ceramic electric heaters

Ceramic heaters generate heat by passing electricity through wires embedded in ceramic plates. They are now a very popular type of space heaters (maybe the most popular) and are available in several shapes and sizes.

Shapes and Sizes

Most ceramic heaters are small, compact units for personal heating, that is, just to heat the users and the space around them (and not the entire room). They are often placed directly in front of their users.

Their designs vary greatly - tower models, models with oscillation, compact units - as they capacity (most models have a capacity below 1,500 watts).

Ceramic Heater from Lasko Ceramic Heater from Honeywell

Top models and manufacturers

Lasko has dozens of popular and inexpensive ceramic heaters (tower, oscillating, personal and others). Holmes, Delonghi and Honeywell have also a large offer.

Online prices range between $20 and $90. You can see dozens of models and hundreds of customer reviews at Amazon.com, here: Ceramic space heaters.

Features

Even the cheapest ceramic heaters have an adjustable thermostat with three or more settings. They may have, for instance, a knob for selecting a 1500-watt high setting (around 5,000 BTU's), a 900-watt low setting (around 3,000 BTU's) or a fan-only option (to get no-heat air circulation). Most heaters also include automatic overheat protection.

But the exact features of ceramic heaters vary with the models, the manufacturers and the prices.

Here is an list of possible features: adjustable louvers; heat settings; fan only function; built-in thermostat; timer; filter; air purification; automatic shut-off; power indicator light; carrying recessed handle; oscillation; remote control; automatic temperature control; touch screen; LCD screen; wall mountable.

Cleaning and maintenance

Cleaning and maintenance of ceramic heaters is easy. The grill can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner (removing lint and dirt from the inside of the heater is important).

Warranties

Prefer a UL-listed ceramic heater, or other qualified model. If possible, look for a unit with a three-year warranty (most units have a one-year warranty).

Safety

Electric ceramic heaters are very safe; they may include extra-safety features like a safety switch to shut the heaters off, if they fall over.

Prices

The most expensive units, with advanced features, may cost you around $70-$90. The most popular ceramic heaters (small units) are sold at prices around $20-$40.

Running costs

The running costs of ceramic electric heathers are relatively small compared with other electric heaters.

Uses and advantages

Ceramic heaters heat up relatively quickly and can ensure effective and consistent radiant/convection heating. They are mainly used to heat directly the occupants of a room, or small rooms and offices. They respond to the heating needs of people in small offices and rooms.

Disadvantages

Small electric ceramic heaters share some of the disadvantages of other electric heaters. Though more efficient than most electric heaters, the running costs are still high for extended uses. Some models can also turn the air dry, and may have hidden flaws.