Best Oil-Filled Space Heaters of 2024: Top Picks & Buying Guide -

Oil-filled space heaters are an excellent option for efficiently warming up small to medium-sized rooms. Today we’ll explore how these heaters work, the benefits they offer, and how to choose the best model for your needs.

What is an Oil-Filled Space Heater?

Oil-filled heaters use electricity to heat a reservoir of thermal oil inside, which then radiates warmth into the room. These heaters are highly energy-efficient and continue to release heat even after being switched off, as the oil retains warmth.

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Key Benefits of Oil-Filed Heaters

Energy Efficiency: Oil-filled heaters use a convection process to heat the room, meaning they can continue emitting warmth even after being turned off.
Quiet Operation: Unlike fan heaters, oil-filled units do not use any moving parts, making them virtually silent.
Safe for Extended Use: With features like thermal cut-off protection and surface temperatures that are not high enough to ignite surrounding materials, these heaters are safe for long-term use in homes.
Portability: Many models come with wheels and are lightweight, making them easy to move from one room to another.
Consistent Heating: Oil-filled radiators provide steady and even heating, perfect for areas that need a constant temperature.

How to Choose the Best Oil-Filed Heater

1. Wattage & Room Size

Small Rooms: 400-600W heaters are suitable for rooms under 100 sq. ft.
Medium Rooms: 700-1000W models work best in rooms between 100-200 sq. ft.
Large Rooms: 1200-1500W heaters are ideal for spaces larger than 200 sq. ft.

2. Safety Features

Tip-over Protection: Shuts off the heater if it’s knocked over.
Overheat Protection: Automatically cuts off power if the unit gets too hot.
Cool-touch Housing: Prevents accidental burns, making it safer in homes with kids or pets.

3. Energy-Saving Features

Adjustable Thermostat: Allows you to set and maintain your preferred temperature, conserving energy.
Timers: Set a timer to automatically turn the heater on or off according to your schedule.

Top Oil-Filled Heater Models for 2024

1. De’Longhi ComforTemp Full Room Radiant Heater

The De’Longhi Oil-filled Radiator Heater is a lightweight and well-constructed portable space heater that provides even heat distribution and operates quietly. However, it comes with a set of operating rules and takes a long time to warm up a room, potentially requiring multiple units for larger spaces. While it is child-friendly in terms of safety features, it may not be suitable for those seeking quick heat-up times or high temperatures.
Pros:
- Well-constructed and lightweight
- Super simple controls
- Even heat distribution
- Very quiet operation
- Child-friendly safety features
Cons:
- Slow to heat a room
- It requires multiple units for larger spaces
- Comes with a lot of operating rules
- The hottest parts of the unit are unsafe for small children and pets
- No timer or remote control options

2. Pelonis Electric 1500W Oil-Filled Heater

The PELONIS Oil Filled Radiator Heater is a large room-safe space heater with 1500W energy efficiency, 3 heat settings, and an 8-hour timer. It offers great heat output and is easy to use, but some users have reported issues with durability and high energy costs.
Pros:
- Heats a 12×15 room effectively
- Energy efficient compared to other heaters
- Safety features work well
- Simple analog controls
- Silent heat operation
Cons:
- Durability concerns after a season and a half of use
- High energy costs reported by some users
- Gets very hot to touch
- Heat controls are not precise
- Missing hardware reported by some customers

3. Honeywell HZ-789 EnergySmart Electric Radiator Heater

The Honeywell HZ-789 EnergySmart Electric Oil Filled Radiator Whole Room Heater is praised for its efficiency in warming up spaces, easy-to-use digital controls, and overall safety features. Users have reported that it effectively heats small to medium spaces without adding significantly to heating bills. However, some drawbacks include potential difficulties in moving the unit due to a faulty handle and issues with the control panel lettering.

Pros:
- Efficient in warming small to medium spaces quickly
- Easy-to-use digital controls with multiple settings options
- Sturdy rolling handle and decent wheels for easy mobility
- Safety features such as automatic turn-off when overheating or tipping over
- Safe to touch for pets and children
- Stable design, not easily tipped over
- Overall very safe to use
Cons:
- The handle for moving the unit is prone to popping out when hot
- Some difficulties in reading control panel lettering up close
- Front wheels are positioned too far back, causing tilting when pulled by the handle.

Pros and Cons of Oil-Filled Heaters

Pros:

Energy efficiency: lower energy consumption compared to other types of heaters.
Safe and quiet: Ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and offices.
Even heating provides steady, long-lasting warmth.

Cons:

Takes time to heat up: They take a bit longer to warm a room compared to other heaters.
Weight: Some models can be heavier due to the oil inside, but wheels help with mobility.

Oil-filled heaters are a top choice for efficient, quiet, and long-lasting warmth. When selecting the best heater, consider factors such as room size, safety features, and energy-saving options. With the right model, you can enjoy a cozy home environment without skyrocketing energy bills.

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FAQs About Oil-Filled Heaters

Q: Are oil-filled space heaters energy-efficient?
A: Yes, oil-filled space heaters are known for their energy efficiency, as they retain heat well and provide consistent warmth without constantly running.
Q: Are oil-filled heaters safe to use?
A: Modern oil-filled heaters come with safety features like automatic shut-off and tip-over protection, making them safe when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Can oil-filled heaters be used in bedrooms?
A: Yes, oil-filled heaters are suitable for bedrooms, as they operate quietly and provide gentle, even heat throughout the night.
Q: How long do oil-filled heaters last?
A: With proper maintenance and care, oil-filled heaters can last for several years, making them a cost-effective heating solution.
Q: Do oil-filled heaters require refilling?
A: No, the oil in these heaters is permanently sealed and does not need to be refilled or replaced, ensuring low-maintenance operation.