In the dead of winter, there’s nothing more comforting than slipping into a warm bath and letting it envelop you in its embrace. But imagine getting out of a hot bath or shower into a cold and chilly bathroom. If you live in an area that gets cold during the winter, then you know how important it is to keep your bathroom warm and cozy during the cold season.
Unfortunately, keeping your bathroom warm can be an issue with a tiny bathroom because there are limited ways to heat the room without sacrificing some of your living space. On the other hand, if you have a large bathroom, you’ll end up paying too much energy bill each month to keep your bathroom adequately warm.
To make your search for the best bathroom heater easier, I have searched and picked some top-of-the-line bathroom heaters so you can select one that is perfect for your bathroom according to your needs. Also, I suggest you go through the later sections to check out which things to consider when choosing a bathroom heater and some convenient bathroom heating options other than the bathroom heaters.
Table of Contents
Best bathroom heaters
It’s getting colder outside, so you’ll spend more time indoors. If you choose any of these five bathroom heaters, you’ll be able to stay comfortable no matter how low the temperature drops!
1. Com-Pak Plus Series Electric Fan Wall Mounted Heater
This heater is my top pick for the best budget bathroom heater. It is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-install option. This wall-mounted heater uses natural convection to circulate warm air throughout the room, and it comes with a built-in thermostat for easy temperature control.
The heating elements are made from high-quality material. The Com-Pak Plus features a safety shut-off switch that kicks in if the unit overheats. It is easy to maintain and needs to be cleaned every six months on the manufacturer’s recommendations. A qualified electrician is needed to install the heater.
2. Lasko CD08200 Portable Ceramic Space Heater
If you’re looking for a bathroom heater that is both compact and powerful, the Lasko portable heater is a great option. Despite the compact size, it can efficiently warm up a large-sized room. It has a simple setting to adjust low and high heat and a 1 –hour timer for high heat. So, it’s a perfect choice if you don’t like complicated settings.
The outside of the heater doesn’t get hot, so there is no chance of burns if you touch it accidentally, making it safe to use if you have children and pets at home. It is perfect for the occasional heating need that is hassle-free, easy to use, and carry everywhere. Plus, it’s small enough to fit on a countertop or cabinet.
3. Panasonic FV-11VH2 Bathroom Fan and Heater
It is an energy-efficient bathroom fan with an integrated heater. You will not have to worry about the backdraft from the exhaust fan as it comes with a built-in damper. Moreover, the high-quality stainless steel heating elements featuring Nichrome wire can efficiently withstand high temperatures.
It has a wholly enclosed condenser motor that helps it to operate noiselessly. So you will not even know when the heater and fan are operating. Its durable build and design guarantee you years of service with any problem.
4. Stiebel Eltron 1500-Watts Heater
It is made in Germany, so there is no compromise on quality. This wall heater features extra quiet blower fans for maximum comfort. Plus, it is easy to install if you have prior experience installing wall heaters, but for safety precautions, hiring a licensed electrician is still recommended.
Stiebel has a down-draft design that takes in air from above the heater and blows warm air out from the bottom, which ensures even heating in the area. It is ideal both for stand-alone or supplemental heat in a room. Moreover, it has a built-in thermostat for easy heat adjustment. It also lets you put a timer of one hour on maximum heat, so you don’t have to worry about turning the heater off after you have left the bathroom after use.
5. Broan-NuTone157 Ceiling Heater
A ceiling heater is an excellent option if you want a permanent solution to your bathroom heating needs. This fan-forced heater is designed to be mounted on the ceiling, so it’s out of the way and doesn’t take up any valuable floor space. Operating at 1250W, it is also very energy efficient, making it an ideal choice for those conscious of energy usage.
It features an aluminum grille with a satin finish that matches most existing decors. It has a permanently lubricated motor and automatic heat protection. Plus, it has a UL listing that ensures a safe and reliable operation each time. However, this fan is designed as a supplemental heating source instead of a central heating source.
Things to consider when choosing a bathroom heater
Investing in the right kind of heater is one of the best ways to ensure that your bathroom feels warm, welcoming, and comfortable. With so many different kinds of heaters available on the market today, it can be tough to narrow down the choices to find what you’re looking for.
