Indoor climate control can be a hassle. With fluctuating temperatures in the summer and winter months, you can always use supplemental heating and cooling. The problem is, we don’t often want multiple devices to continually pull out or put away. That’s where heater and fan combos come in handy.
Whether you need a day of cooling or heating, or you just don’t need to turn on the central air conditioning system, there is a heater and fan combo for you. This article will examine the best heater and fan combination units on the market and help you select the right one for you.
Quick Guide – Our Top Picks
Best Tower Fan with Heating and Cooling
Benefits of Getting a Cooling Fan Heater Combo
Why should you consider a heating and fan cooling combo unit? Let’s take a look at the advantages.
- Less equipment.
The most obvious advantage is that you only need one unit instead of two. - Use year-round.
Unlike a stand-alone heater or stand-alone fan, you can use the combo unit all year long. - Supplemental heating or cooling.
Using the heater & fan combo along with your primary heating and cooling source can save you money and make the primary unit more efficient. - Portability.
If you purchase a portable unit, you can use it in any room of the home when needed without a lot of fuss. - Cost-effective.
Ensuring you buy an energy-efficient unit, you won’t need to worry about skyrocketing energy costs.
Fan Heaters Combo Compared
Why should you consider a heating and fan cooling combo unit? Let’s take a look at the advantages.
Considerations When Buying Space Heater Fan Combo Units
Before you pull out your wallet, there are several things you need to consider first. Below you will find several factors that will help you determine which model is best for you and your needs.
Heating Capacity Vs. Room Size
On the heater side of things, you need to ensure that the room or space you want to keep warm is size-appropriate for the heater’s capacity. The best way to determine this is to know the square footage of the area. Multiplying the room’s length and width (in feet) will give you the square foot size.
You can then use this measurement to find a heater that has the capacity for that space. In most instances, the heater’s wattage or BTU output will tell you how much space it can cover. The advised rating is 20 BTUs of heat per square foot.
Fan Power & Speeds
Having a fan that uses different speeds will come in handy when using the heater or cooling fan as a supplemental source. Low speeds will help keep air circulating and rewarming (or cooling) without developing hot or cold spots in the room.
Higher speeds will push more heat and cooling into the space, allowing your primary heating or cooling source to work more efficiently and turn on less often. For permanent installs, you may need more accurate controls for temperature settings. However, there should be multiple fan speeds to help the temperature controls be more efficient.
Oscillation
Oscillation is an optional feature, but one worth having. Not only will it help spread the cooled or heated air around, but it also improves circulation. With improved airflow and circulation, you will have a more uniform heating or cooling effect, and the system won’t have to work as hard to raise or lower the temperature.
Noise Levels (dBA)
Noise is a byproduct of the fans, motors, and heating elements. While noise cannot be avoided, you can dampen it. Noise is measured in decibels (dB) and graded on specific scales, like sounds within the human hearing range (dBA).
Higher dB levels mean more noise. For example, city traffic at a distance of 50 feet can rate about 60dB. A hairdryer at 5 feet may register at 65dB, while a normal conversation in a quiet room may only reach 48dB.
Knowing the heater and fan combo’s decibel rating will help you know if it will work in the room you plan to use it in.
A fan with a higher dB rating might work well in a garage gym, but not so well in a bedroom.
Temperature Control/Thermostat
Temperature controls will help you regulate the amount of heat or cooling the fan produces. These usually come with turn dial controls, though some may be digital. The thermostat controls will select fan speeds, how hot the heating elements get, and the unit’s wattage draw.
Energy Efficiency
Finding an energy-efficient unit is helpful to keep running and operational costs at a minimum. The wattage is vital to note since you pay for electricity by the kilowatt-hour (kWh). High wattage draws mean more energy is being used and will cost you more to operate the machine.
Look for energy efficiency ratings such as Energy Star certifications or a high SEER rating. These indicate the unit is cost-effective with a low power draw, meaning you pay less in energy costs to run the machine.
Wattage
Where output determines how hot or cold the unit can make the room, the input, measured in watts, determines how efficient the machine is and how much heat or cold it can produce. The higher the wattage, the higher the output will be.
