PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing is widely used in today’s plumbing and HVAC systems because it’s flexible and easy to work with if you have high-quality PEX crimp tools. We researched more than 20 PEX crimpers, and we chose four for hands-on testing. While all performed well, our favorite is the Iwiss iCrimp F1807 kit for its durability and multipurpose versatility. 

In addition to the ones we tested, we’re featuring several additional PEX piping tools that we feel would be good picks for anyone working with PEX tubing. Keep reading to find out what to look for when shopping for tools for PEX plumbing, and find out how the following earned a spot on this lineup of the best PEX crimp tools.

1. BEST OVERALL: Iwiss iCrimp F1807 All-In-One Crimping Tool Kit
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2. RUNNER-UP: Plumbflex Crimper Tool Kit
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Iwiss iCrimp CRP1096 PEX Cinch Tool Kit
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4. BEST MULTIPURPOSE: SharkBite PEX Crimp Tool
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5. BEST COMPACT: Iwiss iCrimp IWS-FAS PEX Copper Ring Crimp Tool Kit
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6. BEST MULTISIZE HEAD: Apollo PEX Multi-Head Crimp Tool Kit
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7. BEST FOR TIGHT SPACES: Iwiss iCrimp Angle Head F1807 PEX Crimp Tool Kit
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8. BEST PROFESSIONAL: Milwaukee M18 Press Tool Kit With PEX Crimp Jaws
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9. ALSO CONSIDER: Iwiss iCrimp IWS-C Angle PEX Crimping Tools
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Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

The best PEX crimp tools on the market are made with effectiveness, ergonomics, and ease of use in mind. Check out our list of the ones we tested plus some additional models we think look great.  

Best Overall

Iwiss iCrimp F1807 All-In-One Crimping Tool Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps
• Length: 15.55 inches 
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes 

What We Like

• Accommodates PEX A, B, or C tubing types 
• PEX crimp removal tool and pipe cutter included 
• Includes a go/no-go gauge 
• Hard carrying case included

What We Don’t Like

• Hand strength needed to crimp 

If you’ll be installing a lot of PEX, this Iwiss iCrimp kit has everything you need in one place. The kit comes with a crimper; jaws for ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch pipe; a PEX pipe cutter; and a crimp-removal tool. It also features a go/no-go gauge and a wrench for calibrating the crimper. We liked the way all the tools fit nicely into the included hard plastic carrying case for protection.

The Iwiss PEX crimping tool kit is easy to use. We were able to change jaws when we were crimping different sizes of tubing. The long handles make applying sufficient force for crimping relatively easy, but it still takes some hand strength to crimp the rings snugly. The included go/no-go gauge is a definite perk. 

After crimping a ring on a PEX fitting, we used the gauge to see if we’d crimped it accurately. The removal tool made it easy to cut through incorrectly fitting crimp rings, and the cutter was a nice bonus because it ensured flush tubing edges that fit smoothly against the shoulders of the copper fittings. This kit gives you everything you need to run PEX tubing. 

Get the Iwiss iCrimp F1807 all-in-one PEX crimp tool at Amazon.

Runner-up

Plumbflex Crimper Tool Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 4.8/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Clamps
• Length: 11 inches
• Capacity: ½- and ¾-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• Works with cinch rings from different manufacturers
• Includes a high-quality cutter
• Comes with 50 clamps in both sizes
• Attached cinch rings securely in testing

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t come with a go/no-go tool
• Not suitable for ⅜- or 1-inch PEX

The Plumbflex PEX crimper is suitable for use with ½- and ¾-inch tubing, the most common sizes used in residential construction. This clamp-type tool performed flawlessly in our tests. We used it to attach stainless steel cinch clamps to both sizes of PEX tubing, and the fittings were snug and secure. Plus, it comes with 50 clamps of each size, so we had plenty to test with. 

It doesn’t come with a go/no-go tool, but you can pick one up for under $10 from any home improvement store. We used one of the go/no-go tools that came with another model we tested, and each clamp we applied was right on target.

One of the benefits of a PEX clamp tool (including this one) over a traditional crimp tool is the ability to reach into tight spots because there’s no need to spread the handles as far. We tried out the Plumbflex on a few cinch rings we had from a different manufacturer, and it worked just as well. 

Another perk is the PEX cutter that comes with the clamp tool. It cuts the tubing straight and flush so the edges fit smoothly against the shoulders of the brass crimp fittings. If you won’t be installing narrower ⅜-inch or larger 1-inch tubing, the Plumbflex is a quality pick. 

Get the Plumbflex PEX crimp tool at The Home Depot.

Best Bang For The Buck

Iwiss iCrimp CRP1096 PEX Cinch Tool Kit

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Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 4.5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 4.8/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Clamps 
• Length: 11.02 inches
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes 

What We Like

• Works with multiple sizes of PEX
• Comes with 30 cinch rings
• Compact size for working in tight spaces 
• Comes with good cutter

What We Don’t Like

• No storage case included
• Complicated removal function

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tool for securing stainless steel cinch rings, look no further than the iCrimp PEX cinch tool. This clamp cincher works for any size PEX and comes with 30 clamps, so you can get started right away. It performed well in our tests, but it took a bit more hand strength to completely snug the cinch rings than the Plumbflex model. 

Still, it did a good job and comes with a top-notch PEX cutter. The only downside was that the removal feature of the tool didn’t work well for us. We followed the instructions for adjusting the tool from the clamping feature to the removal feature (which requires about five steps), and then we tried to cut the tabs, but all we got were smashed tabs. Maybe we didn’t do it right (that’s likely), but it seems like a complex process and simpler to just use a dedicated removal tool. 

One additional thing to note is that the iCrimp cinch tool cannot be calibrated. However, we found it well calibrated right out of the package, and it should be fine for completing most PEX plumbing projects. This tool lets you make high-quality connections at an affordable price point.

Get the Iwiss iCrimp CRP1096 PEX crimp tool at Amazon.

Best Multipurpose

SharkBite PEX Crimp Tool

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Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Performance 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.8/5

Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps
• Length: 14.5 inches
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes 

What We Like

• Consistently made secure connections
• Easy-to-change jaws
• Go/no-go gauge included
• Mini hard case
• Ergonomic handles for comfort

What We Don’t Like

• Heavier than some at nearly 4 pounds
• Limited use in tight spots

We’re big fans of traditional push-to-connect SharkBite fittings, so we were excited to test the brand’s crimper tool and weren’t disappointed. At just under 4 pounds, the SharkBite crimper is one of the heavier PEX plumbing tools we tested, but it did a spectacular job of creating a secure connection each time. 

We tested it with stainless steel crimp rings, but it’s also designed to accommodate copper crimp rings. Changing jaws on the SharkBite was simple, and it comes with a go/no-go gauge so we could check each ring after crimping to ensure it was correct. It performed flawlessly. 

The SharkBite comes complete with a mini hard case that secures the gauge and the jaws, and it fits over the head of the PEX pipe crimping tool. We actually prefer this type of case because it doesn’t take up a lot of space in our tool box, and we can even slip it in a tool belt. The mini case protects the working parts of the tool and keeps the accessories secure. 

However, it doesn’t come with a removal tool and is not designed for use in restricted spots—its handles must be completely opened (nearly 180 degrees) to crimp a ring. However, it manages all standard PEX sizes, and the ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue. 

Get the SharkBite PEX crimp tool at Lowe’s. 

More Great Options

While we didn’t personally test the following PEX plumbing crimpers, they were on our short list before we selected the ones we wanted to test—and they’re still among our top picks. 

Best Compact

Iwiss iCrimp IWS-FAS PEX Copper Ring Crimp Tool Kit

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Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 
• Length: 12.2 inches 
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• High-leverage design
• Multiple jaw sizes 
• PEX cutter and go/no-go gauge included 
• Comes in a hard plastic case

What We Don’t Like

• Shorter handle than comparable options 

We know it can be tough to find a compact PEX crimper that fits in a tool box but still provides the leverage required to seal off a PEX joint. But if you’re looking for just that kind of item, check out the Iwiss IWS-FAS PEX crimping tool. This crimper uses a high-leverage design that allows the user to apply enough pressure for a perfect seal despite its compact 12.2-inch design.

This PEX crimping kit is more than just an innovative tool. We like that it comes with the jaws required for crimping ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch pipe, plus a PEX cutter, a go/no-go gauge, and a hard plastic case to carry it all. That’s a lot!

Get the Iwiss iCrimp IWS-FAS PEX crimp tool at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Multisize Head

Apollo PEX Multi-Head Crimp Tool Kit

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Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 
• Length: 17 inches 
• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• 4 sets of jaws 
• Go/no-go gauge and wrench included 
• Plastic carrying case 

What We Don’t Like

• Big, heavy construction 

For a heavy-duty crimping tool that can tackle most PEX tubing plumbing projects, we think the Apollo PEX multihead crimp tool kit is worth a look. This tool kit comes with the crimper, four sets of jaws (⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch sizes), a go/no-go gauge, and a wrench for adjustments and calibration. The jaws swap out with two hex bolts, which the included wrench also fits.

The Apollo provides plenty of leverage for sealing off plumbing joints, good for creating up to 100 pounds of force. The components pack nicely into the plastic carrying case, keeping everything secure and in one place between projects. The only thing we would like it to include is a PEX cutter to make straight flush cuts.

Get the Apollo PEX crimp tool at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best For Tight Spaces

Iwiss iCrimp Angle Head F1807 PEX Crimp Tool Kit

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Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 
• Length: 13.7 inches 
• Capacity: ½- and ¾-inch PEX pipes 

What We Like

• Suitable for crimping tasks in tight spaces
• Tubing cutter and crimping rings included 
• Go/no-go gauge included
• Hard plastic carrying case

What We Don’t Like

• Shorter handles provide limited leverage 
• No PEX cutter included

One advantage that PEX fittings have over copper piping is that in-wall repairs in tight spaces are much easier and safer, but they can still be challenging to reach and crimp. This product’s unique offset-head design allows the user to get a grip on any ½- or ¾-inch crimp, even in hard-to-reach places. We think this would be optimal for renovations where the user is retrofitting the plumbing.

