13 Best Space Heaters For Basement In 2024, Expert-Reviewed
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In This Article
Winters can be harsh unless we ensure proper heating and insulation inside. Many basements are not fitted out with heating facilities rendering them useless during the cold, damp winter months. However, with the best space heaters for basements, you can turn your basement into a comfortable and cozy space.
Space heaters run on electricity and are portable and affordable, making them ideal for use at home. Modern space heaters come with many advanced functions, such as digital controls, self-adjusting heating modes, and safety mechanisms.
Since space heaters come at different price points and models, we have rounded up some tried-and-tested options for the basement and highlighted their distinct features to help you find the right one per your requirements.
Top Picks
Safety Measures To Follow When Using a Space Heater In Basement
- Familiarize yourself with all the functions and features of the heater
- Ensure that the heater stands stable and doesn’t tip over easily
- Avoid placing combustible items close to the heater
- Make sure the thermostat provides accurate temperature
- Place the heater away from reach of children and pets
- For standing heaters, make sure the basement floor is not wet
- Check the cords and cord joints regularly to avoid fire risk
- Do not leave the space heater unattended when it is switched on
- Check for safety-certified heaters
- When not in use, unplug the heater and store safely
Types Of Space Heaters For Basements
Traditional space heaters use fuels such as wood or charcoal to generate heat. However, they have gradually given way to cleaner and more convenient electric devices for use in homes or basements. The following are common types of electric space heaters.
- Ceramic space heaters: These space heaters utilize ceramic plates inside the heating unit. The heated ceramic plate uses a fan to radiate the heat into the air. Ceramic heaters are reasonably priced and work well in small spaces.
- Radiator oil-filled space heaters: The radiator heater contains oil-filled fins, heated to generate heat. They then radiate the heat with the help of blower-fans. Oil can retain heat for a longer duration, so compared to similar products, oil-filled radiators provide effective heating with less energy.
- Infrared space heaters: These heaters use infrared rays and are suitable for spot heating. They have lower noise levels than other types and are highly energy-efficient. Infrared heaters can provide instant warmth even in larger rooms.
13 Best Space Heaters For Basement
1. Best Widespread Warmth:Lasko Ceramic Space Heater
The time-tested and expert-recommended Lasko ceramic tower heater helps bring comfort to your living room. The extended ceramic heating element ensures a wide range of oscillation, thereby transferring 1500 watts of heat around the device. This freestanding electric heater for the basement features a user-friendly digital interface with two heating modes, an eight-hour timer, and an adjustable thermostat.
The automatic mode can intuitively adjust the heat output according to the surrounding conditions. This portable space heater for the basement is easy to lift or move and has a convenient carrying handle. This compact electric basement heater provides excellent performance without taking up too much space. Explore a tester’s experience with using the product in this review video.
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic space heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 8.5 L x 7.25 W x 23 H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- Multifunction remote control for convenience
- Vertical tower shape fits easily in small spaces
- Easy to read large digital display
- Safety features – avoids overheating, cool-to-touch surface
- Fully assembled, ready to be used right out of the box
Cons
- Issues of melting plug and cords
- May be smelly during the first few weeks of use
- Plug and wiring components may not be of high quality
Caution
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 16,488 rave reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Temperature Control:GiveBest Electric Space Heater
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 13,759 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
If you are looking for a compact heater for basements that can be easily carried with you, then GiveBest ceramic heater is an excellent choice. Weighing only four pounds, the portable heater is easy to move. You can choose between two heat levels, 1500W and 750W.
The thermostat allows you to preset the maximum and minimum temperature, automatically adjusted to ensure long-term use. More importantly, the heater can also be used as a cooler in summer. This ETL-certified electric heater is noiseless and suitable for quiet sleep. This review video gives you more information about the product.