However, the input wattage is what you pay for in your energy bill. You want to find the right combination of low wattage and high output for the room’s size you plan to use the heater or fan in. On average, though, you need 10 watts for every square foot for effective heating and cooling. Higher efficiency models will lower this requirement, though.
Installation & Required Maintenance
For installed units, you need to determine where the device will be mounted, how and if you can do it as a DIY project, or if you need to hire a professional. Below the product review section, we have a more detailed explanation of setup and installation.
For now, what you should be concerned with is how much space the unit takes to install and where it will go. You want to make sure you have easy access to the unit, not only for controls and settings but for routine maintenance, cleaning, and repairs.
Portability
Technically, any device that isn’t permanently installed is considered portable. However, portability is an issue you need to investigate. If the unit is too heavy to move, it won’t be very portable.
Likewise, if there aren’t any carry handles, wheels, or carts, it can be challenging to move as well. If you are looking for a portable unit, make sure you find one that makes transportation and portability easy and safe.
Warranty
Warranties for heater and fan combos are as wide and varied as the units themselves. The industry average for these models is only about 1-year of warranty coverage. However, you need to look at the warranty closely before you buy.
Make sure you know what is covered and for how long, but more importantly, note the things you have to do. Registration is usually required, though some brands give you a deadline to register a purchase.
When you need to make a claim, you should already know how. Read the claim section to determine the necessary steps, who is responsible for shipping, handling, and repair fees, and how long the process should take.
Price
Finally, the price will also be a major deciding factor. You want a high quality unit, but the better built and more reliable the unit, the more it will cost. Finding the best deal on the model you are after isn’t difficult.
However, if you are shopping around for any model, the price becomes more difficult to nail down. Cheap models may work for a season or two. Still, it is always better to invest in higher quality, longer-lasting models; even if you have to pay more upfront, they will be cheaper in the long run through longevity and lower energy costs.
9 Best Heating & Cooling Fan Combos Reviewed
1. Dyson Pure HP04
Best Heater and Cooling Fan
Watts | 1200 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 290 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 9.76 x 8.07 x 30.08 inches |
Noise Level | 52 dB |
Air Purifying | Yes |
Number of Settings | 10 |
If you are looking for the best heater and fan combo, the Dyson Pure HP04 is the model for you. This fan does it all, and it does it quietly. From heating and cooling to purifying and moving, you won’t find a better fan around.
The portable fan is designed to be compact with a 9-inch base and standing only 30 inches tall. It will sit on a table, counter, or shelf (it weighs less than 4 pounds) and push air into the room as needed.
You will find that there are 10 fan speed control settings, and it even reverses flow. On regular flow, the fan will oscillate 350 degrees to blow air in every corner of the room. It will heat the air, which in turn heats the room, or you can turn the heater off and let it blow the cold air around, creating a nice breeze and circulation.
With HEPA filtration, you can even purify the air. In reverse mode, the air is moved backward through the machine, with no airflow, but cleansing the air you breathe.
It also features a remote control and WiFi controls through a mobile app so you can set it and forget it. Put the fan on a cycle, timer, or just have it start heating before you get home. Did we mention it is bladeless? With no spinning blades, thermal overheat protection, and tip over auto shut-off, it is also one of the safest heating and cooling fans on the market.
What We Like
- 2-year warranty
- Bladeless design
- 10 speed settings
- Full local, remote or mobile app control
What We Don’t Like
- Not ideal for lower budgets
2. Lasko FH500 Fan & Space Heater Combo Tower
Best Tower Fan with Heating and Cooling
Watts | 1500 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 225 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 13x13x42 inches |
Noise Level | 54 dB |
Air Purifying | No |
Number of Settings | 7 speeds (4 cold, 3 heat) |
The Lasko FH500 is easily the best tower fan with heating and cooling on the market right now. This dual-purpose fan has enough safety features to keep you worry-free and enough heating and cooling power to make you want to use it year-round.
In cooling mode, you will find four fan speeds. It pushes the air in the room around up to 225 square feet, with a breeze you can actually feel. Because the cooling fans are at the top of the unit, the circulation is improved, and with the oscillating body, it will reach wherever you need it.
