Best electric wall heaters

Are you looking for the best electric wall heater for your home?

Would you like to see what the top choices are for in-wall heaters and electric wall mounted heaters?

If so, this guide is for you.

Below, you’ll find our in-depth electric wall heater reviews that cover the best wall heaters on the market. You’ll discover how each one works, what the top features are, and the average cost for heating a room.

So if you want a one-stop source for the best wall mounted electric heaters and in-wall units, then this post has everything you need.

Disclosure: Home Air Guides is reader-supported. As an Amazon associate and affiliate for independent brands, we earn from qualifying purchases made through the links on our site. Learn more.

Electric Wall Heaters Reviewed in this Guide

Here’s a quick comparison chart showing the top electric wall heaters. We’ll cover each aspect of these units in the reviews section below, but this gives you an idea of what’s available and an easy way to compare them.

ImageHeater DetailsPrice
Stiebel Eltron 236305 Electric Wall HeaterStiebel Eltron 236305 Electric Wall Heater
  • Best overall electric wall heater
  • Features a built-in thermostat with a 41º - 68ºF temperature range
  • Super-quiet noise level of just 48dB(a)
  • Coverage: 175-200 square feet
Check Price
Broan Nu-tone Wall HeaterBroan Nu-tone Wall Heater
  • Top brand for wall heaters
  • Available in three versions: 1000/2000W, 500/1000W, 750/1500W
  • Features dual power outlets and an automatic shut-off function
  • Coverage: 65-200 square feet
Check Price
King W Series Electric Wall HeaterKing W Series Electric Wall Heater
  • Most choices for wall heat and electrical connections
  • Available in six versions ranging from 1000W (120V AC) - 2000W (240V AC)
  • Each version is compactly designed to fit a standard 2x4-inch wall
  • Coverage: 125-200 square feet
Check Price
King PAW Series Electric Wall HeaterKing PAW Series Electric Wall Heater
  • Best compact electric wall heater
  • Available in three versions: 1500W (120V AC), 2250W (208V AC), 2250W (240V AC)
  • Features a heavy-duty steel element and blower will give you years of reliable use
  • Coverage: 175-300 square feet
Check Price
EconoHome Wall Mounted Electric HeaterEconoHome Wall Mounted Electric Heater
  • Best wall mounted heater panel
  • Available in two versions: 400W & 600W
  • Extremely economical - costs between $0.04-$0.07 per hour to run
  • Coverage: 120-200 square feet
Check Price
Envi Wall Mounted Electric HeaterEnvi Wall Mounted Electric Heater
  • Popular brand of wall mounted panel heater
  • Has innovative safety features that make it ideal for use in family homes
  • Highly energy-efficient and uses 50% less power than a conventional heater
  • Coverage: 150 square feet
Check Price
Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Wall HeaterHeat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Wall Heater
  • Best WiFi electric wall heater
  • Features infrared technology to quickly and efficiently provide warmth
  • Also features WiFi connectivity
  • Coverage: 750 square feet
Check Price
Heat Storm HS-1000-WX Wall HeaterHeat Storm HS-1000-WX Wall Heater
  • Best budget wall heater
  • Can be switched into economy mode to reduce the power output from 1000W to 500W
  • The thermostat is fully adjustable between 50º-99ºF and includes a remote control
  • Coverage: 500 square feet
Check Price
De'Longhi HCX9115E Electric Wall HeaterDe'Longhi HCX9115E Electric Wall Heater
  • Top electric wall heater with digital controls
  • Can transform from a wall heater to a freestanding space heater
  • Features a timer that allows you to program the heater to switch off after a set period of time
  • Coverage: 300 square feet
Check Price
De'Longhi HSX3315FTS Panel Wall HeaterDe'Longhi HSX3315FTS Panel Wall Heater
  • Best value electric wall heater
  • Can be mounted to a wall or used as a freestanding heater
  • Compactly designed to fit in neatly with any room without taking up a lot of space
  • Coverage: 300 square feet
Check Price

Best Electric Wall Heater Reviews (Top 10 List)

1. Stiebel Eltron 236305 Electric Wall Heater

Stiebel Eltron 236305 Electric Wall Heater

If you’re looking for overall best electric wall heater, then this is it.

With a super-quiet noise level of just 48dB(a) and measuring only 5.13 x 10.88 x 15.75 inches, the Stiebel Eltron 236305 Electric Wall Heater is the perfect choice for warming up rooms sized 175-200 square feet. 

