Portable & Space Heaters

Portable & space heaters provide targeted heat wherever you need it—workshops, garages, home offices, bedrooms, RVs, and job sites—without firing up a whole-house system. This buying guide highlights types, features, and specs to help you choose a safe, efficient heater that fits your space and budget.

Common types include ceramic heaters for quick, focused warmth, oil‑filled radiators for steady, silent background heat, infrared heaters that warm people and objects directly, fan‑forced units for fast air movement, and propane or kerosene heaters for well‑ventilated areas or outdoor projects. Key specs to compare are wattage or BTU output, coverage area, voltage, and fuel capacity. As a rule of thumb, about 10 watts per square foot helps size electric models for average insulation.

Look for safety features: tip‑over switches, overheat shut‑off, cool‑touch housings, oxygen depletion sensors on fuel‑burners, and certifications such as UL, ETL, or CSA. Convenience touches—adjustable thermostats, multiple heat settings, eco mode, programmable timers, remote controls, Wi‑Fi smart plugs or built‑in connectivity, long cords, carry handles, and caster wheels—boost usability. For bedrooms or offices, check noise ratings; oil‑filled and infrared units are typically quieter.

Energy costs matter. Electric heaters convert nearly all input into heat; choose a model with a thermostat and cycle it to avoid constant full power. For garages, consider 240V hard‑wired units for higher output. For portable fuel heaters, factor fuel price, ventilation requirements, and carbon monoxide risks; never use them in tight indoor spaces without proper airflow and detectors.

Maintenance is simple: keep intakes and grills free of dust, clean or replace filters, maintain clearances, and test safety switches regularly. Whether you need a compact desk heater, a rugged job‑site unit, or a quiet heater for sleep, our listings make it easy to compare top brands and find the best space heater for your needs this season.