When you switch to heating mode, the 3 speeds allow you to select the perfect temperature for your needs. If you are using the heater as a supplemental source, low power has low energy draw and will keep the warm air moving through the room.
The easy to use remote allows you to select the mode, turn oscillation on or off, and increase or decrease the fan speed. You will also see a digital readout of the temperature, so you always know what to select when the time comes.
With a 3-year warranty, you can rest assured that this fan is here to stay. Along with the warranty and safety features, you have nothing to lose and a comfortable climate-controlled home to gain.
What We Like
- 3-year warranty
- Auto shut off, over temp, tip over, and cool-touch exterior features.
- Ceramic heating elements
- Simple operation
What We Don’t Like
- Can get noisy when on high and oscillating
- Small filter needs cleaning often
3. BRISON
No products found.
Best Mini Heater and Cooling Fan Combo
Watts | 1500 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 75 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 6.3×9.6×6.3 inches |
Noise Level | 61 dB |
Air Purifying | Yes |
Number of Settings | 3 speeds |
Brison brings you a small combo unit that is easily transported wherever you need it, either in the office, next to the couch, or even on your nightstand. With multiple speeds and air purification filtration, you can use this little heater and fan combo every day.
The cooling is a fan-only mode, with a single-speed: on. However, when fan only is selected, the unit only draws about 5 watts of power and can push air around a 50 to 75 square foot space. With the compact size of only 6 inches at the base, you can put this guy next to you on your desk for fresh air while you work or spend time on the computer.
In the colder months, you can select between low and high heating. On low, the unit will draw about 750 watts of power and produces a pleasant, comforting hum while pushing warm air around the room.
If you need more heat, you can put the unit on high, where it will draw the full 1500 watts and can heat a small room up in a matter of minutes. While it isn’t a primary source of heat, this guy will take the chill out of the air.
Many users turn the heater on high to get the room temperature to a comfortable level and then leave it on low to maintain the temperature without the larger energy draw.
The one downside here is the warranty. While you can get a full refund or a replacement at any time during the warranty period without a lot of fuss, the warranty only lasts for one month.
What We Like
- Simple system works out of the box
- 3-speed selection
- Ideal for personal space heating or cooling
What We Don’t Like
- 30-day warranty
- May be too loud for some users
4. PELONIS
Best Portable Space Heater and Cooling Fan
Watts | 1500 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 70 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 11.92 x 7.63 x 11.1 inches |
Noise Level | 59 dB |
Air Purifying | No |
Number of Settings | 3 speed settings |
When you are working, you want the heater and cooling fan that is best for office use. The choice is simple; the Pelonis combo fan. While this model doesn’t oscillate, it does pivot up and down 90-degrees so you can get the ideal angle for your needs.
Whether you set this fan on the floor or on the table, you will always have the right angle and the heat or fan speed that you need to keep cool (or warm) wherever you are. This is a highly portable heater with a carry handle on the back and an easy to use stand that is permanently attached to the fan housing.
The heater is also chocked full of safety features. The heater has a tip-over auto shut-off, thermal overload protection, and a cool-touch exterior. All of these combined, along with the sturdy, adjustable base, make it quite a suitable heater for efficiency and safety.
The biggest issue with this little heater is the noise level. It produces about 60dB of noise when on high, and the vibrations through the aluminum base add to this making it too loud for some, or may require you to turn the volume up on your television.
The 1-year warranty is a little low, but it is about average for the industry. However, customer service isn’t the greatest, so you should expect a little extra time for communications if you need to make a warranty claim.
What We Like
- Simple push-button operation
- Multiple safety features
- Ideal for office or workspace desks
- 90-degree tilt angle
What We Don’t Like
- 1-year warranty
- Low quality customer service
5. Guardian Technologies Pureguardian HTR410B
Best Whole Room Heater and Fan
Watts | 1500 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 225 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 29 x 10 x 9.5 inches |
Noise Level | 51 dB |
Air Purifying | No |
Number of Settings | 2 speed settings |
If you are on the lookout for a fan and heater that will cover the entire room, this is it. The PureGuardian from Guardian Technologies gives you a beautifully styled heater and fan combo that looks great in any room and functions better than it looks.
