Finding the best space heater for your home can be overwhelming. But, making the correct decision can increase the temperature in your home and save you money. To find the perfect space heater, you have to think about the size of the room and whether you will be moving the heater constantly. Our comprehensive space heater guide will describe the types of space heaters available and provide you with the knowledge to find the ideal space heater.
Whether it is your first space heater or you have purchased one before, wattage and efficiency are the first things you have to consider. You also have to think about portability, safety features, and convenience options to find the right choice for you.
Not only this, to find the best space heater, you should think about your specific needs. There are many differences between space heaters that you will use in a bedroom, bathroom, office cubicle, or garage. People use space heaters to supplement existing heating sources, as the primary heating source, or to add extra heat to an area that has a fixed temperature environment like an office.
In this comprehensive guide, we will go over the types of space heaters available, their characteristics, and explain the features of each type. Note that this should not replace the advice of a heating professional, but inform you of everything you need to know before making a purchase.
What Is A Space Heater
Many people are under the impression that all space heaters are similar, so they must be the same. However, there are many different types that serve numerous purposes, and many of them have features that set them apart from one other.
Generally speaking, space heaters are small devices that heat and disperse warm air throughout a room. They come in many variations that allow you to secure in place or move them and control the flow of air either by hand or by remote.
They often come equipped with handles on the front or back, so you can move them from room to room easily and safely.
People use space heaters for multiple reasons. Finding the perfect space heater can make a huge difference to maintaining the perfect temperature in your home.
They come with many different convenience and safety features and are available in different shapes and sizes. There are also specific models that are designed for small or large rooms, indoor and outdoor usage, as well as bathrooms where safety is the main concern.
Depending on your needs, they can come with other capabilities, such as a remote control and timers. Because of these features, space heaters can feature a different parts, options, and accessories you can choose from.
Types Of Space Heaters
There are many types of space heaters that are designed for all purposes, but as a whole, these can be divided into oil filled radiant, infrared, and ceramic models. As the name indicates, oil filled space heaters are designed to be propelled by the seated person.
Despite the fact that they are often sold by the same retailers, it’s worth mentioning that mobility scooters and wheelchairs are completely different devices. Wheelchairs tend to be smaller, and although they can also be self-propelled, they allow more mobility and accessibility to buildings.
Oil Filled Space Heaters
Manual wheelchairs are the most common type and they can come with numerous features that enable users to improve mobility while indoors, outdoors, or while playing sports. They can often be folded horizontally and they usually come equipped with handles on the back.
Manual or attendant-propelled mobility devices are ideal for people who require a wheelchair all, or most of the time. Although they can be pushed by others, ideally speaking, you should have enough strength to push a manual model without any help.
As a rule of thumb, attendant-propelled wheelchairs have larger rear wheels, as well as caster wheels in front, allowing for maximum mobility and maneuverability.
Due to their large size, some models come equipped with quick-release wheels that can be removed and placed back for easy folding and transporting.
Infrared Space Heaters
Also known as power wheelchairs, electric models are great ideas if you don’t have the strength or stamina to move a self-propelled chair. With an electric model, you don’t have to depend on another person to push your chair.
These models also allow users to take longer journeys without having to worry about getting exhausted because they feature a battery and motor that propels them. They can come in indoor and outdoor models, as well as hybrids that can be used in both environments.
Also known as portable electric wheelchairs, indoor models are designed to be used in homes or any other area with a smooth surface, including decks, courtyards, and patios. Most of these chairs can be folded in order to fit into a car for easy transportation.
Ceramic Space Heaters
As you can imagine, outdoor models come equipped with rugged wheels and feature a sturdier design that is perfect for uneven terrain. They also come equipped with suspension, but they offer a big frame that may not be ideal for indoor settings.
Indoor and outdoor electric wheelchairs are designed to offer the best of both worlds. Although they are not as light as indoor versions or as sturdy as outdoor models, they are a great alternative that can be used in both settings without any problems whatsoever.
When compared to their manual counterparts, electric models tend to be heavier because they come equipped with a battery and motors that allow you to control and move your chair.
