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When the lights go out and the furnace stops humming, having a backup heater will make you glad that you planned ahead.
I've used a range of alternative heaters over the years, and some perform better than others when the power grid fails.
In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the best heaters for power outages and help you prepare for the next blackout.
Quick glance: My recommendations
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy
Mr. Heater Big Buddy
US Stove Company Rustic Stove
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Best heaters for keeping warm during an emergency
According to the US Census, at least 1 in 4 houses in the US will face at least one power outage annually.
Aggressive storms, wind systems, freezing weather, or a system overload can leave you without electricity for hours or days, and proper preparation can be the difference between life and death during a power outage.
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater
Editor’s choice
4.7
Overall Score
Energy efficiency
5.0
Heating ability
4.5
Value for money
4.5
Who is this product best for?
The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy F232000 is best for homeowners in cold areas who need a reliable emergency solution.
Strengths
Weaknesses
The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy F232000 is ideal for blackouts. It gives off a lot of heat and has more than enough power to warm a medium-sized room until the electricity comes back on.
What really impressed me about this heater was the quality. It’s sturdy and reliable, with a heating mechanism that takes only seconds to have an impact.
The Portable Buddy is also very safe, with a built-in low oxygen shut-off sensor that kicks in before it becomes dangerous. It’s even available with a carbon monoxide sensor if you want more protection.
The performance and features are impressive, but this heater is also easy to use.
It's even simpler than the Mr. Heater Big Buddy and less experienced homeowners should be able to get it working quickly.
The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy only has a 6-hour max run time (4 hours on the higher settings), but I found it easy to refill.
The heater takes 1 lb. propane canisters that are cheap and easy to find, and you can get it running again in just a few minutes.
Like all gas heaters, the Portable Buddy does require you to crack a window open for ventilation. It also becomes very hot to the touch, so make sure to keep children and pets away.
This alternative heating system is a great all-rounder and is the best indoor heater for a power outage. I also use mine often in my garage as I work on projects throughout the winter.
If you want to feel fully prepared for an outage, this is the heater I recommend.
Related article: My top recommendations for garage heating
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Heating output | 9000 BTUs |
Fuel type | Propane |
Heating type | Radiant |
Coverage area | 225-250 square feet |
Maximum run time | 5-6 hours |
Mr. Heater Big Buddy
Powerful propane heater for power outage
4.7
Overall Score
Energy efficiency
4.5
Heating ability
5.0
Value for money
4.5
Who is this product best for?
The Mr. Heater Big Buddy F274830 is best for large homes that need fast heating.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Those with a larger house (or a large designated heating room) will benefit from the Mr. Heater Big Buddy.
The speed of operation impressed me during testing, and I found that the Big Buddy heats much quicker than other propane heaters.
The fast heating doesn't just come from the fuel or efficient system - but from the fan.
Unlike the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater, the Big Buddy has a separate fan mechanism to push the heat around the room, making it much more efficient.
Aside from the impressive coverage, it also has built-in safety features and a large propane tank that provides a good run time and protects against outages that last longer than usual.
My only criticism of the Big Buddy heater is that I did find the pilot light a little complicated, and it took me longer to get the heater working.
The instructions aren't great either, so I would not recommend it for those with limited experience.
However, there's no denying it is an amazingly effective heater for a power outage.
If you have a larger home or live in cold conditions where you don't want to risk being without heat for too long, this Mr. Heater Big Buddy is the heater I recommend.
Related article: Space heater solutions for larger rooms or high ceilings
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Heating output | 18000 BTUs |
Fuel type | Propane |
Heating type | Radiant |
Coverage area | 450 square feet |
Maximum run time | 8-9 hours |
US Stove Company Rustic Stove
Best wood-burning option
4.6
Overall Score
Energy efficiency
4.8
Heating ability
5.0
Value for money
4.0
Who is this product best for?
The US Stove Company Rustic Stove is best for people who live in rural areas or where electricity outages are known to last several days.
Strengths
Weaknesses
While gas heaters like the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater area really fantastic for emergency heat, they are limited by their run-time and how much propane or kerosene you have on hand.
For folks who live in rural areas, or areas that are prone to frequent power outages, I recommend a more permanent back-up heating solution, such as the US Stove Company Rustic Stove.
This cast iron stove is a wood burning alternative that is so powerful at 54000 BTUs that it can heat areas of up to 900 square feet.
This 130 lb. stove brings rustic charm to any home, cabin, or pole barn, and can even be used as your primary heating source, if you so choose.
Although the US Stove Company model requires more thorough installation with a direct vent to the outdoors, once in place, you can feel confident in knowing that you'll have a permanent heat source that requires only wood.
As an added bonus, the top of the cast iron stove doubles as a cooktop, meaning that you can even enjoy a warm meal during a power outage.
Since wood-burning stoves are prone to becoming incredibly hot, I really appreciate that this model is made with a two-piece handle that stays cool to the touch.