You won’t have to worry about cold nights or warm days anymore. This push-button controlled, digital readout ensures you always know the setting and temperature. It also features an automatic timer and oscillation so you can set it, forget it and enjoy a comfortable room.
In heat mode, you have two choices, low and high, which run on 900 and 1500 watts, respectively. On low, the temperature setting is maintained, but it won’t generally raise an entire room temperature more than a degree or two.
If you need that extra push, set the heater on high, let the room get to temp and then lower it to a low setting to maintain. You will also get better efficiency from it using this method.
In fan only mode, the air circulation keeps the cool air in the home moving so you always have a fresh, cool breeze no matter what the temperature is outside.
What it doesn’t do is filter and purify the air. It does have a small screen filter to keep dust and debris out of the motor area, though. It also features tip over and thermal protection automatic shut-off. Plus, an auto 12-hour timer will turn the unit off to keep everything cooled down and protected should you forget to turn it off manually.
What We Like
- Push-button controls with digital readout
- Remote control operation
- Ideal for medium to large rooms
- Multiple safety features
What We Don’t Like
- 1-year warranty
- Can wobble on the base when oscillating
6. Honeywell Turbo Force
Best For Circulating Hot & Cold Air
Watts | 1500 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 120 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 10.40 x 10.40 x 12.50 inches |
Noise Level | 54 dB |
Air Purifying | No |
Number of Settings | 3 settings, 2 fan speeds |
Honeywell is a name that has been around for years, and they know a thing or two about home climate control. The Turbo Force is the best choice for circulating hot and cold air and won’t leave you digging to the bottom of your piggy bank.
This compact heater and fan offers you a small footprint and easy portability, so you can take it and use it anywhere. With 1500 total watts of output, you can warm up to 120 square feet in no time at all.
It also features a 3 position pivoting case with triple angle oscillation. Not only does this allow you to angle the output, but it also controls how widespread the airflow is.
When it comes to safety, Honeywell has you covered there too. With an always cool to the touch casing, tip over auto shut-off, and thermal overheating protection, you don’t ever have to worry about the unit causing damage.
It also has a unique timer feature that allows you to set the timer for 1, 2, 4, or 6 hours. Plus, you can use the auto-off switch on the back to let it run for 8 hours and shut off by itself. This is great when you need that extra warmth or cooling to fall asleep but don’t need to have it run all night long.
We would like to see a longer warranty on the unit, but with Honeywell, you don’t have to worry about customer service issues or delays in response to your questions or claims.
What We Like
- Triple position tilt and oscillation
- High airflow circulation
- Automatic timer function
- Great customer service
What We Don’t Like
- 1-year warranty
- Requires frequent cleaning
7. TRUSTECH
Popular Small Model
Watts | 1500 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 85 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 9.25 x 5.31 x 9.84 inches |
Noise Level | 50 dB |
Air Purifying | No |
Number of Settings | 4 setting speeds |
The 4-setting heater and fan combo from Trustech is one of the most popular small models in the industry. This powerful little heater unit can select between two modes (heat or cool), and each mode has two settings (low or high).
What makes it a great machine, though, is the adjustable output. You can tilt the heater up to 45 degrees to have it cool or warm from head to toe. It also has a small enough footprint that you can place it just about anywhere.
It fits on your nightstand to help you fall asleep or on your desk while you work. You can even place it on your end table to have a cool breeze or a warm airflow while you watch TV. What is best about this unit, though, is the extreme portability and convenience.
It also has a tip-over auto-shutoff feature to keep you safe if it is ever kicked or knocked over. What you won’t notice, though, is any noise. At just about 50dB on high, this whisper-quiet model won’t keep you awake or disturb your conversations.
While it isn’t the quietest model on this list, it is quiet in its own right. It doesn’t rattle on its base or vibrate, even when on a shelf or table. You also get a 1-year warranty, which isn’t the greatest, but as we have seen, it is about average for the market.