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic space heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 7.4 L x 4.3 W x 10 H inches
- Wattage: 1500W / 750W
Pros
- Two-in-one — heater as well as cooler fan
- Fast heat-up, heats up to 200 square feet in seconds
- Focus on safety, flame-resistant ABS components, safety shut-off, and auto tip-over protection system
- Lightweight, at 2.2lb
- Wide carry handle for a comfortable grip
- Heater noise less than 45db
Cons
- Thermostat settings may not be precise
- May not be suitable for large spaces
- May leave plastic smell during initial usage
Remember3. Best Cord Management:Heat Storm Infrared Space Heater
Heat Storm infrared space heater is a modern heating solution with application-based Wi-Fi control. Control the temperature or set a time from your smartphone through an intuitive and easy-to-use app. The infrared heater is compact and can be wall-mounted without occupying too much area. The power cord is retractable, eliminating the dangers of loosely hanging cords. All in all, this modern device is a great choice for wall-mounted heaters in your home. Click this video for more information about the electric basement heater.
Specifications:
- Type: Infrared heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 22.1L x 7.2W x 15.8H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- Impressive heating power
- HMS dual-wall technology ensures energy-efficient usage
- Safe to touch the outer surface
- Auto tip-over shut off feature
Cons
- Not portable
- High price point
Lasko Ceramic Space Heater | GiveBest Electric Space Heater | Heat Storm Infrared Space Heater | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 454 Grams | 2.99 Pounds | 2.99 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 7.25"D x 8.6"W x 23"H | 6.2"D x 7"W x 10.2"H | 6.2"D x 7"W x 10.2"H |
| Color | Silver | Silver | Silver |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 16,488 | 13,759 | 11,714 |
| Price | $54.99 | $26.99 | $110.03 |
4. Best Rapid Warmth Provider:Pelonis Ceramic Tower Heater
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 9,050 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
Pelonis heater can provide instant multi-directional warmth for small to medium-sized rooms. The electric basement heater only takes three seconds to quickly heat up to 70°F. This stylish ETL-certified tower heater is equipped with modern digital controls with a remote control. It has three heating modes: high, low, and energy-saving ECO mode.
The heater’s timer function allows you to set up to 24 hours, and the aesthetically pleasing heater can perfectly integrate modernity and add color to your room’s décor.
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 22.1L x 7.2W x 15.8H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- 70-degree oscillation for multi-direction heating
- Low noise operation
- Cool touch and flame resistant body
- Tip-over protection and auto shut-off feature
Cons
- May not retain programmed settings when turned off
- May have limited thermostat function
- May not have a temperature indicator
"With temperature control and oscillation functions, this small yet powerful heater packs quite a punch. The controls are easy to adjust, and the safety features add to its credibility. However, note that the remote control demands perfect angles."
Pro tip5. Best Overheating Protection:Lasko Cyclonic Ceramic Heater
Lasko cyclonic ceramic heater is a powerful unit that uses an effective air circulation system to ensure uniform temperature throughout the room. The 1500W heater has a space-saving thin form designed to be placed against a wall and takes up very little space.
The powerful space heater for basements features digital control and has temperature and thermostat settings, which can be easily set via the remote control. The heat level is automatically adjusted to avoid overheating, making it a safe choice to take home in winter.
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 17.3L x 6.5W x 24.9H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- Thermostat turns on and off precisely
- Fresh air ionizer feature helps keep the air from getting too dry
- Low noise operation with two modes
- Even at full operation, the housing remains cool
Cons
- May be heavy and less portable
- May set to manual mode each time the device is turned off
6. Best User-Friendly Display:Comfort Zone Oscillating Space Heater
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 2,837 great reviews on Amazon.
The Comfort Zone oscillating space heater comes with 70-degree oscillation for broader coverage. It is featured with tip-over protection, overheat protection, fast heating, digital thermostat, and timer function. The ETL-certified unit comes with an eight-hour timer function with an auto shut-off feature that maintains a steady and comfortable temperature. Digital display allows you to know the temperature reading, and the ceramic stay cool body design prevents accidental burns. Its ECO mode regulates the temperature according to the ambient temperature, thus saving energy and also your bill!
