On the Kenai Peninsula, winter means long, cold months, and even well-heated homes have chilly corners. A portable heater can make a home office, workshop or guest room far more comfortable. Here's what to check before you order one online.
1. Room size
Most plug-in heaters run at up to 1,500 watts, the most a standard outlet can supply. That's typically enough to supplement heat in a room of about 150 square feet. For larger or drafty spaces, an infrared heater, which warms people and objects directly, often works better.
2. Heater type
| Type | Strengths | Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic fan | Fast, compact, portable | Some fan noise |
| Infrared | Quiet, even warmth for larger rooms | Usually larger |
| Oil-filled radiator | Silent and long-lasting heat | Slow to warm up |
3. Safety features
- Automatic shut-off if the heater tips over
- Overheat protection
- Cool-touch exterior for homes with children or pets
- A recognized safety certification, such as UL or ETL
4. Safe placement
Plug the heater straight into a wall outlet, never an extension cord or power strip. Keep three feet of clear space around it, and turn it off when you leave the room or go to sleep. It's also a good time to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, especially if your home uses a wood stove or fuel-burning appliances.
5. Delivery
- Standard: 3 to 5 business days, free on orders over $50. Deliveries to remote areas may take longer.
- Express: 2 business days when you order by 1 pm Alaska Time.
- We email a tracking link as soon as your order ships.
6. Returns
Inspect the heater, cord and plug when it arrives and keep the box for a few weeks. If anything's wrong, contact us within 7 days for a replacement or full refund. Unused heaters can be returned within 30 days under our returns policy.