What We Like
- Tilting head to direct airflow
- Quick-heat technology
- Simple to use controls
- Quiet operation
What We Don’t Like
- 1-year warranty
- Not overly powerful heat distribution
8. De’Longhi 3D Comfort HFX85W15C
Best Air Purifier Heater & Cooling Fan
Watts | 1500 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 500 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 36.4 x 13.4 x 13.2 inches |
Noise Level | Up to 57 dB |
Air Purifying | Yes |
Number of Settings | 16 (10 cool and 6 heat) |
The De’longhi name is well known in the air conditioner niche. They have a host of climate control devices and one of the best air purifying heater and fan combo units on the market. This 3D Comfort model oscillates, has a thermostat and remote operation.
This is an ideal unit for whole-room comfort and will heat up or move cold air through a large room without any problems. The one downside is the remote control. It is easy to use but also easy to lose. The remote is small, and the unit comes with a pocket to store it in on the top.
However, without the remote, you cannot operate the device. There aren’t any push-button local controls or mobile apps. If you don’t have the remote (or the batteries die), you won’t be able to operate the heater.
Aside from that, there isn’t anything bad to say about this machine. It is sleek and stylish, stands tall, and works well. There are 6 different heat settings to choose from that allow you to control your entire room’s warmth without being too hot or sacrificing cold feet to save energy.
When the temperature is too warm, you can move to cooling mode. The unit doesn’t actually cool the air, of course, but with 10 speed settings for the fan, it can move a lot of air and produce a comfortable, cool breeze.
This model can get a little loud when it is on the highest settings, which is expected, but even when it is moving air on high, the noise level isn’t much to complain about. Even the lightest sleepers can usually fall asleep with the fan running in the same room.
What We Like
- 2-year warranty
- More speed settings than any other model
- HEPA filtration purifies the air
What We Don’t Like
- Remote operation is only control option
- Noise levels do get high
9. Vornado VH2 Whole Room Vortex Heater
No products found.
Best Quiet Fan Heater
Watts | 1500 watts |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 350 sq. ft. |
Dimensions | 9.5 x 11.8 x 11.9 inches |
Noise Level | 47 dB |
Air Purifying | No |
Number of Settings | 3 settings |
If you want heat and quiet from the same unit, then you want the Vornado VH2. This heater and fan combo is not only efficient and powerful but whisper-quiet as well.
The turn dial thermostat works better than a lot of the digital ones found on more expensive models. For the best efficiency, turn the heater on high until the room is as warm as you want it to be, then slowly turn the dial down until the heater turns off.
Once the heater is off, this is your temperature setting. The unit will kick back on when the temperature drops, keeping the room constant (within 4 degrees of the setting). The patented vortex airflow also moves the warm air through the entire room.
You don’t need to position yourself directly in front of this model. Instead, the air will move around, warming the entire space.
When you need to have a fan instead of heat, the fan only mode works the same way, without heating and without the need for thermostatic controls. Send a cool breeze through the whole room and save energy while you do it.
Not only is this unit efficient, but it is quiet, too. The quietest model on this list topping out at a mere 47dBA. You can talk over it without raising your voice, and there won’t be any need to plug your ears or put the pillow over your head when you try to sleep.
Not only that, but the auto shut-off safety features and industry-leading 5-year warranty will have you cozy, comfortable, and sleeping worry-free for years to come.
What We Like
- 5-year warranty
- Highly efficient
- Quietest model on the list
- Easy to use thermostat
What We Don’t Like
- No timer function
- No temperature readout display
How Heater Fan Combos Work
Heater and fan combos are excellent units that can be used year-round. They offer you stand-alone or supplemental heat when it gets cold by heating an element with an electrical charge. The radiant heat then gets pushed out by the fan to warm the space.
In the warmer months, you can turn the heating aspect off and only use the fan. With various fan speed settings, you can push more or less air (as needed) to increase airflow and circulation in the room. This air movement keeps the cooler air in the space circulating, resulting in a more comfortable feel.
Ways of Setting Up Fan Heater Combo
If you opt for a mounted unit instead of a portable unit, you need to know how to set it up or install it. These steps will be outlined in the owner’s manual that comes with the unit. However, sometimes these get lost or left out, and you need to figure things out on your own.