This kit’s crimper comes with built-in jaws for ½- and ¾-inch pipe, as well as a tubing cutter and several crimp rings. It also has a go/no-go gauge, alerting the user to calibration issues and potential leaks. All of this gear stores away in a hard plastic carrying case. While we didn’t test this model, we’re familiar with many Iwiss iCrimp PEX plumbing tools, and we’ve never had a problem with any of them. 

Get the Iwiss iCrimp angle head PEX crimp tool at Amazon.

Best Professional

Milwaukee M18 Press Tool Kit With PEX Crimp Jaws

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Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 

• Length: 13.5 inches

• Capacity: ⅜-, ½-, ⅝-, ¾-, and 1-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• Power PEX crimp tool
• Fast and precise alignment

• Green light to show cycle is complete

• Kit includes charger, 2 batteries, and case

What We Don’t Like

• Bulk makes it challenging to work in tight spaces
• Cutter, ⅜-inch, and ⅝-inch jaws are not included

We’re well aware that using a manual PEX crimp tool all day can result in hand pain. While we’ve never used a powered crimp tool, we think the technology is awesome and we’re looking forward to seeing more manufacturers implement it in the near future. 

Milwaukee’s powerful 18-volt press tool kit is the solution many professionals prefer. Spring-loaded jaws provide precise alignment for flawless fitting of all PEX crimp sizes. According to Milwaukee, this tool is 40 percent faster than powered rivals, with a full cycle taking just 3 seconds.

Optimized force means no calibration intervals interrupt work, and no calibration tool is required. A pre-press battery check ensures sufficient charge to complete the crimp successfully, and a green LED confirms this at the end of the cycle. However, there’s no cutter in the kit, and while three sets of jaws are included, the ⅜- and ⅝-inch versions cost extra.

Get the Milwaukee PEX crimp tool at The Home Depot or Amazon.

Also Consider

Iwiss iCrimp IWS-C Angle PEX Crimping Tools

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Product Specs 

• Type: Crimps 
• Length: 7.87 inches
• Capacity: ½- and ¾-inch PEX pipes

What We Like

• PEX cutter included with purchase
• Compact size for tight spaces
• Precalibrated design 

What We Don’t Like

• Short handle may be difficult for some users 

Occasionally, plumbing projects and repairs get so tight and restricted that they require scaled-down tools to get the job done. For projects like those, we like the iCrimp angle PEX crimp tool combo. This two-pack of PEX crimping tools features a ½-inch crimper and a ¾-inch model, plus a PEX tubing cutter, both sized to easily fit in a standard tool box. 

These PEX crimping tools can fit in some tight spots thanks to their compact size and diameter-dedicated jaws. Unlike many other crimp tools, both of these tools come from the factory precalibrated. If you’re looking at making water-supply line repairs or retrofits, we think this is a good pick for getting in those tight spots. 

Get the Iwiss iCrimp IWS-C angle PEX crimp tool at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best PEX Crimp Tools

Before selecting the tools we wanted to test, we chatted with Korey Gregory, superintendent at water damage specialists ASAP Restoration in Tempe, Arizona. He stresses that “ineffective PEX crimp tools don’t create a tight enough seal around the ring.” 

We then extensively researched and chose to test PEX crimp tools made for PEX A, B, or C with crimps or clamps to suit individual users’ preferences. We selected models for various PEX tubing sizes, including ⅜-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch sizes. Several of our picks come from Iwiss, a leading manufacturer of high-quality crimping tools. 

In actual testing, we used each tool to securely attach rings or clamps to PEX fittings. We swapped out the jaws (when applicable) and used the accessories that came with the tools to see how well they were made. We used go/no-go gauges to determine whether the crimping tools were securing the fasteners to the correct degree. 

During the tests, we awarded points based on a rubric. Afterward, we averaged the points to find our top pick and categorize the other models according to their best uses. 

What to Consider When Choosing a PEX Crimp Tool 

Gregory offers some additional sound advice: “One of the ways to ensure that you get a quality crimper is to choose ones with longer handles rather than shorter ones. Longer handles help to give you leverage when doing the actual crimping.” He adds, “If you are starting a plumbing business, have wrist problems, or just a huge number of PEX crimps to do, then a powered PEX crimper tool might be worth the investment.”

Types of PEX Crimp Tools 

PEX is a flexible tubing that can transport fresh water, hot water, radiant heating, and even sprinkler-system water, making it very popular in residential applications.

These plastic pipes all work the same way, and most of the same joints will apply for all three types. However, their makeup and characteristics vary. One thing to understand is that PEX A, B, and C do not indicate a grade or quality of PEX piping. Those designations simply designate the manufacturing process used to create the pipe. 

PEX A

PEX A is the most expensive type of PEX, and it has some desirable properties. For one, even though it comes in rolled coils, PEX A will hold its new shape when straightened, making it easier to install through wall cavities and floors. However, PEX A does have the potential to leach more production-related chemicals, like toluene and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), into the water supply. Also, it has a lower bursting pressure than PEX B. 

PEX B

PEX B can cost half as much as PEX A, and that price comes with some advantages and disadvantages. PEX B has a higher bursting pressure than PEX A, and chemical leaching from the pipe is considerably less likely. However, it doesn’t straighten well and it kinks relatively easily, which can make it a bit of a hassle to install.

PEX C

PEX C isn’t very common, and DIYers are unlikely to come across it. The manufacturing process used to create PEX C makes it relatively weak compared to PEX A and B. It’s also less resistant to oxidation, meaning PEX C will wear down through normal usage faster than A and B.

Crimps vs. Clamps

When shoppers are learning about PEX plumbing tools, a key point is that there are crimps and clamps. 

• Crimps may be stainless steel or copper crimp rings that slide over a joint, and the crimping tool squeezes the entire ring down onto the barbed fitting underneath. Copper crimps are burlier than clamps, but they’re more susceptible to corrosion. 
• Clamps are stainless steel bands with small tabs and locking holes. Clamping tools squeeze a tab that snugs the crimp fitting over the tubing. Stainless steel clamps are easier to install and less likely to corrode, but they’re also much thinner than copper crimps, so they may bend or separate more easily. 

Length

For putting strong pressure on a crimp, longer handles are better. The longer the tool’s handle, the more leverage the user can apply to the crimp or clamp, requiring less effort to create a perfect seal. Look for a pipe crimping tool at least 11 inches in length. Since longer-handled PEX piping tools can be slightly awkward, they might have more of a learning curve than shorter-handled ones. 

Clamps tend to be easier to secure and require less effort, so handle length isn’t as much of a priority. 

Weight 

Plumbers and electricians who use these tools regularly will want to look for options between 1 and 9 pounds; most options weigh under 4 pounds. However, heavyweight options may provide more crimping power than their lighter counterparts.

Pipe

Before picking a crimping or clamping tool, know what type of pipe it works for. While many types of clamping and crimping tools work for plumbing joints, not all of them work for PEX pipe.

Some tools work for both copper and PEX pipe, but they generally require additional jaws or PEX crimp fittings. Buying models with added features can get expensive quickly, but for those who do a lot of plumbing, it might be worth the investment to be able to perform multiple plumbing functions with a single tool. Switching a fitting on a clamping tool takes less time than sweating a copper joint with flux and solder.

Capacity

Don’t worry about choosing the PEX crimp tool that is the right size. Because PEX comes in only a few sizes—⅜, ½, ¾, ⅝ , and 1 inch—most clamping or crimping tools made for PEX will do. Swapping between those sizes is usually pretty straightforward. 

Electrical and plumbing crimping tools typically have 1-inch jaws that can crimp 1-inch pipe, but their kits come with smaller jaws for tackling smaller pipes. To clamp those smaller pipes, simply open the 1-inch jaws and slip the necessary-size clamping jaws inside. 

Clamping tools are often one size fits all. They slide over the knob on the clamp and squeeze it, and those knobs are relatively universal in size.

Gauge 

The point of any plumbing job is to avoid leaks. With PEX crimps, it can be difficult to tell by eye or feel if there’s a good seal. Some tools come with go/no-go gauges to help ensure each fitting is tightly sealed.

These gauges have U-shaped cutouts meant for specific pipe sizes. To use a go/no-go gauge, slide it over the joint. Check it from several angles. The gauge should slip over the crimp about halfway before stopping. If it slides over the crimp—or not at all—the joint may have problems when pressurized. 

Calibration

Over time, clamping and crimping tools can fall out of perfect calibration. Applying pressure many times throughout a plumbing project can stretch the jaws, in which case they’ll need a little tightening.

Most PEX crimp and clamp tools have adjustment screws, and they often come with the wrenches required to tighten them. Use these to tighten the tools back to the ideal settings. Many have adjustments on both jaws, allowing for calibrating to a perfectly round result. 

The gauge can also determine if the jaws are overtightened, which can just as easily lead to a leak. 

Removal Function

Many of the best PEX clamp tools have removal functions for separating clamps from the pipe. Don’t expect to reuse these clamps or crimps, though, as the removal process either cuts them or damages their integrity. However, the fitting underneath should be completely intact.

Removing crimps requires an entirely different tool with a blade for cutting through the crimp rings. 

FAQs 

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. 

Additional research provided by Tom Scalisi. 

The post The Best PEX Crimp Tools for Plumbing Projects, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

If you long for the glowing warmth of a fire but could do without the usual maintenance, consider an electric fireplace. Unlike gas and wood fireplaces, an electric fireplace (or fake fireplace heater) can go in virtually any room, with no HVAC ventilation needed. 

