Among all the parts of your home, the basement can get extremely cold year-round. This is mainly because of its location underground. As we learned in science class, hot air tends to rises while cold air sinks. So, the heat usually rises to your home’s upper levels, leaving your basement colder than the rest of your house.
To keep your basement warm and cozy even in the winter, you need a good space heater that can efficiently handle the entire space. Whether you have central heating or not, a large space heater is the best solution to add heat to your cold basement. Space heaters use different sources of power to provide varying levels of heat. To find the best heater for your basement, some factors you will need to consider are the type, heating capacity, settings, safety features, and coverage. If you want to learn more, we will talk about these in detail in the following guide we’ve put together.
If you’re in a hurry, below are our top seven picks and some important features you must know.
Basement Heaters Reviewed in This Guide
| Product Image | Product Name | Product Details | Prize |
 | Lasko 755320 | Best Ceramic Heater 2 heat settings (high 1500W / low 900W) 8-Hour Timer Overheat protection and cool-touch housing Dimensions: 7.25 x 8.6 x 23 inches | Check Prize |
 | Dr Infrared Heater 968 | Best Infrared Heater Dual Heating System 1500W 12-hour Timer Dimensions: 13 x 12.5 x 17 inches | Check Prize |
 | De’Longhi TRD40615E | Best Oil-Filled Heater Three heating options (900W, 1500W) 24-hour On/Off Timer Permanently sealed Dimensions: 16.4 x 10.3 x 26.1 inches | Check Prize |
 | Duraflame DFI-5010 | Best Fireplace Heater 5,200 BTU 1,000 square feet Dimensions: 13.07 x 24 x 23.4 inches | Check Prize |
 | Heat Storm HS-1000-WX | Best Wall-mounted Infrared Heater 1000W / 3400 BTUs 500 sq. ft. supplemental heat 200 sq. ft. primary heat Remote control and Wi-Fi enabled Dimensions: 13 x 3.63 x 16.5 inches | Check Prize |
 | Mr. Heater F299731 | Best Gas Heater Vent-free Blue Flame Propane Heater Heat Output: 30,000 BTU Coverage: 1,000 square feet 23.75 x 11.25 x 27 inches | Check Prize |
Best Space Heater for Basement Reviews List
Lasko 755320
Lasko is known for manufacturing high-powered fans, space heaters, and other home ventilation products. If you want an affordable, portable, and easy-to-use supplemental heater for your basement space, Lasko offers a wide selection of convection-type ceramic heaters. The Lasko 755320 heater is one of their best-selling offers. It has all the basic features you need in an electric heater including digital controls. The slim design makes it easier to move across your basement or upstairs as well as store it when not needed.
Most Lasko tower heaters use a ceramic heating element to provide consistent heat output. The Lasko 755320 features a thermostat that allows you to set the temperature you prefer and monitor it on the digital display. With simple control buttons on the top, you can also pick between two heat settings: Low (900 Watts) or High (1500 Watts). You can select oscillation to spread the heat evenly throughout the room and set a timer to turn off after one to eight hours. The unit also comes with a remote control so you can change the settings from a distance, including the temperature, oscillation, and timer.
This ceramic space heater is designed only to supplement your central heating in large spaces like your basement. It can effectively add heat to spaces up to 200 square feet. Although, its efficiency depends on the room’s insulation. If you’re concerned about the noise levels, you need not worry because Lasko is known for quiet operation. Since this heater uses a fan to distribute heat, this is the only sound you’ll likely hear. For safety, it’s built with automatic overheat protection and cool-touch housing.
Pros
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use controls
• Widespread oscillation
• Adjustable thermostat
• Quiet operation
• Affordable price
Cons
• Only for supplemental heating
Dr. Infrared Heater DR-968
For a large basement, you need a more powerful space heater like the Dr. Infrared Heater 968. Ideally, this infrared heater can cover huge spaces up to 1,000 square feet. Its Dual Heating System combines an infrared quartz tube and PTC to provide maximum amount of heat and comfort for the whole space. Because of infrared heating, the unit uses 100% of its heat, creating almost zero heat loss.
This basement heater comes with an adjustable thermostat and a temperature display for precise temperature control. You can choose between the High and Low heat settings or Eco mode which automatically selects the setting depending on your desired temperature.