Space Heater Specifications
Despite the fact that there are thousands of models to choose from, all wheelchairs have a set of features and specifications in common. Moreover, certain models, such as electric ones, offer additional capacities you should think about before selecting the best one for you.
Size of Room
The first thing you should keep in mind is the size and weight of the wheelchair. Mobility devices come in a huge array of shapes and sizes, and they can be designed for children, adults, and elderly users as well.
The weight and size of a chair are extremely important for mobility. Lighter, less bulky chairs are often easier to maneuver, but don’t always last as long as bigger models. On the other hand, larger models that feature bigger frames tend to offer limited mobility when compared to others.
You also have to consider where the wheelchair will be used and if you will have to transport it on a regular basis.
In these cases, you need to select a model that will fit in your vehicle. Foldable designs offer a great alternative because they allow maximum portability in these cases.
Wattage
Different wheelchair models have different weight and size capacities, so make sure you look at the limitations before you choose the best one for you. Basic manual models usually have a weight limit of 250 to 350 pounds, whereas heavy-duty models can support up to 450 pounds.
The reason why weight capacity is so important is that it guarantees that the chair will perform as intended. Users who are too heavy for a particular wheelchair may have accidents and suffer injuries, whereas users who are too light may have difficulty with mobility.
Keep in mind that not following the weight limitations can void your wheelchair’s warranty, so make sure that you select the right range and follow the safety instructions to the tee.
Energy Efficiency
Just like wheelchair models, there are many types of wheels that come in many sizes, materials, and purposes. They can be made of various metals, plastics, or carbon fiber and feature a tire that can be either pneumatic or solid rubber.
As we mentioned before, some wheels come with quick release features. This allows you to remove and mount the wheel with the press of a button, which means they can easily be taken off in order to be placed inside of a vehicle.
Wheelchairs also come equipped with caster wheels in front, which swivel around to allow easy mobility. Some models can even feature anti-tilt wheels, which are smaller and are designed to prevent the chairs from tilting backward.
Convenience Features
Electric wheelchairs come equipped with many engines and motors that help power and move different parts. This includes the chair itself as well as any control pads, setting screens, and handles that are used during operation.
Before you think about how powerful you want your wheelchair to be, consider the activities you will be doing and where you will be using it. If you are only interested in using your mobility device indoors, you can select an engine that is not very powerful.
However, if you plan to use your electric wheelchair on regular basis, you might want to make sure it has a powerful engine suitable for an active lifestyle. Moreover, you can look at the types and technologies that are constantly evolving to choose the right one for you.
Safety Features
Your engine will have a direct impact on the speed-up rate of your wheelchair, but it will not be the only factor you have to consider. Wheels are extremely important when it comes to acceleration and control, so you have to keep an eye out for the right set of rubbers too.
That being said, the maximum speed of the device is specified and defined by manufacturers, so remember you have to be very careful when operating them. That being said, having a fast wheelchair can save you a lot of time if you regularly cover long distances.
Portability
Electric-powered devices have experienced unprecedented growth in the last few decades, so you can now choose from a huge array of options. Batteries can employ different technologies that make them more energy efficient and reliable than ever before.
Most electric wheelchairs are equipped with a battery that needs to be charged. If you get around town a lot or simply go around your house many times a day, you will want to purchase a model that has a long battery life.
Battery life varies tremendously depending on the brand and model you select. However, most power wheelchairs will last anywhere between 10 and 25 miles before needing a charge. Also keep in mind other factors that can influence battery life, such as the weight of the user.
Additional Features And Accessories
Besides your standard features, both electric and manual wheelchairs can offer an array of add-ons in the form of extras and accessories. Some manufacturers even offer customized services that are designed to create the perfect fit for each individual.
Some add-ons, extra features, and accessories your wheelchair can bring include:
- Weatherproofing Additions - These are different covering items that are designed to shield users and wheelchairs from harsh weather conditions such as rain, snow, or wind. Some accessories also include leg warmers and waterproof covers.
- Storage bags - There are many models that already come equipped with storage, however, you can purchase additional bags and create more storage space on the sides, underneath, or even on the backrest.