Our favorite electric fireplace is the PuraFlame Klaus 33″ Electric Fireplace Insert. It offers the look of a real fire with a resin log and features an adjustable thermostat and remote control. Thanks to its flat bottom, it’s easy to install and plugs into any 120-volt outlet for quick operation. 

After hours of research and careful consideration, we also chose a number of other electric fireplaces to suit different needs. Keep reading to learn the most important shopping considerations, what our testers had to say about select models, and our top picks among the best electric fireplaces on the market.

1. BEST OVERALL: PuraFlame Klaus 33″ Electric Fireplace Insert
    ↓ Jump to Review
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Maxhonor Electric Fireplace Heater With Remote
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Real Flame Callaway 63″ Grand Electric Fireplace
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4. BEST STOVE: Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove
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5. BEST MODERN: Valuxhome Recessed Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace
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6. BEST FREESTANDING: Jamfly Electric Fireplace Wooden Surround Firebox
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7. MOST REALISTIC: PuraFlame 33″ Western Electric Fireplace Insert 
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8. BEST INSERT: ClassicFlame 23″ 3D Infrared Fireplace Insert
   ↓ Jump to Review 
9. BEST TV STAND: Walker Edison Wren Classic 4 Cubby Fireplace TV Stand
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10. BEST FAUX STONE: Winston Porter Ceonna 60.25” Electric Fireplace
    ↓ Jump to Review

Electric Fireplace Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

These top models include products we curated across categories to suit a variety of needs. Read on to discover some of the best electric fireplaces on the market today for producing heat and a relaxing atmosphere.

Best Overall

PuraFlame Klaus 33" Electric Fireplace Insert

See It

What We Like

• Multiple sizes available to fit in most hearths 
• Remote control included 
• Contemporary design with 3-sided interior brick wall

What We Don’t Like

• Crackling sound effect not very realistic

Specs

• Type: Recessed insert
• Size: 26.99 inches high by 35.04 inches wide by 8.78 inches deep
• Heating: Fan heater

The Klaus electric fireplace insert from PuraFlame adds a classic look to any home. It features logs that glow, flames that dance, and a fire that snaps. A three-sided interior brick wall adds to the realistic look and feel. The remote control offers easy operation and includes flame settings with variable intensity and brightness, plus the choice to go heatless for a crackling fire all year long. 

With enough power to provide additional warmth in a 400-square-foot room, PuraFlame’s electric fireplace measures 26.99 inches high by 35.04 inches wide by 8.78 inches deep. A 7.5-inch resin log sits on the grate above an ember bed. We like that the flat bottom of the electric fireplace allows for installation directly on the floor for hearthless fireplaces. PuraFlame’s Klaus comes in three different sizes.

Get the PuraFlame electric fireplace at Amazon, Walmart, or The Home Depot.

Best Bang for the Buck

Maxhonor Electric Fireplace Heater With Remote

See It

What We Like

• Versatile configuration with 3 installation options
• Features ultra-high definition full-screen glass
• Can warm up to 400 square feet 
• Includes a remote and touch panel

What We Don’t Like

• Didn’t heat our room quickly
• May require a recessed outlet, depending on installation

Specs

• Type: Recessed insert, wall-mounted hanging, or freestanding
• Size: 17 inches high by 30 inches wide by 4.1 inches deep
• Heating: Infrared

This affordable electric fireplace from Maxhonor includes three installation options. It can be recessed into a wall, wall-mounted, or used as a freestanding heater, thanks to its inclusion of two installable legs. It plugs into a wall outlet, making for quick and easy operation.

The temperature settings range from 62°F to 82°F and can be adjusted via the included remote or from the touch panel on the bottom front of the fireplace. The fireplace features 12 flame color combinations and an alternating flame color setting. Users can also turn the flames off and simply enjoy the heat output. It is available in three widths: 30, 50, and 60 inches. 

What our tester says: Glenda Taylor, a Bob Vila staff writer and product tester, notes in the Best Energy Efficient Space Heaters that “The glass screen remains cool to the touch, and heat exits through a panel near the top, making this space heater suitable for a home with small children—as long as the upper heat vent is above their reach.”

Get the Maxhonor electric fireplace at Amazon or Walmart (50-inch).

Upgrade Pick

Real Flame Callaway 63" Grand Electric Fireplace

See It

What We Like

• Includes mantel, firebox, adjustable thermostat, and remote control
• Can support decor or fixtures 
• Comes with 6 operation settings
• Includes an instruction manual and accessories 

What We Don’t Like

• Some users reports that some components break easily

Specs

• Type: Mantel fireplace 
• Size: 48.25 inches tall by 63 inches wide by 17.25 inches deep 
• Heating: Forced air 

Feast your eyes on this beautiful piece of furniture and electric fireplace from Real Flame. This electric fireplace comes with a traditional fireplace mantel (in either white or chestnut oak), a firebox, an adjustable thermostat, and a remote control for a complete upgrade to a hearth. 

This luxury pick can support up to 30 pounds of decor and fixtures, is easy to set up, creates heatless flames if desired, and has six operating settings ranging from 72 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit for ample adjustability. This model also has CSA certification (read more about this under the Safety section below), a wall anchor kit, and a timer for added ease of use and convenience. 

Get the Real Flame electric fireplace at Wayfair, The Home Depot, Amazon, or Lowes.

Best Stove

Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove

See It

What We Like

• Adds rustic charm to the room
• Available in several color options 
• Warms rooms up to 1,000 square feet
• Adjustable thermostat and remote control

What We Don’t Like

• Power cord comes out the top

Specs

• Type: Stove
• Size: 23.4 inches high by 24 inches wide by 13.07 inches deep
• Heating: Infrared quartz

For the traditional style of a wood-burning stove without any of the work, the Duraflame 3D infrared electric fireplace stove fits the bill. The 3D flames with five intensities mimic a real wood fire. And this little powerhouse can heat rooms up to 1,000 square feet. 

This electric fireplace stove comes with an adjustable thermostat and remote control. There are nine color options available to suit most decor. This electric fireplace stove measures 23.4 inches high by 24 inches wide by 13.07 inches deep.

What our tester says: Michelle Larson, a Bob Vila staff writer and product tester, notes in the Best Electric Heaters, “I love that the stove’s digital control panel is hidden inside the door and that the fireplace comes with a remote control for easy operation…I chose this stove in a navy color that complements my space, but you can also get this faux wood burner in black, cinnamon, bronze, cream, or French gray.”

Get the Duraflame electric fireplace at Amazon, Wayfair, Target, or Walmart.

Best Modern

Valuxhome Recessed Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace

See It

What We Like

• Multiple flame colors and fuel frame colors
• Various sizes available to fit in most hearths 
• Fan heater operates quietly

What We Don’t Like

• Flame effect is not traditional or realistic

Specs

• Type: Recessed insert
• Size: 21.65 inches high by 60 inches wide by 5.5 inches deep
• Heating: Fan heater

For supplemental heat and a sleek look, it’s hard to beat the Valuxhome electric fireplace. A fan-type electric fireplace, it features high and low heat settings, a timer, and a remote control to heat rooms up to 400 square feet. The panel, which recesses into the wall to sit almost flush with the wall surface, measures 21.65 inches high by 60 inches wide by 5.5 inches deep.

Users can choose from three flame colors, three fuel bed colors, and five flame intensities to suit their preferences. Decorative logs and crystals create the look of burning embers. The metal and tempered-glass electric fireplace comes in 10 different sizes to suit many different spaces.

Get the Valuxhome electric fireplace at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Freestanding

Jamfly Electric Fireplace Wooden Surround Firebox

See It

What We Like

• Supports TVs up to 48 inches
• Multiple color finishes available 
• Easy to install compared to other options 

What We Don’t Like

• Heater fan is quite loud

Specs

• Type: Mantel fireplace
• Size: 41.33 inches high by 34.3 inches wide by 13.6 inches deep
• Heating: Fan heater

Bring a classic look and feel to any room with this electric fireplace mantel from Jamfly. Its intricate details and craftsmanship add charm and character without the hassle of chimneys, firewood, and flames. It will supplement the heat in 400-square-foot apartments, condos, or rooms.

A realistic LED flame with three adjustable brightness modes produces a glowing ember bed with a 3D effect. Plus, this freestanding electric fireplace runs with or without heat. 

This freestanding wood mantel can support a TV up to 48 inches. It measures 41.33 inches high by 34.3 inches wide by 13.6 inches deep.

Get the Jamfly electric fireplace at Amazon.

Most Realistic

PuraFlame 33" Western Electric Fireplace Insert

See It

What We Like

• Classic-looking design and integrated crackling sounds
• 750 to 1,500 watts of heating power
• Comes with 3 flame effects 
• Multiple sizes available

What We Don’t Like

• Some users have reported installation difficulties

Specs

• Type: Insert 
• Size: 26.99 inches high by 35.04 inches wide by 8.78 inches deep 
• Heating: Fan heater

Designed with metal and tempered glass, this black vent-free electric fireplace insert by PuraFlame can fit into many traditional fireplaces and recreate the look of a roaring fire without the worry about flame and ash. The fireplace offers 750 or 1,500 watts of heating power. 

The remote allows for a quick-and-easy mood, including three flame effects and six unique crackling sounds for a more realistic experience. We appreciate that the LED technology provides vivid colors for the realistic log and grate. The fireplace can heat up to 400 square feet but is not designed to be a primary heat source.