Here are some essential things to consider when choosing a bathroom heater:
Bathroom size
The size of your bathroom will play a significant role in determining which type of heater is best for you. If you have a small bathroom, a wall-mounted or electric radiant heater may be your best option. These heaters are very efficient and provide enough heat to keep your bathroom comfortable. However, if you have a large bathroom, you may want to consider a more powerful option. So, a heater with a higher heating capacity will be needed to warm up a large bathroom efficiently.
Safety
The first thing you should always consider when choosing a new appliance for your home is safety. Bathroom heaters can pose a serious fire hazard if not installed and used correctly, so make sure to research before making a purchase. Choose a model certified by a reputable organization or one with a circuit breaker and a sturdy cord to prevent accidents. In addition, don’t leave portable space heaters unattended when turned on.
Smart options
Many modern bathroom heaters come with innovative heating options that allow you to set a timer, so the heater automatically turns on and off as needed. It can be a great way to save energy and money and ensure that your bathroom is always at a comfortable temperature. For example, look for a heater with a timer so you can automate your bathroom heating and always have a cozy space when needed.
Easy installation
For many, ease of installation is essential when choosing a bathroom wall or ceiling heater. A portable space heater is the apt choice if you don’t want to install it on a wall or ceiling. It all depends on your needs and convenience. If you are doing a complete makeover, installing a heater on the wall or the ceiling is a better option than a portable heater that has to be stored away after every use so it doesn’t block your way in a small bathroom.
Less maintenance
When finding a bathroom heater that will last, one of the most critical factors is how much maintenance is required. A quality unit will have features that make it easy to clean and care for, so you can spend more time enjoying your cozy space and less time dealing with repairs.
Space saving
Besides the bathroom size, you’ll want to consider the size of the heater. You’ll need to find a model that will be able to heat your bathroom without being too big or taking up too much space. Most homeowners want to buy a discreet and barely noticeable heater, so it doesn’t compromise the bathroom décor. If you have a small bathroom, you’ll want to make sure you choose a compact model that can be easily mounted on the wall or stored in a cabinet when not in use.
Stylish
A bathroom heater should not only be functional but stylish as well. You want a heater that will complement the design of your bathroom and fit in with your overall décor. Think about what style of heater would look good in your space. You wouldn’t want to end up with a heater that doesn’t blend in with the bathroom vibe and sticks out as a sore thumb. Browse through all the available options to get your hands on a stylish heater that will serve you efficiently for years.
Cost and budget
You don’t want to spend much money on a bathroom heater, but you also don’t want to sacrifice quality. Look for a heater that has good reviews and is affordably priced. The cost of a bathroom heater depends on its features, quality, and brand, so it’s essential to consider your budget when making a purchase. Additionally, it would help if you kept the installation cost and ongoing maintenance in mind. Keep in mind that heaters add up to the monthly budget even if they don’t cost much up front. So, weigh everything before you decide.
Other options for bathroom heating
In addition to the above, given below are some other heating options for a bathroom;
Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating is a great way to add extra warmth and comfort if you’re renovating your bathroom or building a new home. It provides uniform heating across the entire bathroom space without occupying any space in the room as the entire heating system is under the floor.
There are two main types of underfloor heating: electric and hydronic (hot water). Electric systems are easier to install, but hydronic systems are more energy-efficient. It is a great choice when doing an extreme remodel or new construction. Whichever type you choose, make sure you get a professional to install it for you.
Heated towel rack
A heated towel rack or rail is a great way to keep your towels warm and dry all winter while adding warmth to a small-sized bathroom. Plus, without any other heating option, it can also help prevent mildew and mold from forming in your bathroom. They are usually a permanent fixture in the bathroom and are available in many styles that can be an attractive feature in your bathroom.
Electrically heated towel racks are the most popular heating option for a compact bathroom. They’re easy to install and use, and they’re relatively inexpensive. Hydronic heated towel racks use hot water to heat the towels, so they’re more energy-efficient than electric models.
Designer radiators
A great way to make a design statement in your bathroom while also providing efficient heating is to install a designer radiator. These come in a wide range of styles, from sleek and modern to vintage-inspired, so you’re sure to find one that fits your taste. Plus, they can be used as a towel warmer, making them doubly functional.
Radiators can be used with other heaters to create a custom heating system for your home. They come in various sizes and styles to fit any space and can even be mounted on the wall to save floor space. They’re relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them a perfect option for budget-minded homeowners.
Heating lamps
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add heat to your bathroom, then heating lamps are a great option. They’re also relatively inexpensive and can be installed in just a few minutes. Plus, they give off a warm glow that can make your bathroom feel extra cozy. They are either installed on the ceiling or can be placed on a stand, whichever works best for your space.
