“I’m an HVAC expert who’s spent his life in drafty old houses. This is my favorite space heater.” |
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| NYT Wirecutter |
Oil-filled radiators cost more and take longer to heat up than fan-forced ceramic space heaters. But once they’re cranking, says writer and HVAC expert Liam McCabe, you can’t beat their comfort. They’re great at retaining heat, and they typically produce a more natural-feeling, ambient warmth throughout a room.
In Liam’s frigid New England bungalow, his keeps the home office and guest bedroom downright toasty. “When I walk back up to my office,” Liam says, “it feels like I’m sliding into a warm bath.”
It’s also completely — and blessedly — silent→
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Plus: Our ultimate guide to space heaters |
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| Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter |
Wirecutter’s experts have tested more than 80 space heaters since 2011. Our favorites can warm an entire room faster and more comfortably than other models, while still offering plenty of reliable safety features.
7 space heaters that don’t feel like sitting in front of a hair dryer→
One last thing: How to use a space heater safely |
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| Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter |
While modern space heaters are safer than they used to be, they’re still a home fire risk, so it’s important to use them properly. It’s a good idea to follow a few easy best practices, like avoiding contact with water, storing it on the floor, and keeping it at least 3 feet away from anything flammable.
The safest way to run a space heater→
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