Get the PuraFlame electric fireplace at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Insert

ClassicFlame 23" 3D Infrared Fireplace Insert

See It

What We Like

• Energy-saving infrared technology 
• Warms up to 1,000 square feet 
• Easy-to-read digital thermostat
• 3D flame for added realism

What We Don’t Like

• Only offers a single power setting
• No timer function

Specs

• Type: Insert 
• Size: 20 inches high by 23.6 inches wide by 8.5 inches deep
• Heating: Infrared 

Many electric fireplaces use a standard heating element plus a barely audible fan to gently push warm air into the room. However, the ClassicFlame fireplace insert uses infrared technology, which doesn’t heat the air; instead, it heats the people within the space.

This infrared heater makes for very low energy consumption, and the sensation that the room heats up more quickly. The manufacturer rates this model to heat up to 1,000 square feet.

A digital thermostat offers precise control over output. The 3D flame and log effect can be set for color, brightness, and speed, with 125 total variations. Safer Plug technology switches off the ClassicFlame fireplace if it detects overheating.

Get the ClassicFlame electric fireplace at Amazon, Target, or The Home Depot.

Best Tv Stand

Walker Edison Wren Classic 4 Cubby Fireplace TV Stand

See It

What We Like

• Multiple colors and sizes to choose from
• Great for large TVs 
• Adjustable shelves support up to 30 pounds 

What We Don’t Like

• Heater lacks power compared to many electric fireplaces

Specs

• Type: TV stand
• Size: 25 inches high by 70 inches wide by 15.75 inches deep
• Heating: Fan heater

Binge-watch by the fire with Walker Edison’s electric fireplace TV stand. It accommodates TVs weighing up to 150 pounds and 80 inches wide. Two adjustable shelves on either side of the fireplace support up to 30 pounds of books, picture frames, and decorative objects.

The fireplace display and heat operate separately. The heat provides supplemental warmth to rooms up to 400 square feet. This fireplace TV stand measures 25 inches high by 70 inches wide by 15.75 inches deep. It comes in 16 different colors and several styles.

Get the Walker Edison electric fireplace at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Faux Stone

Winston Porter Ceonna 60.25” Electric Fireplace

See It

What We Like

• Realistic stacked stone look
• Firebox glass remains cool to the touch
• Can help warm up to 400 square feet
• Mantel supports up to 85 pounds of weight

What We Don’t Like

• Some assembly required

Specs

• Type: Freestanding
• Size: 35.25 inches high by 60.25 inches wide by 15.5 inches deep
• Heating: Fan heater

Add the elegant look of a stone surround fireplace to any room with this model from Winston Porter. Available in two colors (white and whiskey maple), this 60.25-inch wide fireplace has a sturdy mantel that can support up to 85 pounds, ideal for adding picture frames or even a TV.

The fireplace features see-through glass and adjustable flickering flames to help warm spaces up to 400 square feet. The included remote control allows you to adjust the thermostat and flames from anywhere in the room. Anti-tipping hardware is included. 

Get the Winston Porter electric fireplace at Wayfair.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Electric Fireplaces

An electric fireplace can easily add ambience and warmth to a room or a household without the associated fireplace installation costs of a real wood or gas-burning fireplace. When gathering our top picks for this list, we included models with realistic flames and sounds so you can feel like you’re sitting by a real fire, allowing you to relax and soak up the heat. The many stunning fireplace options we looked at accommodate most size and style needs and preferences for heat, realism, and other extra features.

Aware of the many types of electric fireplaces available, we included multiple options for each style to appeal to a wide range of shopper preferences. Our recommendations offer choices for recessed inserts, mantels, stoves, TV stands, and wall-mounted fireplaces in various styles, from traditional to contemporary. 

What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Fireplace

Various factors go into choosing the best electric fireplace for a given space and situation. You might simply be looking for aesthetics and something that feels homey, or you might prefer the look of a fireplace and the warmth of an electric heater. 

How an electric fireplace will be used and where it will go will help narrow the selection to the style best suited to an individual user’s needs. For instance, will it go in the living room under a wall-mounted TV, or will it add ambience in the dining room? The buyer’s skill level for installation or assembly is also important, along with any extra features and how realistic it needs to look.

The following considerations will help guide your decision on what makes the best electric fireplace for your particular home.

Type

Easy installation is a big selling point when it comes to electric fireplaces. Most simply plug into a wall outlet. The caveat, however, is that electric fireplaces that produce heat require a dedicated outlet. Due to power strip safety precautions, electric fireplaces can’t plug into an extension cord or surge protector. But many of the best electric fireplace models require very little else in the way of installation.

• A wall-mounted electric fireplace resembles a flat-screen TV and can hang via brackets (usually included). These models have a sleek, minimalist aesthetic most suitable for modern interiors. Like recessed models, they’re often made of durable fiberglass or metal. 
• Recessed fireplaces/inserts fit into a wall cavity, where the surface of a fireplace insert is flush with the wall. Unlike wall-mounted models, this type of fireplace comes in various modern and vintage styles and is best suited for DIY fireplaces.
• Mantel fireplaces often mimic the look of a traditional fireplace and are constructed from wood, stone, or a combination of the two. These classic freestanding models are available in many styles besides traditional, including modern, rustic, and farmhouse. Some mantel fireplaces offer shelf storage and come in corner configurations as well.
• Stove fireplaces offer the antique look of a wood-burning stove. These exclusively metal models often emit more heat than other fireplace types. They fit in well with rustic and farmhouse decor.
• TV stand fireplaces are similar to entertainment consoles, with a television placed on top. Many models feature shelving that frames the fireplace. Available in multiple styles, they’re often made of wood or particleboard (a cheaper material consisting of wood and resin).

Size and Placement

You’ll likely know where you’d like to place an electric fireplace, and it’s important to note that not every model fits every room. Sleek wall-mounted ones, for example, look better in bedrooms and dining rooms. 

The planned location and type of fireplace will help determine the right size. It’s vital to get the exact measurements of the space where the electric fireplace will sit or hang, along with the size of the room. For instance, converting a conventional fireplace into an electric fireplace requires the precise measurements of the existing fireplace in order to find the best electric fireplace insert for the job.

The size of the room also makes a difference if the fireplace is meant to heat the room. In this case, it’s essential to ensure that the electric fireplace isn’t too small or too large for the room. Something big enough to heat a 1,200-square-foot room for a space that’s only 450 square feet might be overkill.

Heating Options

A handful of today’s electric fireplaces are purely for looks; they produce a visual fire effect but no heat. Most models, though, generate warmth in much the same way a space heater does. Some come with thermostats to maintain a steady temperature in the room, while others feature basic heat-level settings. 

All the best electric fireplace heater options offer the illusion of flickering flames, but heat options come in three basic types:

• Fan-type electric: Many of the electric fireplaces on the market today are fan-type models that heat a room by blowing air over a series of hot coils and out one or more vents located along the bottom or sides of the unit. Fan-type fireplaces offer supplemental heat for rooms up to 450 square feet in size.
• Infrared: Rather than heat the air, infrared fireplaces heat the objects in the room. Like the rays of the sun, infrared heat is heated light, warming whatever it shines upon. Infrared fireplaces can heat rooms up to 1,000 square feet, but the user must be in the direct line of its rays to feel the warmth.
• Convection: Electric convection fireplaces allow air to circulate naturally. Cool air enters through a vent near the bottom, flows upward over the heated ceramic plates, and then flows out through an upper vent and into the room. Some convection fireplaces come with a fan to help direct the flow of air. These can heat rooms up to 600 square feet. Electric convection fireplaces without fans heat a smaller area near the fireplace itself and are best suited to rooms without drafts.

Keep in mind that electric fireplaces shouldn’t be the room’s only heat source. They cannot replace central heating or an electric wall heater, for example. 

Realism

Advances in LED light technology in combination with small rolling mirrors create the illusion of genuine flames in modern electric fireplaces. Some models include molded fake logs and embers that glow to enhance the effect. The most realistic electric fireplaces and realistic-looking features tend to be more expensive, but not always. 

However, not everyone prioritizes realism in an electric fireplace. Some units offer color selection for the flames, such as gold to match holiday decor, green for a spring look, or even purple or pink flames to match the room’s decor or set a certain mood.

Safety

Electric fireplaces don’t burn wood, create smoke, or have actual flames, all of which make them safer than the real thing. Moreover, the glass on most electric fireplaces doesn’t even get hot to the touch, making them safe for children and pets. Unlike their conventional counterparts, electric fireplaces can sit safely on carpet or against a wall. They also pose no risk of carbon monoxide exposure. 

In addition, electric fireplaces go through tests and inspections during production and come with safety features like automatic shutoffs set to a predetermined time or heat level. Additional safety features may include a Canadian Standards Association (CSA) seal. This certification ensures that the fireplace meets specific safety standards and regulations, giving users peace of mind knowing that the product has undergone rigorous testing and evaluation. 

A few tips to avoid electric fireplace mistakes that could affect safey: Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions, don’t use extension cords or power strips, don’t place objects on the intake fans or heaters, keep them dry, and keep small children and pets away.

Additional Features

While electric fireplaces are pretty straightforward, some include a few fun bells and whistles, such as:

• Remote and touch-screen controls
• Programmable timers that turn the fireplace off after the user falls asleep, or turn it on before they wake up in the morning
• Night-light features that emit a soft glow
• Bluetooth speakers that can play crackling fire sounds or seasonal tunes

Installation

The difficulty of the installation depends on the type of electric fireplace, but it should be relatively easy for a person with the right skill set. Cutting into the wall and installing a recessed or see-through fireplace requires the user to have some framing skills. A wall-hanging unit will require hand tools, like a drill and a lever, and enough know-how to anchor the wall bracket securely. 

Some mantels require assembly while others don’t, and the same goes for TV stands. No matter what type of fireplace it is, make sure to follow the installation instructions carefully and ask for help if something is unclear.

