The Holmes Heater 1Touch Control Bathroom Safe is our best bathroom heater and it definitely runs very quietly as this bathroom heater gives you adequate heat with its fanning action and 1-touch operation of the electronic thermostat to precisely set your desired temperature. The plug is ALCI safe and you can also choose between low, high and auto heat settings. Having a very compact design at only 4 lbs makes it ideal and safe for bathrooms, the power can be set between 600 watts and 1,500 watts at maximum.
Our step-up pick is the Holmes Digital Bathroom Heater Fan Pre-Heat and it has a max output power of 1,500 watts. The bathroom heater also includes a pre-heat timer and includes a digital clock and a thermostat. The digital controls are very easy to set up for a customized heating experience and it is perfect for use on your bathroom without worry because of the ALCI plug that is meant to be used on the bathroom as it can be mounted on the wall with convenience.
The budget pick is the Holmes Portable Desktop Heater Comfort Control and this bathroom heater runs at a max power of 1,500 watts. The manual controls are hassle-free in adjusting and you can choose from heating or fan-only setting so you can use it even in the summer. The thermostat has comfort control feature and it comes with a convenient carrying handle. It also has a tip-over switch to shut it off automatically when it overheats and the housing is cool to the touch to keep it safe for curious pets and kids.
A Little Background
Bathrooms are notorious for being risky when it comes to electrical appliances. One mistake in the bathroom can cause electrocution which is fatal to people. We all know that electricity and water do not mix and many experts highly warn people not to use electronics in the bathroom or any damp places such as the laundry room and such. However, with today’s fast living, there needs to be technological advancements that will keep us convenient in the bathroom despite the risks that were said and given.
Nonetheless, bathroom floors can get extremely cold, especially when you step out of the tub and into the towel. This is because bathroom floors are made of tiles and they can easily adapt and suck up the temperature when exposed to extreme cold. They are great conductors of sheer cold due to their material and this poses a problem in maintaining a bathroom’s temperature during the winter chills.
To eliminate this problem, bathroom heaters were invented. A bathroom heater is much like a space heater except that it is solely designed to fit the risks of getting into the bathroom. Bathroom heaters are getting popular nowadays especially for people who live in 4-season countries and have blistering winter seasons ahead of them.
Compared to regular heaters, bathroom heaters are specifically designed for bathrooms. They have uniquely constructed parts that enable them to stand safe to use even in damp locations such as bathrooms. In addition to that, a bathroom heater is usually compact in size and very portable to carry around or mounted to the wall. They cost not that much when you buy them at first but will most likely save you costs on your heating bill in due course.
Some of these heaters are immersible in water and have safety tip-over switches and plugs. The tip over switches function to turn off the bathroom heater automatically when it gets knocked over to the ground or plunged in the water to avoid electrocution or failure of the heater components. In addition to that, a bathroom heater also has safety shut off features that can protect it from overheating or when it reaches a certain peak point of temperature. Plugs used by a bathroom heater can also be innovatively designed and meant for damp places with waterproof ratings.
These heaters are usually small and compact. Because of the fact that a bathroom space is usually small, the heater should also be small as well to fit in and not disturb the surroundings or block the way. Some bathroom heaters can be situated on the ground and some can be safely mounted to the wall. It depends on how much heating power you need for your bathroom and the size of your bathroom as well in terms of deciding for the best bathroom heater.
Be wary that a bathroom heater is only best placed on the ground and not on top of a shelf to reduce the risk of falling into the tub. Even if it has a tip over switch, you should not risk testing it because it can ruin the electronics of your bathroom heater and can void your warranty in the process. Always play it safe and put your bathroom heater away from anything wet and slippery.
Bathroom heaters are usually low on wattage and are energy efficient. Not only do they un-fog mirrors and keep away mold, bathroom heaters are also low on power consumption and are safe for bathroom use and thus, more and more people today are investing in bathroom heaters to accompany them during the winter months.
During the winter, you should definitely have a bathroom heater so you can reduce on your electric bill on having to depend on the water heater all the time.
How We Picked
We picked the best bathroom heater based on the following criteria:
The bathroom heater must be safe to touch and cool on its housing. You should get a bathroom heater that will not only be very sturdy but lightweight but also cool to the touch so even kids and pets will be safe on moving the bathroom heater from one place to another. This is highly important if you want a hassle-free bathroom heater to use for your personal space – not just your bathroom but also on your bedroom or other rooms around the house.