Finding an Online Manual
You can usually find the owner’s manual on the companies website. Most brands will offer set up and user guides for free download. You will need to know your unit type and model number to get the right documents.
You can also look for owner manual listing sites that host downloads of all types of owner’s manuals for new and older equipment. Most of these sites are free, but some will only let you preview the manual until you either buy it or register an account on the site.
Where to Install
The next step is to figure out where you will install the device. If it is wall mounted, you need to ensure that the wall can support the weight and that it is clear of items, debris, or other things that can start a fire or block airflow.
For ceiling mounts or pedestal mounts, you want to ensure the unit is in a place with proper airflow and a clear area in front to push the heated or cooled air into the room. Usually, these models will come with specific clearance minimums to ensure proper airflow through the unit.
For more electric wall mounted heater models, do check our guide specifically for this type of heater.
Installing the Machine
Finally, you are ready to install your heater and fan combo. If it is a wall mount, you will need to mark the location using a template (usually included with the device) and install the mounting brackets and screws.
Most units will sit on the bracket, though there maybe a couple of screws to secure the device to the brackets.
For ceiling or in-wall mounts, you will need to mark the location and cut the holes. Most of these units are 240v powered models and require hard wiring into a junction box. If you are not comfortable with this type of install, it is best to call a professional electrician or HVAC technician for assistance.
Once the unit is wired and mounted to the junction box, you simply need to turn it on and test it. Once you verify everything is working correctly, seal the unit with the cover, and ensure proper airflow to and through the unit.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
Are heating fans safe to use?
Yes. Heating fans are indoor safe and many come with multiple safety features. You want to look for heaters with tip-over auto shut-off and overheating/thermal protection shut off features at a minimum. Other safety items include thermostat controls, cool-touch exteriors, and automatic timers.
Is there a fan that blows very cold air like an AC?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Fans cannot alter the temperature of the air without assistance. The higher fan speeds circulate more air, and when blowing directly on you, it can feel cooler to you. However, they are not lowering the temperature of the room. If you don’t want to use an air conditioner but want to reduce the room temperature, look for evaporative coolers as your next best option.
Do small fan heaters use a lot of electricity?
All heaters will draw a lot of power. This is due to the conversion needed to turn electricity into heat. Even desktop-sized portable heaters will have a large wattage draw, but this is normal. While all heaters can and do slightly raise your energy bills during their use, the costs are minimal relative to the heater’s size and can easily be justified.
As a standard reference for electric heaters, check our post on how much electricity a space heater use to know more.
Are Dyson fan heaters expensive to run?
All Dyson fan heaters are energy efficient. Most models will use about 1.5kWh of energy at a time. If you moderate the time the fan is running, you may not notice much of an increase in your electric bill. However, constant use of a Dyson heating fan (or any heating fan) will show a significant increase in power consumption.
Do fan heater combos dry out the air?
Technically, no. Heaters do not dry the air out unless they are improperly vented. However, this generally refers to central or gas-fired heaters and not portable heater and fan combos. Heating elements create warmth, and the fans blow the warmer air into the room, but they do not remove moisture. Rooms with running heaters can feel drier because warm air doesn’t contain as much moisture as cooler air.
Where is the best place to buy these fan heater combos?
You can buy heater and fan combo units anywhere climate control devices are sold. For brick and mortar stores, this includes places like Home Depot, Lowes, and any local hardware store or Walmart. If shopping online, the best place to purchase is through Amazon, where you will find the most extensive selection and some of the best pricing, specials, and manufacturer’s deals available.
Conclusion
Choosing the best heater and fan combo isn’t that difficult of a decision. You can easily become overwhelmed, though, with the various brands, types, and sizes available. Once you narrow your choices down based on your needs and expectations, that list becomes much smaller.
If you are still wondering which model to purchase, we suggest another look at our top pick. The Dyson Pure HP04 offers HEPA filtration, 10 fan speeds, and a 350-degree oscillation making it ideal for heating and cooling large and small spaces.