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic space heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 25 x 9.5 x 9 inches
- Wattage: 1500 watt
Pros
- Low-energy cost
- Lightweight
- Steady temperature
- Remote control
- Portable
Cons
- Unsafe power plug
- Ineffective temperature control
7. Best Mobility Feature:Aikoper Space Heater
The Aikober heater has an all-black sleek, smooth structure, which can provide the benefits of oil-filled radiator heating. The electric heater can provide warmth even in larger rooms and is a reliable device in ultra-cold situations. You can easily select the heat level between the three heat settings – 600W, 900W, and 1500W.
The large futuristic digital display allows you to easily select various modes. Caster wheels are a welcome feature to easily move the heater in between rooms. This feature-rich, oil-filled space heater would be a great choice in your house this winter.
Specifications:
- Type: Oil heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 6.38L x 15.39W x 26.06H inches
- Wattage: 1500W / 900W / 600W
Pros
- Digital thermostat with 1°F interval to maintain accurate temperature
- Programmable timer on/off function up to 24 hours
- Overheat and tip-over protection
- Children lock function
- Anti-freeze setting to avoid jamming of oil pipes
- Remote control enabled
Cons
- May be heavy and bulky
- Power cord may be short
- May not retain temperature settings during power outages
"Although sleek, this device heats my space in just a few minutes. Its eco settings have also been an energy saver. I wish it could retain the settings I adjust it to even after being unplugged, but its functionality is commendable."
8. Best Safety Features:Pro Breeze Ceramic Space Heater
The ultra-compact Pro Breeze heater is an excellent choice for small spaces, whether placed under your desk as a leg warmer or under the bed for moderate heating. The compact-sized electric heater for basements is designed to be ultra-lightweight, so you can even carry it with you to your workplace. Its ceramic heating element and six heat levels allow you to choose the intensity you want, and the oscillation setting allows you to dissipate heat with a 70-degree coverage. The electric heater has built-in safety features such as overheating protection and a tip-over switch.
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 6.77L x 5.06W x 10.79H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Adjustable thermostat for optimal heating
- Low noise operation
- Easy to use selection knobs
- Long cord makes it easy to place at the desired location
Cons
- May not have remote control option
- May not have digital interface or programmable timer settings
- Temperature control may not be precise
9. Best Retro Aesthetic Charm:e-Flame Hamilton Electric Fireplace
The Hamilton line from e-Flame has realistic 3D effects such as burning wood and swaying flames. The ceramic heater runs quietly and has two heating modes. The heater is also known for energy efficiency and heats up quickly. The fireplace space heater with retro charm is aesthetically pleasing and will surely attract your friends’ and relatives’ attention. Add some decorations and accessories for the perfect holiday fireplace.
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 25.55L x 41W x 55H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- Beautiful intricate design, excellent for decorative purpose
- Heats up to 400 square feet very fast
- Surface remains cool even after hours of use
- Odorless and smokeless operation
Cons
- May be noisy after long use
- Does not have thermostat or remote control
"In addition to heating my home efficiently, this heater brings a vintage vibe. It did have an odd smell, which required some airing, but the pre-assembled design allowed me to use it right out of the box, and the realistic-looking flame is a charming add-on."
10. Best Mode Customization:LC Power Space Heater
The LC Power Space Heater comes with versatile compatibility, and you can safely use it in your bedroom, office, desk, dressing room, car, and living room. It is made of fire-retardant ABS material and is ETL-certified. This energy-efficient basement heater has undergone rigorous testing and features overheat protection, tip-over protection, and front knobs to adjust the temperature and mode. You can turn the mode knob to make the heater work either in fan mode or combo mode. And, you can also adjust the thermostat setting as desired.
