Staying warm during the colder months is crucial for comfort and well-being, and finding the right heater can make all the difference. This review details my experience with the BLACK+DECKER Oscillating Portable Heater Tower and Heater and Tower Fan, highlighting its features and drawbacks after extensive use.
The need for supplemental heating arises from various situations, whether it’s combating chilly rooms in older homes, providing extra warmth in drafty spaces, or simply increasing comfort levels during particularly cold weather. A tower heater, with its slim design and often-powerful output, offers an appealing solution for many, but careful consideration is vital before buying. This is especially true for those with limited space, as even slender tower models still require floor space. Consider the size of the area you wish to heat; larger rooms may demand a higher wattage heater, while smaller spaces are better suited to lower wattage models. Also consider additional features; a remote control is convenient, an oscillating function enhances heat distribution, while multiple heat settings allow for customized comfort levels. Those looking for even heat distribution throughout a very large room might want to investigate a different type of heater altogether, such as a whole-room model, and those on a tight budget should research affordable alternatives.
- Stay Cozy, Stay Warm: This BLACK+DECKER ceramic tower heater includes a digital thermostat and 70 degree oscillating function. Also included are electric digital controls and a remote control
- 3 Heat Settings: This 1500 watt electric heater (6.85” x 6.2” 18.7”) has three heat settings -- Low Heat (900W), High Heat (1500W), and a fan function. Easily choose your preferred setting.
- Oscillating for Larger Areas: This oscillating electric heater (3.7 lbs.) is ideal for covering larger spaces for optimal circulation. The temperature range on our oscillation fan and heater is 59°...
Introducing the BLACK+DECKER Oscillating Tower Heater
The BLACK+DECKER Oscillating Portable Heater Tower promises efficient and convenient heating with its sleek tower design and remote control. It boasts three heat settings (low, high, and fan-only), an oscillating function for broader heat distribution, and safety features like overheat protection and an auto-shutoff function. Compared to other tower heaters on the market, this model stands out with its relatively compact size and user-friendly remote. However, it’s essential to note that this model is best suited for smaller to medium-sized rooms, and isn’t a replacement for a whole-house heating system. It’s not designed for outdoor use.
- Pros: Compact design, remote control, three heat settings, oscillation function, overheat protection, auto-shutoff.
- Cons: Can be noisy, inaccurate temperature reading, some remote control limitations, fan always runs in auto mode, after-shutdown cooling period.
- Fast Heating: Relying on PTC ceramic heating tech, high-speed fan element and rated power up to 1500W, heat up 200ft² in 3 seconds. Adjustable thermostat equipped for optimal heating temperature and...
- Versatile Space Heater: Enjoy four distinct modes - High, Low, Eco-Mode, and Fan-Only - all easily adjustable using the digital thermostat.
- Efficient Electric Space Heater: Experience the ultimate in fast and cost-effective heating with our Electric Space Heater. Utilizing cutting-edge ceramic heating technology, it provides superior heat...
A Deep Dive into the BLACK+DECKER Heater’s Features and Performance
Heating Performance and Heat Settings
The BLACK+DECKER heater offers three distinct heat settings: Low (900W), High (1500W), and Fan Only. The low setting provides gentle warmth, ideal for mildly chilly rooms or as a supplemental source of warmth. The high setting delivers a significant amount of heat, warming up a small to medium-sized room quickly and effectively. However, as noted later, the accuracy of the displayed temperature is questionable. The fan-only setting provides excellent air circulation, beneficial even when not using the heating functions. I often use this mode for a refreshing breeze on warmer days.
Oscillation Function
The oscillating function is a considerable advantage of this BLACK+DECKER tower heater. The automatic swivel motion distributes heat more evenly across a wider area compared to stationary heaters. This helps to prevent hot spots and creates a more comfortable and uniform temperature in the room. The oscillating function is easily controlled through the convenient remote control, which is a significant improvement on previous versions of other similar heaters I have owned.
Remote Control Functionality
The inclusion of a remote control is a fantastic feature that greatly enhances usability. It allows for convenient adjustment of the heat settings, timer, and oscillation function from anywhere in the room without having to physically reach the heater. However, there are some drawbacks to be aware of. The remote itself is small and requires being pointed precisely from slightly above the heater for reliable functionality, and it requires a battery (not included). The temperature display on the remote is as inaccurate as the one on the heater itself. The most annoying limitation, however, is the fact that you can’t turn on the auto temperature mode using the remote only manually on the heater itself.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount, and this BLACK+DECKER heater doesn’t disappoint in this area. The overheat protection function automatically shuts off the heater if it becomes too hot, preventing potential fire hazards. The 24-hour timer allows for scheduled heating, adding to its overall safety and convenience. It’s particularly reassuring to have the safety features while the heater is unattended. The post-shutdown cooling-down period, though annoying to wait through, should also be viewed as an important safety feature that ensures the components are cooled down sufficiently before becoming handled.
Noise Level and Other Considerations
One noticeable drawback is the relatively high noise level, especially on the higher heat settings. This BLACK+DECKER heater is not silent, and can be quite noticeable in a quiet environment. This may be a significant issue for light sleepers or those sensitive to noise. In addition, I have found the temperature display to be unreliable, and often several degrees different from the actual room temperature. The fact that the fan always runs, even after reaching the desired temperature, is also frustrating. The feature can’t be disabled, and continuously pushes out cold air after the desired temperature is reached.
User Experiences: A Compilation of Feedback
Online reviews reflect a mix of positive and negative feedback. Many users praise the compact design and convenient remote control, highlighting the ease of use and functionality of the BLACK+DECKER oscillating tower heater. However, the noise level and inaccurate temperature readings are recurring criticisms, with several users echoing my own experiences with these aspects. Overall, the positive feedback often centers on the ease of use and convenient features, while many of the critical comments are centered on accuracy and noise.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The BLACK+DECKER Oscillating Portable Heater Tower offers a blend of convenience and functionality, but the inaccuracies, the noise, and the forced-on fan significantly detract from the overall experience. It successfully tackles the problem of supplemental heating in smaller spaces, providing a relatively compact and user-friendly option. Its remote control and oscillating feature enhance user comfort, and the safety features are a welcome addition. However, the considerable noise and unreliable temperature readings are significant drawbacks. To determine if this heater is right for you, weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you need a reliable heating solution with accurate temperature control, or if you’re highly sensitive to noise, you might want to consider other options. However, if you’re seeking a convenient and compact heater for a small to medium-sized space and are not sensitive to the noted flaws, then Click here to check it out.