The Advantages of Owning an Electric Fireplace

Many people love the idea of a fireplace in the living room, dining room, or bedroom. They provide a warm place to cuddle up with a good book or the latest movie. Not everyone is keen on the mess, work, and upkeep that come along with all that charm, though. Cleaning up ashes, stocking firewood, and maintaining the chimney are chores. Electric fireplaces relieve those burdens. 

Some other benefits of electric fireplaces include:

• Easy installation
• No chimney required
• A choice of styles, including mantel, insert, TV stand, wall-mounted, and electric fireplace stove
• No fireplace tools required
• Compatible with any room
• Modern features such as colored LED lights 
• Some come with crackling sounds and other features that provide a more realistic experience

FAQs

For more information about the best electric fireplaces, check out these answers to some of the most common questions. If additional concerns arise, contact the manufacturer.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

The post Our Favorite Electric Fireplace of 2025 Will Keep You Cozy All Winter Long appeared first on Bob Vila.

A wood stove fan can help distribute the heat from a wood-burning stove, warming a room more efficiently than the stove can unassisted. These little fans typically use the heat generated by the stove to power their motors and don’t require any electricity or batteries to operate. There are numerous wood stove fans available, so to find the cream of the crop, we researched more than 20 models, comparing specs and reviewing dozens of customer reviews. We then tested four standout fans.

After testing, our top pick was the two-pack of Flanagan 5-Blade Fireplace Fans. These two fans quickly spun into action as our stove heated up, providing enough airflow to disperse hot air across the room.

We also enlisted the help of a wood stove and chimney expert, Tim Smith, owner of Albany, New York-based Actual Chimney Specialists. Read on to learn which of the best wood stove fans may be right for your home.

1. BEST OVERALL: Flanagan 5-Blade Fireplace Fans
   ↓ Jump to Review
2. RUNNER UP: Voda 4-Blade Wood Stove Fan
   ↓ Jump to Review
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Tomersun 3-Blade Heat-Powered Wood Stove Fan
   ↓ Jump to Review
4. BEST COMPACT: Galafire 4-Blade Heat-Powered Wood Stove Fan
   ↓ Jump to Review
5. MOST VERSATILE: Cwlakon Mounting Wood Stove Fan
   ↓ Jump to Review
6. HONORABLE MENTION: Hanaoyo 6-Blade Wood Stove Fan
   ↓ Jump to Review 
7. ALSO CONSIDER: Tsendi 4-Blade Silent Operation Wood Stove Fan
   ↓ Jump to Review 

Wood Stove Fans Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

The products below were tested on a freestanding wood stove and rated based on their performance, durability, and value. Read on to learn how each model fared in our tests and find one right for you.

Best Overall

Flanagan 5-Blade Fireplace Fans

See It

What We Like

• Includes two 5-blade fans
• Ideal for medium to large rooms
• Attractive price point
• Comes with a stove thermometer

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for built-in fireplaces

Specs 

• Blades: 5
• Operating temperature: 185 to 662 degrees Fahrenheit
• Material: Anodized aluminum
• Cubic feet per minute (CFM): 164 to 194

Our Ratings: Performance 4.5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 4.3/5

Since wood stove fans are small, they don’t produce a ton of airflow. Utilizing two fans, one on each side of the stove, is a more efficient way to disperse heat, which is why our top pick is this affordably priced pack of two fans from Flanagan. 

These heat-powered fans have five blades that begin spinning when surface temperatures reach around 130 degrees Fahrenheit. The blades spin faster as the stove heats up, with an operating range from 185 to 662 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures exceed 482 degrees Fahrenheit (the ideal operating temperature), the fan’s base will lift, protecting the motor from heat damage. 

The Flanagan fans are smaller than some of the other models we tested, but their five blades spun fast, producing the most airflow. We placed one on each side of our wood stove and could feel a warm breeze when standing in front of them. We also appreciated that this two-pack included a wood stove thermometer, which allowed us to easily monitor our stove’s surface temperatures. 

What our tester says: “The Flanagan wood stove fans were quick to power up, and their blades spun quickly, helping to move the heat from the top of the wood stove throughout the room. They did a better job of producing airflow than even the most expensive wood stove fan I tested.” —Katie Barton, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Flanagan wood stove fan at Amazon.

Runner up

Voda 4 Blades Wood Stove Fan

See It

What We Like

• Available in two finishes
• Quick to power on
• Thermal safety feature protects the fan’s motor

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t deliver enough airflow for large spaces

Specs 

• Blades: 4
• Operating temperature: 185 to 660 degrees Fahrenheit
• Material: Anodized aluminum
• Cubic feet per minute (CFM): 240

Our Ratings: Performance 4/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 4/5

Powered entirely by heat, Voda’s four-bladed stove fan is durable and operates silently, making it one of the best ways to circulate air around the wood stove. It kicks on at temperatures as low as 185 degrees Fahrenheit and can withstand temperatures as high as 660 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The Voda comes in black and gold finishes to complement different stoves and surroundings. We tested the black version, which was attractive and felt quality-built. 

We used a stove thermometer during testing, and the Voda’s blades powered on when our stovetop’s temperature hit the low 100s Fahrenheit. The blades spun quicker as the stove heated up. This fan didn’t produce a lot of airflow, but enough that we could feel it from a few feet away. While it can help distribute air in rooms of all sizes, it’s best equipped to help warm a small room.

Get the Voda wood stove fan at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Bang for the Buck

Tomersun 3 Blades Heat-Powered Wood Stove Fan

See It

What We Like

• Budget-friendly price point
• Whisper-quiet noise level
• Compact design fits on smaller wood stoves

What We Don’t Like

• Produces limited airflow

Specs 

• Blades: 3
• Operating temperature: 176 to 653 degrees Fahrenheit
• Material: Anodized aluminum
• Cubic feet per minute (CFM): 170

Our Ratings: Performance 3.7/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4/5

With this pick, Tomersun offers an economical way to add a fan to a wood stove. As with other pricier stove fans, this one features whisper-quiet operation and is made from durable anodized aluminum. Its construction looked and felt similar to the other all-aluminum fans we tested, but at a lower cost.

The Tomersun has a built-in safety device that automatically elevates the front of the fan to protect the motor from damage if temperatures exceed 572 degrees Fahrenheit. Its operating range is 176 to 653 degrees Fahrenheit, although the blades began to spin when our stove’s surface temperature reached a little over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The Tomersun stove fan produces an airflow of between 150 and 170 CFM, which is adequate for circulating air through small spaces. Like the other fans we tested, we didn’t feel the airflow more than a few feet away from the fan. However, this choice is a good value for those looking for a wood-burning stove fan for a small space.

What our tester says: “I appreciate this fan’s durable construction and attractive price point. It would be ideal for circulating airflow in a small space.” —Katie Barton, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Tomersun wood stove fan at Amazon.

More Great Options

The following wood stove fans have garnered hundreds (or thousands) of positive user reviews. Their standout features and high customer satisfaction ratings have earned them a spot on our list.

Best Compact

Galafire 4-Blade Heat-Powered Wood Stove Fan

See It

What We Like

• Compact size is ideal for smaller wood stoves 
• Starts working at a low temperature 
• Features an efficient four-blade design 

What We Don’t Like

• May not deliver adequate airflow

Specs 

• Blades: 4
• Operating temperature: 122 to 662 degrees Fahrenheit
• Material: Anodized aluminum
• Cubic feet per minute (CFM): 126

This small wood stove fan measures just over 7 inches tall, an ideal choice for more compact wood stoves. Its four-blade design makes it capable of pushing a lot of air. It also starts operating at the low temperature of just 122 degrees Fahrenheit, so it will start circulating air as the stove is just heating up. The Galafire also comes with a thermometer to help monitor the temperature of the wood stove.

Get the Galafire wood stove fan at Amazon.

Most Versatile

Cwlakon Mounting Wood Stove Fan

See It

What We Like

• Attaches to some portable gas-powered space heaters 
• Compact size is ideal for small wood stoves
• Suitable for outdoor use

What We Don’t Like

• Smaller size means less airflow produced

Specs 

• Blades: 4
• Operating temperature: Max of 644 degrees Fahrenheit
• Material: Anodized aluminum
• Cubic feet per minute (CFM): N/A

This versatile four-bladed fan can be used for more than just a wood stove. That’s because it comes equipped with a slot on its base that allows users to secure it to the top of some space heaters. With its durable anodized aluminum construction, it’s also tough enough to survive outdoors, and it can endure being lugged around. Since it’s more compact than most wood stove fans, it’s easy to take on the road for camping trips or for use with a smaller wood stove. 

Get the Cwlakon wood stove fan at Amazon.

Honorable Mention

Hanaoyo 6-Blade Wood Stove Fan

See It

What We Like

• Features 6 fan blades
• Includes a magnetic stove thermometer
• Quiet operation

What We Don’t Like

• Some user complain about lack of air movement

Specs 

• Blades: 6
• Operating temperature: 131 to 653 degrees Fahrenheit
• Material: Anodized aluminum
• Cubic feet per minute (CFM): N/A

This heat-powered stove fan kicks on when temperatures reach as low as 131 degrees Fahrenheit and continues to operate at temperatures as high as 653 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s made from lightweight anodized aluminum and features six blades for maximum airflow.

The Hanaoyo stove fan has built-in thermal protection. If the stove’s surface gets too hot, the base will lift, protecting the fan’s motor. It also comes with a magnetic wood stove thermometer. While many users praise this fan for circulating warm air from their stove, some complain that it’s not powerful enough for large spaces.

Get the Hanaoyo wood stove fan at Amazon.