This wall heater features a clever down-draft design that pulls in cool air from the top and pushes warm air out of the bottom. This allows for a more efficient and even distribution of heat throughout the room.

It also features a built-in thermostat with a temperature range of 41º- 86ºF. Or you can go one step further and hardwire the heater directly to an existing wall thermostat if you want that type of control.

You can provide an extra boost of heat on those particularly cold days too by turning the booster-timer function on. This makes the heater operate at maximum heat for 60 minutes and, when the time is up, automatically switches it back to your chosen thermostat temperature. 

There’s even a frost protection setting that will maintain temperatures at just above freezing. 

This is ideal for keeping your room temperature just warm enough when you’re not at home, meaning that you’ll never have to come back to a cold room but not wasting any heat or energy during the process.

The simple on/off switch makes operating this wall heater easier than ever. 

And, with its 1500W power output, it’s a great option for anybody on a budget, generally costing between $0.15 – $0.30 per hour to run depending on your local utility rate. 

It’s also a great, inexpensive way to give a larger room with existing central heating that extra boost of warmth over winter. 

Check Price and Reviews


2. Broan Nu-tone Wall Heater

Broan Nu-tone Wall Heater

Different room sizes throughout a house take different amounts of time to warm up, and the cost of heating smaller and larger rooms can vary dramatically. 

This is why, when you’re shopping for an electric wall heater, it’s not a “one size fits all” deal. 

Luckily, Broan Nu-tone has thought about this and has designed a fantastic wall heater that is available in three versions: 1000/2000W, 500/1000W, 750/1500W. 

And each of these electric wall heaters features dual power-output levels too.

This allows them to automatically convert to half their power output depending on whether your electrical system is wired at 120V AC or 240V AC.

But what’s the difference between the three wall heaters, and why would you choose one over the other? 

Well, it all comes down to the size of the area it can warm up and how much it costs to run. 

Let’s take a look at these details in a little more depth for each of the three heaters:

  • Nu-tone 170
    • 500/1000W (120V AC / 240V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.06 – $0.12 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 65-100 square feet. 
  • Nu-tone 174 
    • 750W/1500W (120V AC / 240V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.09 – $0.18 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 100-150 square feet.
  • Nu-tone 178
    • 1000W/2000W (120V AC / 240V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.12 – $0.24 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 135-200 square feet.

As you can see, being able to choose between three versions of this heater gives you the versatility you need to provide warmth throughout your home without wasting any energy or money. 

This is what makes it one of the best wall heaters available.

They also feature a clever downward-louver design that directs heat towards the floor, allowing it to rise throughout the room. This means the air throughout the entire room warms up more evenly.

There’s also a conveniently placed thermostat on the front of each of the three versions. This allows you to select the perfect temperature for your needs and maintain it at that level. 

It has an automatic shut-off function too, and this helps to save you money and conserve energy by powering the heater off once the desired temperature has been reached. 

This wall heater is quick and easy to install as well and can either be surface mounted or recess mounted depending on the features of your room. 

It’s also highly dependable and features a permanently lubricated motor, high-efficiency blower wheel, and a super-durable nickel-chrome heating element. 

And, as if that wasn’t enough, the entire case features a baked enamel finish that adds external durability. 

Check Price and Reviews


3. King W Series Electric Wall Heater

King W Series Electric Wall Heater

As with the Broan Nu-tone Wall Heater, the King W Series Electric Wall Heater also offers you more than one version, allowing you to find the perfect model for your room’s size and match your exact heating and electrical needs.

Despite the varying power levels of these wall heaters, each one is compactly designed to fit a standard 2×4-inch wall. 

This wall heater is also incredibly easy to install and it comes in just three parts. 

Let’s take a look at the area coverage and average running cost of each of the six available models below:

  • W1210-W
    • 1000W (120V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.12 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 125-150 square feet.
  • W2410-W
    • 1000W (240V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.12 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 125-150 square feet.
  • W2412-W
    • 1200W (240V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.14 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 150-175 square feet.
  • W1215-W
    • 1500W (120V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.18 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 175-200 square feet.
  • W2415-W
    • 1500W (240V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.18 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 175-200 square feet.
  • W2420-2
    • 2000W (240V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.24 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 200-250 square feet.

Each version of this electric wall heater features a downward-louver design. This helps to distribute warmth more efficiently by pushing the hot air down towards the ground, allowing it to rise to the top of the room. 

This wall heater’s performance is further enhanced by its aluminum fan, permanently lubricated motor, and Ni-Chrome coil element that provides instant heat.

