There’s nothing better than hanging out in a cosy basement during the depths of the coldest winters. Whether you’re playing games, chilling and watching movies, or anything else, no one wants to spend time in a basement when it’s cold.
But heating a basement requires adding one or two of the best electric heaters, even with a competent furnace. According to Remodel Realty, the average sized basement in the USA ranges between 500-1,500 square feet with eight-foot ceilings.
Even if we’re heating the smallest basement on this scale, that’s an enormous space to keep comfortable and warm. And some homes will have issues with dampness.
So, what are the best electric heaters for basements in 2023? After all, if you buy an additional electric heater that’s not up for the challenge, your basement will remain frosty. And it’s worth mentioning that running any electric heater at maximum capacity means a high utility bill at month’s end.
So with the prospect of a cold unusable basement and high energy bill motivating you to make the right decision, we’ve done the research and selected the 12 Best Electric Basement Heater Options. Here’s how we made the selection process.
Table of Contents
Top 12 Electric Basement Heaters This Year: Our Criteria and Results
We needed to consider a few factors when reviewing the best electric basement heater options. Transportability and moveability were crucial factors for an electric heater that owners might be required to move around.
Suppose you have the disposable income to purchase a permanent heater living in the basement; good for you, but that’s a different article.
Anyway! Other requirements we looked out for are how efficient the heaters are, how many additional comfort features are included, price points, peer reviews, and safety features.
In regards to safety features, these heaters needed to have at least one to be considered for our list. After all, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, around 21,800 residential fires a year are associated with space heaters.
So, here are our top picks:
| Dr Infrared Heater |   | DR-968 | Portable Space Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 170 square feet | Tip over protection Overheat Auto Shut off | 12-hour automatic shut off timer Produces 39 dB 3 Year Warranty Remote Control Has night mode | Click to check the price |
| AEscod Space Heater |   | 1,500W Electric Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 170 square feet | Overheat Auto Shut off | Produces less than 40dB Three modes | Click to check the price |
| Dreo Space Heater |   | Solaris Slim H2 | 5,118 BTUs Claims up to 200 square feet | V-0 Flame Retardant Overheat Protection Tip-over protection Enhanced safety plug | Fast heating Five modes Produces 37.5dBs Washable, detachable filter Remote Control | Click to check the price |
| Lasko |   | (5586) 29” Ceramic Tower Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 170 square feet | Non-Combustible Heating Element Overheat Protection | 2 Quiet settings Adjustable thermostat 8-Hour auto-off timer Multi-function remote control | Click to check the price |
| Govee |   | H7130 Space Heater | 5,200 BTUs 160 – 270 square feet | Gyroscope safety switch Overheat Protection | App enabled 45 dBs Precise Thermostat Timers and convenient schedule | Click to check the price |
| Dyson |    | Pure Hot + Cold HP02 | 5,300 BTUs +/- 170 square feet | N/A | App enabled 56 dBs | Click to check the price |
| Heat Storm |   | HS-15000-PHX-WiFi Infrared Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 150 square feet As a supplemental heat source 1,000 square feet | Tipover shut off Overheat Auto Shut Off Cool to touch Child lock | App enabled (basic) Remote Timer Automatic Theromstat | Click to check the price |
| Dreo |   | Radiator Heater, Upgrade 1500W Electric | 300 square feet | Tip over protection Overheat Auto Shut off Completely Sealed Oil Cool to touch Child Lock | Spindle-Shaped Openings M-shaped Heating Fins 225mm Enlarged Fins Wraparound Heating Fins Design Remote Control ECO Mode 24 Hours Auto On/Off Timer LED Screen | Click to check the price |
| Duraflame |   | Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace | 5,200 BTUs Manufacturer claims 1,000 square feet of heat coverage | Overheat Auto Shut off | 3D Flames Can be converted into an electric stovetop Digtial Thermostatt | Click to check the price |
| Kismile |   | Small Electric Space Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 150 square feet | Tip over protection Overheat Auto Shut off | Three modes Adjustable thermostat | Click to check the price |
| Vornado |   | AVH10 Vortex Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 150 square feet | Tip over protection Overheat Auto Shut off Finger-friendly design Cool to touch | LED Display Three modes Timer Five year warranty | Click to check the price |
| Dreo |   | Solaris Max | 5,118 BTUs Claims up to 200 square feet. Could be more. | V-0 Flame Retardant Overheat Protection Tip-over protection Enhanced safety plug | Fast heating Five modes Produces 37.5dBs Washable, detachable filter Remote Control | Click to check the price |
Other criteria we investigated more closely were consumer reviews. While manufacturers can list what their products are supposed to do, you can only give them a proper review after living with the product.