- Armrests - Although most already come with padded armrests, you can increase comfort by purchasing padded covers. These also come in different colors and patterns that add to the visual appeal of your chair.
- Headrests - Many electric and manual models come with a headrest option that allows you to purchase this accessory and install it separately. These can be designed for comfort or to fulfill a specific ergonomic task.
- Backrests - Most wheelchairs come with static backrests, although specialized models can be tilted and adjusted. You can increase comfort and durability by adding a backrest that helps your posture and protects your chair.
- Footplates - Footplates may be critical to the comfort of your wheelchair. These can come in flat or padded designs, which you can change or cover in order to create a better experience for the user.
- Seating - Some models come with padded seating whereas other provide a harder sitting surface. You can always add a cushion or other accessory to correct posture, relieve pressure, and increase comfort.
Space Heater Manufacturers
There are many different space heater manufacturers to choose from, so finding a dependable and reputable manufacturer is not always straightforward. Like most consumer household products, choosing the right model depends on where you will be using the product and under what conditions.
Choosing the right space heater manufacturer is about finding a product you can trust. By finding a reliable manufacturer, you will be certain your heater will be top quality. Additionally, you can also check for reviews and make sure the brand is trustworthy.
Remember that space heaters can be made by copycat manufacturers and be made with cheaper parts. Be sure to check for the warranty period when selecting a space heater. The following brands are trusted in the home products industry and you can be sure these manufacturers stand behind their products.
Lasko Heaters
One of the worldwide leading brands in medical equipment manufacturing, Invacare has made a name for itself by consistently delivering quality products that have the end user in mind. The company manufactures and distributes a large array of mobility products, including wheelchairs.
Because the company has been operating for more than 100 years, Invacare has all the resources necessary to design cutting-edge products that promote recovery and active lifestyles.
The company is one of the major players in the industry, so it’s no surprise that it’s designated as one of the standard setters in the mobility and healthcare equipment industry. This, and its ability to produce great products, make Invacare a global provider that is trusted worldwide.
DeLonghi Heaters
Although it has not been running for as long as some of the other brands on this list, Drive Medical has been successfully manufacturing durable wheelchairs and other mobility devices for more than 16 years.
The company is known for providing comfortable wheelchairs that are light, durable, and easy to transport. This makes them perfect for users who have limited mobility but still enjoy living active lifestyles that require a chair that is easy to move.
Since the company was established, Drive Medical has aimed to increase its customers’ life quality and encourage them to live active lifestyles. Driven by consumer satisfaction and continuous growth, Drive Medical provides state-of-the-art devices and great customer support.
Dr Heater
Wheelchair88 is another well-known wheelchair manufacturer that provides different models in both manual and self-propelled formats. The company is known for providing versatile products that don’t sacrifice functionality for appearance.
Moreover, because it has fully-equipped design and testing facilities, Wheelchair88 is considered one of the prime manufacturers of mobility devices that range from scooters to beds, walkers, and standing wheelchairs.
Not only this, but because the company has a commitment to quality, you can expect Medline wheelchairs and all its products to be sturdy, durable, and reliable.
Maintenance And Cleaning
As we mentioned before, wheelchairs bring a huge number of parts and components that range in size and purpose. Not only this, but these mobility devices tend to be a big investment, so you should always keep your chair clean in order to get the most out of it.
The amount of maintenance you need to give to your wheelchair will depend on the model you choose. Always review the user’s manual and all other important documents that come with your model to make sure you are maintaining it properly.
Some chairs require you oil them regularly, and you always make sure your tires are well-inflated if you have pneumatic wheels. You should also consider wiping down your wheelchair regularly to avoid any germ or debris accumulation.
Lastly, keep an eye out for all padding and soft elements on your wheelchair. If you see signs of wear and tear you may have to replace the part. If this is the case, you can always get in touch with the manufacturer to get a replacement or ask them for the best course of action.
Final Verdict
Space heaters are powerful heating devices that can function as the primary or secondary heating source for a home. If you are still not sure how to choose the best model for you, you can always check out our dedicated buyer’s guide for the best advice on how to find the best space heater for your specific needs from the many types of space heaters available.