To make it more convenient, you can also change the settings with the remote control. Safety features include overheating protection, tip-over protection, and cool-touch housing.
Infrared only heats up the objects in the room, so the air does not lose moisture. Combining this with convection heat, the Dr. Infrared Heater provides faster heating evenly distributed throughout your basement. If you have extra dry winters, this heater is also available with a built-in humidifier. While it’s a powerful heater, the fan runs quietly and the built-in wheels add portability. Although, one disadvantage according to users is the product’s less reliable durability.
Pros
• Large coverage area
• High efficiency
• Easy to use controls
• Adjustable thermostat
• Option to add humidifier function
Cons
• Poor durability
De’Longhi TRD40615E
Oil heaters or radiators are another common reliable way to provide radiant heat to your basement. While other types use some heating element inside the unit, this radiator is filled with warm oil that heats the metal fins inside. The oil retains heat and does not serve as fuel, so there’s no need for a refill. Unlike most oil-filled heaters, this model from De’Longhi adds a cover so the metal isn’t exposed, retaining more heat and providing extra protection.
The LCD screen and digital controls on the front include two heat settings (Low at 900W and High at 1500W) and Eco mode for more energy savings, as well as an adjustable thermostat. You can also set the timer to turn on or off after one to 24 hours. All of these settings can be changed using the remote control.
While this type of heater may seem dangerous, it’s actually very safe to use with features like overheating protection and tip-over protection. Its best selling point is the excellent heat retention. It’s taller than other types of heater but still portable with a cool-touch handle, 360 degrees rotating wheels, and power cord storage. A few negative comments about the noise is normal, you can simply operate at a lower setting or in Eco mode to reduce the noise. Some users also note that the metal cover results to heat going upwards.
Pros
• Long heat retention
• Covered metal fins protect from accidental touching
• Light and portable
• Easy to use
Cons
• Noise levels
• Heat may be directed up
Duraflame DFI-5010
A fireplace or wood stove gives the home a best kind of warm and cozy feel, but they require vents and a lot more maintenance like chopping wood and cleaning up soot. If you want the same comfort of a real fireplace without the mess, get an electric fireplace heater. For your basement or any large room, the Duraflame DFI-5010 electric space heater provides the warm and cozy feeling of a real wood stove with the patent-pending 3D flame effect and realistic dancing flames on wood logs.
You can adjust the color and brightness settings to suit the room or your mood. Since it uses an infrared quartz element for heating, Duraflame can provide heat quickly without drying out the air. It can deliver up to 5,200 BTU heat to large spaces up to 1,000 square feet. It also features a built-in timer that can be set for 30 minutes, one hour, up to nine hours. In addition, this electric heater features a digital thermostat to set the temperature and maintain it throughout the room. It’s useful year-round since the flame effects can operate without the heat, serving as a stylish decor during the summer.
The Duraflame fireplace heater comes in multiple color choices to blend into your basement interior. Safety features include overheating protection and cool-touch housing. While it is a great addition to your basement, the wood stove design is larger than most other heaters and will require a larger space in your room. Also, most of the negative reviews note that the heater does not last very long.
Pros
• Large coverage area
• High heat output
• Realistic 3D flame effects
• Adjustable thermostat
Cons
• Larger physical size
• Durability issues
Heat Storm HS-1000-WX
If you don’t want to waste any floor space for a seasonal appliance, opt for a wall-mounted heater. Heat Storm offers a selection of infrared heaters, including this wall-mounted HS-1000-WX unit. You get all the benefits of an infrared heater packed in a compact and stylish design that surely complements a modern basement.
Unlike most space heaters, this Heat Storm unit consumes 1000 Watts of electricity, generating a maximum of 3400 BTU of heat. It can cover up to 200 square feet as a primary heat source, and up to 500 square feet as supplemental heat. Actual size and performance will still depend on your insulation and current temperature outdoors.
You can set the temperature on the top control panel or with the included remote control. If you have kids around, pressing the power button for five seconds will lock the controls to avoid changing the settings. The unit itself includes only the power button and arrow buttons, so all its functions need some getting used to.
To make setting and adjusting easier, this model connects to your Wi-Fi network so you can control the settings or set schedules from your mobile device. Overall, it’s an elegant and compact unit that offers most of the standard functions of a space heater for basement. Safety features include overheat protection, tip-over protection, and cool-touch housing.
