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Despite its size, an electric wall heater is a great way to provide your home with extra heat—whether you’re in a multifamily house or a tiny apartment. What’s more? Electric wall heaters are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and safer than most portable heaters.
If you’re interested in learning more about how a wall-mounted heater could help keep you and your family warm and toasty throughout the winter months, here’s an in-depth buyer’s guide that covers everything from the type of heater to the installation process. We’ve also included eight of our top picks to make your search for the best electric wall heater a bit easier.
- BEST OVERALL: Heat Storm HS-1000-WX-WIFI Infrared Wall Heater
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Cadet Com-Pak Electric Wall Heater With Thermostat
- UPGRADE PICK: PuraFlame Alice 50 Recessed Electric Fireplace
- BEST MOUNTED: Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Infrared Heater
- BEST ENERGY-SAVING: De’Longhi SlimStyle Digital Panel Heater
- BEST HIGH-CAPACITY: Broan-NuTone High-Capacity Wall Heater
- BEST MULTI-WATTAGE: King Electric Model Paw Electric Wall Heater
- BEST ELECTRIC FIREPLACE: PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert
How We Chose the Best Electric Wall Heaters
We researched the most sought-after wall heaters in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their type, wattage and British thermal unit (BTU) output, settings, and other special features included by reputable brands.
After extensive product research, we included options in our list of top picks that were made with infrared, convection, and fan-forced electric constructions that run at 500 to 4,000 watts and emit up to 13,600 BTUs of heat. We also wanted to include a versatile range of heaters, so many of these picks are capable of functioning as either a primary or secondary heat source.
As for user-friendly features, these top picks come with Wi-Fi connectivity, remote controls, digital control panels, dial thermostats, tip-over or overheat protection, child-lock functions, and even air filters for cleaning the air while heating. Many of these picks are also capable of being wall-mounted or used as floor-standing units.
Our Top Picks
Choosing the best electric wall heater requires a bit of research to make informed purchasing decisions. To help you make an informed purchasing decision, we’ve listed a few top-notch options (that are easy to install, have low noise levels, and have safety features) below. Here are our top picks for the best electric wall heater.
Best Overall
Heat Storm HS-1000-WX-WIFI Infrared Wall Heater
Product Specs
- Type: Infrared heater
- Wattage: 1,000 watts
- Compatible square footage: 100 square feet (primary heat source), 500 square feet (backup heat source)
Pros
- Wi-Fi compatibility allows users to customize settings and schedule on/off times
- High-tech and user-friendly; comes with a child lock, overheat and tip-over protection, and an air filter
- Safe-touch grille is ideal for homes with children and pets
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty using the digital thermostat
The infrared electric wall heater from Heat Storm offers 3,400 BTUs controlled by a Wi-Fi–enabled mobile app. This wall-mounted unit offers a child lock, overheat protection, a safe-touch grille, and an operating schedule that can be adjusted via the app, or quick adjustments can be made with the included remote control or the digital display located on top of the unit.
This heater offers 1,000 watts of power and can heat up to 100 square feet as the primary heat source; it can be a supplemental heat source for up to 500 square feet. For added user-friendliness, this Heat Storm wall heater has a noiseless operation volume, tip-over protection, and an air filter for cleaning the air while heating.
Get the Heat Storm HS-1000-WX-WIFI electric wall heater at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.
Best Bang For The Buck
Cadet Com-Pak Electric Wall Heater With Thermostat
Product Specs
- Type: Fan-forced heater
- Wattage: 1,500 watts
- Compatible square footage: 200 square feet
Pros
- Compact unit can be recessed into the wall without taking up a lot of space
- Centrifugal fan system can quickly distribute hot air once turned on; easy-to-use built-in thermostat
- Comes with a grille for safety; suitable for homes with children and pets
Cons
- Small unit may not be ideal for heating large spaces
- Must be adjusted manually on the panel; no remote control or smart features
The fast-heating coil element of this electric wall heater from Cadet can heat up to 200 square feet quickly with a centrifugal fan, which quietly spreads the air around the room. At only 10.75 inches high by 7 inches wide by 4 inches deep, this heater can recess back into the wall and won’t take up a lot of space. The heater also comes with a wall can for recessing, a grille for safety, and a thermostat for hardwired installation.
Durable metal surfaces and a white powder-coated paint job make this 1,500-watt heater safe and reliable while offering a vintage look. The recessed nature of this electric wall heater makes it a bit more difficult to install than other brands. Those who aren’t handy might require the help of a contractor.
