When we think about basements, traditionally we think about cold, damp, creepy places where we can store unwanted stuff out of sight, out of mind. But more and more people are realizing that this can be a valuable, extra piece of real estate.
However, to realize your basement’s potential, you will need to clean it, air it and heat it. While cleaning and airing your basement is pretty straight forward (although potentially a lot of work), heating your basement and keeping it warm is a different matter.
That’s where the best heaters for basements come in. While most homes in cold climates will have a heating system, basements are mostly neglected. This can result in a cold, damp space that is often the source of mold which can also affect your health.
Heating your basement results in a cozy space that you can use as a living space, den or other recreational space and not just for storage. But there are many different types of heaters on the market, so how do you figure out which is best?
We’ve done the research for you and put together a list of the 10 best heaters for basements. So keep reading for all the info.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Basement Heaters This Year: Our Criteria And Results
The best heater for a basement will depend on your needs and your home, but we can all agree they need to be economical and efficient.
There are many different types available and they all have their pros and cons.
Convection or space heaters are great for heating your basement as they’re energy-efficient and provide instant heat. While oil-filled radiators are great for giving constant heat throughout a larger space.
No matter how big or small your basement, we’ve found a heater that will work for you. The following table lists our 10 best heaters for your basement.
| Brand | Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Link For Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Dr Infrared Heater | Portable Space Heater | At 1500 watts it can comfortable heat a basement up to 150 sq feet | At 24 lbs it’s heavy to move around | Click to check price |
| Best Value |   | Dreo | Atom One Portable Heater | Programmable 41-95°F digital thermostat giving it one of the widest temperature range | Best for small to medium size basements | Click to check price |
| Also Consider |   | Duraflame | Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove | Powerful heater with real-flame effect | Expensive | Click to check price |
| 4 |   | Mr Heater | MH18B Big Buddy Portable Propane Heater | Suitable for basements up to 450 square feet | It’s important to closely follow the instructions for use | Click to check price |
| 5 |   | DeLonghi | Quiet 1500W, Adjustable Oil-Filled Radiator | Exclusive thermal slot design maximizes heat flow into the room | Quite heavy and awkward to move around | Click to check price |
| 6 |   | Heat Storm | HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Infrared Wall Mount Heater | Space saving, wall-mounted heater | Not portable | Click to check price |
| 7 |   | Lasko | Oscillating Digital Ceramic Tower Heater, model 755320 | Features 2 quiet heat settings (high heat and low heat) and an adjustable thermostat | Digital display is hard to read from a distance | Click to check price |
| 8 |   | Vornado | VH10 vortex Heater | Comes with a 5-year warranty | Ventilation fan is a bit noisy | Click to check price |
| 9 |   | Dyna-Glo | RA18LPDG 18,000 BTU Cabinet Heater | Efficient and high heat output for basements up to 600 sq ft | Reports of difficulty lighting the pilot light | Click to check price |
| 10 |   | Pelonis | NY1507-14A Oil Filled Radiator | Powerful and silent design | Oil based heaters take more time to heat up than other types of heater | Click to check price |
This is a quick reference table only. Keep on reading for more information about each heater and how we select our top picks.
How We Select The Best Heaters For Basements
When selecting the best heaters for basements we take the following into consideration:
- The size of your basement – as a general rule you need 10 watts of power per square foot. So if your basement is 100 sq feet then you will need a heater with 1,000 watts capacity.
- Efficiency – you need to take into consideration how well the heater circulates warm air and how well it retains the temperature
- Special features – these can include useful things like thermostats to regulate the temperature, remote controls and timers to switch off when not in use.
- Size & portability – lightweight models with wheels can be especially useful if you just want to heat a small space.
- Safety features – heaters can be a fire hazard, so look for safety features such as tilt sensors which will switch the heater off if it’s accidentally knocked over.
- Brand reputation – like any product, when it comes to heaters certain brands have good or bad reputations
- Customer reviews – nowadays you don’t have to try before you buy; simply check out all the customer reviews on the various different review and product websites.
- Price – the old saying ‘you get what you pay for’ applies here. There are plenty of cheap heaters out there, and while some of them work, you’re better off spending a bit more to get a quality product.
Now you have our criteria and some top tips about what to look out for, let’s take a closer look at the best heaters for basements that made it onto our list.
Best Basement Heater Options [2023]
There are many different types of heaters that can be used in basements. These include heaters that run off propane gas or electricity. You can even extend an existing duct and HVAC system to use in your basement although that will come at an extra cost
Propane gas heaters are cost-effective, clean and efficient. However, they are more dangerous than electric powered heaters as they need good ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Electric heaters come in many shapes and forms which include convection or space heaters that use metal, ceramic or oil heating elements to warm up your basement.
