5 Best Space Heaters for Large Rooms (with High Ceilings)

Dennis Howard
by Dennis Howard

Some homes develop cold spots. The cold spot in your home may be a large room with high ceilings that your HVAC system can’t manage to keep warm. Finding the best space heater for a large room with high ceilings can be a challenge

Sizing a space heater for a large room with high ceilings is more about volume than simple floor space. You must heat the volume of air in the room to gain warmth. Smaller space heaters can’t move enough air or generate enough heat to achieve a comfortable temperature. Our list of best space heaters for larger rooms with high ceilings considers air movement and room volume.

Heater Make and ModelType of Heating ElementAir Handling MethodWhere is this Heater Best Used?
Zhihe Space Heater, PTC 2000w Portable Ceramic with Oscillating FanCeramicForced Air Oscillating FanRooms larger than 10 ft by 10 ft with ceilings higher than 10 ft
Costway 5 in 1 Ceramic Heater and Air CoolerCeramicForced Air FanMulti-function design heats, cools, and humidifies in one unit. for areas where both heating and cooling are needed
Lasko 5775 Electric 1500w Ceramic Space HeaterCeramicForced Air Oscillating FanRooms smaller than 10 ft by 10 ft with ceilings between 8 and 12 feet high
Honeywell 360 Degree Surround Heater with Fan Forced TechnologyCeramicForced Air Fan with 360 Degree TechnologySmaller rooms with high ceilings up to 1200 cubic feet where directional fans won’t work
Stiebel Eltron 074057 240-Volt 2000-Watts Wall Mounted Electric Fan HeaterNichrome WireDowndraft Forced AirWall mount technology eliminates free-standing space heaters

Sizing a heater for air volume in a room that needs to be heated ensures that the heater operated efficiently and effectively. Heaters that are too small for the volume of air will run continuously. Heaters too large for a given volume of air will tend to cycle on and off quickly. This constant cycling is hard on the heater and inefficient. Let’s look at our heater choices.

1. Best Space Heater for Extreme Rooms – Zhihe Space Heater, PTC 2000w Portable Ceramic with Oscillating Fan

Many larger homes feature entertainment areas of gathering areas with large square footage and extremely high ceilings. Rooms with vaulted ceilings with loft areas fit in this category. Typically, rooms with a total volume over 1,400 cubic feet need a space heater of at least 2,000 watts.

The Safety Challenge

The Zhihe space heater fits this bill perfectly. Dual wattage allows you to run this heater at the full 2,000 watts or select the 1,300 watts setting for more efficient operation. Zhihe incorporates a full suite of safety features as well as the latest technology in ceramic heating. Safety is always a primary concern when using electric space heaters, and Zhihe offers the finest safety features.

  • High flame resistance rating on all materials used in the construction of the fan
  • Overheat protection sensors shut down the electricity if the heater gets too hot
  • A 15-hour timer allows you to set the clock and know the heater will turn off at a prescribed time.
  • Eight hours auto-off feature turns the heater off after 8 hours if you don’t set the timer.
  • The tip-over switch turns the heater off if it leaves the upright operating position for any reason.

Warming and Moving the Air

Large volumes of space in an open concept room with high ceilings need lots of airflow to manage a comfortable temperature. The Zhihe heater includes several features to ensure that your large volume of space heats most efficiently.

  • Three heating modes. 2,000 watt, 1,300 watts, and Eco Mode. In Eco Mode, the Zhihe heater will self-adjust the heating mode based on the ambient temperature in the room for the most economical operation
  • The fan oscillates through a wide 70-degree angle to move air most efficiently. This increased heat distribution area means a more even heating pattern and greater comfort.
  • High tech ceramic heating elements reach operating temperature in as little as three seconds. No long energy-wasting heat up time

Looks, Sound, and Operation

Fitting a space heater into a room can be a big problem in some spaces. The Shahe space heater fits well into almost any décor. The tall, slender design is discreet and fits into almost any space with ease. When operating, the Zhihe fan is quiet, emitting only 45 decibels of noise on the highest settings. At this level, most people won’t even notice the fan is operating, even in a bedroom while sleeping.

