Large rooms can pose a heating challenge: They tend to have drafty, hard-to-reach corners and require more energy to warm up properly during the winter months. To find the best space heaters for large rooms, our home experts focused on models that can effectively add warmth without the need to crank up the thermostat. We landed on the Dreo Solaris Slim H3 as our top pick because it’s inconspicuous, reliable and built with several safety features that are ideal for homes with children and pets. Our energy-efficient recommendation is the Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater, which adds infrared to its dual-heating technology to warm large spaces while using less energy.

To find the best space heaters for large rooms in 2025, we focused on safe, energy-efficient picks from Dreo, Dr. Infrared, Shark and more.

ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTOS: RETAILERS

To select the best space heaters for large rooms, we carefully evaluated highly rated models across various categories. We selected models with coverage areas of 200 to 1,000 square feet and took various budgets and heating needs, like portability and energy efficiency, into account. Our team primarily considered electric heaters (a category that includes ceramic, infrared, combination and oil-filled units) and prioritized safety features like tip-over protection, automatic shut-off and a cool-touch exterior. We also drew from the research and testing data gathered for our space heater roundup, and interviewed a home appliance expert to weigh in on finding space heaters for sizable spaces.

RECOMMENDED BYFORBES VETTED

The 5 Best Heated Blankets After Testing, Approved By Safety Experts

ByJordan Thomas

The 8 Best Home Saunas Of 2025 To Detox And Soothe Muscles, According To Experts

ByAmanda Arnold

How We Chose The Best Space Heaters For Large Rooms

To determine the best space heater for large rooms, we researched top-rated models, compared key features, interviewed a home appliance expert and tapped into our years of coverage and testing experience in the home and kitchen space.

Research And Real-World Insights

We sought out models from reputable brands with coverage areas of at least 200 square feet, and also analyzed contenders from Forbes Vetted’s prior testing data, which was collected for our best space heaters story. We also pored through consumer reviews, ensuring every space heater on our list is rated no less than 4 out of 5 stars on average.

Key Evaluation Criteria

We prioritized space heaters that can effectively be used in rooms of 300 square feet to 1,000 square feet. We also dug into each model’s features and considered the most important factors:

• Heater type
• Size
• Coverage area
• Safety features
• Performance
• User-friendliness
• Value

Final Selection

Because heating needs are unique, we curated a selection of space heaters in various styles, including tower, oil-filled and wall-mounted designs, so you can choose the option that best suits your home.

What To Look For In A Space Heater For Large Rooms

Based on our research and guidance from home appliance expert Angie Hicks, these are the most important factors to consider in a space heater that can handle large spaces.

Heater Type

Here are the key differences between the main types of space heaters you’ll encounter—namely forced air, infrared and oil-filled heaters:

• Forced air heaters: These heaters work by heating up either a metal filament/coil or ceramic plates inside the unit; a fan then blows the resulting warmth into your room. They’re the most common type of heaters on the market, thanks to their safety features and overall versatility. Plus, they’re compact, heat up quickly and are generally regarded as user-friendly.
• Infrared heaters: Unlike forced air heaters that warm the air, infrared heaters directly warm up objects in the surrounding area (this is called radiant heat). They emit electromagnetic rays that heat furniture, walls and, of course, people. Infrared heaters are the most energy-efficient option, but their heat is directional, meaning they only warm objects directly in front of them.
• Oil-filled heaters: Also known as oil-filled radiators, these space heaters contain oil-filled fins that are warmed by electric heating elements. These produce radiant heat and remain warm even after being turned off, offering energy efficiency. Both infrared and oil-filled heaters are a good choice if you’re concerned about pet or child safety, says Hicks. “Radiant heaters stay cool to the touch and typically shut off when tipped over, so they’re usually the safest option.”

Coverage Area

Hicks says, “Always look at the square footage on the space heater’s packaging and compare it to your room to ensure it’s a good fit.” A general rule of thumb is to select a heater that provides 10 to 15 watts of power per square foot. However, for extra-large rooms, this can be challenging, as most residential heaters cap at around 1,500 watts. In such cases, opting for a unit with oscillation and a powerful fan can help distribute heat more effectively across the area.

Note that for particularly large spaces, heat from these devices may not distribute evenly, making it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature. In these instances, it’s more effective to rely on central heating systems or use multiple space heaters, strategically placed throughout the room, to ensure adequate warmth.

Safety

Prioritizing safety features in a space heater is crucial—especially in households with children or pets. Look for models equipped with:

• Tip-over protection
• Overheat shutoff
• Adjustable thermostats
• Auto-shutoff timers

Safety Tips For Space Heaters

In addition to finding units with the safety features above, here are a few tips for operating a space heater as safely as possible. And as always, consult your heater’s specific manual before use.

• Set up the heater on a flat, even surface. Although it’s tempting in some circumstances, avoid elevating the unit on a stool or table. It increases the risk of the heater falling over and catching fire. Many heaters also have tip-over protection so it automatically powers down if it’s knocked over.
• Don’t run the heater unattended. Most heaters advise against using the unit while you’re away or sleeping. If you intend to use it throughout the night, look for a heater with an overheat shutoff option or programmable timer. Overheat shutoff ensures the heater turns off if it becomes too hot, while the auto-shutoff timers allow you to set a specific operating time, ensuring the heater doesn’t stay on longer than necessary.
• Avoid flammable objects. Some space heaters can get so hot, they’re capable of setting flammable items on fire. During setup, keep your heater away from electrical outlets, curtains, furniture, pillows, bedding, books, stoves and fuel sources, to name a few.
• Don’t use a power strip or extension cord. These additional elements can cause the space heater to overload, increasing the risk of an accident. Most units also feature a lengthy 6-foot cord, so you can place it safely in a large room without additional cords.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

The editorial team behind our home section has dedicated hundreds of hours researching, testing and writing about the best heating and cooling products available.

• We’ve also lent our expertise to rounding up the best space heaters, portable air conditioners, window air conditioners and more.
• Coauthor Fran Sales is the home and kitchen updates writer for Forbes Vetted. She’s been covering and testing home air quality products, including tower fans, air purifiers and dehumidifiers, for almost six years.
• Coauthor Sholeen Damarwala is a home editor and has been researching, writing and editing consumer shopping stories for over a decade. She’s covered related household appliances like air purifiers for smoke and air purifiers for pets.
• We consulted Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi, an online directory and app that connects consumers with local home service providers, to inform our reporting.
• To make sure our advice stays up to date and is backed by the latest developments in the space, we routinely review the recommendations in this guide. It was last updated in October 2025 by Sales.