Turning your basement area into a functional space like a home gym or work requires a bit of work. First and foremost, how can you keep the room warm and cozy, especially during the frigid winter months? You can’t just opt for the first space heater you come across because not all space heaters are suitable for basements. This article attempts to highlight the best space heater for basement use, so stick around.
Best Space Heater for Basement
- DeLonghi TRD40615E Radiant Heater
- LifeSmart 6 Element Infrared Heater
- Cadet Manufacturing 05534
- Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
- Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6 Indoor Kerosene Convection Heater
- Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22
- Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater
- Stiebel Eltron CNS 100-1 E Wall Mounted Convection Heater
- DeLonghi TRH0715CA 1500W Safe Heat Portable Oil-Filled Radiator
- Mr. Heater Vent Free Blue Flame
10 Best Space Heaters for Basements in 2021
Picking a space heater for your basement is quite the feat considering the numerous types of heaters that are appropriate for use in basements. But don’t worry; we’ve managed to narrow down your options to just ten high-quality space heaters suitable for basement use.
1. DeLonghi TRD40615E Radiant Heater
Starting off our list is one of the most popular portable heaters on the market, the TRD40615E from DeLonghi. The device flaunts a heating capacity of 1,500 watts, so it’s enough to easily heat a house basement.
It provides whole-room radiant heat without producing much noise. The heating unit also boasts rugged steel construction and a permanent oil reservoir, so no refilling is required.
The TRD40615E features three heat settings that you can choose from to customize your heating element requirements. You mustto keep in mind that you need top-notch insulation in your basement for this heating unit to be effective since it relies on radiant heating.
It’ll take some time to heat a large basement, but its thermal slot design will maximize heat flow effectively.
Pros:
- Durable and maintenance-free
- Delivers economical heating
- Features temperature control
- Mounted on casters for portability
- Automatic overheating protection
Cons:
- Not recommended for large areas
- It can be noisy at high temperatures
2. LifeSmart 6 Element Infrared Heater
The LifeSmart 6 Element electric space heater employs infrared heating technology to provide instant warmth without consuming too much energy. It has a heating capacity of 500W, so it’s ideal for heating small basements.
These electric heaters target people and objects rather than heating the air, so you don’t have to worry about stripped humidity.
The basement heater features a lifetime washable air filter that ensures clean heating. Further, it features three energy-saving modes for convenience, including an Eco Setting that heats small rooms to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s mounted on EZ Glide casters, so moving from one room to another is easy. In add, it can be controlled remotely and has dual timer settings to ensure easy and efficient use.
Pros:
- Remotely controlled digital thermostat
- It has 3 energy-saving modes
- Features dual timer settings
- Deficient energy consumption
- Doesn’t dry out the heated air in the room
Cons:
- Not capable enough for large areas
- Not the most compact construction
3. Cadet Manufacturing 05534
At first glance, you’d take the Cadet Manufacturing 05534 as an air conditioning system, but it’s a 1,000W, all-metal electric space heater that can be mounted on walls.
The device is UL-listed for safe use, meaning it meets all safety standards in the U.S. on top of being a sturdy all-metal unit, the device is powder-coated to ensure maximum durability.
The device features a high-temperature safety shutoff and overheats protection feature, so you don’t have to worry about overheating and causing any fire hazard.
If you have a window in your basement, it’s best to set up the Cadet 05535 underneath it to ensure great results. It features universal wiring on both ends for your convenience. Please keep in mind that this unit requires a thermostat.
Pros:
- Lightweight, low-profile design
- Automatic overheating protection
- UL-listed for safe use
- Sturdy all-metal construction
- Offers excellent value for the money
Cons:
- It doesn’t feature temperature controls
- You’ll need to purchase a thermostat
4. Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
The Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater is a rare device that simply features everything you’re looking for in a basement heater.
For starters, the device is equipped with quartz infrared heating tubes that helps deliver instant heat in a short period. It also has an automatic energy-saving mode that can operate on high or low settings to ensure economical heating.
In terms of safety features, this infrared space heater features tip-over protection and automatic overheating protection. There’s also a 12-hour automatic shutoff timer for your convenience.
These infrared heaters operate at a low noise level of 39 dB. It can be remotely controlled and features a thermostat that allows for temperature adjustments between 50 and 58 degrees Fahrenheit. Need I say more?
Pros:
- 12-hours automatic shutoff timer
- Tip over protection
- Built-in electronic thermostat
- Remote control feature
- Overheat protection
- Automatic energy-saving mode
- Hushed performance
- Good host of safety functionalities
Cons:
- Odd design that looks like a speaker
- Not advised for super cold climates
5. Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6 Indoor Kerosene Heater
I am looking for a basement heater device that can heat up without electricity? You ought to check out the Dyna-Glo RMC-95C5.