Our Thoughts and Impressions

Overall, the Zhihe Space heater is of great value, especially if you need additional heat in a large room with high ceilings. The Zhihe space heater impresses us in several categories.

  • Quiet and Efficient Operation – the extremely low noise level and the Eco Mode smart technology make the Shahe space heater a winner in this area.
  • Remote Control Operation – The advantages of a remote control should be obvious. Operating the fan from anywhere in a large room gives you the freedom to place the space heater for best results and maintain control from a distance
  • Effective Air Flow – The large airflow and the wide oscillating design ensure even heat distribution in large spaces. These features make for a more economical and efficient space heater.

2. Best Combination Style Space Heater – Costway 5 in 1 Ceramic Heater and Air Cooler

If your HVAC system doesn’t keep the room comfortable during cold weather, the system won’t operate effectively during hot weather. If this is the case, a combination heater and cooler may be an answer. Having a true all-season unit in the room can meet several needs.

The Costway 5 in 1 Ceramic heater and air cooler meets these types of challenges in large rooms. The capability to heat air and cool air doubles the efficiency of the Costway 5 in 1 unit. Also, this unit can help humidify your space for even greater comfort.

The Safety Challenge

Any appliance that heats large volumes of air must meet certain safety requirements to operate in your home. Costway addresses these issues effectively with the features included in the Costway 5 in 1 ceramic heater and cooler.

  • Overheat protection for safe operation even when unattended. The overheat sensor will shut the heater down if the heater reaches an unsafe temperature.
  • Tip-over protection shuts the unit off if it accidentally tips from its normal operating posture. This feature makes this heating unit safe for use with larger pets or small children
  • An eight-hour timer allows you to set the heater to work and leave it knowing the unit will automatically shut down as a pre-set time.
  • The Costway heater is laboratory tested to the most stringent specifications for safe operation and years of use.

Warming and Moving the Air

The Costway 5 in 1 ceramic heater and cooling system meets all the needs of managing temperature in a large volume of space. The added advantage of cooling the air in the room makes this unit a true year-round comfort machine.

  • This unit is a true multi-function design for increased value and efficiency. Heat, cool, humidify, and purify the air in one machine.
  • Three fan modes and speeds allow you to choose the most efficient way to operate the Costway heater and cooler.
  • Ceramic heating elements reach operating temperature in as little as three seconds and operate more efficiently than other heating elements.
  • Three power settings, 75w, 1000w, and 2000w, provide a wide operation range for maximum efficiency

Looks, Sound, and Operation

The Costway 5 in 1 heating and cooling unit is an attractive and versatile machine that will fit into any room. These multi-function space heaters/coolers include four easy-glide casters to make moving the units fast and easy. The versatility of the Costway 5 in 1 heater and cooler adds value to the machine. This appliance can help keep you and your family comfortable year-round.

Our Thoughts and Impressions

What’s not to like about the Costway 5 in 1 heating and cooling appliance. True year-round comfort is something your family will enjoy and appreciate. It is the same set of features that impress us about this machine.

  • Heating and Cooling in One Unit – The option to use the Costway 5 in 1 machine year-round adds tremendous value to this unit.
  • More than Just a Space Heater – The Costway 5 in 1 unit is an efficient and effective space heater. Adding the capability to cool the air, humidify the air, and purify the air are additions that many people can appreciate.
  • Remote control and Electronic Display – You can’t downplay the convenience of a remote control. The ability to adjust your space heater from anywhere in the room is a great feature. The large easy to read electronic display lets you see exactly how your Costway 5 in 1 heater is configured at any time.

3. Best Space heater for Medium Size Room with Taller Ceilings – Lasko 5775 Electric 1500w Ceramic Space Heater

Many newer homes have ceilings in the 10 to 12-foot height range. When rooms with ceilings of this height need extra heating capacity, a space heater in the 1500 to 1900 watt range is the best choice. Lasko offers the 5775 model of electric space heater in this size range just for these applications.

The Lasko 5775 Ceramic space heater is a sleek modern looking appliance with all the best technology and features for safe and efficient operation. This ceramic heater’s size ensures efficient and economical operation in rooms up to 1,200 cubic feet of volume. Feature-wise the Lasko 5775 ceramic heater isn’t lacking.