They are becoming more and more popular as you just need to plug in and play, and there’s no need to worry about any nasty fumes or odors.
So now you have an overview, let’s get started and take a closer look at the best heaters for basements that made it onto our list.
Best Heater for Basements Option: Dr Infrared Heater DR968 Portable Space Heater
Dr Infrared Heaters is a US based company that is committed to supplying top quality alternative & supplemental heating products to customers at prices you can afford. Their DR968 Portable Space Heater is one of their most popular models.
Advantages:
- At 1500 watts it can comfortable heat a basement up to 150 sq feet
- Safety features include tip over and overheat protection
Disadvantages:
- At 24 lbs it’s heavy to move around
- Reports of poor customer service
The DR968 Portable Space Heater uses highly efficient infrared technology to heat your basement. The
digital thermostat and remote control allows you to set precise temperatures between 50 and 85°F.
It also comes with a range of safety features such as overheat and tip-over protection, and cool-touch housing means it’s safe to touch. With over 21,000 ratings on Amazon the DR698 Portable Space Heater has a proven track record with thousands of happy customers.
Sound good? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
But no need to jump in and buy the first one. Keep reading for some more great basement heaters.
Best Value Heater For Basement Option: Dreo Atom One Portable Heater
Dreo offers innovative energy-saving ceramic space heaters that come with a variety of features. The Dreo Atom One Portable Heater is a lightweight and portable design that we have picked as our best value basement heater, and for good reason.
Advantages:
- Programmable 41-95°F digital thermostat
- Built-in fan provides 70-degree oscillation
Disadvantages:
- Best for small to medium size basements
- Some reports of problems with the thermostat
Don’t let the small size and chic design fool you, the Dreo Atom One is a pretty powerful portable heater. It’s powered with Dreo Hyperamics Technology, so the Atom One space heater heats up more efficiently than many other bigger heaters.
The built-in fan provides 70-degree oscillation meaning that it rotates around to heat a wide area, although it’s not suitable for larger spaces. Cool features include a remote control, digital thermostat, different power modes and various safety features.
This little heater packs a punch, so click on the link below for the latest price – we’re sure the price will surprise you.
Or keep reading for our next option.
Honorable Mention Heater for Basement: Duraflame Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove
Duraflame’s electric fireplaces are manufactured and distributed by Twin Star International whose mission is to make products that enhance the consumer’s home experience. The Duraflame Fireplace Stove certainly does the trick.
Advantages:
- Powerful heater with real-flame effect
- Features multiple settings to adjust brightness and temperature
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Top gets hot
The Duraflame Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove may be a bit on the expensive side but, if you’re anything like me, the real-flame effect is so worth it. The patent pending 3D flame effect creates a truly realistic fire experience even with the heat switched off.
This heater has different settings for brightness and temperature, and it comes with a remote control, so you can adjust it without leaving your couch. The heater is also pretty powerful and should work well in a basement of up to 1,000 square feet.
Like the sound of this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
Budget won’t stretch that far? Then keep reading for a more affordable option.
Mr Heater MH18B Big Buddy Portable Propane Heater
Mr Heater has been manufacturing safe and reliable portable propane heaters since 1957 and claims to be ‘America’s Most Popular Brand Of Heaters’. Their patented range of portable Buddy Heaters have delivered comfort and safety for decades.
Advantages:
- Suitable for basements up to 450 square feet
- Safety features include an automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS)
Disadvantages:
- It’s important to closely follow the instructions for use
- No longer comes with an included fan
The Mr Heater MH18B Big Buddy Portable Propane Heater is one of their most popular models. It features versatile low, medium and high heat settings and can heat a basement measuring up to 450 sq ft. Plus it’s safe for both indoor and outdoor use.
While some people may be a bit nervous of using propane heaters indoors, this heater has safety features including an automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS) and accidental tip-over safety shut-off to give you peace of mind.
But don’t take our word for it – check out all the details by clicking the link below.
Still not ticking all your boxes? Then keep reading for more options.
DeLonghi, Quiet 1500W, Adjustable Oil-Filled Radiator
The DeLonghi Group makes all kinds of small home appliances, but has been specializing in electric radiators since 1974. Their portable oil-filled radiators are efficient and safe to use for heating any room in your house, including your basement.
