The standard space heater is NOT recommended for use in a bathroom unless it is equipped with special electrical safety devices to handle an environment with water.

Different space heater types are generally suited better for different applications. Although most heaters provide 1500 watts of heat, the manner in which the heat is delivered to the space can affect the comfort level of the user.  Most applications fall into one or both of the following two categories: 

1. Living space - (living room, family room, bedroom, office, etc.)
2. Working space - partially heated or unheated garage, workshop, unfinished basement, etc.

In general, occupants in a living space prefer long term heating with a more uniform temperature in the living space. This type of heating is normally used as an auxiliary to another heat source.  Heater models 7101 and 750, are best suited for this type of heating. Both are oil-filled heaters.  Although these heaters take longer to heat up the living space, they maintain a more uniform temperature over time.  The heating element first heats the oil and the body of the heater. The heat is then transmitted to the living space by natural convection via the air. When the heater thermostat cycles off the heater, there is still residual heat in the oil and the body, which continues to heat the air even though the heating element has been de-activated by the thermostat. Additionally, since neither heater contains a fan, their operation is silent which can be important in this type of application.

Occupants in a working space prefer instant heat, which is more focused or directed.  Typically, this is the primary form of heat in the workspace; therefore, it is more economical to "spot" heat part of the space rather than the entire space.  Usually, the noise of a fan is not a concern in this application.  Heater models 792, 205, and 633 are best suited for this type of heating.  All of these heaters are fan assisted (fan forced) which means that a fan is used to help deliver the heat away from the heating element and body.  When the heater thermostat cycles the heater off, the cooler air in the space will quickly cool the area which is being "spot" heated.  This can cause temperature fluctuations in the space.  Although this can compromise the comfort of the user, it is an economical way to "spot" heat an area instead of an entire area.  Often times, the thermostat is set in the high position, so that the heater operates continuously.  This will minimize the temperature fluctuations in the "spot" heated area, but the area outside this may remain cool.

Quartz and ceramic heaters can be used for either application, living space or working space. Heater models QTV-22, QTH-33, and SUN-1 fall into this category.