The thermostat of the bathroom heater must be easily programmable and highly accurate. The included thermostat should be accurate to about +/- 2 degrees or so which is a great thing to consider if you want personalized heating in your bathroom. Additionally, a bathroom heater must have a hassle-free thermostat programming system with a good way of displaying the temperature and data. Light indicators for power and system action are also important in any bathroom heater, especially if the bathroom heater has digital controls.
If a bathroom heater has a timer then that is a big plus. A timer can be used to pre-heat the bathroom space using the bathroom heater and will save you more time on having to heat it up as you are going to the bathroom to take a shower. No more waiting – you can leave it to the timer option of the said bathroom heater.
A bathroom heater must be completely safe with overheat protection, a tip-over switch and bathroom-safe plug. For safety, this is a must-have on every bathroom heater because if it does not have this capability then it is not a bathroom heater and is only intended for bedroom or non-damp use.
Know the wattage of the bathroom heater that you will buy. At the very most you will only find a bathroom heater with a max wattage of 1,500 watts or lower than that. The wattage may also be the basis of its heating power so choose carefully with the bathroom heater that you will buy.
Know the size of the bathroom heater that you want and where you intend to place it. Smaller bathrooms only require bathroom heaters that are miniature in size while bigger bathrooms may require tower style bathroom heaters to cover up more area of heating. Of course, get ready to spend more for a bigger bathroom heater with better heating power.
The display of the bathroom heater, if it has a digital display, must be easy to read. Like we said above, the controls and whatnot of a bathroom heater must be extremely accessible and easy to use, especially for those with slight vision problems. The digits of the temperature must be highly readable.
There should be less noise on the bathroom heater as much as possible. The bathroom heater should be at least 60 dB and below in noise level. We all know that fan driven heating is always noisy but still, if there is something that produces less noise then go for that bathroom heater.
A good warranty must be considered for the bathroom heater, since it is an electrical appliance. A warranty of 3 to 5 years is common for any bathroom heater but make sure this covers up the right parts that you need, as some “warranties” are bogus and don’t really cover that much.
Our Pick
Holmes Heater 1Touch Control Bathroom Safe
Running very quietly, the Holmes Heater 1Touch Control Bathroom Safe is our best bathroom heater in which the included thermostat is set in 5 degree increments. It also automatically shuts down when plunged into the water because of the ALCI plug for safety. Moreover, this bathroom heater gives you adequate heat with its fanning action and 1-touch operation of the electronic thermostat to precisely set your desired temperature.
As the plug is ALCI safe, security is guaranteed and assured with the Holmes Bathroom Safe Heater with 1Touch Control and it bears a very compact design at only 4 lbs makes it ideal and safe for bathrooms. Its power can be set between 600 watts and 1,500 watts. The enclosure is cool to touch so you won’t have problems lifting it with its grill and housing and you can choose between low, high and auto heat settings.
The heater’s illuminated display is very clear to see. Moreover, the Holmes Bathroom Safe Heater can be wall mounted or set on a desktop or table and it also has a very slim profile to bring comfort to the coldest of winter baths. Moreover, this bathroom heater also has a safety tip over switch and is honestly backed by a 3 year limited warranty.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
Even if the Holmes Heater 1Touch Control Bathroom Safe has a one-touch switching mechanism, some people on Amazon claim that switching it off or on can be slightly hassling so it is better to just unplug it for safety purposes when no longer in use.
Step-up Pick
Holmes Digital Bathroom Heater Fan Pre-Heat
With the Holmes Digital Bathroom Heater Fan Pre-Heat as our step-up pick, you can use it on your bathroom without worry because of the ALCI plug that is meant to be used on the bathroom. It has a max output power of 1,500 watts and it also includes a digital clock and a thermostat. The heater’s digital controls are very easy to set up for a customized heating experience and it also includes a pre-heat timer so you don’t have to wait for the room to heat up. It can also be mounted on the wall.
The heater’s housing is cool to the touch to prevent injuries and make it safe for kids and pets. In fact, at 1.5 meters away from the heater, you’ll just hear a maximum of 60 dB noise level.
Adding to that, the Holmes Fan Pre-Heat Digital Bathroom Heater protects against overheating and it is also convenient to carry around at only 3.4 lbs. In addition to that, the preheat timer can save your bathroom floors from the blistering cold. Moreover, the LCD screen and digital controls are hassle-free with the programmable thermostat.
Just like most bathroom heaters, do not place it on a high place where it could fall to the water. The Holmes Fan Pre-Heat Heater is backed by a 1 year limited warranty.
Budget Pick
Holmes Portable Desktop Heater Comfort Control
Our budget pick is the Holmes Portable Desktop Heater Comfort Control and its housing is cool to the touch to keep it safe for curious pets and kids. It also runs at a max power of 1,500 watts and you can conveniently choose from heating or fan-only setting so you can use it even in the summer.