Advantages:
- Maintenance free
- Exclusive thermal slot design maximizes heat flow into the room
Disadvantages:
- Quite heavy and awkward to move around
- Fairly pricey when compared to other heaters
This DeLonghi oil-filled radiator is perfect for warming small basements, up to 45 sq feet in size. While oil-filled radiators have a reputation for being slow to heat up, the DeLonghi has an individual slot design which maximizes heat flow and maintains surface temperatures.
Other features include a ComfortTemp setting which gives you 20% more efficiency, plus it has an anti-freeze setting which allows the radiator to turn on when the temperature in your basement drops below 44°F.
Ticking some of your boxes? Then click on the link below for the specs and latest price.
Still not the right one? Then keep reading for some more options.
Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Infrared Wall Mount Heater
Heat Storm is a brand of electric indoor heaters that are suitable for basements, or just about any room that you want to warm-up. Their infrared wall mounted heaters have the benefit of saving you space and the HS-1500-PHX is rated to heat 150 sq ft as the primary source.
Advantages:
- Space saving, wall-mounted heater
- Wi-fi enabled, means you can control the heat from your phone
Disadvantages:
- Not portable
- Reports of the product feeling flimsy
Wall heaters are becoming a very popular way to heat up your basement as they don’t take up valuable floor space and there are many different models to choose from. The 1500 watt Heat Storm Infrared Wall Mount Heater is a smart heating solution.
This heater is wi-fi enabled, which means you can control this heater via your phone with its handy, easy-to-use app. Otherwise there’s touchscreen controls and an included remote.
Safety features include tip-over shut off, plus it stays cool to touch. This heater has a sleek design, plus if it’s mounted close to the power outlet there’s space to stash away the excess cord.
Like this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
Still not ticking your boxes? Then keep reading for some more options.
Lasko Oscillating Digital Ceramic Tower Heater, model 755320
Lasko claims to be the number 1 ceramic heater brand in the USA. With more than 26,000 mainly positive reviews on Amazon the Lasko Oscillating Digital Ceramic Tower Heater is definitely worth a look.
Advantages:
- Features 2 quiet heat settings (high heat and low heat) and an adjustable thermostat
- Comes fully assembled and ready to use
Disadvantages:
- Digital display is hard to read from a distance
- Only has an 8 hour timer
The Lasko ceramic tower heater is a lightweight, portable heater that is a reliable option for heating your basement. It uses a multi-function remote control to turn the heater on and off, set the timer, turn the oscillation on and off or to adjust the thermostat.
Built-in safety features include overheat protection and a cool-to-touch exterior even if the heater has been running for hours. In addition, this heater comes with a 3-year limited warranty and it is ETL rated for added peace of mind.
So make sure you click on the link below for the latest price.
Or keep reading for our next option.
Vornado VH10 Vortex Heater
Vornado is a popular brand of home appliances that includes heaters. Their heaters are pretty affordable despite being fairly powerful and practical designs, which includes their V10 vortex basement heater.
Advantages:
- Product information gives a heating coverage of 256 sq feet
- Lightweight and affordable basement heater
Disadvantages:
- No timer
- Ventilation fan is a bit noisy
The Vornado VH10 is a very affordable basement heater making it good for those on a budget. It’s one of Vornado’s next generation ‘Whole Room Heaters’ with modern styling on the outside and an enhanced design on the inside to maintain balanced room temperatures.
The VH10 also comes equipped with an integrated carry handle to provide easy portability. And for extra convenience, the VH10 features hidden cord storage to safely store any excess cord on the bottom of the heater.
Make sure you click on the link below for a list of the full specs and the latest price.
Or keep reading for another great option.
Dyna-Glo RA18LPDG 18,000 BTU Cabinet Heater
Dyna-Glo offers a range of gas and kerosene heaters for both domestic and commercial use. Their Dyna-Glo Cabinet Heater is designed to hold a 20 lb propane tank internally and its portability means you can target any room in your house including your basement.
Advantages:
- Efficient and high heat output for basements up to 600 sq ft
- Safety features include tip-over protection and an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS)
Disadvantages:
- Reports of difficulty lighting the pilot light
- Need to purchase the propane tank separately
While purchasing the propane tank is an extra expense, we think the heat capacity and portability of this cabinet heater are worth it. It has a heat output of 6000 – 18000 BTU and can heat up any space up to 600 sq ft.
Other key features that make this one of the best propane heaters for your basement include its 3-plaque heating system, oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) for safety, and a front safety grill. However, as it is a gas heater you need to ensure good ventilation.
Interested in this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
Not interested? Then keep reading for another heating option.
Pelonis NY1507-14A Oil Filled Radiator
Pelonis is known for manufacturing some of the best home appliances that money can buy and their basement heaters are no exception. Their oil-filled radiator gives full room heating coverage in basements measuring up to 230 sq ft.
