Top-Rated Space Heaters for Supplemental Heating: A Comprehensive Guide to Reducing Energy Bills

As energy costs continue to rise, finding ways to keep your home warm without racking up high heating bills is more important than ever. One solution many homeowners are turning to is using space heaters for supplemental heating. By strategically placing space heaters in the rooms you use most, you can reduce the need for turning up the thermostat on your central heating system, saving energy and money.

In this guide, we will explore the benefits of using space heaters for supplemental heating, the key features to look for, and review some of the top-rated models on the market today. Whether you're looking to heat a specific room or zone heat your entire home, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Why Use a Space Heater for Supplemental Heating?

Central heating systems are designed to warm your entire home, which often leads to energy waste. Even if only one or two rooms are in use, the central heating system will continue to heat every room, which isn't always necessary. This can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and higher utility bills.

Space heaters, on the other hand, allow you to focus heat where it's needed most. Here are some reasons why using a space heater for supplemental heating can help reduce your energy bills:

1. Zone Heating Efficiency

A space heater can be used to heat individual rooms or zones, meaning you only heat the spaces you're actually using. This eliminates the need for the central heating system to run at full capacity, thereby saving energy.

2. Lower Energy Consumption

Central heating can often lead to over-heating of the home, especially if the weather is mild or you're only using a few rooms. By using a space heater, you can precisely control the temperature in a room, avoiding the unnecessary energy consumption of heating rooms that aren't being used.

3. Cost-Effective Heating

While space heaters do require electricity, they are typically much cheaper to operate than running an entire central heating system. When used strategically, they can significantly lower your monthly heating costs.

4. Immediate Warmth

Space heaters provide immediate heat, so you don't have to wait for the house to warm up. This can be particularly beneficial in areas that experience cold spells but don't require constant heating.

Key Features to Look for in a Space Heater

When choosing a space heater for supplemental heating, there are several features to consider to ensure you select the most efficient and cost-effective model for your needs.

1. Energy Efficiency

One of the primary reasons to use a space heater is to save energy, so it's essential to choose an energy-efficient model. Look for heaters with Energy Star ratings or other efficiency certifications. Models with adjustable thermostats and eco-settings help to minimize unnecessary power usage.

2. Safety Features

Space heaters can be a fire hazard if not used properly. Ensure the heater you choose has essential safety features like:

• Tip-over protection: Automatically shuts the heater off if it falls over.
• Overheat protection: Turns the heater off if it overheats.
• Cool-to-the-touch surfaces: Prevents burns if the heater is touched by children or pets.
• Child-lock controls: Prevents toddlers from adjusting settings.

3. Thermostat Control

An adjustable thermostat allows you to set and maintain a comfortable temperature in the room, ensuring that the heater only runs when necessary. Some heaters come with digital thermostats for more precise control, while others offer simple manual dials.

4. Noise Levels

A loud heater can be disruptive, especially if you plan to use it in a living room, bedroom, or office space. Opt for a model that operates quietly, allowing you to relax or focus without being disturbed by the sound of the heater.

5. Size and Portability

The size of the heater depends on the size of the room you're trying to heat. Smaller rooms can be heated with compact models, while larger spaces may require more powerful units. Portability is also important if you plan to move the heater between rooms. Choose a lightweight model with built-in handles or casters for easy transport.

6. Heating Type

There are several types of space heaters, each with its own benefits:

• Ceramic heaters: Great for quick heat and usually compact. They are ideal for small to medium-sized rooms.
• Infrared heaters : Best for larger spaces, infrared heaters heat objects and people directly, making them more energy-efficient for larger areas.
• Oil-filled radiators: These provide long-lasting heat, but they take longer to warm up. They're ideal for keeping a room warm over an extended period.

7. Air Purification (Optional)

Some space heaters come with built-in air purifiers to help remove dust, allergens, and other particles from the air. These models can be beneficial for those with allergies, asthma, or respiratory issues.