The Safety Challenge

The Lasko 5775 ceramic heater excels in safety as well as in heating efficiency. There will never be a question about using the Lasko ceramic heater in your home around pets and children. These safety features include:

  • Overheat protection shuts the Lasko ceramic heater off if the thermal sensor reaches a preset temperature. Overheat technology protects you and your family should the heater accidentally become covered, or the heater’s airflow becomes restricted.
  • Tip Safety sensors shut the unit down if accidentally tipped over during operation. This feature makes the Lasko ceramic heater safe to leave unattended with pets or children.
  • The Lasko ceramic heater incorporates a cool-touch housing design for safety. You won’t experience any hot spots on the heater’s exterior that could cause burns if touched.
  • A built-in thermostat keeps the Lasko ceramic heater operating at the proper temperature based on the room’s ambient air temperature. You needn’t worry about overheating.

Warming and Moving the Air

Air circulation is the key to efficient heating with a ceramic-type space heater. The Lasko ceramic space heater excels at efficient air movement for the most effective heating of your space. Lasko utilizes several technologies to address these important aspects of the space heater design.

  • A patented comfort system projects heated air efficiently into space where heat is needed
  • Two heat setting allow you to customize the amount of heat projected into your space
  • Thermostatic heat control adjusts the heat output based on the ambient room temperature
  • Oscillating fan design ensures even distribution of heated air in the space. You can be sure there will be no more hot and cold spots in the room.

Looks, Sound, and Operation

The sleek modern design of the Lasko 5775 ceramic heater fits well into any room. These heaters are compact yet provide maximum heating efficiency. The quiet operation is unobtrusive, even if a bedroom. The easy-to-read and use top-mounted controls make this one of the simplest ceramic heaters to operate.

Our Thoughts and Impressions

In rooms of up to 1200 cubic feet, the Lasko Ceramic Heater is a great solution. Simple design, easy operation, and efficient heat distribution all combine to make this a great option. In particular, we like these things about this ceramic space heater:

  • Elegant Styling – The styling and appearance of the Lasko 5775 ceramic heater are visually pleasing and won’t detract from your home décor.
  • Efficient Design – The oscillating fan and ceramic heating elements combine to make this one of the most efficient ceramic space heaters available.
  • Easy to Use Operation – The top-mounted controls are easy to see and easy to operate. Putting all the buttons and displays on the top at an angle that makes them easy to read is a plus.

4. Best Space Heater for Omnidirectional Use – Honeywell 360 Degree Surround Heater with Fan Forced Technology

Some rooms don’t lend themselves well to a directional forced fan ceramic heater. The arrangement of furniture or living areas precludes a typical oscillating fan design. Honeywell addresses these problems with the Honeywell 360 Degree Surround Ceramic Heater.

The Honeywell 360 degree heater directs air upwards in a 360-degree arc to send warm air into every part of a room without drafts, utilizing a unique design. The vertical airflow design gives even heating in large rooms with high ceilings.

The Safety Challenge

Honeywell has adapted the standard safety features to the 360-degree surround heater. You will have no worries about using this heater in your home, even with small children or pets. The Honeywell ceramic heater employs high-tech safety features such as:

  • Small low profile design with a low center of gravity for added tip-over protection
  • Tip-over switch technology to ensure safe shut-down should the ceramic heater be knocked over
  • Double overheat sensors prevent any danger from overheating if the heater is accidentally covered or left turned on for extended periods.
  • Built-in cool-touch handle for easy location changes even if the unit has been running

Warming and Moving the Air

Maximum air movement is the key to efficient heating with ceramic space heaters. The 360-degree design of this Honeywell ceramic heater ensures constant and even airflow to all parts of the room.

  • The adjustable thermostat keeps the room at a preset comfort level
  • Two heat settings for the most efficient room heating
  • The fan moves air 360 degrees around the ceramic heater to ensure even heating distribution in the room
  • 1500 watt heating element provides heated air for rooms up to 1200 cubic feet

Looks, Sound, and Operation

The low profile and small size of the Honeywell 360 degree ceramic heater is a huge plus. The heater is visually appealing, and the compact design makes it easy to place in a room without being obvious. The controls are easy to understand and operate. The unique updraft design makes the fan one of the quietest on the market.

