Dr. Heater Portable Infrared

The Dr. Heater Portable Infrared Heater is a 1500-watt unit that delivers a comfortable and energy-efficient heating solution by using a dual heating system to both generate forced air and circulate warmed air throughout the room.

The dual heating system combines an infrared quartz tube with a high-efficiency blower.

The manufacturer claims it delivers 60% more heat than other best space heaters for rooms with high ceilings.

I found it provided more heated air than most other heaters I used in my open-plan living room that is open to the second floor.

Plus, it’s super quiet as it operates at a quiet 39 dB, even at a high setting. It was a comforting white noise, especially during afternoon naps.

I'm always concerned about the safety of using space heaters for large rooms. Luckily, I had peace of mind with Dr. Heater. It features both tip-over and overheat protection.

It also boasts features like a remote control, an electronic thermostat with a range of 50 to 85 degrees, and caster wheels for easy movement.

I could quickly move it from room to room and control the heating element from afar.

The unit is equipped with a 12-hour automatic shut-off timer and comes with a lifetime filter.

Compared to other top space heaters on this list, the Dr. Infrared Heater stands out for its dual heating system and ultra-quiet operation. It can't oscillate, but it is energy efficient. 

Overall, I found it has excellent build quality, can produce enough heat, and is very easy to use.

Cadet Com-Pak 67526

The Cadet Com-Pak 67526 is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a permanent, built-in heating solution rather than a plug-and-play portable unit.

The Cadet is a hard-wired heater that runs on a 240-volt circuit, which in most cases means you’ll need a licensed electrician for installation.

Still, once it's in, you've got a sleek, space-saving option that blends seamlessly into your wall.  

With 3000 watts (10,236 BTUs) of power, the Com-Pak delivers serious warmth for rooms up to 450 square feet.

It uses forced-air convection to circulate heat quickly and evenly, making it ideal for open living areas or large bedrooms where you want warmth that spreads fast. I found it can turn a chilly space into a cozy retreat in just minutes.

The built-in thermostat is accurate and responsive, and the simple dial control keeps things intuitive—no fancy digital panels to fuss with, just straightforward heating when you need it.

It also includes a safety cut-off feature to prevent overheating, giving you peace of mind when running it for long stretches.

I installed mine in a basement rec room that always felt like an icebox in winter, and it’s been a game-changer.

Compared to the DeLonghi Dragon, which radiates gentle, silent warmth, the Cadet's fan-based design moves air more aggressively. This is perfect if you prefer a faster, more immediate heat response.  

With a two-year warranty and durable construction, the Cadet Com-Pak 67526 is a reliable, built-in solution that provides powerful, efficient supplemental heat for large rooms and high ceilings.

Broan NuTone 198

I recently installed the Broan NuTone 198, and if you’re after serious muscle for a large room with high ceilings, this built-in wall heater means business.

The Broan NuTone comes factory wired at 4000 watts (240 V), which equals roughly 13,648 BTUs. However, it can also be converted down to 2000 watts if you have electrical load restrictions.

Since it’s hard-wired and runs on a 240 V circuit, I do recommend professional installation. Once it’s in, you’ve got a sleek, low-profile heater built into your wall for the long haul—no cords, no clutter, and no tripping hazards.

This Broan model uses fan-forced convection, so it pushes warm air into the room quickly instead of slowly radiating heat.

In my loft-style room that always felt like a walk-in freezer, it made a noticeable difference in just minutes. I actually had to turn it down after my first test run.

The built-in disc-type thermostat is sturdy and reliable, making it easy to control your temperature. You can use it as-is or upgrade to an optional wall-mounted thermostat for finer tuning (sold separately).

It also includes a thermal overload protector for peace of mind.

Installation is flexible too. You can recess it into the wall for a clean look, or surface mount it for a quicker setup, depending on your space.  

Compared to the Cadet Com-Pak, the Broan packs more power and is designed for slightly larger rooms or those with more demanding heat needs.

The Cadet maxes out at 3000 watts (about 10,236 BTUs), while the Broan delivers 4000 watts for faster heat recovery and higher output. The trade-off is that the Broan is a bit louder due to its fan, but it makes up for that with more brute strength and versatility.

At around $280, the Broan NuTone 198 offers a professional-grade, high-capacity heating solution that’s equally at home in living spaces or large bathrooms.

With its one-year warranty and tough, clean design, it’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting permanent, powerful heat for large, open rooms or spaces with tall ceilings.