Get the Cadet electric wall heater at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Upgrade Pick
PuraFlame Alice 50 Recessed Electric Fireplace
Product Specs
- Type: Fan-forced heater
- Wattage: 750 and 1,500 watts
- Compatible square footage: 400 square feet
Pros
- The flush-mounted design has adjustable LED lights; comes in 13 color options
- Timer can be set between 30 minutes and 9 hours for hands-free use
- Adjustments can be made with the included remote control or with the touch panel
Cons
- Larger than other options on this list; may be too big for some users’ spaces
- May be harder to install; contractor assistance may be required
- Not ideal for use as a primary heat source
This recessed fireplace from PuraFlame offers a 50-inch length, which is suitable for installation on 2-by-6 studs in the wall. Flush mounted and with 1,500 watts of power, this fireplace has a dancing flame created by LED lights and several options for whatever look suits the home—the ember bed can be a log set or crystal stones.
The flame can be adjusted to include four blends of yellow and blue colors. The flame can be operated with or without heat, making this a year-round feature of the home. A countdown timer sets the flame from 30 minutes to 9 hours, and the other settings can be adjusted with the included remote control or touch panel. Keep in mind that though this can heat up a room, it should not be used as a primary heat source.
Get the PuraFlame Alice electric wall heater at Amazon.
Best Mounted
Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Infrared Heater
Product Specs
- Type: Infrared heater
- Wattage: 750 to 1,500 watts
- Compatible square footage: Up to 1,000 square feet
Pros
- Operates between 750 and 1,500 watts at up to 5,200 BTUs; heats rooms of up to 1,000 square feet
- Versatile construction; can be wall-mounted or used as a floor-standing model
- Can be adjusted via Wi-Fi connectivity, remote control, or the built-in control panel
- Comes with an air filter; can heat as well as clean the air while in operation
Cons
- Some users have reported that the high heat setting can be loud
- Must be installed near a wall outlet if mounted
Users who are interested in a versatile, high-tech model that can be mounted to a wall and out of the way will want to take a look at this option from Heat Storm. Made to heat rooms of up to 1,000 square feet with its quartz bulbs, this Heat Storm wall heater runs between 750 and 1,500 watts at 5,200 BTUs and comes with brackets for wall mounting or legs for floor-standing use. If users opt for the floor-standing option, children and pets are safe due to the always cool-to-the-touch grille and tip-over switch.
However, one of the most notable features of this model is its Wi-Fi capability. With this high-tech function, the Heat Storm integrates with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa or can be controlled with the included remote control. If all else fails, this unit has a backlit control panel that can be used for quick and easy adjustments, including a convenient child lock. To ensure the air quality is also on par, this model comes with a washable air filter. One of the only downsides to this model is that it requires installation near an outlet when wall-mounted.
What our tester says: Tom Scalisi, a Bob Vila product tester and staff writer, notes in The Best Infrared Heater, “This was truly our favorite heater during testing. It’s compact and hangs on the wall without being obtrusive, but it also comes with legs and a tip-over switch to make it a suitable freestanding model. It was powerful enough to heat one of our uninsulated offices quickly and comfortably in the dead of winter. We could set timers and program settings using our smart devices as well.” Get the Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI electric wall heater at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Energy-Saving
De’Longhi SlimStyle Digital Panel Heater
Product Specs
- Type: Convection heater
- Wattage: 1,500 watts
- Compatible square footage: 300 square feet
Pros
- Dual-fan lateral system distributes air quickly; heats spaces of up to 300 square feet
- Compact unit is only 3 inches deep; does not take up a lot of space on a wall
- Comes with an adjustable thermostat, timer, multiple preset settings, and tip-over protection
Cons
- Some users have reported a louder than normal operating volume
This electric wall heater from De’Longhi uses convection panel heating, releasing up to 1,500 watts of power with a two-fan lateral system. At only 3 inches in depth, this heater sits flush against the wall and blends in with different decors, from traditional to modern. Hardware is included, making installation a breeze.
This convection heater also has an adjustable thermostat, timer, multiple heat settings, and an LED display. The thermal cutoff prevents overheating, and the tip-over protection is good for those who choose to use this as a freestanding option. It’s designed to heat 300 square feet.
Get the De’Longhi electric wall heater at Amazon.
