Description
Lasko 5165 Oscillating Digital Ceramic Tower Heater Review
The Lasko 5165 Tower Heater is a 1500W ceramic tower aimed squarely at the middle of the market: digital controls, a remote, oscillation, and a timer, without the price of a premium brand. This review is built from the published specification and listed feature set rather than any hands-off trial.
Design
The design is modern and minimalist in white, and at 22.75 inches tall it takes up very little floor area for the coverage it offers. The oscillation function is the main reason to choose a tower over a fixed box heater: instead of blowing hot air at one part of the room, it sweeps the output across a wider arc, which produces a more even result in a living room or bedroom.
Performance and Features
The 1500W ceramic element is the category standard and is rated for small to medium rooms. The digital controls and remote allow a specific temperature to be set and adjusted from across the room, and the timer function runs up to 8 hours, which covers the common case of wanting heat at bedtime without leaving the unit running until morning.
Safety
The unit lists overheat protection and a cool-to-the-touch housing, plus a tip-over shutdown. On a tall, narrow heater the tip-over switch is the important one, since towers are inherently easier to knock over than low, wide units. No portable heater should be run overnight unattended or placed near bedding regardless of its cut-offs.
Comparing to the Competition
The obvious comparisons are the Dyson Hot+Cool AM09 and the Vornado AVH10. The Dyson is sleeker and doubles as a summer fan, but costs several times as much. The Vornado moves air hard and is the stronger choice for a larger room, at the cost of more noise. The Lasko sits between them on price and noise. Within Lasko’s own tower range, the better-equipped CT18950 Ellipse adds a child lock, while the Lasko 755320 is the cheaper option that drops tip-over protection.
Cost Analysis and Value for Money
The 5165 is not the cheapest tower available, but the digital panel, remote, and timer are real additions over a dial-operated unit. On running cost, be sceptical of efficiency claims across this category: every 1500W heater draws the same power, and the savings come from the thermostat and timer limiting how long it runs, plus heating one room rather than the whole house. Our full ceramic heater category puts the alternatives side by side.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Efficient Heat Distribution: The oscillation feature ensures even warmth throughout the room.
- User-Friendly Controls: Digital display and remote control make adjustments easy.
- Safety Features: Overheat protection and cool-to-the-touch exterior provide peace of mind.
- Compact and Stylish Design: Fits well in any room without being an eyesore.
- Energy Efficiency: Helps save on heating bills over time.
Cons
- Limited to Small to Medium Spaces: Not ideal for larger areas.
- Initial Plastic Smell: There was a faint odor during the first few uses.
- Remote Control Range: The remote works best from a direct line of sight.
- Lack of Wi-Fi Connectivity: No smart home integration options.
- Noisy Oscillation at Times: Occasionally, the oscillation can be a bit loud.
Detailed Product Description
The Lasko 5165 is designed to provide efficient and safe heating for your home. Standing at 22.75 inches tall, this heater boasts a 1500W ceramic heating element, ensuring fast and consistent warmth. Its sleek, white exterior blends seamlessly into any room decor, while the digital display and remote control allow for convenient operation. The heater features overheat protection and a cool-to-the-touch housing, prioritizing your safety. Its oscillation function ensures even heat distribution, making it perfect for small to medium-sized rooms. The heater also includes a timer feature, allowing you to set it for up to 8 hours, providing flexibility and energy savings.
What Comes with the Product
Upon opening the box, you’ll find:
- The Lasko Oscillating Digital Ceramic Tower Heater
- Remote control with batteries included
- A user manual with detailed instructions
- Warranty card for registration and support information
How to Use Guide
- Placement: Position the heater on a flat, stable surface, ensuring it’s away from flammable materials.
- Power On: Plug the heater into a standard electrical outlet.
- Settings: Use the digital display or remote control to select your desired temperature and oscillation settings.
- Timer: Set the timer for automatic shut-off if desired.
- Monitor: Keep an eye on the heater during use, especially in rooms with pets or children.
Product Use Cases
- Living Rooms: Ideal for cozying up on cold evenings.
- Home Offices: Keeps your workspace comfortable without heating the entire house.
- Dorm Rooms: Compact size fits small spaces perfectly.
- Seasonal Use: Great for transitional weather when central heating isn’t necessary.
- Workshops: Provides warmth in garages or workshops during winter months.
How to Maintain
- Regular Cleaning Instructions: Dust the exterior and vents regularly to prevent buildup.
- Routine Inspections: Check for any signs of wear or damage before use.
- Basic Troubleshooting Guide: Refer to the user manual for common issues and solutions.
- Proper Storage Guidelines: Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Using Warranty Services: Contact Lasko support for repairs or replacement under warranty.
Expert Tips & Recommendations
- Energy Efficiency: Use insulated curtains to retain heat and reduce energy consumption.
- Optimal Warmth: Pair with a ceiling fan set to reverse to circulate warm air.
- Safety: Keep a 3-foot clearance around the heater to prevent fire hazards.
- Avoid Overheating: Don’t block the intake or exhaust vents.
Safety and Best Practices Section
- Placement: Always place the heater on a flat, stable surface away from flammable materials.
- Supervision: Never leave the heater unattended when in use.
- Fire Prevention: Keep away from curtains, furniture, and bedding.
- Child and Pet Safety: Ensure children and pets are supervised around the heater.
- Do’s and Don’ts: Do not use extension cords or leave the heater running overnight.
Warranty & Support Information
- Warranty Coverage Details: The heater comes with a 1-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
- How to Check Warranty Status: Register your product on Lasko’s website for easy warranty tracking.
- Warranty Claim Process: Contact Lasko customer service with proof of purchase and a description of the issue.
- Extended Warranty: Some retailers offer extended warranty options for additional peace of mind.
Product FAQ
- Can I use this heater in a bathroom?
- No, the heater is not designed for use in high-humidity areas like bathrooms.
- Does the heater have a tip-over switch?
- Yes, it includes a safety feature that turns off the heater if it is tipped over.
- Is the heater compatible with smart home devices?
- Currently, the heater does not have Wi-Fi or smart home integration capabilities.