We’d love to break the laws of space and time, spending equal amounts of time with all the electric heaters, but sadly this is impossible, so we’ve relied on the general public for this service.
Alongside the other criteria mentioned, we reviewed consumer service, brand reputation, and warranties.
Also, we must admit that aesthetics matter when the device in question will live in the middle of your living space.
Now that we’ve broken down how we reviewed these electric heaters for use in your basement, let’s take a closer look at the products themselves.
Best Electric Basement Heater Options [2023]
While we do our best to research every listed electric basement heater option, the proof is in using it in your own space.
Also, every home comes with its own variables, but for the sake of sanity, we’re going to focus on what others have said and tap into some basic information with the help of brand material.
So, let’s get into the reviews with the internet’s favorite indoor electric space heater.
Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater: The Internet’s Favorite Heater
With over 21,400 reviews on Amazon, the Dr Infrared Heater is a product that’s gained respect from its users. Many reviewers agreed that the product works and is economical.
We’re glad that it comes with all the safety features you’d want with a heater, namely: overheat protection, tip-over shut off, and due to the method of heating, it is safe to touch. The Dr Infrared Heater uses a dual heating system that claims to optimize the heat transfer, which is circulated around the room via a fan.
The fan promises to be incredibly quiet, and you can turn it on from across the room using the remote. Another selling point is that the product has been designed in the USA and is serviced here.
And last two standout features include a 12-hour programmable timer, and it is an incredibly easy-to-clean product.
Pros:
- Great reputation
- Easy to use and move
Cons:
- Looks cheap
- It is expensive compared to its competitors
The Dr Infrared has been a winner for a long time, and even in 2023, it is one of the best electric heaters for the basement on the market. But, be aware that the company might be planning its replacement (although, as of writing, we can’t confirm the rumors).
So, before time possibly runs out, you can purchase it here:
But what if you’re in the market for something a bit more industrial looking?
AEscod Space Heater: The Tiny Industrial Look
Super portable and designed for rapid heating; the AEscod utilizes PTC ceramic heating tech and a fan to ensure even heat distribution.
While it is not cool to the touch, which means parents should exercise caution if they have small children. Also, without tip-over shut-off, you must monitor when in use.
The AEscod also has a nice sturdy handle next to the control dials for moving it around and a 90-degree tilt. The element reaches temperature within seconds, so it’s also fast.
If you’re looking for heat on demand, this is a great option. But this isn’t an excellent option for those with a young family keen to preheat the basement.
Pros:
- Great price
- Easy to use and move
Cons:
- Not safe enough to leave on without supervision
- Lacks any comfort features
While not great for the entire family, this will work well if you’re an adult with a cold basement.
You can purchase it in multiple colors here.
But what if you need more features from your electrical heater?
Dreo Solaris Slim H2: All The Bells and Whistles
Another crowd-pleaser, the Dreo Solaris Slim H2, with nearly 5,800 reviews, has all the bells and whistles that Americans have become used to with home devices.
The Dreo Space heater has all the safety features you need, like tip-over protection, never-flame construction (materials are all flame-retardant), and overheat protection. Also, the plug for the heater has been reinforced for safety reasons.
Dreo also promises that its powerful 1,500w PTC ceramic heating technology will warm up spaces quickly and efficiently, with a lifespan of 750,000 oscillating cycles. It also has a remote and a 12-hour timer, with a 24-hour automatic power-off function.
Also, this is the upgraded model, and the Dreo space heater is now quieter, according to the marketing material, quieter than a library.
If you’re looking for a heater… quieter than a library, you have specific needs, and luckily they’ve been met.
Pros:
- The brand has won awards for excellence from CNET
- All the modern features you could need
Cons:
- You can still purchase the cheaper older model, which has all the same features for less…
It’s hard to be pessimistic about the product, but you can still purchase the previous, excellent model online.