This kerosene convection space heater can heat up to 1,000 sq ft without any problems, as it features a heating capacity of 23,000 BTUs per hour.
The Dyna-Glo RMC-95C6 also features a one-touch shutoff, a really neat functionality. As claimed by the manufacturer, this device provides heat with 99.9% efficiency. Just be sure to use 1K kerosene only to ensure optimal performance.
The device is equipped with tip-over protection safety features, so it automatically shuts off when it’s tipped over. A full tank of kerosene will deliver 11 hours of heat.
Pros:
- Perfect for heating large basements
- Burns fuel with excellent efficiency
- A full tank burns for up to 11 hours
- One-touch shutoff and auto ignition
- Features tip-over protection
Cons:
- It could use a better carrying handle
- It’s pretty hard to adjust the flame
6. Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22
The Pellet Stove HP22 from Comfortbilt is arguably the best space heater for basement use that doesn’t rely on electricity. This basement space heater has a remarkable heating capacity of 50,000 BTUs, enough to heat a 2,800 sq ft basement.
Remember that this basement space heater is not designed to be moved around a lot, as it’s pretty large and weighs a considerable amount.
The Pellet Stove HP22 features a 55-pound hopper capacity and has a built-in programmable thermostat to ensure precise temperature control. Further, the device has an automatic ignition functionality for ease of use.
There’s an ash pan inside the device for ease of cleaning. The overall construction is quite sturdy and is guaranteed to last for many years to come.
Pros:
- Perfect for extra large basements
- Flaunts a programmable thermostat
- Automatic ignition functionality
- Extremely durable construction
- It has an ash pan for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Not the most compact construction
- Occasional unexpected shutdowns
7. Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater
The Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater basement space heater flaunts a compact design that measures 6 x 3.7 x 9.2 inches, which is crazy considering its 1500W heating capacity. The unit features three different settings: low, high, and fan.
It houses an adjustable thermostat that enables you to set it to the required temperature. Additionally, there are 11 different temperature settings that you can pick from.
There are a lot of built-in safety features implemented in this device, from overheat protection to a calm touch housing exterior. On top of its notably compact size, there’s a carrying handle that maximizes ease of portability.
The Lasko 754200 ceramic space heater isn’t designed for large spaces, though. If your basement is more significant than 300 sq ft, you should consider opting for a different space heater.
Pros:
- Features an adjustable thermostat
- Quiet, energy-efficient operation
- Compact, lightweight construction
- Excellent safety functionalities
- 11 different temperature settings
Cons:
- Not suitable for large areas
- The temperature dial is a little fiddly
8. Stiebel Eltron CNS 100-1 E Wall Mounted Heater
The CNS 100-1 E from Stiebel Eltron is a cost-effective, wall-mounted space heater that flaunts arguably the most aesthetically appealing design.
The device comes with an onboard thermostat with a temperature range of 45 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit to adjust the heat setting to your liking. The device operates silently and features automatic overheat protection.
The CNS 100-1 E isn’t designed for large areas, as it can only provide heat for an area of 250 sq ft. Even though it houses its thermostat, it can work with a preexisting wall-mounted thermostat.
It’s also draft-free and features a frost protection setting. If you’re looking for an excellent alternative for a baseboard heater, the CNS 100-1 E is the way to go.
Pros:
- Appealing slimline European design
- Features an onboard thermostat
- Excellent temperature range
- Automatic overheating protection
- Flaunts a hushed performance
Cons:
- Not suitable for heating large spaces
- Relatively slow to warm air up a room
9. DeLonghi TRH0715CA Oil-Filled Radiator
This second entry from DeLonghi packs 1500W’s worth of heating power, ensuring whole-room comfort and warmth.
This basement space heater utilizes radiant heating technology. It’s best suited for areas smaller than 250 sq ft. Still, you don’t have to worry about changing the oil now and then, as it uses a permanently sealed oil reservoir that doesn’t require refilling.
This oil-filled radiator heater flaunts a patented steel design, so durability is guaranteed. Further, it houses an adjustable thermostat that lets you pick from 3 heat settings for personalized comfort.
In terms of safety features, this oil-filled space heater flaunts automatic overheating shutoff and an anti-freeze feature that helps prevent the pipes from freezing when the device is not in use.
Pros:
- Long-lasting patented steel design
- Automatic overheating shutoff
- Anti-freeze setting for frozen pipes
- It doesn’t require oil changes
- Houses an adjustable thermostat
Cons:
- Relatively slow to heat a room
- Not suitable for larger basements
10. Mr. Heater Blue Flame Natural Gas Heater 
The Mr. Heater Blue Flame Natural Gas Heater is yet another high-quality gas-burning space heater that can heat spaces to 1,000 sq ft, thanks to its high heating capacity of 30,000 BTUs.