One of the standout features of this wall mounted electric heater, however, is the patented Smart Limit Technology. This senses potential hazards such as clogging in the element, an issue with the power supply, or an object blocking the heater, and automatically shuts it off.

This is a fantastic way of keeping you and your family safe while the heater is in operation.

You can also pair it with a line-voltage thermostat of your choice: mechanical, touchscreen, or Wi-Fi control.

Check Price and Reviews


4. King PAW Series Electric Wall Heater

King PAW Series Electric Wall Heater

If you like the features and downward-louver design that the W Series from King comes with, but you’re looking for something even more compact, the King PAW Series Electric Wall Heater could be the best wall heater for your needs. 

As with the W Series, the PAW Series is available in different versions to match your heating and electrical needs.

Here’s a breakdown of each of them in terms of wattage, running cost, and area coverage:

  • PAW1215-W
    • 1500W (120V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.18 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 175-200 square feet.
  • PAW2022-W
    • 2250W (208V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.27 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 250-300 square feet.
  • PAW2422-W
    • 2250W (240V AC)
    • Average running cost of $0.27 per hour.
    • Has a coverage area of 250-300 square feet.

So, apart from the smaller size, what else separates the PAW Series Wall Heater from the W Series? 

To start with, it offers you a model with a slightly higher wattage of 2250W. This makes it ideal for heating large rooms, while still allowing you to install it compactly and discreetly. 

Another feature that separates this heater from the W Series is the inclusion of a whisper-quiet squirrel cage blower. This means that you’ll be able to keep it running without having to worry about it making too much noise, and this is particularly ideal if you’d like to install it in your bedroom and leave it on overnight. 

It’s also incredibly easy to install and comes with QuickSet stud tabs that make aligning and securing it your chosen wall quick and simple. 

Meanwhile, the heavy-duty steel element and blower will give you years of reliable use, and this is backed by an included 5-year warranty. 

As with the W Series, each of the three electric wall mounted heaters available from the PAW Series features patented Smart Limit Technology. 

This is designed to keep everything as safe as possible while the heater is in use by automatically shutting it off if it senses anything wrong internally, or if anything is blocking the heater. 

Check Price and Reviews


5. EconoHome Wall Mounted Electric Heater

EconoHome Wall Mounted Electric Heater

The sleek, modern design of this EconoHome Wall Mounted Electric Heater makes it one of the most aesthetically pleasing models you’ll find. 

It’s not all about looks though, and it comes with a variety of features that make it one the best wall mounted electric heaters available. 

It’s also an incredibly energy efficient wall heater and uses less than one-third of the electricity of a conventional wall hater. 

This makes it ideal for anybody looking to reduce their household bills as well as their carbon footprint. 

Like a lot of wall heaters, it is available in different wattages to suit your heating and electrical needs. 

However, the energy efficiency performance allows each model to provide the same power as a traditional wall heater while consuming less electricity:

The plug-in thermostat gives you full control over temperature selection between 41-86ºF, and this heater also features overheat protection as an added safety measure. This automatically shuts the power off when the desired temperature has been reached.  

It doesn’t use a fan to generate heat either, so it’s ideal for anybody that suffers from asthma or dust irritation.

Instead, it ignites with minimal radiant heat that transmits to convection currents. These currents then rise from the back of the heater and circulate throughout the room for increased efficiency. 

The 400W version also features Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to power the heater on and off as well as adjust the thermostat from your smartphone. This is really useful if you’re heading home on a cold day and want to pre-warm your room ready for your arrival.

This is an incredibly durable heater too, and triple reinforced with a superior calcium silicate material that is crack-resistant. It’s also triple-insulated for extra electrical safety. 

Both the 400W and 600W versions are available to purchase with or without a heat guard as well, and this has a couple of uses. 

Firstly, it doubles the efficiency of the convection currents, helping warm air circulate more effectively throughout the room. 

Secondly, it acts as a protective shield over the entire heater and prevents anybody from touching it while it’s hot, without gaining a high temperature itself. 

That makes it an ideal choice for a household with children or pets.

Check Price and Reviews


6. Envi Wall Mounted Electric Heater

Envi Wall Mounted Electric Heater

The 500W 120V AC Envi Wall Mounted Electric Heater is good for people with young children or elderly relatives who might have safety concerns. 

This is because it includes a couple of fantastic safety features that are designed to keep your family and your home protected. 

