Explore if BLACK+DECKER Oscillating Space Heater is Worth It: Detailed Review

Description

Features

The BLACK+DECKER BHT907R space heater is packed with features that make it a handy addition for anyone needing a reliable heat source. I’ve used it primarily in my home office, and having the option to switch between two heat settings—1000W for low and 1500W for high—has been a lifesaver. The ceramic heating element ensures a quick warm-up, and the oscillation function distributes heat evenly across the room. The LED display is crisp and easy to read, while the remote control, although a bit basic, allows for adjustments without leaving the comfort of your chair or bed. This is especially useful when I’m buried under a pile of blankets on colder days. Additionally, the programmable timer is a thoughtful touch, letting you set it for up to 8 hours in half-hour increments.

How To Use

Operating this heater is straightforward, but there are a few quirks worth noting. To get it started, you simply plug it in, press the power button, and choose your desired heat setting. If you want the room to warm up quickly, the high setting does the job in no time. Once the room reaches a comfortable temperature, switching to the low setting helps maintain warmth without overdoing it. I’ve found the oscillation feature particularly useful for spreading heat evenly when sitting farther away from the unit. The remote control, while convenient, does require a CR2025 battery, which isn’t included—a minor inconvenience if you’re not prepared. You’ll also need a small screwdriver to install the battery, which took me a frustrating few minutes to figure out.

Design

The design of this heater is compact and sleek, making it a good fit for small spaces. Measuring only 13.75 inches in height, it’s unobtrusive and can easily sit on a desk or the floor. The black finish blends seamlessly with most interiors, and its tower form factor is both modern and space-saving. At just 2.75 pounds, it’s incredibly portable, and I’ve found it easy to move between rooms depending on where I need it. However, the remote control feels a bit cheap—something I wouldn’t expect from a brand like BLACK+DECKER.

Noise

One of the standout features for me is how quiet this heater is. I’ve used it during Zoom meetings and late-night work sessions, and it hasn’t been a distraction at all. There’s a gentle hum when the oscillation is on, but it’s barely noticeable. If you’re a light sleeper, this heater won’t keep you awake, which is a big plus. My dog, who usually gets startled by noisy appliances, barely notices it running.

Positives

Key Benefits

• Quick and efficient heating with two settings (1000W and 1500W).
• Quiet operation suitable for work or sleep environments.
• Compact and lightweight design, ideal for small spaces.
• Oscillation function for even heat distribution.
• Programmable timer for up to 8 hours.

Maintenance

Keeping this heater in good condition is relatively low-effort. The ceramic heating element doesn’t require much upkeep, and the exterior can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. However, the small size of the air intake means that it can collect dust over time, so I recommend giving it a quick vacuum every few weeks. The manual suggests avoiding the use of harsh chemicals, which I appreciate as it means less fuss.

Warranty

BLACK+DECKER offers a one-year limited warranty for this heater, which provides some peace of mind. I haven’t had any issues yet, but knowing that I could reach out for support if something went wrong is reassuring. That said, I do wish the warranty period were longer, as one year feels a bit short for a product like this.

Performance

For a small unit, the performance is impressive. It’s advertised to heat rooms up to 200 square feet, and in my experience, it does this efficiently. My home office is slightly larger than that, and while it doesn’t warm the entire space toasty, it does a decent job of creating a comfortable zone around my desk. The ceramic heating element ensures that the heat output is consistent, and the oscillation feature helps spread warmth around effectively.

Safety

Safety is a critical consideration with any space heater, and this model doesn’t disappoint. It comes equipped with overheat protection, which gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m not in the room. The tip-over safety shutoff is another fantastic feature; I tested it out (intentionally tipping the unit over), and the heater shut down instantly. It’s a great safety measure if you have pets or kids running around.

Usability

The controls are intuitive, but not without their quirks. The heater defaults to fan mode when turned on, so you’ll need to manually select the heat setting each time—it’s a minor annoyance but worth mentioning. The buttons on the unit are responsive, and the LED display is bright enough to read in dim lighting. However, as someone who likes to use the remote, I was disappointed that it doesn’t come with a battery. I also noticed that the remote’s range is somewhat limited, requiring a direct line of sight.

Drawbacks

Weaknesses

• Remote control feels flimsy and requires a separately purchased battery.
• Default fan mode requires manual switching to heat each time.
• Timer functionality is limited to 8 hours and could offer more flexibility.
• Limited heating range for larger rooms or open spaces.

Competitive Options

When compared to similar products like the Lasko Ceramic Tower Heater or the Honeywell HeatGenius, this heater holds its own in terms of performance and design. The Lasko model offers a slightly larger heating range and a more robust remote, but it’s bulkier and less portable. Honeywell’s HeatGenius has more advanced settings and a quieter operation, but it comes at a higher price point. What sets the BLACK+DECKER model apart is its affordability and simplicity, making it a solid choice for those who need a no-frills, effective heating solution.

Price Worthiness

For its price range, this heater delivers excellent value. It’s an affordable option for small to medium-sized spaces and provides features that rival more expensive models. The lack of a battery for the remote and the somewhat limited timer settings are minor drawbacks, but they don’t overshadow the heater’s overall functionality and performance. If you’re on a budget and need a reliable, compact heater, this one is worth considering.

Additional information