These gas heaters utilize a blue flame burner to deliver even heating across the area in which it’s placed.
The space heater has an automatic shutoff system that kicks in when there’s insufficient oxygen. The system is CSA-certified, so it’s guaranteed to work correctly and safely.
The device features a thermostat for temperature adjustment. Also, it comes with wall-mounting hardware for your convenience. Please note that this device only operates on natural gas.
Pros:
- Ideal for heating an enormous basement
- Quiet, energy-efficient operation
- Features an adjustable thermostat
- Auto low oxygen shutoff system
- It comes with wall-mounting hardware
Cons:
- Pretty steep price tag
- The design isn’t very compact
11. Other models we looked at
From electric space heaters, and infrared space heaters to different space heater models, here are some of the following heat source that offers efficient heating, extra warmth, and supplemental heat with standard safety features and optimum watts of heating power in our review:
Pelonis NY1507-14A Space Heater, Lasko 755320 Ceramic Space Heater, Duraflame DFI-5010 Fireplace Heater, Homegear Infrared Electric Portable Space Heater, Lasko AW300 Bladeless Ceramic Heater, Heat Storm HS-1500 Wifi Infrared Heaters, Lasko Ceramic Tower Heater and ISILER Space Heater.
Such central heating systems on Amazon offer different heating elements and surface temperatures.
How to Choose a Space Heater for Basement
Even after learning about the best basement space heaters on the market, pinpointing the ideal product for you might still be challenging if you don’t know exactly what to look for. To ensure the most value for your money, you must consider the following factors when buying the best space heater models.
Types of Space Heaters for Basements
Many types of central heating systems can be used for ground floor basements, from the best electric space heater, dual heating system heaters, and convection heaters to fuel-burning indoor propane heaters, from radiant heaters, fireplace heaters and infrared heaters to oil-filled radiator heaters, and steam space heaters with exhaust tips. Each type has its pros and cons, so learning about each class is essential to decide.
Convection Heaters
Convection space heaters suck in the surrounding air, heat it to increase its volume, and then spread across the area where they’re located. They’re capable of delivering whole-room heating, which is why they’re recommended for open and larger spaces. However, they’re not the fastest at providing heat output.
Radiator Heaters
Heating solutions that use radiant heating technology are usually filled with oil that gets heated via electricity to give off warmth. This is an ideal space heater for spot heating, but we wouldn’t recommend a radiant head heating up large basements.
Fan-Forced Heaters
As the name implies, fan-forced space heaters draw in air to heat it with the aid of heated coils. After that, the hot air is dispersed with the assistance of fans. They’re ideal for small spaces that contain a lot of objects.
Micathermic Heaters
Micathermic space heaters combine convection and radiant heating technology to provide fast heating. These units are capable of heating large open spaces as well as tight spaces without any problems. In addition, they’re highly energy-efficient.
Ceramic Heaters
Ceramic space heaters are variants of radiator heaters in that air is radiated across the area in which the unit is located after having been heated up with ceramic plates. Ceramic space heaters would be suitable if your entire basement area is on the smaller side and has quite a few objects.
Fuel-Burning
Instead of relying on electricity to use a space heater to provide warmth like the heaters mentioned above, fuel-burning heaters burn fuel such as propane heat to produce radiant heat into the surrounding objects. The performance of these units is gauged based on their BTUs and not their wattage since they don’t use electricity.
Steam Heaters
Steam heaters are similar to radiator ones because a fluid medium such as fuel oil is heated to provide warmth. However, they utilize water instead of fat. Since water can be heated up reasonably quickly, steam heaters quickly deliver heat.
Baseboard Heaters
The last type of heater that can be utilized for basements is a baseboard heater, which works by heating the sucking in air and pushing it overhead the coils to warm air up and then disperse it throughout the area. They’re somewhat similar to fan-forced heaters in the production of hot air, but they’re better suited for large empty spaces, especially basements.
Infrared Heaters
Infrared heaters are a type of heater that works by warming objects in the room rather than just the air. This makes them much more efficient than standard heaters, as people will immediately feel the infrared heater's effect. Additionally, infrared heaters don't dry out the air like standard heaters can, making them a much more comfortable option. However, while they may save on energy bills in the long run, the initial cost of an infrared heater can be higher than other types of space heaters.
Heating Capacity
How much space can such basement heaters cover? Now that you’ve determined which type of space heater you’re going to use, you must consider its heating capacity relative to the size of your basement.
If you’re opting for a basement space heater that relies on electricity, it should have a heating capacity of around 1,000W for a 1,000-square-foot basement. And 25,000-30,000 BTUs are optimal for the same area for a fuel-burning heater such as a propane heater.