Also Consider

Tsendi 4 Blades Silent Operation Wood Stove Fan

See It

What We Like

• Good build quality with an affordable price tag
• Begins working at a low temperature
• Features lightweight anodized aluminum blades

What We Don’t Like

• Only produces enough airflow to fill smaller rooms

Specs 

• Blades: 4
• Operating temperature: 122 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
• Material: Anodized aluminum
• Cubic feet per minute (CFM): N/A

This wood stove fan is solidly built and produces good airflow, helping to distribute heat from a wood stove or pellet stove throughout the surrounding room. It’s made from durable anodized aluminum and has a low starting temperature of 122 degrees Fahrenheit, so it starts blowing air through the room while the stove is still heating up. Affordably priced, the Tsendi also comes with a stove thermometer that monitors the stove’s temperature. 

Get the Tsendi wood stove fan at Amazon.

ALSO TESTED

We also tested the Ecofan UltrAir Nickel Blade Wood Stove Fan. Unfortunately, even though this stove fan was the most expensive and aesthetically pleasing, its two-blade design produced noticeably less circulation than fans with four or five blades. We couldn’t feel any circulation from this fan unless we stood directly in front of it.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Wood Stove Fans

When selecting the best wood stove fans, we considered several factors. Since these fans are exposed to intense heat, we chose models made from durable, heat-resistant materials such as anodized aluminum. Other important features we looked for were safety mechanisms that protect the fan’s motor in case the stove exceeds the fan’s heat rating. Aesthetics were also a factor, given that wood or pellet stove fans are typically clearly visible. 

We tested four fans, letting them run on our wood stove for 3 weeks. We evaluated how well each fan could move air through the room from short and long distances. To verify that they worked within their operating temperature range, we monitored our stovetop’s temperature using a wood stove thermometer. We also inspected the construction and let the fans run non-stop for several days to evaluate durability. We used a standardized rubric to award each fan ratings based on performance, durability, and value and tallied those scores at the end of testing to determine which fans were the best.

What to Consider When Choosing a Wood Stove Fan

While performing research, we asked chimney expert Tim Smith of Actual Chimney Specialists a variety of questions to find out what factors are most important when shopping for one of these wood stove accessories. If you’re heating with a wood stove, here’s what you need to know about wood stove fans.

Blades

The number and design of the blades impact how well a wood-burning stove fan can distribute air throughout the room. Typically, fans with four blades do a better job of circulating air than fans with two or three blades.

But while fans with more blades are tempting, Smith points out that fans made with fewer blades and lightweight materials will last longer and spring faster. “A lightweight material such as aluminum would be best so the fan blades will spin quickly without too much stress on the motor,” he says. 

The blade design can also play a factor in how effectively the fan moves air. Some wood stove fans utilize curved or angled fan blades to blow air more efficiently.

CFM Rating 

A fan’s CFM rating measures how much air a fan can move per minute. This measurement is important because it indicates how well the wood stove fan can blow air through a room. That being said, while many manufacturers list the CFM ratings of their wood stove fans, they’re not always accurate. Most wood stove fan CFM ratings hover around 130 CFM, which is about enough to circulate warm air through about 400 square feet of space. Also, keep in mind that since wood stove fans have motors that use the stove’s heat for power, the speed will partially depend on the temperature of the stove. 

Operating Temperature

Smith says that when selecting a fan, it’s important to pay attention to the temperature range of the unit, including the minimum temperature that is required to start its motor and the maximum temperature it can endure without suffering damage. 

“Wood stove fans that are specific to the appliance usually have a temperature switch or a snap disk that senses a specific temperature before it will send power to the fan,” Smith says. “The temperature [the fan starts at] is usually between 180 and 220 degrees Fahrenheit.”

As the temperature of the stove increases, the fan will continue to speed up until it hits an optimal temperature, which is usually between 450 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Most wood stove fans have safety features that will raise the base of the fan off of the stove when the wood stove’s temperature exceeds 600 degrees Fahrenheit. This is done to prevent a fan’s motor from overheating. 

Since wood stove fans require a minimum level of heat to power on, they won’t work on electric fireplace heaters or standard built-in fireplaces.

Noise

Since wood stove fan motors are powered solely by heat from the stove, they tend to operate very quietly. Expect a wood stove fan to operate at decibel levels between 25 and 30, which is about the same noise level as a whisper. A fan’s build quality can also affect its noise level. Poorly-made wood stove fans may have loose parts that create rattling or clicking noises while the fan is operating. 

Materials 

Wood stove fans are usually made from anodized aluminum that can withstand temperatures of up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. While virtually all wood stove fans are made from this material, more durably-built models use heavier-gauge aluminum than cheaper alternatives. 

The Advantages of Using a Wood Stove Fan

A good thermal fan for wood stove use can improve its ability to distribute heat, making it more efficient at heating a home. 

“The advantage of adding a wood stove fan is you will push more heat quicker and be able to heat a larger area in a much more efficient manner,” Smith says.

And since these fans use a motor powered by the heat of the stove, they don’t require electricity to function. Unlike fireplace insert blowers and other types of fans, wood stove fans make very little noise, so they don’t detract from the rustic appeal of a wood stove. 

• Improves stove efficiency by helping to distribute warm air
• Doesn’t require any electricity or a battery to operate
• Operates very quietly

Safety Tips for Using Wood Stove Fans

While a heat fan for wood stovetops can help make a stove more efficient, it can also be a safety hazard. First, when positioning the fan on the stove, make sure it has enough clearance to accommodate the spinning blades. Wood stove fans can exceed 600 degrees Fahrenheit. And because the spinning fan blades are exposed on most models, they can cause injury to anyone who comes into contact with them. As such, it’s important to keep children and pets away from the fan. To reposition the fan during use, be wary of the blade and wear a stove glove to avoid getting burned. Also, use the handle on the top of the fan to move it. 

• Make sure there is enough space around the fan to accommodate the blades
• Keep children and pets away from the fan
• Use an oven mitt and grab the fan’s handle to reposition it while it is in use

FAQs 

Still have questions about how wood stove fans work and whether they’re right for your home? Read on for answers to some of the most common queries about these devices, including how long they last and where to position the fan on the stove.

Meet the Tester

Katie Barton is a Bob Vila writer specializing in home-related topics. She has a wood stove in her garage, and a wood-burning fireplace insert in her home.

Additional research provided by Tony Carrick

The post This Simple Product Can Increase Your Wood Stove’s Efficiency appeared first on Bob Vila.

Between trying to maintain the proper humidity in your great room, monitoring the temperature in your greenhouse, or just tracking climate conditions in your home, an indoor thermometer is a valuable tool. Modern indoor thermometers feature digital displays, can track and store data, and can be used as smart devices that send alerts when air quality moves beyond preset parameters.

With so many indoor thermometers on the market, we wanted to know which ones offered the greatest benefits, so we decided to test them ourselves. Our favorite was the AcuRite Hygrometer thanks to its large display and accurate temperature readings. We also talked to an HVAC professional to get their expert advice on what specifically to look for. Then we purchased the top-rated models in a variety of categories and checked out all their features, evaluating for accuracy, simplicity, and durability.

Ahead, learn what to look for when shopping for the best indoor thermometer for a home, and find out how the following products earned a spot on our lineup.

1. BEST OVERALL: AcuRite Digital Mini Hygrometer with Thermometer
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: ThermoPro TP49 Digital Indoor Hygrometer Thermometer
3. UPGRADE PICK: SensorPush HT1 Wireless Thermometer / Hygrometer
4. BEST FOR GREENHOUSES: ThermoPro TP55 Indoor Humidity Temperature Monitor
5. BEST CLOCK-STYLE: Sharp Atomic Clock – Weather Station
6. BEST FOR PET ENCLOSURES: Govee H5051 Wi-Fi Thermometer Hygrometer
7. BEST MULTILOCATION: Govee H5100 Mini Hygrometer Thermometer Sensors
8. BEST PLUG-IN MODEL: LaCrosse Technology Wireless Temperature Station
9. BEST COMFORT DISPLAY: Taylor Digital Indoor Comfort Level Station
10. ALSO CONSIDER: Vivosun Digital Indoor Thermometer Hygrometer

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

In testing this lineup of the best indoor thermometers, we primarily sought units that gave accurate readings for indoor temperature and humidity. We also looked for easy-to-read displays, as well as apps that synced seamlessly with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (when applicable). Some models reviewed here are manual, while others send alerts to smartphones to report humidity and temperature changes. The following products offer various functions, but each excelled in our hands-on tests and we’re confident that they’ll perform well for the buyer, too.

Best Overall

AcuRite Digital Mini Hygrometer with Indoor Thermomet

See It

What We Like

• Large display screen
• High degree of temperature accuracy
• Records and displays highs and lows

What We Don’t Like

• Batteries not included

Product Specs 

• Dimensions: 3 inches by 2.5 inches by 0.9 inches
• Functions: Temperature, humidity
• Power source: 2 AAA batteries (not included)

Precision is critical when it comes to an indoor thermometer, and AcuRite’s manufacturer claims this thermometer has a narrow 0.5-degree range of error, with data updated every 10 seconds. This model requires calibration, which involves pushing a series of buttons, but this only took us a few seconds and then the thermometer was good to go for testing.

Though we couldn’t determine the exact degree of accuracy for all the thermometers tested, we arranged them all side by side in the same location and then compared the readings. The AcuRite gave a near-identical reading to most of the other thermometers, so we concluded it was highly accurate.

We used the same standard for testing accuracy with humidity readings. In addition to being consistent, the AcuRite also stores high and low readings for 24 hours, showing us how much the temperature and humidity fluctuated.

This model also provides a humidity percentage and a gauge that lets users know if the air comfort level is Low, OK, or High. The large numbers are easy to see—even from across the room. We especially liked the magnets on the back of the AcuRite, which allowed us to put the thermometer on the refrigerator, where we could monitor the temperature changes in the kitchen that resulted from cooking and baking. Overall, we deem this thermometer from AcuRite worthy of a kitchen or living room with its accurate humidity and temperature readings.

