If your bathroom is colder than the rest of your house you may need a bathroom heater. Especially during the winter months, these supplemental heating devices can help keep your home comfortable.

There are many types of bathroom heaters to choose from, and each has its own pros and cons. With this buying guide, you’ll be able to review the top bathroom heater choices and find the one that best fits your needs and budget.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A BATHROOM HEATER

Whether you’re looking for a quick solution, as with a portable bathroom heater, or want to invest in a permanent modification and install a bathroom exhaust fan with heater, there are a few things you’ll need to consider.

Space

First, you may want to consider the layout of your bathroom. The average full-size bathroom is around 40 square feet, which is roughly a 5 by 8 feet space. Larger master bathrooms with double vanities can be 150 square feet or more, so consider the amount of space you need to heat.

Powder rooms and half baths can be easily warmed with a small bathroom heater that uses a standard electrical outlet. If, however, you’re heating a larger space, consider a wall- or ceiling-mounted bathroom heater for more power.

Durability

If you’re looking to invest in a bathroom heater, you’ll want one that will last a long time.The typical lifespan for a heater varies by model and can range from 10 to 20 years depending on usage. Some units also come with warranties that range between 1 to 5 years varying by brand.

A durable bathroom heater is one that is made from strong materials, like metal, and has fewer moving parts. Most of those models will be ceiling or wall-mounted options, but some portable units also boast a long lifespan.

Durable bathroom heaters aren’t necessarily the most expensive options on the market, but it’s important to consider your budget partnered with online reviews. Before investing in a device, see what other buyers have to say.

Noise

Bathroom heaters vary in noise levels. Wall heaters may range in noise from 50 to 60 decibels which is equivalent to the sound of an electric toothbrush. Portable heaters may be quieter with a range of 30 to 40 decibels, or about the volume of a conversation in a library. If creating a quiet space is a priority for you, look for a bathroom heater that boasts quiet operation as one of its features. Paying close attention to the reviews of certain bathroom heaters can help determine what noise levels others have experienced from their heater.

Safety

One of the most important things to keep in mind when purchasing a bathroom heater is safety. As you explore the different models available, look for a few key safety features, including auto shut-off, tip-over protection, and a cool-touch exterior.

These and other safety mechanisms will help prevent accidental fires from the heater being left on too long or from it sitting too close to other objects. The cool-touch and tip-over protection features are especially important if you have children or pets in the home. The online product description or box should identify which of these functionalities is available, keeping you warm and safe.

TYPES OF BATHROOM HEATERS

Before tossing the first bathroom heater that pops up on an Amazon search into your virtual shopping cart, consider the different styles. Each model is equipped with unique features, so let’s find the one that best fits your needs.

Portable

Portable heaters are one of the most popular kinds of bathroom heaters as they are budget-friendly and can be used throughout your home. Portable bathroom heaters are also able to be stored away during the summer months when you may not need the added warmth. Many units vary in size which makes them a great choice regardless of the size of your bathroom.

Small

Small bathroom heaters provide lots of functionality without taking up precious bathroom space. These may be a good choice for your home if you’re looking to save energy. The average half bathroom ranges from 18 to 32 square feet. Smaller portable heaters may be preferred for these sized bathrooms.

Ceiling/Wall Mounted

Ceiling and wall mounted bathroom heaters work to heat rooms while still saving space. Bathrooms that range from 75 to 150 square feet may be best served by ceiling or wall mounted heaters as these types of units generally have the energy capacity to heat these sized spaces.

Many ceiling or wall mounted heaters require some form of hardwiring and may need professional installation.

Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Heater

A bathroom exhaust fan with heater is a great choice if you want to save space and quickly dehumidify the bathroom. These units can typically be installed in place of your current ceiling exhaust fan unit.

While some units can be easily installed, others may require professional installation due to hardwiring or drywall cutting. Certain models include both a heater and a light feature to add an extra touch to your bathroom.

PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION OF BATHROOM HEATER

Regardless of which heater you choose, there are options to fit every bathroom situation. Keep in mind that some of these options may require professional installation.

Source: https://www.hvac.com/blog/best-bathroom-heaters-of-2021/