator Heater, for example, allows programming to automatically shut off after 24 hours. That said, it’s important to note that leaving a space heater unattended, especially while sleeping, is not recommended. If you opt to run your space heater for extended periods, ensure the presence of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in close proximity. These detectors will alert you to any issues that may arise during operation.