Get the AcuRite indoor thermometer at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Cabela’s.

Best Bang For The Buck

ThermoPro TP49 Digital Indoor Hygrometer Thermometer

See It

What We Like

• Large numbers are easily visible
• 3 mounting options
• Budget priced

What We Don’t Like

• No backlight for nighttime visibility
• Smiley icon is too small to see easily

Product Specs

• Dimensions: 2.2 inches by 2.6 inches by 0.7 inches
• Functions: Temperature and humidity
• Power source: 1 AAA battery (included)

The ThermoPro provides all the information needed to monitor indoor temperature and humidity at an affordable price. While this small model lacks bells and whistles, it displays accurate temperature and humidity readings. We liked that we could choose between its easel-type stand or put it on the fridge via its magnet backing. It can also be hung on a nail on the wall.

Its 2-inch screen shows the temperature and humidity and features numbers large enough to read from across the room, though it lacks a backlight for nighttime visibility. An emoji indicates dry, wet, or optimal comfort with a smile or frown, but that display is so tiny we had to get right up close to the unit to see it.

The ThermoPro can also take readings within a tenth of a degree, and it refreshes every 10 seconds. The TP49 uses one AAA battery (included). All in all, we found this to be an accurate and unobtrusive indoor thermometer at an attractive price.

Get the ThermoPro TP49 indoor thermometer on Amazon or The Home Depot. 

Upgrade Pick

SensorPush HT1 Wireless Thermometer / Hygrometer

See It

What We Like

• Delivers alerts to a smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
• Accurate temperature readings
• Stores historical data
• Syncs with IOS and Android

What We Don’t Like

• No display on the module itself

Product Specs

• Dimensions: 1.57 inches by 1.57 inches by 0.65 inches
• Functions: Humidity and temperature
• Power source: 1 CR 2477 battery (installed)

At first, it was hard to believe that the SensorPush is a thermometer hygrometer—the mini module looks more like a keychain fob, which can be hung from a chain or cord if desired. The SensorPush has no visual display, but it transmitted ample in-depth data to our smartphones via Bluetooth.

We downloaded the SensorPush app and followed the steps to sync the module to the Bluetooth on our phones, and it connected seamlessly. The SensorPush will also connect via Wi-Fi, but that requires a separate gateway (not included) that we didn’t have.

We could see the indoor temperature and humidity data on our smart devices. The SensorPush recorded temperatures and humidity levels that were consistent with the other indoor thermometers we tested simultaneously, so we judged it to be accurate. One of the nicest things was the ability to look at the temperature and humidity records in a chart format. That allowed us to see how the levels changed over hours and days.

This is a tiny module, measuring just over 1.5 inches square and only 0.65 inches thick, so it can easily fit in a humidor, wine cabinet, or anywhere you want to monitor the immediate environment.

Get the SensorPush indoor thermometer at Amazon, NorthWoods Humidors, or SensorPush.

Best For Greenhouses

ThermoPro TP55 Indoor Humidity Temperature Monitor

See It

What We Like

• Easy-to-read numbers
• Records high and low numbers for 24 hours
• Backlight display option

What We Don’t Like

• Cover on battery compartment kept coming loose

Product Specs

• Dimensions: 4.3 inches by 3.3 inches by 1 inch
• Functions: Temperature and humidity
• Power source: 2 AAA batteries (included)

In situations where changes in air temperature and humidity can affect indoor plants, such as those in a greenhouse, it’s wise to check the current data and reference it over the past 24 hours. We found the ThermoPro TP55 does that quite well.

The thermometer/hygrometer comes pre-calibrated, so it worked right out of the box. We put it alongside the other modules we tested, and it was within 0.1 degrees of the most consistent temperature and humidity levels. We rated it as highly accurate.

In addition to registering the current temperature and moisture levels, the ThermoPro TP55 also tracks historical data. This makes it well suited for growers who want to know how low the temperature dipped overnight or how high the humidity level rose before the greenhouse fan kicked on.

Yet this ThermoPro TP55 isn’t limited to greenhouse use—we attached it to a file cabinet in our home office to monitor the comfort levels. We were able to select from Fahrenheit or Celsius temperatures, and the display screen indicates the humidity range with Dry, Comfort, or Wet settings. An especially nice feature is the backlight that illuminates the display for viewing in dim situations.

Get the ThermoPro TP55 digital thermometer at Amazon or ThermoPro.

Best Clock-Style

Sharp Atomic Clock – Weather Station

See It

What We Like

• Large, easy-to-read display
• Shows time, temperature, and date
• Hangs on wall or stands

What We Don’t Like

• No backlight
• Slightly lower indoor temperature readings

Product Specs 

• Dimensions: 8.75 inches by 7.9 inches by 0.75 inches
• Functions: Temperature, time, date
• Power source: Clock (3 AA batteries) Outdoor module (2 AAA batteries) (not included)

Why have separate modules when you can see the temperature at a glance just by looking at the clock? In our opinion, that convenience is the primary benefit of the Sharp Atomic Clock. This thermometer offers only temperature, but it detects indoor and outdoor temperatures via an outdoor temperature module that we hung on a tree near the house. We liked the concept, though it took us a good 20 minutes to figure out how to sync the outdoor thermometer with the clock.

The Sharp Atomic Clock recorded the indoor temperature about 0.5 degrees Fahrenheit lower than most of the other thermometers we tested, but we felt that was still pretty accurate. When we compared the reading with our home weather station, set up outdoors, the Sharp was merely 0.2 degrees below that reading.

This clock/thermometer is fairly large, measuring 8.75 inches by 7.9 inches, and it’s 0.75 inches thick. The display is easy to see from across the room, and the unit shows the date and temperature. However, a backlit display for seeing the module at night is lacking.

Get the Sharp indoor thermometer clock on Amazon. 

Best for Pet Enclosures

Govee H5051 Wi-Fi Thermometer Hygrometer

See It

What We Like

• App offers detailed graphs of temperature and humidity data
• Connects to smartphone
• Can be configured to send alerts
• Pet enclosure climate can be remotely monitored

What We Don’t Like

• Not compatible with 5 GHz Wi-Fi

Product Specs

• Dimensions: 3.01 inches by 2.06 inches, by 0.9 inches
• Functions: Temperature and humidity
• Power source: 3 AAA batteries (included)

The Govee wireless thermometer hygrometer alerts you to the climate conditions your fur baby is experiencing in real time and by collecting indoor temperature and humidity data for monitoring fluctuations.

First, we installed the Govee Home app, which walked us through the rest of the setup (a Wi-Fi network is required). The app allowed us to see temperature changes over hours, days, and months so we could analyze the temperature and humidity cycles and tendencies.

The module can be affixed to a wall via a peel-off sticker on the back, but unfortunately its small plastic stand proved to be virtually worthless: Even a tiny bump will send the Govee rolling. We recommend affixing the module to a wall in an out-of-the-way spot where it can safely record the data rather than just placing it on a table in the same room where the pet stays. Also, this is not a weatherproof module so it’s not suitable for use in an outdoor doghouse where it might be exposed to rain or snow.

The app worked fairly well; though it didn’t allow us to select between Celsius and Fahrenheit, a small button on the front of the module let us do that. The temperature and humidity readings were in line with most of the other thermometers we tested, so we judged the Govee as highly accurate on both accounts.

Get the Govee indoor thermometer on Amazon.

Best Multilocation

Govee H5100 Mini Hygrometer Thermometer Sensors

See It

What We Like

• Unobtrusive size
• Sends alerts for temperature and humidity
• Stores up to 2 years of data in the cloud for free

What We Don’t Like

• Limited range

Product Specs

• Dimensions: 2.25 inches by 0.75 inches by 0.95 inches
• Functions: Temperature and humidity
• Power source: 1 AAA battery for each module (included)

Those wanting to monitor temperature and humidity levels in more than one area of the home need look no further than Govee’s mini thermometers. Govee’s mini-modules do that job efficiently, and they’re small enough to be placed virtually anywhere without being obtrusive. Each of the three sensors comes with its own lanyard for hanging on a nail, screw, or hook.

We’d already downloaded the Govee Home app, and it quickly synced with the mini-monitors. We were able to name each of the three modules so we could differentiate them from one another in the app. We were able to configure the modules to send alerts at predetermined temperature and moisture levels.

Interestingly, when we placed them side by side and tested for accuracy, each Govee module recorded the exact same temperature and humidity. No inconsistencies whatsoever, which we considered pretty impressive. In addition, the system is expandable, allowing users to connect up to 10 sensors.

The only downside was that we couldn’t monitor the data remotely; since these Govee modules are only Bluetooth capable. They were accurate when located within about 75 feet of our smartphones. This is par for the course for Bluetooth devices, but be aware that you won’t be able to read them when you’re away from home, as you could with WiFi-capable devices. Still, we felt they were among the most accurate, and the ability to monitor several rooms was a winner in our book.

Get the Govee indoor thermometer 3 pack at Amazon or Govee.

Best Plug-in Model

LaCrosse Technology Wireless Temperature Station

See It

What We Like

• Easy-to-see color-coded display
• Both indoor and outdoor temperatures
• Alternate transformer and plug for base unit (included)

What We Don’t Like

• Limited range for outdoor module

Product Spec

• Dimensions: 5.98 inches by 3.24 inches by 2.16 inches
• Functions: Indoor and outdoor temperatures, time, and date
• Power source: 2 AA batteries base unit, 2 AA batteries outdoor module (not included)

Unlike the other indoor thermometers we tested, the LaCrosse Technology Thermometer can be plugged into an electrical outlet as well as run on battery power. This is a great option for folks (like us!) who always seem to be scrambling to find fresh batteries.