Pros
• Wall mount design occupies less space
• Less power consumption
• Large coverage
• Wi-Fi control for convenience
Cons
• Can be difficult to use controls
Mr. Heater F299730
Mr. Heater is popular for their portable propane heaters suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. For a permanent heating solution in your basement, you cannot go wrong with this powerful and reliable Mr. Heater ventless wall-mounted propane heater. It delivers a maximum of 30,000 BTU enough to heat a basement or large spaces up to 1,000 square feet. The unit is compact yet delivers fast and effective heat using convection method.
This propane heater uses blue flame technology which transfers heat to the air and distributes it to the room from the ceiling down. This indoor propane heater can be wall-mounted or freestanding with included feet and hardware. It can be turned on using the electronic ignition while the thermostat automatically regulates the temperature in the room.
This heater doesn’t require ventilation and is ideal for heating a well-insulated basement. If you want to connect to a standard propane tank, you will need to purchase the hose and fittings separately. One-pound propane tanks are usually allowed for indoor use, but check your local regulations to be sure.
This ventless heater is built with all the safety features you need in any gas appliance. For better heat distribution, you can also purchase a separate blower fan kit. This unit is also available in smaller sizes if you need it for a smaller room, from 10,000 to 20,000 BTU. However, they are not sold in California and Canada, so if you’re from any of these areas, electric heaters may be better options for you.
Pros
• Up to 30,000 BTU heat capacity
• Large coverage of 1,000 sq ft.
• With built-in thermostat for automatic control
• Includes safety features
Cons
• Installation costs
• Not available in CA and Canada
Do You Need Space Heaters For Basements?
Due to its location in your home, the basement is usually colder than the upper floors. This is because most of the heat rises while cold air settles down into your basement. Without enough ventilation, moist air also gets trapped in your basement. When the moist air comes into contact with the cold basement walls and floors, condensation occurs and water seeps into your foundation. Even without standing water, you may notice damp spots on the walls, which can lead to other problems.
Furthermore, the lack of windows limits the natural light and fresh air that gets into your basement. All of these result in a cold and humid basement. This is not only uncomfortable for you, but it also makes an environment suitable for mold growth. Before it’s too late, you need to control the cold air and moisture in your basement. While many homes have central heating for the entire house, it involves a much greater investment and more complicated installation. To ensure it has enough heat to keep the environment healthy and comfortable for you, your basement needs a space heater.
These little heaters are compact enough so they don’t take up a lot of space in the room to keep you warm. The lightweight and compact designs mean you can also move them from one room to another as needed so you don’t have to buy a space heater for each room. Some models can be mounted on the wall while others have handles and wheels for mobility.
Types of Space Heaters for Basements
Space heaters for basements use either of the two methods of heat transfer: radiation and convection. In radiation, the heat transfer occurs through electromagnetic waves, spreading through the objects surrounding the heater. Meanwhile, in convection, heat is transferred by distributing the hot air throughout the space.
These heaters also use different sources of power, mainly two: electricity and gas. Depending on the size and ventilation in your basement, as well as the availability of resources, one may be more ideal than the other option.
Electric Heater
Most of the heaters we featured above run on electricity. They come in a range of sizes and styles but are usually limited in heating capacity. Electric heaters are simple to install and use and easy to move from room to room. They usually feature a digital thermostat for precise temperature control, along with the standard built-in safety features. Although, note that per BTU output, electricity is much more expensive than the alternative.
Propane Heater
A gas heater typically uses propane or butane as its power source. Gas space heaters can provide more heat and can be used or mounted almost anywhere. They are fueled by natural gas or liquid propane tank. Since it can produce carbon monoxide, a toxic gas, it’s generally used in open or well-ventilated areas, although there are many ventless heaters today. Aside from the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, moving the heater and the tank can be more inconvenient. Although, at a similar size, propane heaters are a lot more powerful and efficient than electric heaters, generating up to 30,000 BTU, compared to the typical 5,000 BTU of large electric heaters. Propane heaters may use either convection or radiation to spread heat.
Ceramic Heater
A ceramic heater is a compact and portable space heater that generates heat through a heating element, which then heats up ceramic plates inside the unit. Most ceramic heaters, including the Lasko unit, use convection to transfer the heat from the ceramic to the air that the fan blows, so it distributes heated air evenly throughout the room. However, there are also radiant ceramic heaters that don’t use fans.
