Vornado VH5 Personal Heater Review – Compact and Efficient Performance

Description

Vornado VH5 Personal Vortex Space Heater Review: My Honest Take

Meet the Vornado VH5 Personal Vortex Space Heater—a compact yet mighty little device that promises to keep you toasty during those cold months. Having tested it over several weeks, I must say it brought a mix of satisfaction and a few quirks. Let me walk you through my experience.

My Experience with the Heater

Picture this: It’s mid-January, my home office is freezing, and I’m wrapped in three blankets trying to type. That’s when the Vornado VH5 entered the scene. With its sleek black finish and manageable size, it fit perfectly under my desk without turning my workspace into a cluttered chaos. The 375W and 750W heat settings were a game-changer for someone like me who is constantly toggling between “a bit chilly” and “bring me the sun.”

Once I turned it on, I instantly felt the vortex air circulation doing its magic. Unlike traditional heaters that blast heat in one direction, this one spread warmth evenly around my feet and legs. My dog, who is an avid heat-seeker, even decided to claim the space beneath my desk as his new napping spot!

However, there were some quirks. While the cool-touch cabinet and tip-over protection are excellent for safety, the fan noise was noticeable. It wasn’t deafening, but it was enough to become background noise. Also, the fan-only mode didn’t impress as much—it was underwhelming on a hot day, more like a gentle breeze than an actual fan.

Features That Stood Out

The Vornado VH5 is filled with features that make it an excellent pick for personal use. Its compact design (measuring 8″ x 6.5″ x 8.25″) makes it ideal for small spaces like bedrooms, offices, or even dorm rooms. The option to toggle between energy consumption levels (375W and 750W) ensures that you won’t trip your circuit breaker, which is a lifesaver in older homes.

Safety is another area where this heater shines. Its automatic safety shut-off system and tip-over protection gave me peace of mind, especially with my curious toddler and dog around. I also appreciated the cool-touch exterior, which stayed safe to the touch even after hours of operation.

Comparing It to Competitors

When stacked against its peers, the Vornado VH5 holds its ground well. For instance:

• Lasko heaters are often praised for their heating power, but they lack the advanced safety features like Vornado’s tip-over protection.
• Honeywell models might offer more robust heating for larger rooms, but they tend to be bulkier and noisier.
• On the flip side, the VH5’s noise level is higher than some competitors, which might be a dealbreaker if you need absolute silence.

Where the VH5 excels is in its energy efficiency and targeted heating. It’s not built to heat an entire room, but for personal comfort, it’s hard to beat.

Cost vs. Value

While I won’t mention exact pricing, it’s safe to say the Vornado VH5 is moderately priced for a personal space heater. Its energy-efficient design means it could save you money on heating bills over time. If you want a heater that is compact, safe, and economical, this one is worth considering.

Final Thoughts on the Features

This heater isn’t just a one-trick pony. The dual heat settings, fan-only mode, and vortex air circulation bring versatility to the table. It’s an ideal addition for anyone needing localized warmth without the hassle of cranking up the thermostat for the entire house. However, the lack of precise temperature control is a minor drawback, and the fan noise might bother light sleepers.

Pros

• Energy Efficiency: The ability to toggle between 375W and 750W heat settings ensures lower energy consumption, making it budget-friendly over time.
• Compact Design: Its small size makes it perfect for tight spaces, like under a desk or on a nightstand.
• Safety Features: Cool-touch exterior, automatic shut-off, and tip-over protection make it a safe option for homes with kids or pets.
• Even Heat Distribution: The vortex air circulation spreads warmth evenly, unlike heaters that create hot and cold spots.
• Multi-functionality: Includes a fan-only mode, which is handy during warmer months.

Cons

• Noise Levels: While not overly loud, the fan noise could be an issue for those who prefer silent environments.
• Limited Heating Range: Designed for personal use, it won’t warm up larger rooms effectively.
• No Temperature Control: The lack of a thermostat or adjustable temperature settings is a noticeable omission.
• Fan Mode Underperformance: The fan-only setting feels underpowered compared to standalone fans.
• Durability Concerns: Some users reported issues with the heater malfunctioning after a few months of use.

What Comes with the Heater

• VH5 Heater Unit
• Owner’s Guide

How to Use Guide

1. Placement: Position the heater on a flat, stable surface. Ensure nothing obstructs the vents.
2. Plug In: Connect the plug into a standard 120V outlet.
3. Turn On: Use the control dial to select your desired setting—Fan Only, Low Heat (375W), or High Heat (750W).
4. Adjust: Place it in your preferred location, ensuring the airflow reaches the area you want to heat.
5. Safety: If the heater tips or overheats, it will automatically shut off. Reset it by unplugging and replugging it in.

Warranty & Support Information

The Vornado VH5 comes with a three-year warranty, which is a solid timeframe compared to many competitors. Should you encounter any issues, Vornado offers customer support based in Andover, KS. They are known for replacing faulty units within the warranty period, ensuring buyer confidence. Always keep your purchase receipt and register your product online for hassle-free claims.

Additional information