When winter hits or chilly days linger, staying warm in an office setting becomes essential—not just for comfort, but also for productivity. A cold workspace can make it difficult to concentrate and lead to physical discomfort over time.
Portable heating devices are a convenient solution, offering warmth exactly where you need it without requiring extensive (and often costly) alterations to office spaces. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to pick the right portable heater for your needs.
This guide will walk you through some of the best portable heating devices for office work, taking into account factors like safety, efficiency, energy consumption, and ease of use.
Table of Contents
1. Why Use a Portable Heater in the Office?
Portable heaters are ideal for adding a quick boost of warmth in small spaces without affecting the entire office building’s heating system. They’re particularly useful for:
- Remote workers who work in less-than-ideal setups, such as basements or attics.
- Shared office spaces where the central heating system is beyond your control.
- Energy efficiency as portable heaters can often warm up a small area, reducing the need to crank up central heating.
- Individualized comfort when co-workers might have different temperature preferences.
2. Types of Portable Heaters
Portable heaters come in various types, each with different heating mechanisms. Here’s an overview of the most common types:
- Ceramic Heaters: Use ceramic plates and aluminum baffles to produce heat. They’re efficient and cool to the touch, making them a safe choice.
- Infrared Heaters: Emit infrared rays that directly warm people and objects rather than the surrounding air. They’re fast but may have limited range.
- Oil-Filled Radiators: Use oil as a heat reservoir, providing steady, lasting warmth. They’re slower to heat up but are highly effective for extended use.
- Fan Heaters: Compact and quick, fan heaters disperse warmth throughout a small room using a fan to push hot air. They are not as quiet but are very effective for spot heating.
Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into some of the top portable heaters for office environments.
3. Top Portable Heating Devices for Office Use
a) Lasko Ceramic Portable Space Heater
Features:
- Power: 1500 Watts
- Adjustable thermostat with multiple heat settings
- Safety features: Automatic overheat protection, cool-touch exterior
The Lasko Ceramic Heater is a highly popular option for small office spaces due to its compact size, efficiency, and reliable safety features. The ceramic element heats up quickly, and the fan evenly distributes warmth throughout the space. With a built-in thermostat, you can adjust the temperature as needed. Safety features include overheat protection and a cool-touch exterior, which makes it ideal for small, enclosed spaces where safety is a top priority.
Pros:
- Fast heating and adjustable thermostat
- Compact and lightweight design
- Affordable
Cons:
- Fan can be somewhat noisy
- Not as energy-efficient for long-term use
b) Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
Features:
- Power: 1500 Watts
- Dual heating system combining infrared and ceramic elements
- Eco-mode to save energy
For a larger office or those with higher ceilings, the Dr. Infrared Heater is an excellent option. Its dual heating system combines infrared and ceramic elements to provide consistent warmth, and its eco-mode adjusts heating based on room temperature, helping you save on energy costs. It also includes a remote control for easy adjustments from your desk, making it a top choice for those needing more robust heating.
Pros:
- Effective for larger spaces
- Energy-saving eco-mode
- Comes with a remote control
Cons:
- Bulky design
- Pricier than simpler models
c) Dyson Hot+Cool Fan Heater
Features:
- Power: 1500 Watts
- Bladeless fan design for safety and ease of use
- Functions as both a heater and a cooling fan
The Dyson Hot+Cool Fan Heater is a premium option, perfect for year-round office use. With a sleek, bladeless design, it is exceptionally safe and quiet, ideal for office settings where noise could be a distraction. It doubles as a cooling fan, so it’s useful for both cold winters and hot summers. While on the pricier side, it’s a versatile, high-quality device for those who value a modern look and multi-functionality.
Pros:
- Safe, bladeless design
- Quiet operation
- Dual functionality for heating and cooling
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited range for heating large rooms
d) Vornado VH10 Vortex Heater
Features:
- Power: 1500 Watts
- Vortex technology for even heat distribution
- Two heat settings with a thermostat dial
The Vornado VH10 Vortex Heater uses vortex technology to circulate warm air throughout the room, which can prevent any “hot spots” near the device while leaving other areas cold. This makes it an excellent choice for medium-sized offices or spaces where uniform heat is desired. It also includes tip-over protection, automatic shutoff, and a cool-touch case, all of which contribute to safe operation in any office environment.
Pros:
- Consistent, even heating
- Quiet operation
- Multiple safety features
Cons:
- Slightly larger than some compact models
- Heat may be less intense than some other 1500W heaters
e) Honeywell HCE200W UberHeat Ceramic Heater
Features:
- Power: 1500 Watts
- Compact design, ideal for desks
- Two heat settings with an adjustable thermostat
The Honeywell UberHeat Ceramic Heater is a great choice for those who need a small, affordable, and efficient heater for personal use. Its compact design makes it perfect for desks or under desks, and the ceramic element provides quick, consistent warmth. Despite its small size, it has two heat settings and an adjustable thermostat, allowing you to personalize the temperature to your comfort.
Pros:
- Compact and easy to place on desks
- Affordable and efficient
- Quick, direct heat
Cons:
- Limited to small spaces
- Lacks advanced safety features
4. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Heater
a) Size and Portability
Consider whether you need the heater to be mobile or if it will stay in one spot. Smaller, lighter heaters like ceramic models are great for portability, while heavier oil-filled radiators might be better for stationary use.
b) Noise Level
Offices require quiet environments, so be sure to check for noise levels. Fan-based heaters may produce more sound than infrared or ceramic models. Bladeless options like the Dyson models are especially quiet, making them ideal for quiet office spaces.
c) Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption varies by heater type, with infrared and ceramic models often being more efficient for quick, targeted warmth. Look for models with eco-modes or adjustable thermostats to manage power usage effectively.
d) Safety Features
Essential in office environments, especially in shared spaces, safety features like automatic shut-off, overheat protection, and cool-to-the-touch exteriors can prevent accidents and reduce risks.
e) Heating Coverage
Choose a heater that’s appropriate for the size of your office space. A small desk heater may suffice for personal use, but larger offices may need something with more power or a circulation system like vortex technology.
5. Tips for Using Portable Heaters Safely in the Office
Using a portable heater safely is paramount to avoid accidents and ensure smooth operation. Here are some practical tips:
- Place on stable surfaces to prevent tipping.
- Avoid extension cords if possible, as heaters typically draw significant power.
- Maintain clearance around the heater, keeping it away from papers or other flammable materials.
- Switch it off when not in use, especially if leaving your desk or the office.