Infrared Heater
Infrared heaters are the most common radiant space heater. They emit electromagnetic waves to heat up the objects around them rather than the air itself, a process similar to how the sun warms the Earth. Infrared heaters may sometimes come with a fan, but this is less common. This type of heater can warm up the room just moments after plugging in and even retain the heat for a while after being turned off because objects around it are heated up. It’s good for basements with poor insulation.
Fireplace Heater
These heaters also work using radiation similar to the infrared heater. The main difference is the design to look like a freestanding fireplace or stove. They feature artificial yet realistic flickering flames and logs in a wood stove or wall-mounted fireplace insert. Since they use radiation, they can retain heat long after shut off so the room can remain warm. Whether you want a traditional or modern look, electric fireplace heaters complete a homey aesthetic in your basement while keeping the room warm and comfortable. However, only a real, wood-burning fireplace insert or stove can provide exceptional heat output, going up to 70,000 BTU.
Oil-Filled Heater
Oil-filled heaters or radiators are another electric heater that uses radiation to transfer heat. They contain diathermic oil, which is then heated by electricity. The oil circulates around the metal columns, which you can usually see in plain view. When the columns are warm enough, the heat radiates throughout the room. Radiators don’t need fans to heat up the air around them. The oil will not be used up and need not be refilled, it is simply heated when the unit is turned on. This type of space heater is on the bigger or taller side, but they are portable with built-in wheels to move easily across the basement or up to other rooms.
Features to Look for in the Best Space Heaters for Basements
Choosing the best space heater for your basement can be an overwhelming task. To make the job easier for you, first consider the type of heater you want to narrow down your choices. Then, take note of the following factors that will determine the heater’s performance and your experience.
Heating Capacity
The heating capacity measures the amount of heat the unit can add to the room. For electric heaters, the heat output can be measured in Watts. This is the amount of power it consumes to generate heat. The most common power input for large electric heaters is 1500 Watts. This power should be enough to provide a primary source of heat for spaces up to 150 square feet. Lower heating settings will use less power (900 Watts or below).
Another measure of heat output is BTU or British Thermal Unit. This unit of measurement is typically used for air conditioners to indicate the amount of heat they can remove from the room. For space heaters, BTU is more commonly used for gas types. The smallest heating capacity for indoor gas heaters is 10,000 BTU. For comparison, 5,000 BTU is equivalent to about 1500 Watts for electric heaters.
Heating Coverage
Depending on its heating capacity, each space heater is recommended for a range of square footage. All the electric space heaters above have a maximum of 1500 Watts power consumption, except for the 1000-Watt Heat Storm infrared. The heating method used and the type of heater can also impact the total coverage area of the unit. As mentioned, gas or propane heaters have a higher heat output and consequently, a higher heating coverage.
Basement Insulation
There are other factors that can affect how much space your heater can effectively cover. For example, the insulation in your basement can help your heater reach all corners of the space. A tightly insulated basement has no cold drafts or moisture seeping into the space through small cracks. With more insulation, the heater can work more efficiently. Convection types with fans are great in this case because they spread the heated air evenly. Meanwhile, radiant heaters are ideal for basements with poor insulation because they heat up the objects around them instead of the air.
Central Heat
Additionally, the indoor temperature or the setting you select on the thermostat can either reduce or increase the load on the space heater. Your central heating if you have one will also affect the heater’s performance. If the central heater is not doing its job well, then the space heater will have to make up for it. If the furnace is already set to heat the room at a higher temperature, then the space heater will be able to supplement the heat even in spaces as large as 1,000 square feet. If the basement isn’t heated at all, the space heater can cover about one square foot for every Watt consumed. Lastly, a higher outdoor temperature will also contribute to a higher temperature inside the house.
Make sure that you find a unit that can effectively heat the entire space without any cold spots in your basement. Some space heaters may claim large areas of coverage, but always take note that these are only recommended for supplemental heating. To maximize coverage, you can add a space heater to your central heat or furnace if you have one installed in your HVAC system.
Built-in Controls
DIfferent types of space heaters provide various features to control the unit. Electric heaters offer more precise control over the unit’s operation to make it more effective and efficient according to your basement’s needs.