The only downside of this wood-burning stove is that it is definitely the most expensive alternative for power outages, upfront.
The US Stove Company model costs around $400, and that is not including the additional vent and installation price, should you have it done professionally, which I recommend.
That said, long-term, you won't need to worry about keeping gas on hand for emergencies. Just make sure you have a wood supply available in a dry location, and you'll have all the heat you need for years to come.
Related article: Heating options for pole barns
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Heating output | 54000 BTUs |
Fuel type | Wood |
Heating type | Radiant |
Coverage area | 900 square feet |
Maximum run time | Dependent on wood supply |
Dyna-Glo Indoor Kerosene Heater
Kerosene heater for power outages
4.5
Overall Score
Energy efficiency
4.5
Heating ability
5.0
Value for money
4.0
Who is this product best for?
The Dyna-Glo WK11C8 is best for homeowners who experience frequent outages.
Strengths
Weaknesses
If you need a heater that's ready to go time after time, look no further than the Dyna-Glo WK11C8.
The kerosene heater is powerful and long-lasting, making it perfect for areas with regular power outages.
Kerosene is a powerful fuel but less used than gas or liquid propane because of the potential risks. However, Dyna-Glo has shown just how effective it can be.
This unit is able to radiate heat in all directions, giving it more coverage than the Mr. Heater Big Buddy and enough heat to warm a large room.
It also simultaneously spreads light, like a mini campfire, lighting your home during a blackout.
Despite the heat and light, there are no noticeable dangerous fumes.
The clean mechanism used by Dyna-Glo needs very little ventilation, and it even has built-in safety precautions for extra protection.
I found refueling the Dyna-Glo slightly challenging compared to other brands, and I had to follow the instructions carefully.
It's okay once you get the hang of it, but I would advise practicing before you have an outage.
This kerosene heater is more expensive than some propane heating sources, but it's one of the cheapest to run.
If you suffer from frequent outages, this is the kerosene model I recommend for keeping your family warm.
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Heating output | 10500 BTUs |
Fuel type | Kerosene |
Heating Type | Radiant |
Coverage (square feet) | 500 square feet |
Max. run time | 11 hours |
DEWALT Cordless Propane Heater
Heater with USB ports for charging
4.4
Overall Score
Energy efficiency
4.8
Heating ability
4.5
Value for money
4.0
Who is this product best for?
The DEWALT DXH12B is best for those with less experience who want a simple heater.
Strengths
Weaknesses
The DEWALT DXH12B is one of the most convenient heaters on the market.
There are no cables, no awkward connections, and no pilot light. It all works at the push of a button with a battery powered electronic ignition.
I got it unboxed and working to raise the temperature in under 2 minutes. This simplicity makes it the ideal solution for cold conditions where you need fast heating.
The DEWALT impressed me with it's dual propane tanks that can run smoothly for up to 7 hours.
It managed the temperature well in my medium-large room and ran consistently for over 4 hours.
It uses a built-in fan to help dissipate the heat faster, similarly to the Mr. Heater Big Buddy.
The DEWALT also has a kick-stand to set it up where needed, and has 3 USB ports for charging, making it a crucial companion in any power outage.
It also has a tough outer casing that can stand up to heavy use.
These features make it a versatile and durable heater well-suited for emergency heating.
The only downside is that it is pricey, even more expensive than the Dyna-Glo, but the performance does justify the cost.
Just note that it doesn't come with batteries, so you have to buy them separately. It requires both a DEWALT battery and a AAA battery for the ignition.
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Heating output | 12000 BTUs |
Fuel type | Combination propane and battery |
Heating type | Radiant |
Coverage area | 350-400 square feet |
Maximum run time | 7 hours |
Comparing heaters for power outages
Preview | Name | Rating | Fuel Type | Max. run time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater | 4.7 | Propane | 5-6 hours | ||
Mr. Heater Big Buddy | 4.7 | Propane | 8-9 hours | ||
US Stove Company Rustic Stove | 4.6 | Wood | Depends | ||
Dyna-Glo WK11C8 | 4.5 | Kerosene | 11 hours | ||
DEWALT DXH12B | 4.4 | Battery (with propane option) | 7 hours |
Caution: Always use non-electric heaters in well ventilated rooms
Using an alternative heating solution indoors without adequate ventilation can be hazardous to your health.
Important note:
Gas heaters can emit harmful chemicals into the air, limiting your oxygen intake.
This can cause serious side effects and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning in extreme situations.
Follow these rules to keep you and your family safe:
All the gas heaters listed above have low oxygen sensors as a safety feature and shut off automatically if pollution levels get too high.
I recommend looking for this safety feature in every gas heater you buy.
Related article: Can you use propane indoors?
What to look for when choosing alternative heating options
What kind of alternative fuel is available to you?
Propane - What is it?
Strengths
Weaknesses
Who is propane best for?