The numbers mentioned above are applicable in the event of sound insulation. If your basement area has poor insulation, you’ll need a more robust space heater with around 1,500W or 30,000-50,000 BTUs to ensure optimal heating. Most space heaters manufacturers specify the size of the area their space heaters can cover, so make sure to be on the lookout for such info.
Safety Features
When going with an electric heater or a fuel-burning propane heater; you need to mensurate the devfeatures'ures automatic overheat protection. This safety feature automatically shuts off the heater when it overheats.
Moreover, your heater should have a tip-over switch, especially if you have kids or pets, because it switches off the device if it gets knocked down or tipped over.
If you’re opting for a low-wattage electric space heater, make sure it has an excellent touch housing so that it doesn’t hurt your hands if you touch it as it’s operating. And if you’re going for a fuel-burning device such as a propane heater, make sure it flaunts a removable fuel tank so that it can easily be detached rather than emptied when the heater is not in use.
Safety Tips for Using Space Heaters for Basements
Space heaters can be a great way to keep your basement warm, but it’s important to take some safety precautions.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Fire Protection Association recommend maintaining a minimum 3-foot gap between the space heater and any other object.
Additionally, turn off and unplug the space heater when not in the room – they tend to produce rapid warmth, so there’s no need to leave them on when the basement is unoccupied. If the space heater has a hot surface that could burn people or pets, situate it away from places with a lot of passing traffic.
You can also choose a wall-mounted model that can be raised out of the way. Always plug space heaters directly into wall sockets – not into an extension cord or power strip, as this could cause them to overheat.
Finally, ensure that there’s a functioning smoke alarm in the room.
These precautions allow you to enjoy your space heater while staying safe.
Size, Style, and Portability
When choosing a basement heater, size, style, and portability are important factors. The size of the unit will impact the decor of the space, so it is important to choose a size that is appropriate for the space. The style of the unit should be considered as well, as some units are more visually appealing than others. The unit's portability is also important, as it will be necessary to move the unit around if it is not permanently situated in one place.
Other Features
Temperature Control: It’s vital to be able to control your heater’s temperature settings so that you’re able to achieve the desired temperature in your basement. Some heaters have a digital thermostat that enables you to select the ideal temperature, whereas other models feature dials that can only go from warm to hot.
Timer: Getting a space heater that features a timer is an excellent option to cut costs because it’ll shut off automatically depending on the period you’ve set using the timer. Most space heaters' timers enable you to set the time frame between 1 and 24 hours.
Remote Control: Modern space heaters that can be controlled remotely can be quite costly, but they deliver great convenience because you can control them without having to be in your house's basement.
Oscillation: Oscillating space heaters deliver a superb distribution of heat across their area by turning from side to side. This feature is usually found in fan-forced and ceramic heaters.
FAQs
Q. Should I Use More Than One Space Heater For My Basement?
It depends on how big your basement is. If you have a small basement, one space heater should be sufficient. However, if you have a large basement, you may need more than one space heater to keep the area warm.
Q. What Is The Most Efficient Way To Heat A Basement?
The most efficient way to heat a basement is to use a space heater. Space heaters are designed to heat a specific area and can be very effective in heating a cellar.
Q. How Can I Heat My Basement Inexpensively?
There are a few ways to heat your basement inexpensively. One way is to use a space heater. Space heaters are designed to heat a specific area and can be very effective in heating a cellar. Another way to heat your basement inexpensively is to use an electric blanket. Electric blankets are designed to keep you warm and heat a basement effectively.
Q. Can I Use A Space Heater In The Basement?
Yes, you can use a space heater in the basement. Space heaters are designed to heat a specific area and can be very effective in heating a cellar.
Q. Why Should I Use A Basement Space Heater?
A basement space heater can be a great way to heat your basement. Space heaters are designed to heat a specific area and can be very effective in heating a cellar.
Q. How Much Space Is Needed Around A Space Heater?
It is essential to have enough space around a space heater. If there is not enough space around a space heater, it will not be able to heat the area effectively.
Space heaters need to be able to circulate air to be effective.
Q. What Is The Cheapest Way To Heat A Basement?
There are a few ways to heat your basement inexpensively. One way is to use a space heater. Space heaters are designed to heat a specific area and can be very effective in heating a cellar. Another way to heat your basement inexpensively is to use an electric blanket. Electric blankets are designed to keep you warm and can effectively heat a basement.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are quite a several best space heaters you can use to heat your finished basement. It all boils down to your heating requirements as well as the size of your basement.
If we were to crown a winner, we’d go with the Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater, as it’s the most well-rounded electric heater compared to the other electric space heaters on the list. And for a fuel-burning space heater, it’s hard to beat the Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22 considering its exceptional heating capacity.
Hopefully, the information shared in this article has helped you pinpoint the right space heater for your basement. Feel free to let me know which of the above-reviewed products you think is the best and why.
