7 Best Space Heaters (2025), Tested and Reviewed

Yes, but definitely not.

Space heaters are safer than they used to be. Modern space heaters are highly regulated, especially with regard to exposed heating elements and automatic shut-off switches to prevent overheating. But all heating appliances require caution, as do all appliances that draw a lot of power over long periods.

The vast majority of residential heating fires start with an actual fire, specifically In fireplaces and fuel stoves. But space heaters were responsible for more than a thousand fires in the United States each year from 2017 to 2019, according to the US Fire Administration. Although this represents only 3% of heating fires overall, it has resulted in more than 40% of deaths, partly because portable heaters tend to be placed specifically where people are and because the resulting fires are more likely to be Not confined.

So treat your space heater with the caution and unbridled skepticism it deserves. Here are some very simple safety tips, from distinguished federal experts at the USFA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Never leave a space heater unattended. “Unattended” includes sleep, everyone! If you insist on using one in your bedroom at night, get one with a timer and use it, so it’s not on all night while you sleep. (Or, we might suggest Gorgeous feather quilt instead of? Very warm.)

Plug your heater directly into an outlet. This is a big one. Never use extension cords or power strips with space heaters. Extra cord length increases the electrical load and can lead to shorts, overheating and fires. If you are He should Use a longer cord, and consult an expert to make sure you get the right gauge and rating.

Do not connect another device to the same outlet or circuit as a space heater. Probably the worst that happens is that you trip the circuit breaker. But that’s not fun either.

Place the heater only on the floor, on a flat surface. There is no particular need to leave the heater on a table or chair that may be unstable. Heat rises and is transmitted throughout the room through convection.

Keep your heater at least 3 feet away from flammable objects. This includes bedding, curtains, furniture, the dress you were going to wear, messy socks or stockings, your food delivery bag, and that great book you were reading.

Do not leave a portable heater running in a room with a child. Not with someone who has mobility problems. The danger is not only limited to fire, but also to high temperature.

Keep space heaters away from water And even general humidity. Bathrooms are considered a dangerous place for high-wattage electrical appliances. But also: You know that wet basement? Which is kinda cold and has puddles sometimes? Not a good place for a space heater.

Read the guide. Manufacturers have all kinds of good advice.