The first of these is the cool-touch design. This keeps the external casing of the wall heater at just 90ºF, even if you’ve set the thermostat to a high temperature. 

It also features a Wall-Sens™ safety sensor that automatically shuts the power off if the heater is accidentally removed from the wall.

This is a highly energy-efficient wall heater and uses 50% less power than a conventional heater. This doesn’t sacrifice anything in terms of performance; however, and it’s capable of heating a 360 square foot area while costing as little as $0.04 per hour to run.

It also features fan-less heating technology. This means there’s no risk of dust particles being blown around your home, which is ideal for asthma sufferers.

 It operates in total silence too, so it’s perfect for installing in a bedroom.

The built-in, true-temperature controlling thermostat allows you to select the perfect level of heat for your home. Selecting the level of warmth couldn’t be easier either, and all you need to do is simply turn the dial to your desired setting. 

Installation is quick and easy as well, and it can be safely secured to your wall using the included bracket and fixtures. There’s no drilling required either, and you’ll be able to have the heater up and running in minutes. 

Check Price and Reviews


7. Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Wall Heater

Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Wall Heater

The HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Wall Heater from Heat Storm uses Infrared technology to quickly and efficiently provide warmth to a room measuring up to 750 square feet. 

It’s 1500W, 10V power, and patented HMS Dual Wall Technology also makes it extremely budget-friendly, costing just $0.18 per hour to run on average.

It has a built-in thermostat that offers you full control over the level of heat being generated, and it’s easy to read too, thanks to the LCD display. 

The power button is also located on the touchscreen, making it easy to power the heater on and off whenever you need to.

This wall heater is engineered for the modern world as well and features Wi-Fi connectivity. 

It allows you to control the temperature settings and other features using your smartphone. Using any iOS or Android device, you can even create schedules that will turn it on and off and set it to your desired temperature at certain times of the day. 

The cool-touch design and specially constructed vents provide an extra safety feature too, so you won’t have to worry about any accidents occurring around children or pets. This also ensures the wall stays cool while it’s in operation. 

The whole unit automatically shuts off if it gets knocked off the wall as well, keeping your home safe and dramatically reducing the risk of fire.

Check Price and Reviews


8. Heat Storm HS-1000-WX Wall Heater

Heat Storm HS-1000-WX Wall Heater

Ideal for providing warmth in a 500 square foot room, the Heat Storm HS-1000-WX Wall Heater features the same Infrared Heating Technology as the model above. 

However, there are a few features that set them apart from one another.

The first of these is the ability to switch it into economy mode. This reduces the power output from 1000W to 500W, using less electricity and saving you money in the process. 

That feature, matched with its affordability, makes it one of the best electric wall heaters for anyone on a tight budget. 

As with the HS-1500-PHX, the Infrared Heating Technology warms up objects within your room, rather than just blowing hot air around. This means that the heat is retained for longer, and you’ll be able to feel the warmth within the room hours after the heater has been switched off.

The thermostat is fully adjustable between 50º-99ºF, and this can easily be changed using the touchscreen located directly on top of the heater. You can also power the heater on and off from here too. 

And, to make things even easier, the included remote control allows you to power the heater and adjust the temperature from the comfort of your favorite chair. 

Safety features are offered in the form of a cool-touch grille that is constructed from a material that doesn’t cause burns or any damage to the wall it’s installed on.

It also automatically shuts off if it becomes dislodged from the wall, keeping your family and your home safe at all times.

The compact size of this heater uses less than 2 square feet of wall space, adding to its appeal for use in smaller rooms. 

It’s also available in two different colors, white or gray, to suit any interior design scheme. 

Check Price and Reviews


9. De’Longhi HCX9115E Electric Wall Heater

De'Longhi HCX9115E Electric Wall Heater

Among the plethora of reasons why the De’Longhi HCX9115E is one of the best wall heaters you’ll come across is its ability to transform from a wall heater to a freestanding space heater. 

This is achievable by attaching the included feet, and it’s an ideal solution for antony who is looking to provide warmth to a room without having to take up any wall space. 

This versatility is undeniably useful, but what else makes it such a great heater? 

To begin with, it has an impressive 1500W of heating power for its size. It can quickly and effortlessly provide warmth to a room of 300 square feet, while only costing $0.18 per hour to run on average. 

The 3-inch thin construction and the dual-fan system ensure that this heater doesn’t take very long to warm up either. 

Meanwhile, the all-metal casing retains heat for hours after use. This helps you save even more money as you’ll be able to turn it off and still feel it emitting heat.  