Thermostat
For one, a built-in thermostat monitors and adjusts the room temperature according to your selected settings and the ambient temperature. The electric heaters we listed feature digital controls so you can easily select the exact temperature you want with up and down arrow buttons instead of turning a control knob. To make it even easier, some electric heaters include multiple heating levels you can pick on the digital control panel. Some models will also automatically turn off when they sense the current temperature has reached your setting, then turn on again to maintain it.
Timer
All of the electric heaters above also feature a timer to automatically turn off or turn on the unit after a set amount of time. Smaller units have timer options for up to six or eight hours while larger units can be set for 12 to 24 hours. This feature can help save energy by only using the heater when it’s needed. In case you forget to turn it off before you go, you also won’t need to worry if you have the timer set.
Additional Features
Most electric heaters come with a remote control that allows you to do all the changes from anywhere in your basement. A few units even offer Wi-Fi capabilities so you can control the operation from your smartphone. Since these heaters are designed for a huge space like your basement, the largest units may require a lot of floor space. To avoid getting in your way, these space heaters are portable and some can be mounted on the wall.
Safety Features
Like most homeowners, you may have some concerns regarding the safety of using heaters in your basement. To ensure the safety of electric heaters, look for certifications from recognized organizations that test them, including UL (Underwriters Laboratory) and ETL (Intertek). If the heater has been tested and approved, there will be a label on the unit. Look for this label to make sure the unit has passed safety standards. Also, look for the following features:
Overheat Protection
Obviously, heaters have to generate a lot of heat. To prevent it from becoming a fire hazard, overheat protection ensures that the heater will automatically shut itself off when the heat reaches an unsafe level.
Tip-Over Protection
This feature automatically shuts off the unit if it becomes unstable or accidentally gets knocked over.
Cool-Touch Housing
While the internal components heat up, the exterior can also get too hot to touch, which can be dangerous with kids or pets in the room. A cool-touch housing prevents burns in case they accidentally touch the space heater.
Oxygen Depletion Sensor
For gas heaters, the unit must have a Low-Oxygen Shut Off or Oxygen Depletion Sensor. This is a critical feature built into every indoor gas heater. Since these heaters take in oxygen from the room and replace it with other gases, there are always chances of carbon monoxide poisoning. The ODS feature constantly monitors the oxygen levels in the room so when they fall below the safe levels, the heater will automatically shut off.
Space Heater Safety Tips
While space heaters are incredibly useful in basements, especially during the winter, they pose some safety risks if not used properly. The following are some tips to prevent your heater from turning into a hazard.
Firstly, make sure to use the right size and type of space heater for your basement. To ensure safe and efficient usage, always check all its safety certifications and built-in features. These heaters, including the propane unit, don’t require ventilation. In fact, you may be better off adding more insulation to enclose the basement tightly and prevent cold air from seeping inside.
Find a good location for the heater before installing and operating. Place it on a hard and flat surface and keep it away from other items that may cause it to overheat and potential fire hazards or flammable materials such as furniture and curtains. For units with fans, maintain a distance so the warm air does not blow directly on you.
When running the heater, occasionally check if it’s working normally to prevent any issues. Do not touch the unit itself while running or immediately after turning it off. If you notice anything unusual, turn it off and have the unit checked.
For gas heaters, install carbon monoxide detectors in multiple areas, but not too close to the unit when operating. Check for gas leaks regularly, and each time you connect the heater to its propane tank, check the connection points and hoses for damage or any potential gas leaks. Once the heater is running, do not move the unit to avoid tipping over.
Final Thoughts On The Best Space Heaters For Basements
You are free to follow these tips to ensure the safety and efficiency of your space heater for basement. This space in your house can get extremely cold even during the warmer months and you’ll surely benefit from a good space heater. Both electric and gas heaters have their own advantages and disadvantages. Always check your local regulations and other heater requirements to find the right type and size for your basement.
Once you’ve chosen the unit, consult the unit’s manual for detailed instructions on proper installation, usage, and maintenance of your space heater. For well-insulated basements, we recommend convection-type heaters with fans for evenly-distributed heat. For higher efficiency and longer heat retention in drafty basements, radiant heaters such as infrared models are beneficial. Whichever you decide to buy, make sure to always observe safety guidelines. Take another look at our top picks or use our guide to help you choose your own space heater for basement.