Best High-Capacity
Broan-NuTone High-Capacity Wall Heater
Product Specs
- Type: Fan-forced
- Wattage: 2,000 to 4,000 watts
- Compatible square footage: 265 to 400 square feet
Pros
- Suitable for use as a primary heat source; runs at 2,000 to 4,000 watts and up to 13,653 BTUs
- Underwriters Laboratories (UL)–listed option provides thermal overload protection and heavy-duty sheathed element for safety
- Adjustable front-mounted thermostat control is easy to adjust
Cons
- Must be adjusted manually on the panel; no remote control or smart features
Those looking for a powerful heating option might want to go with the 2,000/4,000-watt high-capacity wall heater from Broan-NuTone. This heater is designed to be recessed into the wall and hardwired for maximum heating; it can also be attached to the wall and used at half-power through connection to a 120-volt outlet. But, when used with full 240-volt power, this option emits over 13,653 BTUs. This white traditional grate-style heater includes an adjustable, front-mounted thermostat control and an 18-gauge steel grille for gentle release of heat.
A high-efficiency blower wheel, permanently lubricated motor, thermal overload protection, UL listing, and heavy-duty sheathed element help ensure safety and solid operation for years. This can serve as the primary heating source for an area between 265 and 400 square feet.
Get the Broan-NuTone electric wall heater at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best Multi-Wattage
King Electric Model Paw Electric Wall Heater
Product Specs
- Type: Fan-forced heater
- Wattage: 500 to 2,250 watts
- Compatible square footage: 350 to 500 square feet
Pros
- “Pic-A-Watt” element allows users to adjust the heat output depending on their needs
- Heats spaces of up to 350 to 500 square feet; can emit up to 7,677 BTUs
- Patented Smart Limit Protection keeps the unit from overheating
- Can be used with either a built-in or wall-mounted thermostat
Cons
- Color-coded/wired construction may take a learning curve to adjust
With a variety of wattage options and the company’s original “Pic-A-Watt” element, this wall heater from King allows tailoring to a room’s specific requirements, heating up a maximum of 500 square feet. At 13.5 inches wide by 7.5 inches high and designed to recess into the wall with simple tools, the whisper-quiet “squirrel cage” blower is quiet enough for bedrooms.
To choose the wattage, simply unplug the appropriate wires during installation using the color-coded instructions. Use it with a built-in or wall-mounted thermostat. The Patented Smart Limit Protection will shut off the heat to avoid a thermal event and must be turned on manually to reset the heater.
Get the King Electric wall heater at The Home Depot or Walmart.
Best Electric Fireplace
PuraFlame Klaus Electric Fireplace Insert
Product Specs
- Type: Forced-air heater
- Wattage: 1,500 watts
- Compatible square footage: 400 square feet
Pros
- 1,500-watt heater has a heat output of over 4,600 BTUs; capable of heating over 400 square feet
- Has realistic flames and embers as well as 6 crackling fireplace sounds
- All changes and adjustments can be made with the included remote control
Cons
- Slightly higher price tag compared to other options on the market
- Fireplace insert design may be tougher to install than comparable options
For a more high-end wall heater, consider the PuraFlame Klaus electric fireplace insert. Though it may take a little more work to install, this model is made for heating over 400 square feet while creating the classic, luxurious look of a real fireplace. It has a heating output of over 4,600 BTUs with its 1,500-watt heater, and the heat can be adjusted with the included remote control.
This model uses LED flames and embers to create its scarily realistic look of an actual fire while also including six crackling sound choices. Plus, there is a spark-arresting curtain for even more authenticity. All in all, this wall heater provides all the heat and luxury one could hope for with a midrange price tag that won’t break the bank.
What our tester says: Tom Scalisi, a Bob Vila product tester and staff writer, notes in The Best Electric Fireplace Heaters, “There are things we really enjoyed about the PuraFlame Klaus electric fireplace insert. It was the most realistic-looking electric heater we tested, from the spark-arrest curtains to the log glow and the flames.” Get the PuraFlame Klaus wall heater at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Wall Heater
While you’re browsing for an electric wall heater, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind. To ensure your heater can do what you need it to (i.e., keep you comfy and cozy on cold, wintry nights), here are a few shopping considerations to factor in when making a purchase.
Type
There are several types of heaters out there. When it comes to space heaters, you can choose between convection heaters, ceramic fan-forced heaters, radiant and infrared heaters, and mica thermic space heaters. Unlike portable heaters, electric wall heaters are recessed inside a wall—which means they’re hardwired into an electrical branch circuit.