Selecting the perfect temperature for your room is easy as well, and you can adjust it between 60º-90ºF using the soft-touch buttons located on the side. There’s an easy to read, LCD screen above these buttons too, taking all of the guesswork out of finding the perfect temperature.

This heater also features an innovative Eco Mode. This helps you save money and reduces your carbon footprint by monitoring the temperature in the room and automatically adjusting the thermostat settings accordingly.

It has a timer too, so you can program the heater to switch off after a set period of time.

There’s no need to worry about safety concerns either, thanks to the internal tip-over switch that cuts the power if the heater gets knocked over when it’s standing or dislodged from the wall. 

Check Price and Reviews


10. De’Longhi HSX3315FTS Panel Wall Heater

De'Longhi HSX3315FTS Panel Heater

If you like the sound of the above heater but are looking for something even easier to use, you can’t go wrong with the De’Longhi HSX3315FTS Panel Heater. 

As with its counterpart, this heater can either be mounted to a wall or used as a freestanding heater by attaching the included legs.

But what else sets it apart from the HCX9115E and makes it one of the standout models amongst electric wall heater reviews? 

Let’s start by looking at the controls. The thermostat is slightly easier to adjust as it uses a simple twist of a dial to switch between heat levels, rather than requiring multiple button presses. This also makes it a great choice for anybody that might struggle to perform a repetitive action. 

Economically, it has the same performance as the HCX9115E and has 1500W of power that can easily warm up a 300 square foot room for as little as $0.18 per hour. However, thanks to the choice of four fan speeds that power the dual fan system, you may be able to warm your room up even faster and save a little more money.

It has two safety features that are designed to keep you and your home safe while it’s in use as well. 

The first of these is an internal tip-over switch that automatically shuts the heater off if it gets knocked over. Secondly, it features ‘thermal shut-off’. This prevents it from overheating by turning the heater off once it’s been operating at the desired temperature for a while. 

This stylish heater is compactly designed to fit in neatly with any room without taking up a lot of space. 

It’s also lightweight, so if you decide to use it as a freestanding heater, you’ll be able to move it between rooms with ease.

Check Price and Reviews


Electric Wall Heater Buying Guide

What is a Wall Heater?

A wall heater is a fantastic alternative to traditional central heating and, in some cases, can even be used to provide an extra boost of heat to particularly large rooms. 

As their name suggests, wall heaters are installed on a wall by using a bracket. 

Depending on the model you choose, you’re often given the choice between putting a wall heater directly onto a wall or installing it into a recess.

Their compact size and energy-efficient performance make them a great choice for studio apartments or offices in addition to the home as they can quickly warm up a small space without taking up a lot of space.

How Does an Electric Wall Heater Work?

The way an electric wall heater works depends on whether it is a convection heater or a forced fan heater, as each one uses a different method of generating heat. 

Forced fan heaters work in a fairly simplistic way. Cool air is drawn into the heater, it then comes into contact with a heating element before being pushed back out of the heater as hot air with an electric fan.

By operating this way, an electric wall heater can warm an entire room up in a very short space of time.

Convection heaters work a little differently. The principle of cool air in/hot air out still applies. However, as the air is drawn in and comes into contact with the heating element, the molecules within the air expand, and as this happens, cooler air is displaced by warmer air. 

By operating this way, all of the air within the room stays at a consistent temperature for longer rather than rapidly cooling once it’s been pushed back out of the heater. 

One thing both forced fan and convection heaters all have in common, though, is that they are powered by electricity. This is usually provided through a cabled connection to a power outlet; however, some units can also be hardwired into your home’s wiring.

If you want to learn about all different types of heaters, we have a post on that topic as well. But for the purposes of choosing an electric wall heater, the above information is all you need to know.

Benefits of Electric Wall Heaters

There are many benefits to investing in an electric wall heater, including a couple that you might not necessarily have thought about.

Market research indicates that “the global electric wall heater market in terms of value is estimated to register 5.66% CAGR [compound annual growth] during the forecast period [up to 2025].”

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of electric wall heaters below which are the leading reasons for why these units are become more popular. 

Space Saving

One of the biggest reasons that they are so useful, especially in smaller homes, is that they don’t take up very much space. By being installed on a wall, they leave much-needed floor space available, but still provide the room with the warmth you need. That’s what makes these units some of the best space heaters for bedrooms because they don’t get in the way.

