The digital display has an easy-to-read (and easy-to-understand) interface. Two flame-like squiggles mean low, three squiggles mean high. And instead of a number, like “360,” you can tell what mode the oscillator is in just by looking at how much of the circle is closed.
But the most frustrating feature (other than the price) is that you can’t change the settings without the included remote control. The heater offers no place to store the remote control, either—which means, if you lose the remote, you’re left with a useless $300 piece of furniture that resembles a tacky plastic vase. Last but absolutely not least, the Lasko CD08200 and the Dreo DR-HSH004A are unique among our picks in that they’re each equipped with an ALCI plug. This type of plug works in conjunction with a GFCI outlet (which you hopefully already have in your bathroom, if it’s up to code) to prevent the electrical current from going somewhere it shouldn’t—like, say, into a puddle of water. This safety feature is what specifically sets these heaters apart for low-risk bathroom usage.
Other electric heater models, such as the De’Longhi TCH7915ER, have tip-over switches that activate only when they are perfectly horizontal, which means they could possibly fall or lean over and continue running. Some less expensive heaters, including our budget pick, the Lasko , don’t have a tip-over switch at all. Every model we’ve tested has overheat protection built in, but some, like lasko space heater the Vornado Glide and the Vornado MVH, were too aggressive in this regard during our tests, shutting down for hours on end when they reached temperatures in the mid-80s. The VH200’s plastic casing also remained relatively cool, measuring around 95 degrees Fahrenheit, with the grille over the heating element topping out at around 140 degrees; it’s one of the coolest models we’ve tested.
This Vornado model is not as quiet as a radiator, but no other kind of space heater is, and it’s still quieter than a household refrigerator (PDF). This effective portable heater works quickly and lasts for years. But its narrow stream of hot air doesn’t feel as comfortable as the heat from models that warm a whole room, and it lacks some safety features.
If you have pets or kids who could knock the heater over or accidentally drape fabric over it, keep a very close eye on its operation. We personally don’t leave any space heater in a room or closet within reach of young kids, even if it’s unplugged. Since a heater is a 12- to 15-amp appliance drawing considerable current, the heater’s plug and cord, combined with intuitive on/off switches, pose a major electrical hazard to any curious toddler. Most kids back away from heat, but very few would anticipate an electric shock. The FH500 comes with a large remote control that you can store in an attached pocket on the back of the tower.
Look through brands like Geek Heat, Honeywell, Lasko, Vornado, DeLonghi and more. These space heaters come with features like adjustable thermostat, automatic shut-off, built-in thermostat, heat settings, LCD display and more. Perfect for chilly weathers, this collection of heaters are sure to keep you warm. Browse through a large range of space heaters and find the right pick for you.
The Dreo DR-HSH004A, on the other hand, looks like a more rectangular version of our other Dreo heater pick. Like that model, it has six buttons on the top—three to control the power settings and three to cycle through the oscillation, timer, and power. If you’d rather not get too close to a 1,500-watt heater while you’re wet, this one comes with a remote control, as well. Unlike the CD08200, which revels in simplicity, the DR-HSH004A lets you choose between high and low power settings or an “eco” mode that allows you to dial in a specific temperature. Neither heater is necessarily better than the other in this regard; it just depends on what you want to use yours for. The TRD40615T has manual controls that are intuitive to use, as well as a 24-hour programmable timer, which comes in handy.