Heating lamps don’t take too long to warm up, providing heat instantly. Also, they don’t use much energy to run, so heating lamps are a perfect option if you are looking for a heating source that doesn’t increase your energy bill. In addition, they have intense radiation, but the range is limited, so they are only suitable for warming up small bathroom spaces.
Bathroom wall and ceiling heaters
Ceiling heaters are a great option if you’re looking for something that will blend in with your bathroom’s decor. They’re relatively easy to install and can be controlled with a simple switch or timer. However, ceiling heaters can be expensive to run, so make sure to factor that into your decision.
Although they are less effective than the underfloor heating system, wall heaters are one of the most popular types of bathroom heating. They are easy to install compared to ceiling heaters as you don’t have extensive work to install a wall heater. Wall heaters are available in various sizes and styles to match your bathroom decor.
What is the importance of a warm bathroom?
Bathrooms are different than the other rooms in a home. They are much smaller than the bedrooms and living rooms and get exceptionally wet and humid during and after use. So, keeping a bathroom warm is vital for several reasons.
First, it is more comfortable to use the facilities when the room is warm. Nobody likes to use a cold washroom, even if it is just to wash your hands!
Second, a warm bathroom will dry up quickly so it can be used conveniently by the next person. If many people use the same bathroom, having a dry and warm bathroom every time is only possible if it has a steady heating system. Moreover, keeping an optimal temperature at all times will keep your energy bill low as you will use less heat to reach that temperature.
Third, a warm bathroom can help reduce mold and mildew growth. Wet and humid conditions encourage the nasty growth on bathroom walls which can damage the fixtures and house structure, so you need to keep your bathroom dry if you want a mold-free bathroom.
Finally, a warm bathroom just feels good!
Let’s look at different options available for keeping the bathroom warm at things to consider when looking for a perfect bathroom heater according to your requirements.
Frequently asked questions
These FAQs will help you understand the bathroom heating options in more detail:
What is the most efficient way to heat a bathroom?
There are two main ways to heat a bathroom: convection and radiation. In convection, the heat is transferred through the air, while in radiation, the heat is directly transferred to other objects and surfaces without heating the air first. As a rule, heating systems using radiation methods, e.g., radiators or towel rails, are more efficient in heating spaces than those that use convection, e.g., wall and ceiling heaters. It’s because the heat produced through radiation has a constant supply and doesn’t let the heat level drop too low even when the exhaust fan is on, thus efficiently keeping the bathroom cozy.
Is it safe to use a space heater in the bathroom?
While space heaters are a great way to add extra warmth to your home, they can also be dangerous if misused. When using a space heater in the bathroom, be sure to keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Plug in the heater ground-fault circuit-interrupter GFCI outlet
- Don’t use cheap heaters. Only use space heaters that have been tested and approved by a recognized testing authority.
- Place the space heater on a safe and level surface, away from flammable materials such as towels or toilet paper.
- Avoid contact with water at all times. Also, ventilate your bathroom after a shower, so water vapors don’t damage your heater.
What are infrared heaters, and can they be used in bathrooms?
Infrared heaters are electric heaters that use infrared radiation to generate heat. Infrared radiation is electromagnetic radiation that is invisible to the human eye but can be felt as heat. These heaters are becoming increasingly popular because they are energy efficient and can be used to target specific areas. These are perfectly safe to use in the bathroom as long as they are installed correctly and maintained. However, ensuring that the infrared heater is not installed near any water source is vital, as this could create a potential shock hazard.
Which heater is better, infrared or ceramic?
Infrared heaters are more efficient providers of heat compared to ceramic heaters. Also, infrared heaters heat up quickly and cool down quickly, making them more energy-efficient. On the other hand, ceramic heaters use convection to provide heat and lose a lot of heat during the process, making them less energy-efficient than infrared heaters.
Conclusion
No matter what type of bathroom heating you choose, ensure it’s properly installed by a professional. This way, you can avoid accidents and keep your bathroom cozy all winter. You can safely use heaters in the bathroom if you do it responsibly and follow all the safety precautions.
When it comes to finding the best bathroom heater for your home, there are a few key factors you’ll want to keep in mind. I hope this guide helped you better understand the different types of bathroom heating available. Moreover, with these considerations and the top picks shared in this article, you’ll be well on finding the perfect bathroom heater for your needs!