Energy Efficient

They are also a lot more energy efficient than traditional heating. This is because they warm the air in the room up much quicker by pulling it towards the heating element, rather than relying on natural airflow to come towards the heat source. 

Some people even use these heaters in garages to keep that area warm. If you have this concern, then visit our best heater for garage guide to compare the top models for this purpose.

Thermostat Control

You’ve also got a lot more control over the level of warmth an electric wall heater generates. This is because the majority of them have a built-in thermostat which, when paired with different fan speeds, allows you to personalize the temperature a lot more than central heating. 

This is especially useful if you’d like to keep one room warmer than another in your home or if there is a particularly cold snap of weather and you’d like to give your heating that extra boost of warmth.

Easy Installation

Electric wall heaters also come with the added benefit of being quick, easy, and cheaper to install than traditional heating. This is ideal if you’re on a budget, or if you’ve recently moved into a new house that needs a lot of renovation work. These types of heaters also make some of the best bathroom heaters on the market.

Types of Wall Mounted Electric Heaters

Best wall mounted electric heater

Electric wall heaters are available as either standard wall heaters or baseboard heaters. 

But what’s the difference between them? 

Ultimately, the type of electric wall heater you go for will depend on the shape, design, and aesthetics of your room. 

Below, we’ll go into more detail on each of them.

Standard Wall Heaters

First and foremost, you have standard wall heaters. These do exactly what you imagine they do and are installed directly onto a wall; however, they can also be recessed into a cavity to save even more space.

Standard electric wall heaters are self-contained and usually have a built-in thermostat that allows you to control the temperature however you’d like.

Baseboard Wall Heaters

The next type of electric wall heater available is a baseboard heater. These use convection technology to draw cool air into the bottom and let warm airflow from the top. 

Baseboard heaters are generally a lot smaller than standard wall heaters and are usually placed underneath windows to counteract any heat loss through the glass. You can view our baseboard here reviews here.

To help make things a little clearer, take a look at this quick-reference table that indicates the differences between the two types of wall mounted electric heaters.

  Wall Heaters Baseboard Heaters
Heating Time Can heat an entire room in as little as 30 minutes depending on size Can take 30-60 minutes to heat an entire room depending on size
Wall Space  Takes up more wall space Takes up less wall space
Noise Level Operates at around the same level as a modern refrigerator Operates in near-silence
Temperature  Operates at a high-temperature level. However, some models do feature cool-touch housings as an added safety measure. Maintains a cool-touch temperature throughout operation 
Durability Generally lasts 10+ years Generally lasts 20+ years

Features to Look for in Electric Wall Heaters

When you head out on your quest for the best wall mounted electric heaters, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. 

We’ve listed some key areas to pay attention to during the shopping process, and doing this will help you find the perfect wall heater for your individual needs.

Wattage Use

The first thing you need to think about is the wattage you need your electric wall heater to operate with. 

This is important because the wattage goes hand in hand with the coverage area, energy-efficiency, and cost. And it’s the basis for answering the question, “how much electricity does a heater use?”, regardless of the type.

The best way to work this out is by calculating the size of your room. 

Generally speaking, the smaller a room is, the less wattage your electric wall heater will need. 

A heater with a high wattage in a small room will certainly make it warm up in record time, but it’s a bit of a false economy as you’ll be spending more money on something you don’t need.

The wattage of an electric wall heater also indicates how much it will cost to run. And, while electric heaters are much cheaper overall than traditional central heating, placing a low-wattage heater in a large room will cost you more as you’ll need to leave it running for longer.

To make working out your wattage requirements a little easier, take a look at our reference table below. 

Wattage Coverage in Square Feet Average Cost per Hour
1000 125-150 $0.12
1250 150-175 $0.15
1500 175-200 $0.18
2000 200-250 $0.24
2500 250-300 $0.30

Keep in mind that these are estimates and, depending on the energy-efficiency of your chosen wall heater, you may find it can cover a larger area and, ultimately, leave you paying even less than you thought. 

So make sure you read all of the information listed with the heater before purchasing for the exact room size coverage you need. You don’t want to get a large space heater than you really need.

Thermostat

One of the best things about electric wall heaters is that a lot of them offer you full control over the temperature settings through a built-in thermostat. This allows you to accurately bring the heat levels of your room up to a comfortable temperature. 

There are a couple of options available to you when looking at thermostat settings.

The first is a twist-dial, and this allows you to quickly adjust the temperature by selecting a certain number on the dial. This number will relate to a certain temperature range, usually in increments of 10ºF.