But if you’re wanting to keep up with the Joneses, you can purchase the new one here.
However! If what you actually want is a product built for everywhere (bold claim), the next heater could be for you.
Lasko (5586) 29” Ceramic Tower Heater: Built for Everywhere
We love some good old-fashioned marketing, and Lasko’s “Built for Everywhere” statement ranks highly, but does it live up to the hype?
Lasko, as a brand, has earned the reputation of being the best ceramic heater and fan brand around, according to NPD Group/Retail Tracking Services, which tracks these metrics by the number of U.S. dollars spent and units sold.
Other features include two quiet settings, an eight-hour auto-off timer, and an adjustable thermostat. Also, with a non-combustible heating element, overheat protection, and child and pet-safe exterior, it’s a safe heater for every room, including your basement.
Pros:
- Got awards in 2022
- All the modern features you could need
Cons:
- Timer currently is only eight hours
- No tip over safety feature which should have been included
Overall, the Lasko (5586) has everything you’d expect from a modern heater.
If you’re ready to purchase a heater that’s built for everywhere, you can do so here.
But what if you’re looking at expanding your appliances within your smart home?
Govee Space Heater H7130: A New Smart Device
The Govee brand specializes in creating smart appliances for around the home, and the collection now includes space heaters.
Via an App, you can program timings, preheat rooms (such as the basement), adjust temperatures, and connect to Alexa.
It also includes tip-over protection and over-heating cut-off functionality, as well as a 24-hour continuous cut-off function. The Govee Space Heater also has a built-in thermostat and ECO mode, which will adjust the room’s temperature accordingly.
Pros:
- App allows for a huge range of customizability
- Good safety features
Cons:
- Functionality and features can only be accessed via App
- Might be a touch noisier than competitors
For those looking to create a smart home, this might be the heater for your futuristic household.
If you’re sold on the idea of a smart home, you can buy it here.
But what if you want more than just a heater for your basement?
Dyson Pure Hot + Cold: More Than a Heater
This three-in-one device acts as a fan, heater, and air purifier. As it’s a Dyson product, you can expect to pay a premium, but it claims to remove 99.97% of allergens and pollutants via the HEPA filter. The filter also has a second layer that is active carbon which captures odors.
It’s also compatible with Amazon’s Alexa device and the app allows users to tap into deeper features, like air quality reports. It comes with the usual sleep timer and night-time mode and is easy to clean without any fan blades.
The device comes with a remote but no physical interface on the machine. However, the remote does magnetically attach to the top of the device. Also, it’s worth mentioning that for the air purification to work properly, you need to replace the filter regularly.
Pros:
- App allows for a vast range of customizability
- It is multifunctional and can be used throughout the year
Cons:
- It’s costly
- Might be a touch noisier than competitors
We’re putting it mildly when we say that this device is “costly”. But it is a quality product and, according to the reviews, works.
Some complaints have been directed to maintenance issues. Some buyers needed to return the device to the supplier for repairs, which is an additional bill for the user.
If you have the money, why not buy it?
But what if you want a heater with an app that lives permanently in the basement?
Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WiFi Infrared Heater
Heat Storm produces three versions of this model, although the wall-mounted product is the only one with WiFi capability. This heater produces up to 5,200 BTUs and is rated to warm a space of up to 150 square feet.
Safety-wise, this doesn’t need tip-over protection – but it still has it! It also has a safe touch grill in case anyone touches it, and you can also get most of the functionality from the physical panel.
And with the App, you can pre-heat your basement before venturing down the stairs. It’s also worth mentioning that it is designed in the USA.
While you can mount this on the wall, you can also stand it on legs. It really is incredibly versatile.
Pros:
- App allows for a vast range of customizability
- Multiple methods of making it stand
Cons:
- WiFi connectivity can be an issue
- Power cord could be lengthened
While other websites have mentioned that portability is an issue, it does come with an option to attach feet which need to be purchased separately… But this being said, it is a bit tricky to move around. Then again, if you’re an adult, you’ve managed more challenging tasks in your lifetime.
You can purchase this great product here.
But if you’re keen for a heater that doesn’t utilize any fans, you can always purchase an oil radiator.