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic space heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 7 x 7 x 7 inches
- Wattage: 1500 watt
Pros
- Quick heating in three seconds
- Stable surface
- Customizable heat settings
- Tip-over sensor
- Handle for easy carrying
- Energy-efficient
Cons
- May generate fan noise when at full power
"This heater warms up my room even during the coldest winter months. While its knob could have been placed better, the safety features, such as the automatic shut-off, offer peace of mind. Plus, the durable build assures me of longevity."
11. Best Advanced Heating Technology:Flamemore Infrared Space Heater
The Flamemore space heater looks like a cabinet that can be integrated with wooden furniture in your room. The space heater includes advanced features such as a 12-hour timer, tip-over, overheating sensors, and remote control operations, making it an excellent home heater. The digital display with well-arranged buttons allows you to control the device intuitively. This basement warming device is equipped with caster wheels, allowing you to easily move it around when needed.
Specifications:
- Type: Infrared heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 15.4L x 12.4W x 15.7H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- Six-element tube ensures quick heat-up
- Quiet operation
- Multiple heating modes for different needs
- LED display with child-lock feature
- Adjustable thermostat
Cons
- Button beeps could be loud
- Outer surface may tend to get hot
12. Best Moisture-Preserving Infrared Technology:Air Choice Space Heater
Air Choice heaters are versatile and can be used with vertical bases or wall mounts. This space heater uses infrared technology and generates cross-convection so that the heated air will not lose all the moisture while heating the room uniformly. This basement heater with a fan is energy-efficient.
The adjustable thermostat, a programmable timer, and energy-saving mode contribute to economical use. The heater also features advanced functions like remote control, digital control interface, and intuitive automatic on/ auto-off features.
Specifications:
- Type: Infrared heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 17.01L x 4.52W x 20.01H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- Three modes – low, high and energy-saver
- Turbo-fan and quartz tube for quick and even heating
- Overheat protection for safety
- Can be used in rooms with high humidity like washrooms
- Automatic power-off
Cons
- Operation may be noisy
- May not have handles for grip
13. Best Compact And Portable Design:Merece Space Heater
Merece focuses on making heaters that generate enough heat using only the optimal power consumption level. In addition to its high energy efficiency, the space heater is also compact and can be easily carried with only one hand. Despite its small size, this space heater provides instant heating for small and medium-sized rooms within a few seconds.
The heater has built-in safety features such as automatic shutdown and a tipping detector. The 70° oscillation can ensure heating in multiple directions and avoid heat concentration. The heater is easy to use, and there are no messy control buttons and knobs on the top. The thermostat-controlled basement heater is an excellent affordable choice.
Specifications:
- Type: Ceramic heater
- Fuel source: Electric
- Dimension: 5.6L x 5.6W x 9.84H inches
- Wattage: 1500W
Pros
- Two heat modes and thermostat control
- Noise level less than 45db
- Compact size can be put under beds or tables
- Back handle for easy transport
- Energy saving of around 50%
Cons
- May not have remote control or timer functions
- May not be suitable for large rooms
"I've found this heater to be of great help this winter. It runs quietly and has clear controls and safety features like automatic shutoff and tip-over protection. It has also made my living room so much cozier."
How To Choose The Right Space Heater For Your Basement?
When looking for a space heater, consider the following important parameters:
- Size of the basement: Space heaters have their own limitations regarding the type of spaces they can cover. So, compare your basement area with the capacity that the heater can cover to make the most of the device.
- Standing vs. wall-mount heater: A standing heater is usually more portable, allowing you to carry it with you and place it anywhere. A standing space heater is a good choice if you don’t use the basement that often.Wall-mount heaters provide more uniform heating and may not carry the risk of being toppled. If you want to spend time with friends in the basement, it is best to install a wall-mount heater to enjoy a comfortable winter gathering.
- Safety features: Fire hazards are a common problem with heaters, and it’s prudent to opt for heaters with safety features built-in.
Some common safety features include
Overheat protection: After reaching a certain temperature, the heater will automatically turn off. - Tip-over switch: The sensors detect when the heater is accidentally tipped and automatically turn off to prevent any danger.
