Electric space heaters are generally more expensive to operate than combustion space heaters, but they are the only unvented space heaters that are safe to operate inside your home. Although electric space heaters avoid indoor air quality concerns, they still pose burn and fire hazards and should be used with caution.

Small space heaters are typically used when the main heating system is inadequate or when central heating is too costly to install or operate. In some cases, small space convector heaters can be less expensive to use if you only want to heat one room or supplement inadequate heating in one room. They can also boost the temperature of rooms used by individuals who are sensitive to cold, especially elderly persons, without overheating your entire home.

Although most space heaters work by convection, some rely on radiant heating. Radiant heaters emit infrared radiation that directly heats objects and people within their line of sight, and are a more efficient choice when you will be in a room for only a few hours and can stay within the line of sight of the heater. They can also be more efficient when you will be using a room for a short period because they save energy by directly heating the occupant of the room and the occupant’s immediate surroundings rather than the whole room.

When buying heaters, you should consider some factors. The first point to consider is the area that you need to heat. Always remember, the amount of space is directly proportionate to the size of electric fireplace heater you choose. So obviously a small bedroom will require a small heater, and a large living room will need a large heater or may be two heaters. If you purchase two heaters for a larger room, place them at opposite ends of the room, thus, creating a balance of heat around the room.

Check whether the space heater, especially if it is an electric heater, has a thermostat. If the heater lacks this feature, it will continue to heat the room beyond the optimum temperature. The thermostat will also help save electricity, as well as provide constant optimum temperature within the room.

Another aspect to consider when buying a space oil filled heater is the presence of children or pets in the house. You will need to choose a model that does not have open coils. It may lead to burn injuries, if a child or pet happens to touch the hot coils. Place the heater in an area where it would not be accidentally bumped into or knocked down.