Or, for more precise temperature control, some wall heaters offer you button controls that allow you to increase and decrease the temperature by 1ºF at a time. This is perfect if you’d like to know exactly what temperature your room is at. 

Whichever you go for, you’ll want to make sure that your chosen wall heater offers you a good temperature range. Anywhere between 41º-99ºF is ideal to get the best energy efficient electric heater.

Timer

We all know that life can get in the way sometimes and, even though you might have the best intentions for switching your heater off, it can be easily forgotten. 

This is why it’s a good idea to look for an electric wall heater that features a timer function.

This will allow you to leave the heater on for a set amount of time, and then automatically shut it off once that time has passed. 

This is also ideal if you’d like to put the heater on when you get into bed, but don’t want to leave it on all night long.

Wi-Fi Control

In our modern age of technology, it’s always worth investing in household appliances that can be controlled with a smartphone via Wi-Fi. 

An electric wall heater that has Wi-Fi functionality will allow you to turn it on and off, adjust the temperature, and, in some cases, even set schedules that power the heater automatically through your iOS or Android smartphone.

A Wi-Fi controlled electric wall heater also gives you the ability to turn it on when you’re not at home. This is ideal if you’re headed home after a long day and want to come back to a warm, cozy room, rather than waiting for it to warm up once you’ve got back. 

Overheat Protection

As with anything that produces heat, it’s a good idea to look at what safety features your chosen wall heater provides. 

One of the best is overheat protection. 

As you may have guessed, this prevents the heater from overheating and automatically shuts it off if it becomes too hot to function safely. 

This is particularly useful if you’ve forgotten to switch the heater off before you head outdoors or go to bed, and is even more useful if your heater doesn’t have a timer function. 

How to Install a Wall Heater

One of the most appealing things about electric wall heaters is how easy they are to install. 

However, the installation must be done correctly. 

If not, the heater may not work properly or, even worse, could cause some serious damage to your property.

Before you get started, here are the tools you need:

  • Screwdriver
  • Linesman Pliers
  • Wire Stripper
  • Drill

Once you’ve got all of the above tools close to hand, you can install your wall heater safely by following these steps:

  1. Determine where you’re going to place your wall heater. It needs to be near a constant energy supply (such as a power outlet).
  2. Next, turn the power off at the breaker panel to cut all electricity to that room.
  3. Using the screwdriver, remove the power outlet’s cover plate, and then remove the outlet from the box.
  4. Run 14/2 wiring from the existing outlet to the heater. You may need to drill through wall studs to do this, depending on where you’re placing your heater.
  5. Remove the sheathing on your new wire and feed that through to the electrical box.
  6. Strip the conductors on your new wire and connect them to the available screw on the outlet.
  7. Place the electrical box back inside the wall, resecure it, replace the outlet, and resecure the cover plate. 
  8. Now, strip the other end of the new wire and splice the conductors from the power supply to the correct wires on your heater.
  9. Take the mounting brackets your heater came with and secure them to the wall.
  10. Place your heater into the brackets until you hear it click into place.
  11. Restore the power to the room and turn your heater on. 

The directions above are how to hardwire a wall heater into your home; however, some wall heaters come with a plug that can simply be plugged into an electrical outlet. 

If you buy a plug-in electric wall heater, then this makes installation a lot easier as you won’t have to worry about dealing with wiring. 

In this case, follow the installation instructions provided with the heater.

Best Wall Heater Safety Tips

Wall heaters are, first and foremost, sources of heat. Misusing the heat they generate or not treating the heater with respect could lead to some disastrous and potentially fatal consequences for you and your family.

So, to help keep your home and everybody in it safe, here are some wall heater safety tips to follow:

  • Do not place anything flammable onto your heater or within a 3 f.t. space in front of it.
  • Do not use an extension cord to power your heater unless you have no other choice. If you do have to use one, make sure you monitor it at all times.
  • If the power cord or the wall you’re heater is mounted on feels hot to the touch before you’ve switched it on, do not use it. Call an electrician.
  • Do not place your heater on an unstable surface such as a table or a chair. It’s designed to be mounted to a wall and, as such, should only be used in this way.
  • Do not place your heater near a source of water, or operate anything that requires water to function near your heater.
  • Do not use a wall heater that is designed to provide heat to a space that is larger than you need.
  • Do not allow children to use or operate the heater without supervision or permission.

