The space heater our HVAC expert swears by
For a cozy, enveloping warmth
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The Recommendation

December 23, 2025

“I’m an HVAC expert who’s spent his life in drafty old houses. This is my favorite space heater.”

The front of the De’Longhi TRD40615E in front of a blue background.
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

Four of the space heaters we tested for this guide, next to a pair of moccasin-style slippers.
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→

More things Liam loves

A two-part image: on the left, a white EZ Outlet power extender strip. On the right, the EZ Outlet installed flush against a pink wall, showing the two outlets and the long stem running neatly along the wall.

An extension cord that isn’t hideous

It sticks to the wall, freeing you from floor cord clutter→

A pile of gold and silver Torx-head screws with matching driver bits scattered on a light wood surface.

The best screw you’ve never used

The cross-headed design of the Phillips screw is notoriously easy to damage. Consider star-headed Torx screws, instead→

An image of an air wedge bag used under an appliance and another image of an air wedge bag being held in someones hand.

This tiny airbag has the power to lift an entire fridge

It’s like an extra set of hands that can slide into the tiniest gaps — perfect for (finally) cleaning under your appliances→

One last thing: How to use a space heater safely

Our pick for best space heater with a digital display, the Vornado AVH10.
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→

Thanks for reading.

You can reach the Wirecutter Newsletters team at newsletters@wirecutter.com. We can’t always respond, but we do love to hear from you.

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