Dreo Radiator Heater: An Oil Heater Amongst the Fans
While the Dreo Radiator is going to be difficult to move downstairs to the basement, we think it would be worth it. The Dreo, with its sleek black construction, LED display, and unique M-shaped fins, can heat up to 300 square feet of space.
It also has a design that allows for cool touch, which, if you have small children, is a must-have feature.
Pros:
- Cool to touch
- Comes with a remote
Cons:
- One-year manufacturer warranty
- Heavy to move downstairs
The Dreo is a quality product with over 2,781 global ratings on Amazon as of writing, and it’s excellent if you’re looking to warm a large room.
If you don’t need to be sold on any other heaters, you can buy it here.
But what if you want your basement heater to set a mood?
Duraflame Infrared Quartz Electric Stove Heater: The Mood Setter
While not like anything on this list so far, it’s worth mentioning as it provides ample heat and ambience.
The manufacturer claims it will heat a space up to 1,000 square feet with its 5,200 BTUs.
Also, the infrared quartz allows for the product to hold onto heat for longer. The unit has only one safety feature, which is overheating protection, but with four solid legs tipping it over should be challenging.
The Duraflame also offers users patent-pending 3D flame effects, which only helps to add to the mood in your romantic basement.
Pros:
- Mood enhancer and talking point
- Heats up large spaces with ease
Cons:
- Cannot be moved
- Draws a lot of power
- Also, not cheap
While not the first device you think of purchasing to warm a basement, it is still an option worth investigating.
You can review its pricing here.
While many of the options reviewed are expensive, what about devices that are designed for the budget conscious?
Kismile Small Electric Space Heater: For Those On a Budget
Compact, affordable and highly rated, the Kismile small electric space heater is perfect for individuals and families with a limited budget.
While small, it offers three operation modes, an adjustable thermostat, and several safety features. Safety features include automatic overheat protection, a tip-over switch, and an ETL certification. They also include a power indicator light, but that is just a standard feature in our opinion.
Two of the three modes are heaters, the first using 750 watts and the second 1,500 watts. The third mode is a simple fan. It will also stop working automatically if there is something blocking the airways.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Impressive amount of features at price point
Cons:
- Tip-over sensor is very sensitive
- Not able to heat a large room
While the Kismile small electric space heater isn’t going to heat a large basement, it will help heat at least a corner. And when you consider the price and your bank balance, you will be thankful for some heat source.
If this matches your budget, you can purchase it here.
If you’re looking for something similar in size to the Kismile, but have a larger budget, the next one is for you.
Vornado AVH10 Vortex Heater with Auto Climate Control: It’s a Vortex
Promising to heat your basement differently, the Vorndao AVH10 Vortex utilizes a method of intelligent circulation that is gentle. The device creates a vortex which forces the heated air outwards, circulating around the room.
The Vornado also has automatic climate control, three settings, and a digital display. And it comes with an astonishing five-year hassle-free support program.
Safety-wise, it is cool to the touch, has tip-over protection, and a safety shut-off if the unit malfunctions or detects there is excess heat.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Impressive amount of safety features
Cons:
- A bit pricy
- Can produce a foul smell if faulty
With its amazing vortex airflow system, this little heater punches way about its weight class.
If you’re looking for a small heater that can heat up most of a basement, this is it! You can purchase it here.
For the last selection of our top 12 best electric heaters for your basement, we will insist on getting the upgrade.
Dreo Solaris Max: It’s The Upgrade
While the Dreo Solaris Slim H2 delivers exceptional heat and has all the same features, the Solaris Max gives you more bang for your buck, as it is larger.
How much bigger? Eight inches bigger!
This a new model in the Dreo range. It produces only 37.5 dB of noise when working and it has all the safety features you need, as well as being V-0 flame-retardant.
It also has a great screen, remote control, and precise temperature control, and it is light enough to be dragged up and down the stairs to the basement.
Pros:
- The brand has won awards for excellence from CNET
- All the modern features you could need
Cons:
- A larger unit could be more difficult to move around
There’s not much to nitpick with the Dreo Solaris Max.
You can purchase it here.
Now, let’s review our final results and picks.
Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Electric Heaters for Basements Per Section
Reviewing 12 of the best electric heaters for your basement can be overwhelming. There’s a lot of information to digest and review. Every one of these could possibly be the exact fit for your basement.
But in our opinion, three units pipped the others. Also, we didn’t consider the budget with this selection.
| Dreo | Solaris Max | 5,118 BTUs Claims up to 200 square feet. Could be more. | V-0 Flame Retardant Overheat Protection Tip-over protection Enhanced safety plug | Fast heating Five modes Produces 37.5dBs Washable, detachable filter Remote Control | Click to check the price |
| Heat Storm | HS-15000-PHX-WiFi Infrared Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 150 square feet As a supplemental heat source 1,000 square feet | Tipover shut off Overheat Auto Shut Off Cool to touch Child lock | App enabled (basic) Remote Timer Automatic Thermostat | Click to check the price |
| Vornado | AVH10 Vortex Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 150 square feet | Tip over protection Overheat Auto Shut off Finger-friendly design Cool to touch | LED Display Three modes Timer Five year warranty | Click to check the price |
The Dreo Solaris Max comes with all the bells and whistles. It’s a trusted brand, and operating at such a low level of dBs, it is a must-have for the basement. There’s also the fact that it has a removable filter cover that can be washed and reused.
When reviewing the Heat Storm, we were surprised that others forgot you could purchase additional legs for it. This means it is a mobile unit, or if you want to mount it to a wall in the basement, you can.
The functionality that the app allows is always a huge plus.
And with the Vornado, we were impressed that it packed in all the safety features of larger products and also, that the power cable stores neatly under the unit. There’s nothing worse than struggling with heater cables.
Also, the vortex technology is interesting, and from the sounds of the reviews, it works. Then, there’s a five-year warranty on the device – which is incredibly long for a small space heater. If the manufacturer is this confident in its product, we’re sure that it delivers on its promises.
Now to answer some common questions that people have also asked about the best electric heater for the basement.
People Also Ask
What type of heater is best for the basement?
Electric heaters are the best for the basement as you want a system to heat the area quickly. While you can use an electric radiator heater, that takes a bit longer than the usual fan-operated space heater.
Should I put a space heater in my basement?
If your current heating system needs assistance, or you have no heating in the basement, then yes. Be aware that if you don’t utilize the basement regularly, it’s not necessary.
What’s the best way to heat a basement?
Most experts will agree that convection heating (space heater) is best or hydronic electric baseboard heating (a unit installed into the baseboard that heats circulating water).
How many BTUs do I need to heat a 1000-square-foot basement?
According to experts, for comfortable conditions, you will need between 18,000 to 20,000 BTUs. This will vary depending on the insulation and dampness of the basement.
How many square feet will an Electric Heater heat?
Most store-bought heaters use 1,500 watts of power when operating at capacity. This creates around 5,200 BTUs of heat which can heat around 150 square feet.
Where should an Electric Heater be placed in a basement?
The best position for electric heaters is in the middle of the room, and the same applies for your basement.
Now that we’ve answered some of your questions let’s recap.
Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Electric Heaters for Basements Per Section
Honestly, all the heaters we’ve reviewed will work wonders in anyone’s basement. But if you had to pick three, the following would be our recommendations.
| Dreo | Solaris Max | 5,118 BTUs Claims up to 200 square feet. It could be more. | V-0 Flame Retardant Overheat Protection Tip-over protection Enhanced safety plug | Fast heating Five modes Produces 37.5dBs Washable, detachable filter Remote Control | Click to check the price |
| Heat Storm | HS-15000-PHX-WiFi Infrared Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 150 square feet As a supplemental heat source 1,000 square feet | Tipover shut off Overheat Auto Shut Off Cool to touch Child lock | App enabled (basic) Remote Timer Automatic Thermostat | Click to check the price |
| Vornado | AVH10 Vortex Heater | 5,200 BTUs +/- 150 square feet | Tip over protection Overheat Auto Shut off Finger-friendly design Cool to touch | LED Display Three modes Timer Five year warranty | Click to check the price |
While there are hundreds of heaters on the market, luckily we’ve linked all our suggestions above.
Simply click any of the “Click here” links to purchase the best heater for your basement today.
Also read: How Long Can Electric Heaters Be Left On?
