The 2021 Best Bathroom Heaters

Buying a Bathroom Heater

Getting out of bed is hard enough when it’s cold out, and the idea of venturing into a frigid bathroom makes it even harder. The best bathroom heaters remedy that by warming up the space quickly and easily. They’re available in various types and sizes; one is probably right for you.

Consider these factors when choosing a bathroom heater:

Safety

• For plug-in heaters, make sure it has an Appliance Leakage Current Interrupter (ALCI) plug. This ensures it will shut off if it falls into a sink of water, and greatly reduces any chance of electrical shock. Most portable space heaters do NOT have an ALCI plug, which is why you shouldn’t use just any heater in your bathroom.
• If you have pets or small children, consider a wall- or ceiling-mounted unit so it’s out of reach. Some heaters become hot to the touch, and potentially dangerous for curious fingers and paws.
• Always plug your corded bathroom heater into a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet. Identified by their “test” and “reset” buttons, these shut off the circuit if electrical flow turns irregular. GFCIs have been mandatory in bathrooms since 1975, but if you live in an older home, double-check your outlets.

Installation

• Will you be installing your heater yourself? Carefully review the installation requirements and instructions for your heater. If it requires more electrical work than you’re comfortable with, leave it to an electrician.
• If you go with a pro, factor that cost into the total price of your heater.

Heat output

• Depending on the size of your bathroom, you might require a more powerful heater than you think. Generally, ceiling- and wall-mounted units pump more heat than smaller portable units.
• Determine the square footage of your bathroom so you know the heater you choose is properly sized. Here’s how:

1. Add the length of each wall.
2. Multiply that number by the height of the room from floor to ceiling. This number is the square footage of the room.