Additionally, experts like Runtal Electric advise that you look for a product with certification for safety standards. “One of the best ways to know if a heating product is safe is if it has met stringent safety standards. UL certification means the product meets standards for safety. CE certification ensures a product meets the European Union standards for safety.”

Common Questions About Wall Heaters

How Efficient are Electric Wall Heaters?

Electric wall heaters are extremely efficient and can warm up a room up in record time. This is because wall heaters draw the existing cool air within your home towards them and replace it with warm air, rather than relying on the natural airflow that traditional central heating uses.

But do space heaters save energy? The efficiency of an electric wall heater can reduce your energy costs because they don’t need to operate for as long as you would with central heating. This means that they are incredibly cheap to run, costing as little as $0.06 per hour in some cases. 

Being able to get such a great performance from a short amount of time also makes them much more environmentally-friendly as well. 

Can You Leave Electric Wall Heaters On All Night?

Leaving an electric wall heater on all night is not advisable. This is because there could be a risk of fire if they aren’t properly monitored. However, this doesn’t mean you haven’t got the option to switch one on when you tuck yourself into bed. You just need to make sure it has certain features that allow you to do so.

These features include a timer that will automatically power the heater off after a set amount of time. Some are even compatible with Wi-Fi and allow you to create schedules that turn the heater on and off at certain times of the day. 

However, if your heater doesn’t have these options, you absolutely must not leave it on all night. 

Do Wall Heaters Use a Lot of Electricity?

Wall heaters are highly energy-efficient and, as such, don’t use a lot of electricity while they’re in operation. However, the amount of electricity a wall heater uses will depend on its wattage. 

For instance, a 1000W wall heater will use far less electricity than a 2000W wall heater. 

Some wall heaters have Eco modes (or Energy Saver modes) that allow you to switch between two different wattages depending on your needs. This is ideal for bringing a little boost of heat to a room when needed or giving it a good blast of warmth on a cold day.

The best way to make sure your wall heater isn’t using too much electricity is to purchase one that is designed for the size of the room you’re installing it into. 

Take a look at our reference table above for a better indication of wattage you need in comparison to the size of your room.

Are Wall Heaters Better Than Baseboard Heaters?

This depends on two main factors; the layout of your room and how quickly you need the room to heat up. 

Generally speaking, wall heaters can generate heat at a much faster rate than baseboard heaters. However, they do take up a lot more space. 

Baseboard heaters take longer to warm up but are usually much smaller in size. 

Another factor to think about is how quiet you’d like your heater to be. Wall heaters usually use the forced-fan method to generate heat, and this can be quite noisy. However, there are some models available that feature noise-reduction technology. 

Baseboard heaters are generally much quieter as they use convection technology to warm up the air in a room, and this makes them a better choice for bedrooms.

How Much Does it Cost to Run an Electric Heater Per Month?

We know that electric heaters are energy efficient and, as such, tend to be cheaper to run than traditional central heating.

But exactly how much does it cost to run an electric wall heater? 

This comes down to its wattage. 

Put simply, the higher the wattage, the more it will cost to run. 

Remember, also, that the cost will fluctuate depending on your energy company’s prices. 

But, to give you a rough estimate of the cost, here’s a useful reference table:

Wattage Average Cost per Hour
1000 $0.12
1250 $0.15
1500 $0.18
2000 $0.24
2500 $0.30

Are Wall Heaters Safe?

Wall heaters are safe to use. A wall mounted heater typically has several safety features that make it both safe and reliable to use indoors. One of the best safety features is overheat protection that turns the unit of if the internal components get too hot.

How High Should a Wall Heater Be Off the Floor?

The general guideline for how high a wall heater should be off the floor is a minimum mounting height of 8″ (203.2mm) above a finished floor. Having the heater this high off the floor will allow proper airflow for effective heating.

Enjoy Your New Electric Wall Heater

Electric wall heater reviews summary

We hope you enjoyed this in-depth guide on how to choose the best electric wall heater for your home.

Hopefully, the electric wall heater reviews and tips on how to use and pick the best wall heater for your needs were helpful in your research.

As you discovered, the best wall mounted electric heaters and in-wall heater units come from a few top brands. If you buy any one of the heaters listed on this page, you should receive a high-quality model that last for many years to come.

Avatar for Patrick Holmes

About Patrick Holmes

Patrick is a Senior Air Quality & Comfort Specialist. He conducts in-depth research and analysis for our product reviews and buying guides in order to offer expert recommendations for people who are seeking to improve their indoor air quality and comfort. (See Full Bio)