Advantages:
- Powerful and silent design
- Safety features include overheat protection and tip-over automatic shut down.
Disadvantages:
- Oil based heaters take more time to heat up than other types of heater
- Some reports of poor quality
The Pelonis NY1507-14A Oil Filled Radiator is a safe and efficient option for heating your basement. It features multiple settings which include three heating options and five temperature settings to maximize efficiency and warmth.
This oil radiator is designed with portability in mind as it features 4 swivel caster wheels capable of 360° rotation and the recessed handles make it easy to to move your Pelonis space heater from room to room.
Make sure you click on the link below for the latest price.
So there you have all the details of the best heaters for basements that made it onto our list. Still unsure which to pick? Then keep reading for our final selection.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Heaters for Basements
While every heater on this list is a good option for heating your basement, we all have our favorites. To make your decision even easier for you we’ve narrowed the list down to our top 3 picks. Check out the table below to see which ones made the cut and why we liked it.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link For Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Dr Infrared Heater | Portable Space Heater | At 1500 watts it can comfortable heat a basement up to 150 sq feet | Click to check price |
| Runner Up | | Duraflame | Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove | Powerful heater with real-flame effect | Click to check price |
| Best Budget Option | | Dreo | Atom One Portable Heater | Programmable 41-95°F digital thermostat | Click to check price |
There are clearly a lot of heaters for basements in the market but we’ve identified the best price points from each of the major brands so you don’t have to.
Make sure you click the link on the heaters that you’re most interested in to check the price because, you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
People Also Ask
What type of heater is best for the basement?
The best type of heater for your basement can be divided into 2 main types. These include electric basement heaters and propane basement heaters. The main difference is their power source or fuel type.
Electric basement heaters, especially oil heaters are much cheaper to run, while propane basement heaters are generally much more powerful, but this will depend on how much gas they use.
Should I put a space heater in my basement?
Yes, you should absolutely put a space heater in your basement. Heating your basement not only creates an extra cozy living or recreational space, but a space heater will also prevent unwanted mold and damp and it will contribute to keeping the rest of your home warm.
What’s the best way to heat a basement?
The best way to heat a basement will depend on the size of your basement and what you plan to use it for. There are many different types of heaters for basements available but all of them have different heat ratings and space capacities.
It’s a good idea to measure your basement first. But if you are looking for a simple, budget-friendly option for heating your basement, then it’s worth considering space heaters that are easily plugged into a wall and don’t need any special ventilation.
Where is most heat lost in the basement?
Most heat loss in the basement occurs at ground level or through uninsulated doors and windows (if your basement has them). Plus up to 20% of home heat is lost through your basement walls.
Poor insulation is the main cause of heat loss in your basement. The best solution for this is to finish your basement if it’s cement (which most of them are), or provide more insulation around the walls.
Basements can be insulated by using blanket rolls, foam boards, reflective foils or various types of fiber insulation.
How many square feet of basement will a heater heat?
How many square feet a basement heater will heat depends very much on the model and type of heater you buy. Each one is rated differently.
But as a general rule, you need 10 watts of heating power for every square foot of floor area in your basement. This generally means that a 1,500 watt heater should have enough power to heat a basement measuring up to 150 sq ft.
Is it a good idea to heat the basement?
It may come as a surprise but it’s a good idea to heat your basement, especially if you live in a cold climate. There are 3 main reasons to heat your basement and these include the following:
- It will increase energy efficiency throughout your home
- Prevents unwanted damp, mold and mildew which can be harmful to your health
- Creates extra living or recreational space which increases the value of your home
This list is by no means exhaustive, and perhaps you can think of more?
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Heaters for Basements
While every heater on this list is a good option for heating your basement, we all have our favorites. To make your decision even easier for you we’ve narrowed the list down to our top 3 picks. Check out the table below to see which ones made the cut and why we liked it.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link For Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Dr Infrared Heater | Portable Space Heater | At 1500 watts it can comfortable heat a basement up to 150 sq feet | Click to check price |
| Runner Up | | Duraflame | Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove | Powerful heater with real-flame effect | Click to check price |
| Best Budget Option | | Dreo | Atom One Portable Heater | Programmable 41-95°F digital thermostat | Click to check price |
There are clearly a lot of heaters for basements in the market but we’ve identified the best price points from each of the major brands so you don’t have to.
Make sure you click the link on the heaters that you’re most interested in to check the price because, you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
Also read: What Is the Best Way to Heat an Unfinished Basement?