In addition to its safety features, it has a tip-over switch to shut it off automatically when it overheats and the thermostat has comfort control feature. The manual controls are hassle-free in adjusting and the unit also comes with a convenient carrying handle.
The Holmes Portable Comfort Control Desktop Heater can be used not just in the bathroom but also in the office, bedroom or any living space and it is indeed very small at only 2.6 lbs of weight and standing at a height of 9 inches. The lowest temperature you can get from this heater is about 60 degrees and the bathroom heater is eagerly backed by a 1 year warranty.
Best Anti-Freeze Bathroom Heater
DeLonghi America HVF3555TB Bathroom-Safe Fan Heater
Freezing pipes are no problem with this bathroom heater, the DeLonghi America HVF3555TB Bathroom-Safe Fan Heater, due to the anti-freeze setting. Being very safe to use in any bathroom, this heater is certified to stand against moisture condensation with a rating of IP21. It also has an adjustable thermostat for precise heating and it runs up to 1,500 watts of power.
The DeLonghi Bathroom-Safe Fan Heater keeps you safe and warm during the winter with this portable bathroom heater and you can choose from up to 3 power options. The included timer is programmable up to 24 hours and it also uses a GFCI plug for safety purposes. The heater also has a thermal cutoff feature to shut down the system when overheating and it also has a safety tip-over switch.
Moreover, it also has an activate oscillation with a food pedal and is relatively easy to carry at only 4.2 lbs. Additionally, the DeLonghi America Fan Heater can also be used on workshops, offices and bedrooms and it can save up energy and cut costs on electric bills with its Eco Mode.
What’s more, the compact size with a handle and cord wrap makes it a no-mess bathroom heater which also has a fan-only setting. The protection against liquid immersion is there and the power cord runs at a length of 6 feet. Overall, the bathroom heater by DeLonghi heats up very silently.
Best Wall Mount Bathroom Heater
Seabreeze SF14TA Outlet Mountable Bed/Bathroom Heater
A bathroom heater running at 1,500 watts of power that you will love is the Seabreeze SF14TA Outlet Mountable Bed/Bathroom Heater which uses SMART ThermaFlo technology to ensure the best heating method possible. It also comes with a night light for kids at night and for safety and can be easily mounted on any outlet. You can also use it on any bathroom or bed.
The Seabreeze SF14TA Outlet Mountable Heater has a clean and simple design and it also has up to 2 thermal cut-offs for extra safety. Being extremely lightweight at only 2 lbs, it heats up to 5,120 BTUs for extra comfort during the winter and it also has a flame retardant housing for better safety.
The Seabreeze SF14TA Heater does not give you hassle in installing and it can save you up to 33% of electricity in the long run. Moreover, it comes with a 12-inch power cord and is rated for use only on 120 volts AC. The bathroom heater is conveniently backed by a 2 year warranty.
Best Quiet Bathroom Heater
Seabreeze Off-the-Wall ThermaFlo Bathroom Heater
The Seabreeze Off-the-Wall Bathroom Heater uses ThermaFlo technology that allows you to save more energy with this bathroom heater and it also has a clean design which has power light indicators while operating and it can save you up to 33 percent in energy costs. Moreover, it also has a back-up heat fuse for safety as a bathroom heater should and also has a cut off manual reset feature. Adding to the safety features, it also has a tip over switch.
Having been shrouded in flame retardant cabinet made from polymer and has a cool touch feature the Seabreeze Off-the-Wall Heater operates in whisper quiet level and it can be used not just in the bathroom but also for bedrooms while you sleep during the winter. Being an automatic interlock is coupled with the auxiliary outlet for low wattage, it is incredibly light at only 3.5 lbs.
This bathroom heater runs at 1,500 watts of power and stands 8 inches high. Moreover, the Seabreeze ThermaFlo Heater is definitely easy to set up and mount onto any outlet. As for its for heating power, it can produce 5,120 BTUs of heat. You can choose between two speeds, in 1,000 watts or 1,500 watts as the unit runs at 12.5 amps.
It is important to know that the bathroom heater has been rated for use on 120 volts / 60 Hz and its included power cord spans at a length of 12 inches. Backed by a 2 year manufacturer’s warranty, the Seabreeze Heater is a heater you will love during the winter.
Bathroom Heater with Tower Design
Vornado SRTH Small Room Tower Heater
A comfortable bathroom heater that uses V-Flow heat circulating technology to cover up more room in heating you might love is the Vornado SRTH Small Room Tower Heater in which you can choose between 2 heat settings as well as an option to only leave the fan on. The built-in timer can automatically shut the heater off after 4 hours and the controls are fairly easy to use.
