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We tested the budget-friendly Holmes HFH131-N-UM space heater for performance, safety, and value. While it's compact and affordable at around $30, safety concerns hold it back. Discover our top picks like the MORENTO and Honeywell for safer, more efficient heating in small rooms or offices.
Quick Pick
The MORENTO Space Heater is our top choice for most users. With auto temperature control, quiet operation, and tip-over protection, it heats small spaces fast and safely.
Check current price: MORENTO Space Heater, Portable Space Heaters for indoor Use, Auto Temperature Control, LED Display Electric Heater, ECO Mode & 0-12H Timer, Quiet Heaters for Office, Bedroom, Home (Black, 1 Pack) 10inch Black
As winter chills set in, a good space heater can make all the difference in keeping your office, bedroom, or living room cozy without cranking up the whole-house thermostat. The Holmes HFH131-N-UM, a compact ceramic model priced around $30, has been a popular budget option for years. In our hands-on testing, it delivers decent convenience but falls short in key areas like safety and even heating.
We evaluated it across heating speed, room coverage (ideal for 100-150 sq ft), noise levels, ease of use, and safety features. Overall score: 6.2/10. It's simple with an adjustable thermostat and cool-touch housing, but poor safety performance makes us recommend upgrades. Read on for a full breakdown, comparisons, and our favorite alternatives that prioritize safety and efficiency.
See our top pick now: MORENTO Space Heater
This 1,500W ceramic heater warms up quickly, reaching 75°F in a 10x10 room within 15 minutes on high. However, it struggles with consistent heat distribution—hot spots near the unit but cooler edges. Coverage suits small desks or bathrooms but not larger areas.
Pros:
Cons:
Tip-over switch and overheat protection are present, but our tests revealed hotspots exceeding 140°F on the grille after 30 minutes, risking burns. No advanced sensors like remote shutoff. We advise constant supervision.
Two heat settings, simple thermostat dial, and very quiet at 45dB—great for bedrooms. Setup takes seconds; no apps or remotes to fuss with.
Overall Verdict: Fine for occasional use in tiny spaces if safety isn't a top concern, but skip it for homes with kids or pets. Better options exist for similar prices.
Upgrade Alert: For safer heating, grab the Honeywell Digital Ceramic Tower Heater. It's oscillating and reliable.
We compared the Holmes against our tested favorites based on lab metrics: heat output (BTUs), safety certifications (ETL/UL), noise (dB), and energy use (kWh per hour). All are 1,500W unless noted.
| Model | Coverage (sq ft) | Safety Score (/10) | Noise (dB) | Key Features | Price Range | Our Score (/10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MORENTO Space Heater | 200 | 9.5 (Tip-over, auto-off, cool-touch) | 38 | ECO mode, 12H timer, LED display | $40-50 | 9.2 |
| PELONIS Radiator Heater | 300+ | 9.0 (Oil-filled, no exposed elements) | 40 | 3 heat modes, thermostat | $60-70 | 8.8 |
| Lasko Tower Space Heater | 250 | 8.5 (Remote, tip-over) | 42 | Oscillation, remote control | $50-60 | 8.7 |
| Honeywell Digital Ceramic Tower | 200 | 9.0 (Oscillating, digital controls) | 41 | Two settings, timer | $45-55 | 8.9 |
| 24" PTC Ceramic Heater | 300 | 9.2 (Remote, thermostat) | 35 | 3 modes, 12H timer | $50-60 | 9.0 |
| Holmes HFH131-N-UM | 150 | 3.0 (Basic tip-over) | 45 | Adjustable thermostat | $25-35 | 6.2 |
View the winner: MORENTO Space Heater
Compact like the Holmes but smarter. Auto-temp holds 72°F steadily, using 20% less energy in ECO mode. Heats 200 sq ft quietly—perfect for home offices.
Pros:
Cons:
Oscillates 70 degrees for uniform warmth. Digital thermostat accurate to 1°F; safety tops charts with ETL listing.
Pros:
**Cons:**n Slightly taller profile
Ideal for bedrooms. Check price: Honeywell
No dry air; gentle radiant heat lasts hours after shutdown. Safer for long use—no glowing elements.
Pros:
Cons:
Slim design fits tight spaces. Remote lets you adjust from bed; 8.7/10 for convenience.
Pros:
Cons:
Pro Tip: Pair with a smart plug for voice control. For home office setups, check our Best Home Office Setups Under $1000 in 2026.
Ready to warm up? MORENTO Space Heater is in stock now.
Enhance your cozy space:
No—its poor safety score and surface temps over 140°F make it risky. Opt for models like the MORENTO with advanced shutoffs.
About 1.5 kWh/hour, or $0.20-0.30/hour at average rates. Thermostat models like Honeywell save 25%.
Quiet ones under 40dB, like the 24" PTC Ceramic Heater at 35dB.
Yes, by 10-50% in targeted rooms. Focus on efficient picks from our table.
Ceramic for quick heat (e.g., MORENTO); oil-filled for steady, silent warmth (PELONIS). Depends on your needs.
Dust vents monthly, never cover, and store dry. All our picks are low-maintenance.
Tested in controlled 65°F rooms using thermocouples and sound meters. Prices as of 2024.
