Pros and Cons of Different Types of Space Heaters

Space heaters are important devices that warm up areas when the central heating system is not working or is altogether unavailable. Space heaters operate by using either a fan or radiant energy to provide warmth. They are usually used in homes where they warm up different rooms as they are easily portable and can thus be used in different areas conveniently.

Types of space heaters

There are different kinds of space heaters on the market, categorized based on the type of energy they run on.

Fan Heaters

Fan space heaters use a fan to push hot air within a room. The fan pushes air over a heating element, usually a coil, which heats the air and pushes and distributes it rapidly. This type of heater is charged using electricity using standard outlets. Although fan heaters are the most basic, they have a high energy consumption, which makes them expensive in the long run. These space heaters come with thermostats and timers that allow users to easily control the heat intensity. When using the fan heater for long periods, it is important to have a basin of water in the room to avoid nasal blockages and dry eyes.

Pros;

• Easy to Use
• Portable

Cons;

• Noisy
• Dries out air very fast
• High Energy Consumption

Ceramic Heaters

Ceramic space heaters use ceramic plates connected to metal plates; when electric currents pass through, they emit hot air that warms up any room. The ceramic plate acts as a resistance heating element and converts electricity into heat energy.

Ceramic heaters emit radiation energy, meaning they heat objects along their path rather than warm up the surrounding air. They also come with heat different settings to allow for the control of warmth in the room. Although they may not heat large spaces, they are very energy efficient since they reach the desired temperatures quickly and maintain them at minimal energy consumption.

Ceramic space heaters are easily portable and have a cool exterior that protects users from burning when touched. They are easily chargeable using electricity or even portable power stations.

Pros;

• Easily Portable
• Minimal Energy Consumption
• Does not Dry out the air
• Protective Exterior

Cons;

• Does not heat large spaces

Ceramic Heater

Oil-Filled Heaters

Also known as an oil-filled radiator, this type of space heater works by heating the oil in the radiator to provide warmth slowly and steadily. An electric heating element heats the oil, and the heat generated then warms up the surrounding metal casement. The heat is produced evenly throughout even when the heater is turned off, and this ensures a longer usage time. The oil-filled radiator does not use a fan system, thus minimal noise is emitted.

Pros;

• Quiet
• Produces heat over a long period
• Energy Efficient

Cons;

• Bulky
• Not suitable for small rooms

Radiant Heaters

Radiant heaters emit infrared heat waves that warm up objects rather than warming the air. When electromagnetic waves, similar to the sun's rays, hit an object, they are absorbed directly and generate heat. The object that has been heated will in turn radiate the heat into its surroundings, thus warming up the space.

This technology works only when a room is in use, and this ensures low energy consumption. A major advantage of radiant heaters is the versatility that comes with them. You can install radiant floor heating, radiant ceiling panels, and tube heaters, among others.

Pros;

• Energy Efficient
• Versatility

Cons;

• Bulky

Convection Heaters

This type of space heater works by pulling in cool air, heating it, and releasing it back into the atmosphere for circulation. Cold air is denser than hot air, so when the convection heater releases the warm air, it rises and displaces the cold air, which in turn goes through the heater, and the process is repeated until the room is warm. Convection heaters are high-speed and are best suited for commercial usage, such as in factories and warehouses. The convection heaters that use a fan can be a bit noisy and require enough space and proper ventilation for efficiency.

Pros;

• Generates heat-fast
• Usable in large spaces

Cons;

• Noisy
• Bulky

Micathermic Heater

This is a space heater that emits electromagnetic waves when heated because its internal panels are covered in mica. The electromagnetic rays are the same as the sun’s rays, and they heat the objects and the air around them. The heater combines the use of convection heating and radiant heating to warm a space.

A panel is heated and gives heat to warm objects and people that are nearby. The warm air from the heated panel will then rise as it is lighter, displacing the cold air and pushing it down to be heated by the panel.

Pros;

• Fast Heating technology
• Eco friendly
• Safe due to protective cover

Cons;

• Can be bulky

Summary

Basic considerations when choosing a Space Heater

Size of the space to be heated

Having a large space heater in a small room will lead to wastage of energy, while having a large room with a small space heater will lead to inefficiencies. The heating capacity of a space heater, which is measured in BTUs, can be a great indicator of how much space can be accommodated by an individual heater.

Cost Implications

Space heaters for large-capacity spaces such as warehouses will be priced differently from space heaters for domestic uses. It is important to consider the initial price of the space heater, the installation costs, as well as the maintenance costs in the long run.

Energy Efficiency

Always consider space heaters with high energy efficiency ratings. This is good for the environment and the pocket, as it reduces overall running costs. The size of the space heater will also affect energy consumption. It is also important to note that most domestic space heaters are not a replacement for the central heating system; rather, they should be used as a complement.

Ease of Portability

Some space heaters are quite bulky and not designed to move frequently. As a general rule of thumb, it is wiser to use portable space heaters around the house so that they can be carried from room to room with ease.

Power Options

It should be easy to charge the space heater, whether it is portable or not. A space heater should be compatible with different charging options, such as power banks.

Maintenance

It should be easy to access spare parts as well as clean the space heater.

Safety

A good space heater should come with a variety of safety features, such as tip-over switches and overheating protection, as well as insulated surfaces that are cool to the touch.

Features

Another thing to consider is the inbuilt features that come with the space heater. Features such as heat settings, on and off features, and thermostats are important to enhance comfort while using the space heater.

Ventilation Requirements

Proper ventilation ensures there is no buildup of harmful gases in the room, such as carbon monoxide, which can cause death to the users of the space heater. These gases are a result of combustion by-products. Ventilation should be considered when choosing an installation space. Space heaters should not be used or stored together with flammable products.

Use of Portable Power Stations with Space Heaters

When choosing a space heater, one should consider its compatibility with different power options. Portable space heaters should be compatible with portable power stations. This will ensure the heater is always powered up, even when being used away from a home setting. When choosing a portable power station for the space heater, always ensure that it is compatible with different devices and safe to use. BLUETTI Elite 200 v2 is an example of a portable power station that can power up different space heaters on the go. This portable power station comes with an impressive 2,073.6Wh capacity and 2,600W output that delivers to keep devices fully charged.

Conclusion

There are several space heaters to consider in the market depending on one’s needs. Different space heaters address different needs as varied energy usage. Noise, portability, and charging options are the main factors to look out for. Most Space heaters are portable, making them convenient for home users or people on the road. Depending on the type of energy generated by the space heater, some are considered eco-friendly, while others have the potential to dry up the air in the space they are being used. Space heaters should also come with safety features to avoid burn accidents as well as ensure energy savings.