Coming in a stylish black or clean white design, the Vornado Tower Heater also includes a tip-over switch and shut off feature to avoid overheating and for safety and it is relatively easy to carry around at only 2 lbs. It also does not need oscillation due to the wide heating zone and has been thoroughly made with superior engineering and energy saving features.
The high heat setting is only 900 watts while low heat setting is only 450 watts of power and the base is extremely sturdy and won’t easily topple over. Being UL listed and approved, this bathroom heater is backed by a 5 year limited warranty and is totally ideal for small rooms and bathrooms.
Fan Powered Bathroom Heater
Cadet Manufacturing 79241 Compact Wall Heater
A fan powered bathroom heater you might need is the Cadet Manufacturing 79241 Compact Wall Heater which is a forced bathroom heater that can also be used on any workspace or home space. It is also listed in the standards and certifications of UL and it also has a convenient manual on and off switch.
Being rated for use on 120 volts, the Cadet Compact Wall Heater runs at 1,000 watts of power and at 8.33 amps and it is ideally mounted to the wall. The bathroom heater uses nichrome coil element for heating, has a compact design and also includes a wall can.
Best Ceramic Bathroom Heater
Honeywell HCE100R Heat Bud Ceramic Heater
The Honeywell HCE100R Heat Bud Ceramic Heater is a ceramic bathroom heater that has a sleek finish and convenient design. You can choose between red, white, black and green colors and the heater also has a provided tip over protection due to its internal switch. You can select between 2 heat settings for customized comfort.
This bathroom heater runs on an energy saving wattage of only 250 watts while its housing is cool to touch so it is safe to use even with kids and pets. Being super light at only 1 pound, the bathroom heater has a low eco setting of 170 watts.
Overall, the Honeywell HCE100R Heater protects you against overheating and its materials are certified flame resistant. Moreover, the indicator lights help to warn you of the bathroom heater’s power status.
Ideal Bathroom Heater for Ceiling
Broan 161 Infrared Single-Bulb Ceiling Heater
The Broan 161 Infrared Single-Bulb Ceiling Heater is a convenient way to warm up your bathroom, especially for small spaces like apartments and RVs and this bathroom heater is enclosed in compact steel housing. It also comes with adjustable mounting brackets with 24-inch keyhole slots.
A double purpose unit as a bulb and a heater, the Broan Ceiling Heater uses one bulb at 250 watts of power with a size of BR40 (sold separately). Being listed under UL for safety, security and quality, it is a great supplemental heat source for your bathroom or any other room in the house while the motor runs quietly and is permanently lubricated for hassle-free operation.
Having sturdy construction of the steel gives it a weight of 5 lbs. it is also backed by a 1 year limited warranty but however, it is not to be used in the shower.
The Competition
Other bathroom heaters do not meet the certifications and standards of the mentioned bathroom heaters and some of them are not safe to use in the bathroom so we left them out. We only picked the safest of all bathroom heaters out there.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why should we have a bathroom heater for the winter?
A: According to Do It Yourself , most bathrooms can be kept warm during cold weather as heater fans can provide warm heat that do not cause skin irritation and you will easily transition from shower to the towel with the help of a bathroom heater. In fact, foul odors in the air can be dissipated easily using a bathroom heater or good air purifier.
Moreover, bathroom heaters also take away bacteria and viruses that lurk in the bathroom’s air. Furthermore, bathroom heaters are easy to install and are very inexpensive compared to regular heaters. Adding to that, molding and fogging are the most common problems of a bathroom in the cold and this is why you should have a bathroom heater to get rid of that problem and help you clean up the bathroom better and quicker.
Q: How do you know which the best bathroom heater to buy is?
A: You should consider whether the heater has a rough noise level or if the noise level is bearable. You can choose between recessed or surface mounting depending on how you will use it. Do consider where you want to put the bathroom heater.
In consequence, some people often put bathroom heaters on the ground so that they will not fall into the bathtub and cause accidents, especially if the bathroom heater does not have a properly working tip over switch. You must make sure the wattage is enough for heating and for your electric bill and the thermostat and timer should be accurate. Also, the grille and casing should be cool to touch for safety and convenience.
Wrapping It Up
Overall, the Holmes Heater 1Touch Control Bathroom Safe is our best bathroom heater that is guaranteed to be safe, operational and effective in heating up your bathroom so you won’t have to plunge in the tub longer or use your water heater more often to heat up during the winter.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.