Thermostat temperature regulation: Senses the surrounding temperature and turns the heater on and off to prevent the heater from overheating while maintaining the desired temperature range.
, an interior designer and lifestyle technology design expert, says, “Keep in mind that space heaters are not designed to be your primary source of heat. Instead, they are perfect for short term supplemental use, in an emergency and for smaller spaces. Radiant or Infrared heaters provide isolated quick heat to a small area or cold spot, such as underneath a desk or on an enclosed lanai, so you feel instant warmth. Convection heaters circulate the air and provide gradual heat throughout the small room or space.”
She adds, “Safety is paramount when using any kind of space heater, so read the manufacturer’s manual paying keen attention to power cord placement and unrestricted airflow to reduce any fire risks. Most electric heaters have an internal detector that will automatically shut off the unit if it is knocked over or senses high heat levels so it doesn’t overheat.”
Space Heater Safety Features
- Overheat protection: After reaching a certain temperature, the heater will automatically turn off.
- Tip-over switch: The sensors detect when the heater is accidentally tipped and automatically turn off to prevent any danger.
- Thermostat temperature regulation: Senses the surrounding temperature and turns the heater on and off to prevent the heater from overheating while maintaining the desired temperature range.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much space is needed around a basement heater?
Most portable space heaters can be used in small rooms, and smaller heaters can be used as leg warmers under a table–close to the body. However, such heaters would only provide unidirectional heating.
Thus, larger heaters with an oscillating feature will be more suitable for achieving rapid and uniform heating for larger rooms.
2. Will putting a space heater in the basement help the whole house?
Unfortunately, the whole house cannot be heated with just one space heater. You may use a central heating system, which is much more powerful than a standalone heater.
3. Can I use a propane heater in my basement?
Yes, propane heaters can be used in the basement. An advantage of these heaters is that they do not consume power.
4. Should I heat my basement in winter?
Heating the basement in winter can keep the floor, and ultimately, your feet and body warm. Also, they help prevent mold and fungi growth.
5. Are infrared heaters good for basements?
Infrared heaters are an excellent choice for your basement. They have high energy efficiency and are safe to use.
6. What temperature should I maintain in my basement in winter?
When the outside temperature drops or approaches zero in winter, the optimal temperature range for the basement is 60° to 70 °F. A temperature higher than this can cause skin dryness.
7. Is it safe to use a space heater overnight?
Using a space heater overnight is usually safe but is not advisable. The heat can affect the moisture level in a room and make your skin dry and itchy. Using heaters for long durations can also worsen symptoms of allergies.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah, the author of this post, is an experienced writer and reviewer specializing in electronic items. In this post, he has collated a list of the best space heaters for the basement after going through several websites and customer reviews. These portable and efficient space heaters can provide you with a comfortable and cozy space during harsh winters. He also included different space heater types and some safety measures to follow while using them in the basement. Furthermore, he compiled a buyer’s guide with some frequently asked questions to help you choose the right basement heater.
The Bottom Line
You need the best space heaters for optimal warmth and comfort in your basement in winter. When choosing one, you should consider its ease of usage, portability, and durability. Also, ensure the heater is energy-efficient, not too noisy, and designed to spread heat across the entire basement evenly. You may further consider a remote-controlled one for seamless usage. Finally, you must factor in the safety features when choosing one and take all safety precautions when using one. We love the Lasko Ceramic Space Heater that comes with two heating modes and a thermostat and the Give Best Electric Space Heater for its portability and safety features. The Pelonis Ceramic Tower Heater makes a great pick, too, with its three heat settings and digital controls.
Infographic: Buying The Right Space Heater For Basements
Space heaters are small-sized heating equipment used to heat smaller areas or rooms. They are energy efficient, as they heat the objects rather than the air around them. Follow the infographic to get a compatible basement space heater that meets your needs. Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
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