Electric heaters come in a variety of styles, including wall heaters, toe-kick heaters, baseboard heaters, and cove or panel heaters. Wall heaters, sometimes referred to as “forced fan heaters,” combine a fan (as the name suggests) and a heating element to circulate heated air throughout the room. If you’re worried about noise, infrared electric wall heaters use radiant heater panels instead of fans.
Heating Capacity
Electric wall heaters are designed to heat small spaces and shouldn’t be used as a primary heating source for large rooms or spaces. Electric wall heaters can work as a supplement to a larger unit. For example, the Broan-NuTone, White 198 High Capacity Wall Heater is packed with 4,000 watts of power but was designed to heat up to 400 square feet max. Heating an entire home with electric wall heaters would most likely mean you’d need one heater per room, which could make for an outrageously expensive utility bill.
Heat Settings
The heat settings of a standard electric wall heater can range from 750 watts, which is usually the minimum, to 4,000 watts. (Though there are high-wattage heaters built to heat larger areas.) Wall heaters can be powered by 120V or 240V electricity and usually include a built-in thermostat. Some wall-mounted heaters, however, come with a detached thermostat that allows the user to control the temperature of one or more heaters at a time.
Energy Efficiency
Many 1,500-watt heaters offer a 750-watt option. This allows users to turn the heat down whenever they’re not in the room (or if they’re warm and comfortable with the heater set to a lower setting). This is just one of the ways electric heaters can be energy efficient.
Some electric heaters come with an automatic shut-off switch (auto shut-off switches are often found with wall-mounted fireplaces, too). The use of LED lights for fireplaces, as well as energy-saving options that drop the heat with a programmable thermostat or a timer, are all good options to keep the electric bills low.
Aesthetic
Choosing an electric wall heater depends on function and aesthetics. When shopping, think about your home’s decor and your personal style. The best electric wall-mounted heater will offer a balance of looks and utility. Some might choose an electric wall heater that looks like a traditional grate, thus lending a vintage air. Others may prefer a sleek, flat heater that blends into the room or fits well with modern décor.
The choice for a heater in the living room might look entirely different from the garage heater. Fortunately, electric wall heaters are available in a variety of designs and styles, so finding one that suits a particular home shouldn’t be a difficult task.
Safety
When it comes to heating the home, safety is always paramount. Look for features such as a timer or an overheat shut-off function, which will cut the power if the heater becomes too hot. An automatic shut-off function, in which the electric heater shuts down after a certain period of time, might be helpful for those who need it for only a small space and aren’t worried about preventing pipes from freezing or other cold-weather catastrophes. A cool-to-touch casing is also a good idea, especially in a home with small children, as well as on-off buttons or switches that are hard for kids to reach.
Noise Level
For those who are worried about noise, a radiant heater may be the way to go, as fan-forced heaters can be noisy. Though most modern heaters have a noise level that is acceptable for even a bedroom. If there’s any question about a fan being too loud, it’s important to go with radiant heat for a very quiet experience.
Installation
Electric wall-mounted heaters are designed to be recessed into the wall, which requires careful cutting of drywall to insert the “can” or box that the heater uses for safe installation. Even so, once the hole is prepared, installation is a matter of a few screws. Those who aren’t very handy with household tools should hire a contractor to handle the installation of a recessed heater.
FAQs
Though you’ve already got plenty of information on electric wall heaters, you might still have questions about which one is the best for you. Here are some other considerations to keep in mind when choosing the best electric wall heater.
Q. How large of an area can an electric wall heater handle?
A typical rule of thumb is that every 500 watts heats up to 100 square feet of space. Therefore, a 1,000-watt heater can handle up to 200 square feet while a 1,500-watt heater can heat up to 300 square feet. Keep in mind this is if the heater is the dedicated heat source. As a supplemental heater, it can cover more square footage.
Q. Are electric wall heaters noisy?
Some electric wall heaters have a fan that forces heated air into the room. This fan makes some noise. Other wall heaters use radiant heating, which is silent.
Q. Is it safe to use an electric wall heater?
As long as you follow all the safety instructions that come along with the manual, an electric wall heater can be just as safe as any other heater. In fact, it might be safer than a space heater, as there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning associated with electric heaters.
Q. Are electric wall heaters cheaper to use than gas heaters?
Though the electric wall heater might cost less for the initial purchase and installation, the cost of electricity is often higher than that of gas, meaning the electric option will cost more in monthly costs.
