In some ways, ceramic heaters are better than other heaters. Portable ceramic heaters are convection heaters that use ceramic plates with aluminum baffles. Electricity moves through the ceramic, heating it up. Then, the aluminum absorbs the heat and the fan blows the hot air into the room. This creates radiant heat that can effectively keep small rooms warm, but loses its effectiveness in larger rooms. Still, ceramic heaters are really the only energy-efficient electric heaters.
Small Space
Ceramic heaters are better for homeowners with not a lot of space since they give off a lot of heat for their sizes. However, cramped areas can have a lot of objects that the small ceramic heater can heat up, potentially causing a fire. The fire dangers are reduced, since the ceramic heater casing doesn’t heat up as much, so only the heat blown into the room might cause a fire if concentrated. Many ceramic heaters have temperature control that can prevent these fires from occurring. The heater should also have a shutoff switch for if the heater gets knocked over.
Efficiency
The energy efficiency of ceramic electric heaters is higher than many other electric heaters. However, electric heaters are less efficient than propane heaters. Therefore, those who want to lower their energy costs or have a smaller impact on the environment might prefer these heaters. The most efficient heaters have rheostats that raise the electricity delivered to the heating element when the room is colder, while lowering the electricity when the room gets warmer so that the room reaches the ideal temperature.
Heating Coverage
Ceramic heaters are efficient only for small spaces, since they can’t generate enough heat to warm up larger spaces. However, since ceramic heaters are radiant heaters, those nearby the heater will still feel warm even in a large room. Ceramic heaters with oscillation functions can spread the heat over a broader area.
Dual Purpose
Ceramic heaters are dual-purpose, since you can switch off the heating element, turning the heater into a fan that can circulate air and mildly lower the room temperature. However, the fan models are more expensive than the ceramic heaters with no fans.
Cost Effectiveness
You can save more money with ceramic heaters over various other heaters. This makes the heater very cost effective when the area only occasionally needs heating, such as in homes found in mild climates, in cold basements or in offices. These heaters should not be used in bathrooms unless they’re specifically engineered to resist moisture.