Explore if the Air Choice OH12 Electric Space Heater is Worth It: Review

Description

Features

The Air Choice OH12 oil-filled radiator heater is compact yet manages to pack in some useful features for its size. The adjustable thermostat allows you to tweak the temperature to your liking, which I found handy on chilly mornings when I needed just a touch of warmth. There are two heat settings—high and low—so you can adjust the intensity depending on the room’s needs. I mostly kept it on the high setting for faster heat, especially in my small office space. Its overheat protection feature is reassuring, as safety is always a top priority when dealing with heating devices. The near-silent operation is worth highlighting too; I almost forgot it was on while working. However, the heating coverage is limited to 120 sq. ft., so it’s best suited for compact rooms.

Noise

One thing that stood out to me was how quiet this heater operates. Unlike other space heaters I’ve owned that buzz or hum constantly, this one is practically noiseless. I kept it running in my bedroom at night, and it didn’t disturb my sleep at all, which is a rarity with heating equipment. It’s perfect for anyone who values peace and quiet, or for light sleepers who can’t tolerate even the faintest sound in the background. Still, if you’re someone who prefers a bit of white noise, this might not be the ideal choice.

Usability

I appreciated how straightforward it was to use this oil-filled heater. The dial controls are basic, which I personally liked because it meant I didn’t have to deal with complicated settings or digital interfaces. Plug it in, turn the knob, and you’re good to go. It’s also lightweight at around 8.61 pounds, making it easy to move between rooms. I carried it from my living room to my study without any hassle. However, I noticed that it takes a while to heat up, which could be a drawback for anyone needing immediate warmth.

Design

The design of this heater has a bit of charm to it. It resembles an old-school radiator but in a modern, compact form. The black finish is sleek and fits well with most interior aesthetics. Its pedestal form factor gives it a stable base, and I liked that it didn’t tip over easily. While functional, the design isn’t flashy, which might appeal more to those who prioritize subtlety in their appliances.

Performance

During testing, I found the performance to be a bit of a mixed bag. It worked well in my small home office, keeping the space warm and cozy. However, when I tried it in my slightly larger living room, the 700-watt heat output struggled to make a noticeable difference. The warmth is consistent once it gets going, but the initial heat-up time is slow. It’s a good choice for supplemental heating in confined spaces, but don’t expect it to replace a central heating system or handle larger areas effectively.

Safety

I have to give credit where it’s due—the safety features are solid. The automatic shut-off for overheating is a huge relief, especially since I tend to forget to switch off appliances occasionally. Knowing that it won’t overheat gave me peace of mind. However, I did read some reports of oil leakage from other users, though I didn’t experience this issue myself. It’s something worth keeping an eye on, especially if you’re using it around kids or pets.

Maintenance

Maintaining this oil-filled radiator heater has been hassle-free so far. There are no fans or filters to clean, which makes it low-maintenance compared to other types of heaters. I wiped it down with a damp cloth to keep it dust-free, which took all of five minutes. However, the oil leakage issue mentioned in some reviews could become a maintenance headache if it occurs.

Warranty

The product doesn’t come with an extensive warranty, which could be a concern for potential buyers. I didn’t find any detailed information on the warranty period, and that lack of clarity is something I’d consider before purchasing. It’s always reassuring to know that you’re covered in case of defects or issues.

How To Use

Using this heater is as simple as it gets. Plug it into a standard outlet, adjust the thermostat to your preferred temperature, and select your heat setting. I mostly left it on the higher setting during testing, as the low setting didn’t seem to make much of a difference in my drafty home office. The portable design made it easy to move around, and I even used it in my camper trailer during a weekend getaway. Just make sure to place it on a flat surface and keep it away from flammable materials.

Positives

Winning Points

• Compact and portable design, easy to carry between rooms.
• Silent operation, ideal for bedrooms and quiet spaces.
• Adjustable thermostat for personalized comfort.
• Overheat protection ensures safety during use.

Negatives

Areas for Improvement

• Slow heat-up time, not ideal for immediate warmth.
• Limited heating coverage to small rooms only.
• No detailed warranty information provided.

Competing Products

In comparison to other oil-filled heaters, this one holds its ground in terms of quiet operation and portability. For example, brands like DeLonghi offer models with similar features but at a higher wattage, making them better suited for larger spaces. On the other hand, ceramic heaters like those from Lasko provide faster heat-up times but tend to be noisier. If you’re looking for something compact and quiet, this oil-filled heater is a good pick. However, if you need more power or faster heating, exploring other options might be worth it.

Value for Money

When it comes to cost-effectiveness, this heater is reasonable for what it offers. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but its energy-saving design and safety features make it a worthwhile investment for small spaces. If you’re on a tight budget and need a reliable supplemental heater, this could be a smart spending choice. That being said, spending a bit more on a higher wattage model might be a better long-term investment if you need to heat larger areas.

Additional information