Top-Rated Space Heaters for Supplemental Heating

Here are some of the best-rated space heaters that are specifically designed for supplemental heating and reducing energy bills.

1. Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP01 Air Purifier and Space Heater

Features:

• Heating Capacity: 1,600 watts
• Heating Technology: Air multiplier technology
• Safety Features: Tip-over protection, cool-touch body, auto shut-off
• Noise Level: Quiet
• Additional Features : Air purification, oscillation, adjustable thermostat, remote control

Why It's Great:

The Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP01 is a versatile unit that combines heating and air purification in one device. It uses Dyson's Air Multiplier technology to circulate warm air efficiently throughout the room. With an adjustable thermostat, you can easily control the temperature, and its quiet operation makes it perfect for living rooms and bedrooms. It's energy-efficient and ideal for supplemental heating.

2. Lasko 751320 Ceramic Tower Heater

Features:

• Heating Capacity: 1,500 watts
• Heating Technology: Ceramic heating element
• Safety Features: Cool-touch exterior, overheat protection, tip-over switch
• Noise Level: Quiet
• Additional Features: Digital thermostat, remote control, 2 heat settings

Why It's Great:

The Lasko 751320 Ceramic Tower Heater is an excellent choice for efficient, supplemental heating in medium-sized rooms. Its ceramic heating element heats up quickly, and the heater operates quietly, providing a comfortable environment without unnecessary noise. The built-in remote control and digital thermostat make it easy to adjust the temperature and settings.

3. Honeywell HZ-436 EnergySmart Ceramic Heater

Features:

• Heating Capacity: 1,500 watts
• Heating Technology: Ceramic heat
• Safety Features: Tip-over protection, overheat protection
• Noise Level: Quiet
• Additional Features: EnergySmart technology, adjustable thermostat, remote control

Why It's Great:

The Honeywell HZ-436 features EnergySmart technology, which helps to optimize energy use while maintaining consistent heating performance. Its energy-saving mode adjusts power consumption based on the room's needs, helping to reduce electricity usage. It's also very quiet, and the remote control adds convenience, allowing you to adjust the temperature from across the room.

4. Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater

Features:

• Heating Capacity: 1,500 watts
• Heating Technology: Vortex heat circulation
• Safety Features: Tip-over protection, overheat protection, cool-touch exterior
• Noise Level: Low
• Additional Features: Adjustable thermostat, two heat settings, compact design

Why It's Great:

The Vornado AVH10 is designed for efficient air circulation, allowing it to heat a room more evenly than traditional heaters. The vortex technology helps distribute warm air throughout the space, ensuring that no area is left chilly. Its compact size and low noise make it perfect for smaller rooms or offices.

5. De'Longhi Oil-Filled Radiator Heater

Features:

• Heating Capacity: 1,500 watts
• Heating Technology: Oil-filled radiator
• Safety Features: Thermal cut-off, tip-over protection
• Noise Level: Silent operation
• Additional Features: Adjustable thermostat, 3 heat settings, compact design

Why It's Great:

The De'Longhi Oil-Filled Radiator Heater is a reliable and energy-efficient option for keeping rooms warm over an extended period. It offers consistent, silent heat, making it ideal for use in bedrooms or living rooms. Its oil-filled design retains heat for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent adjustments.

Conclusion

Space heaters are a practical and cost-effective solution for supplemental heating, especially if you're looking to reduce your energy bills. By using a space heater strategically in the rooms you use most, you can avoid the wastefulness of heating your entire home. The models highlighted above---such as the Dyson Pure Hot + Cool, Lasko Ceramic Heater, and Honeywell HZ-436---offer a combination of safety, energy efficiency, and comfort to help you maintain an optimal home temperature while saving money.

When selecting a space heater, make sure to consider factors like energy efficiency, safety features, and noise levels to ensure you choose a model that fits your needs.