Our Thoughts and Impressions

For large rooms with high ceilings where finding a place to set a typical upright space heater, the Honeywell 360-degree surround heater is perfect. We like the innovative concept of this ceramic heater in particular

  • 360-degree air delivery is efficient and effective – The unique updraft design allows heated air to circulation in every direction. You get even heated air delivery to every part of the room.
  • Compact Design – The Honeywell 360 degree ceramic heater’s low profile makes placing the heater into a room easy in most instances. The low profile and low center of gravity are also great safety features.
  • A Simple and Elegant Solution – The Honeywell ceramic heater is elegant in design and operation. No complicated electronic control. Two simple knobs control the heat settings and the thermostat settings.

5. Best Wall Mounted Space Heater – Stiebel Eltron 074057 240-Volt 2000-Watts Wall Mounted Electric Fan Heater

Space heaters for larger rooms with high ceilings don’t necessarily need to sit on the floor and occupy valuable floor space. Many times, room layout or furnishings make placing a free-standing space heater a problem.

The Stiebel Eltron 074057 wall-mounted space heater is a perfect solution where a free-standing space heater is not an option. Putting a space heater on a wall solves several other issues that many people find with floor-standing space heaters.

The Safety Challenge

Wall-mounted space heaters solve many of the safety challenges people find with conventional space heaters. The Stiebel Eltron wall-mounted space heater removes the issues with tipping and overheating due to accidental coverage with clothing or bedding. These Stiebel space heaters incorporate a set of innovative safety options.

  • Designed specifically for surface mounting on standard residential walls without issues or safety concerns
  • Cool to the touch housing prevents hot spots or hot to the touch heater problems.
  • No possibility of tipping or overheating from lack of airflow through the heater
  • Built-in thermostat and overheat protection sensors for safe and efficient operation

Warming and Moving the Air

The Stiebel Eltron wall-mounted space heaters excel in keeping large rooms with high ceilings comfortable. The unique down-flow air system directs warm air toward the floor for added comfort during cold weather. The down airflow system helps eliminate cold floors and cold feet.

  • Galvanized steel squirrel-cage type fans for high airflow and efficient air movement
  • Even heat distribution with the down-draft air movement
  • Built-in thermostat control maintains an even temperature in the space
  • 2,000 watts of efficient nichrome wire heating for maximum output

Looks, Sound, and Operation

The sleek design of the wall-mounted Stiebel Eltron space heaters fit into any room with ease. These German-engineered space heaters will give years of service without worries. The ball-bearing fans are quiet and deliver maximum airflow without overwhelming noise. The easy to use controls are intuitive and understandable

Our Thoughts and Impressions

Having a space heater for a large room with high ceilings that is out of the way and doesn’t take up floor space is an attractive alternative. It is these features that make this one of our favorite choices.

  • Wall-mounted design – Getting a space heater off the floor and out of the way makes the Stiebel Eltron space heaters a great alternative to free-standing space heaters. The wall=-mount design frees up floor space for other uses.
  • Down-draft air flow – Directing the airflow through the heater and sending the warmed air to the floor makes an efficient design. Warm air circulates toward where colder air accumulates and makes for a more pleasant environment.
  • Built-in thermostat or wall thermostat control – In rooms larger than 218 square feet, a wall-mount remote thermostat can control the Stiebel Eltron wall-mounted space heater. A remote thermostat can add to the efficiency and effectiveness of the heater in many situations.

Keeping Comfortable in Large Rooms with High Ceilings

When your HVAC system can’t cope with large areas and high ceilings, adding a space-heater to the area is a good alternative. If the space heater is chosen properly for the room’s size, the effect on comfort can be dramatic. We hope that our list of the best space heaters for large rooms with high ceilings helps you make the best choice for your home and comfort.

Dennis Howard
Dennis Howard

Dennis is a retired firefighter with an extensive background in construction, home improvement, and remodeling. He worked in the trades part-time while serving as an active firefighter. On his retirement, he started a remodeling and home repair business, which he ran for several years.

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