Comfort Zone CZ290

The Comfort Zone CZ290 is proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get serious heating power.

Like the Cadet and Broan NuTone models, it’s a 240-volt unit, but instead of being hard-wired to your home’s circuit, you can plug it directly into a 240-volt outlet.

That one difference makes it far more portable and versatile. It's perfect for anyone who needs intense, short-term heat rather than a permanent installation.  

With 4800 watts of output, this compact red powerhouse pumps out a hefty 16,378 BTUs per hour.

The Comfort Zone is built for large areas and high ceilings, but truly shines in workshops with high ceilings, garages, and basements where you want to warm things up fast.

The fan-forced design ensures strong, immediate airflow, so you’ll feel the temperature rise within minutes.

True to its name, it looks like it belongs in an industrial setting. The bold red metal housing, carry handle, and front grille give it a rugged, no-nonsense appearance that matches its performance.

I often use my Comfort Zone while detailing my car in my frigid garage, and it truly allows me to keep the feeling in my fingers. 

The adjustable thermostat is straightforward and responsive, and the built-in safety features (including overheat protection) add peace of mind.

At around $110, the Comfort Zone CZ290 is easily one of the most affordable ways to get high-powered, 240-volt heating without committing to a full installation.  

Compared to the Cadet or Broan, it’s louder and less refined in design, but that’s the trade-off for portability and raw power.

If you want instant, heavy-duty warmth without calling an electrician and have access to a 240-volt outlet, this little red beast is the one to grab.

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DeLonghi Dragon

I've always been curious about oil-filled space heaters, and the De'Longhi Dragon Premium model didn't disappoint. It's a class apart in the oil-filled heater category.

The manufacturer claims its design allows for 75% more radiant surface area, ensuring more heat is transferred throughout the room.

I found it heats up quickly and distributes warm air efficiently due to its convection heating effect and unique battery design.

Let me be clear - this DeLonghi model can create A LOT of heat, making your large living area feel small and cozy.

This is one of the best space heaters for large rooms without a fan, which means it distributes heat directly and doesn't circulate dust or allergens, which was a big concern for me as I'm allergic to dust.

Navigating the settings was a snap with the user-friendly digital control panel and its clear LED display.

I found it very easy to use, and it has functions like a 24-hour timer and an ECO Plus feature for energy optimization.

This oil-filled radiator heater includes an ECO Plus heating mode for energy optimization and a wide temperature range to cater to various heating needs.

DeLonghi put safety first when designing this space heater. It has an integrated handle for easy relocation, a child lock, and a thermal cut-off to prevent overheating.

I didn’t have to worry about accidental fires.

Plus, it not only makes my room comfortable with warm air movement but is also aesthetically pleasing, with a sleek shroud that not only looks good but also protects against direct contact with the hot surface.

Overall, the DeLonghi TRD40615E offers a radiant heating option that is quieter and has a more extensive heating surface compared to the direct infrared heat of the Heat Storm, making it your best bet as an extra large room heater, perfect for a two-story room.

Related article: My favorite oil-filled space heaters for radiant warmth

Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX

For my compact office space with 12 foot ceilings, the Heat Storm Phoenix HS-1500-PHX was the best infrared space heater.

With its 5,200 BTU heat output and patented heat exchanger, it ensures soft, safe heat and efficient heat distribution using infrared rays.

I was particularly impressed by the patented heat exchanger in this unit that delivered a gentle warmth that's safe and cozy.

The Heat Storm Phoenix belongs to the category of wall-mounted space heaters. I could mount it on the wall or place it on the floor using its attachable feet.

The built-in thermostat with an LED display makes monitoring and adjusting the ambient temperature effortless, and the included remote control makes the temperature regulation convenient.

I also really appreciate that this model comes in both grey and white, so you can make it match your space without too much effort.

At just around $110, the Heat Storm is the most user-friendly model on my list, and it is ready to provide steady heat only moments out of the box.

Related article: Best electric wall heaters for fast heating

Where should I put a space heater for a large room with high ceilings?

Place the space heater in large rooms with high ceilings in a central location to allow for even distribution of heat. For ceramic heaters, direct them towards the living area.

Does it cost a lot more to heat a large room?

Yes, it costs more to heat a large room than a smaller one due to the greater volume of air. The higher the ceiling and the larger the footprint, the more energy is required to raise the surrounding air to a comfortable level.

Related article: Space heaters I recommend for smaller rooms