Propane heaters, like the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy F232000, are best for homeowners who want reliable and affordable alternative heat sources.
Related article: Top-rated heater options for woodshops
Kerosene - What is it?
Strengths
Weaknesses
Who is kerosene best for?
Kerosene heaters, like the Dyna-Glo, are best for rural homeowners who need a strong backup heating source and have plenty of ventilation.
Wood - What is it?
Strengths
Weaknesses
Who is wood best for?
Wood is only really suitable as a heating source for homeowners with an existing wood-burning stove (or pellet stoves) as they can be expensive.
Related article: Complete space heaters buying guide
Heating capacity and coverage area of space that needs heating
The output of heating appliances and alternative heat sources are measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units).
The higher the BTUs, the more heat produced, and the greater area it can cover.
Generally, kerosene heaters will produce the highest BTUs (over 130,000 BTUs per gallon), with propane and diesel close behind.
However, it isn’t just fuel that influences the heat output and coverage. The size, design, and specifications of the heater matter just as much.
The BTUs and coverage area should be on the packaging of every heater. I recommend measuring your space and then finding an appropriate heater to manage it.
It's also worth mentioning that many electric space heaters also have a BTU rating. A 1500-watt heater is equal to 5200 BTUs.
Useful tip:
If you only want alternative heat sources for a power outage, you should aim to heat a room, not your whole home.
If you try to heat your entire house, you'll burn through fuel far too quickly.
If you need to cover a large area, I recommend the Dyna-Glo kerosene heater. If you have a smaller room or home, I recommend the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy.
Are there any battery-operated space heaters?
Battery-operated space heaters are available and can be effective alternative heat sources. Here are the pros and cons:
Strengths
Weaknesses
The DEWALT DXH12B battery-operated heater is a great emergency heat source. Still, most other battery-powered heaters don't have the run time for longer power outages.
I only recommend using battery-operated heaters if you experience short and infrequent outages.
If you choose a battery-operated model, always check if it comes with batteries.
Many models don't, and you need to purchase them separately to be fully prepared for an outage.
Frequency and length of power outages and heater run time
The average length of a power outage in the US is 5.5 hours according to the US Energy Information Administration, but some may be much longer.
You need a heater that can provide enough heat to cover the gap.
For short and less frequent outages, I recommend the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater or the DEWALT. These can keep you warm for 4-6 hours and will work consistently every time.
If you experience more extended outages, I recommend a heating system with a longer run time, like the Mr. Heater Big Buddy.
It may also be worth investing in a few emergency heaters if you experience frequent power outages or at least stocking up on extra fuel.
What is your overall budget?
An alternative heater for a power outage can cost anywhere from $40-$500.
Generally, the higher the heating capacity, the higher the price, though battery-operated heaters tend to be more expensive and have lower capacity.
Remember, this heater is protecting you during an emergency, so don't hold back from spending a little extra on a heating system that is up to the task.
Other factors to consider
What kind of warranty is provided?
A warranty will help to protect your investment.
Some heaters (like the DEWALT) have a 2-year warranty, but it varies depending on the fuel type, make, and model.
I recommend finding a heater with at least a 12-month warranty.
Safety features
Alternative heat sources often come with safety risks attached, particularly with gas heaters.
Important tip:
The safety features on a heater help to keep you safe and are essential if you have kids or pets.
I recommend looking for heaters with auto shut-off, tip-over, and overheat protection at a minimum.
It’s also worth considering models with low oxygen sensors (like all the propane and kerosene heaters listed above) for added safety.
Ease of use
If you have a power outage, you don't want to spend hours setting up the heating.
A simple model can save valuable minutes and keep your house warm when the power trips.
If you have less experience with home appliances, I recommend the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater or the DEWALT DXH12B. They will give you no-fuss heating in minutes.
FAQs
How long will a house stay warm without power?
Most modern homes will retain some heat for 8 to 12 hours after the power is lost. After that, the home will drop closer to the outdoor temperature.
Will a gas furnace run during a power outage?
No, a gas furnace will not work during a power outage. A gas furnace uses electricity for ignition, blower fans, and thermostat control.
Related article: Do apartment buildings use gas or electricity for heating?
What is the cheapest way to heat a room without electricity?
Passive solar heating (hot air from sunlight) is the cheapest way to heat a room. Other cheap options include using natural gas heating (cheap fuel), using a small propane heater with a heat pump, or insulating water pipes, walls, windows, floors, and doors.
So, which emergency heater is best?
The best emergency heaters are completely reliable and provide fast and effective heating.
All the heaters above fit the bill, but the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater is my top pick because it’s safe, sturdy, and consistent. It won’t let you down when it matters most.
However, the emergency heater you choose will depend on your needs, and there’s something for everyone.
My #1 Recommendation
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy F232000
- High-quality and reliable
- Safe - with a built-in oxygen sensor
- Lightweight and portable
- Powerful heating to quickly heat an enclosed space
- Easy to refill