We liked the color-coded display on the LaCrosse thermometer—it made it simple to differentiate between the indoor and the outdoor temperatures at a glance. Plus, this unit comes with a backlight that let us easily see the display even in the dark. Of course, if the unit is kept on a nightstand, users must remember the lower right location of the light button and feel for it to see the display at night. The display also shows the date and time, making it well suited for a nightstand clock/thermometer combo.

We rated the LaCrosse as relatively accurate, but when we made the side-by-side temperature comparisons, it was fully 1 degree below the majority of the other thermometers, and its outdoor module registered 0.5 degrees above the temperature detected by our weather station. It’s still plenty accurate for those who want to know the general temperature indoors and out. We found that the outdoor module must be within 50 feet of the base unit to register the temperature, but it will read through walls.

Get the LaCrosse indoor thermometer at Amazon or Kohl’s.

Best Comfort Display

Taylor Digital Indoor Comfort Level Station

See It

What We Like

• Large, easy-to-see, numbers
• Comfort display
• Includes a clock

What We Don’t Like

• No backlight

Product Specs

• Dimensions: 3.06 inches by 0.88 inches by 2.38 inches
• Functions: Temperature, humidity, time, comfort display
• Power source: 2 AAA batteries (not included)

Basic and straightforward, the Taylor Indoor Thermometer isn’t wireless; it simply offers indoor temperature and humidity levels. But the design of its colorful comfort display is a great feature: The top half of the screen displays a digital dial with an indicator that ranges from Dry to Comfort to Wet to show how comfortable the combination of temperature and humidity feels in the home.

We liked this feature because we didn’t have to consider what the numbers meant—the dial told us when it was a bit humid. We felt this was a handy function for those who wanted to see the comfort level at a glance. Young children could also probably understand the significance of the dial.

In addition, the Taylor indoor thermometer allowed us to set the time and choose between Fahrenheit and Celsius readings. A slight downside is that the display doesn’t have a backlit option, so it needs to be placed in a bright location.

Get the Taylor indoor thermometer at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or Office Depot.

Also Consider

Vivosun Digital Indoor Thermometer Hygrometer

See It

What We Like

• Large display is easy to read
• Display includes broad range of data
• Backlight

What We Don’t Like

• Humidity level not accurate as other indoor thermometers.

Product Specs

• Dimensions: 5.08 inches by 4.02 inches by 1.34 inches
• Functions: Temperature, humidity, comfort level
• Power source: 2 AAA batteries (included)

Why squint at a tiny screen that’s difficult to read and limits the amount of displayable data? With its ample 4-inch screen, the Vivosun can pack in quite a bit of information. In addition to the current temperature and humidity, it also displays highs and lows for both readings (over 24 hours), and a comfort meter shows whether the humidity is too high, too low, or just right.

Our favorite function on the Vivosun thermometer was its touch screen, which let us turn the backlight on and off or toggle between Celsius and Fahrenheit. The light-up feature makes this pick among the best options for low-light situations. The only slight downside we noticed was that the humidity level read a full degree on the low side compared with the other units tested. The temperature, however, was spot-on.

Get the Vivosun indoor thermometer on Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Indoor Thermometers 

Before getting our hands on our indoor thermometers, we interviewed Brad Roberson, the president of Aire Serv, a Neighborly company that provides HVAC services nationwide. He says that “indoor thermometers are not the same as HVAC thermostats. Some things to look for when choosing an indoor thermometer are thermometers with clear and easy-to-read displays, built-in humidity sensors, temperature alarms, and compatibility with smart home systems.” He added that “monitoring indoor temperature helps with energy efficiency and proper temperature control helps maintain optimal humidity levels.”

In addition to this expert advice, we considered several other criteria when selecting the best indoor thermometers for our hands-on tests. Our list included indoor thermometers that sync with a smartphone for remote monitoring, making them ideal for greenhouses, wine cellars, humidors, and animal enclosures. We also tested simple units that weren’t wireless but allowed us to see the temperature and humidity at a glance.

Accuracy is crucial when selecting an indoor thermometer, and the picks that earned a spot in this lineup all had a margin of error of 1.5 degrees or less compared with other models we tested. To determine the most accurate readings, we placed all the indoor thermometer units side by side in the same room and compared the readings. We determined accuracy when several units displayed identical temperature and humidity readings. For units with outdoor reading modules, we compared the temperature with that of our professional home weather station.

In addition, we tested every function available on each unit. We downloaded apps for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth models and noted how easy (or complex) it was to configure them. We scored each indoor thermometer using a rubric and awarded points during the testing phase. At the end of the testing, we added the points and used them to help determine the specific awards for each of the models that excelled.

What to Consider When Choosing an Indoor Thermometer

Accuracy is crucial when it comes to an indoor thermometer, but other features are also important, including size and connectivity. Here’s what matters in an indoor thermometer.

Temperature Range and Accuracy 

Most indoor thermometers can read a broad temperature range, making them suitable for monitoring such extreme indoor environments as a refrigerator or freezer. Some indoor thermometers are capable of reading temperatures as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 145 degrees Fahrenheit. These thermometers are also able to take accurate readings. Although most thermometers have a margin of error of a degree or two, the most accurate models are to within half a degree.

Many indoor thermometers also function as hygrometers that can measure the percentage of moisture in the air between humidity ranges of 0 percent and 99 percent, within a margin of error of +/- 2 percentage points.

Some thermometers come with an additional module designed to be located outdoors. These indoor/outdoor models display both the temperature inside the room, plus the temperature outside. The outside module is typically effective only when placed within a specified distance of the base unit, but this distance varies from thermometer to thermometer and can depend on wall thickness as well. A distance of 50 to 75 feet is about the maximum allowable distance to get an accurate outdoor reading.

Battery Life 

Indoor thermometers are powered by either a CR 2032 coin battery or one or two AAA batteries. A CR 2032 battery has a capacity of 235 mAh (milliampere hours), while a AAA battery has a 1,000 mAh battery capacity. Although this means that one can generally expect to get a longer battery life out of an indoor thermometer powered by one or two AAA batteries, battery life is also dependent upon the size of the digital display and whether it is backlit. A small indoor thermometer with no backlight that’s powered by a coin battery may have a similar battery life as a larger model with a backlight that takes a AAA battery.

Size 

Indoor thermometers vary in size, from small sensors no more than 2 inches tall and 2 inches wide with no display screen to larger units with screens that vary from 2 inches to 4 inches in size. Though it may be easier to read a larger indoor thermometer’s display, a bigger model will take up more space, making them unsuitable for some applications.

Some indoor thermometers consist of a small sensor with no display; instead, data is sent to a compatible app on a smartphone. These compact indoor thermometers are ideal for monitoring the humidity or temperature in close quarters, such as a small humidor or a pet enclosure.

Connectivity

Some indoor thermometers are capable of connecting to a smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing the user to monitor environmental conditions remotely. Quality indoor thermometers can also store months and even years’ worth of data via a cloud storage service, which is useful for those who need to monitor the environmental conditions in a greenhouse, wine cellar, or humidor. The use of Bluetooth gives these thermometers a range of a few hundred feet. Some can even be paired with a compatible smart-home hub, allowing them to send alerts and data to a smart device in virtually any location.

Additional Features 

In addition to providing temperature data, most indoor thermometers also act as a humidity monitor. Some indoor thermometers can record high and low temperature and humidity readings over an extended period.

Most indoor thermometers come with multiple mounting options, including a stand that allows them to sit on a flat service, a hole for hanging on a wall, and a magnet that allows them to stick to a metal surface, such as a basement pipe or kitchen appliance.

FAQs

Q. What’s the difference between indoor thermometers and outdoor thermometers?

Most indoor and outdoor thermometers function similarly when measuring indoor and outdoor temperature. The most significant difference between the two is the ability to endure weather conditions. Indoor thermometers are not designed to withstand rain, snow, and UV rays, whereas an outdoor thermometer has waterproof and ruggedly constructed housing to endure the elements.

Q. Are digital indoor thermometers accurate?

Most digital indoor thermometers are very accurate within a margin of error that is within a degree. The most accurate models have a margin of error of just plus or minus 0.5 degrees.

Q. Which indoor thermometers work with Amazon Alexa, Google, and other digital assistants?

Many indoor thermometers are not compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google, or other digital assistants out of the box because they connect using Bluetooth. However, some indoor thermometers can connect to a home Wi-Fi network and then sync with Alexa or Google Home. Though we recommend one Wi-Fi model, the Govee Wi-Fi Thermometer, it does not sync with digital assistants.

Q. Where should you put an indoor thermometer?

To get the best readings, put an indoor thermometer about 5 to 6 feet above the ground in a location away from direct sunlight, a stove, a heater, or a heating vent.

The post We Researched 30 Indoor Thermometers, But We Like These 10 the Best appeared first on Bob Vila.

During a power outage, a home generator can keep the lights on, the HVAC running, and the appliances powered, but there are a lot of options out there, from whole-house to quiet inverter models. Because we’re big on helping our readers navigate the array of products that make life easier, our team tackled the task of testing home generators.

These independent power sources range in output for a variety of needs. After researching more than 40 top models, we selected the highest-scoring models in a range of categories for hands-on testing. Our favorite was the Dual-Fuel Generator from Champion thanks to its versatile operation and multiple outlets.

Whether you’re looking for a generator to run an entire home or to power only a few essentials, you can find a top-notch one in this lineup. Keep reading to find out how each one performed and to learn more about what to consider when shopping for the best home generator for your needs.

1. BEST OVERALL: Champion 8500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator With CO Shield
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Pulsar 2200-Watt Dual-Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator
3. BEST INVERTER: Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator
4. BEST WHOLE-HOUSE: Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect DX 26kW Home Generator
5. BEST QUIET: Honda 2200-Watt Inverter Generator With CO-Minder
6. BEST DUAL-FUEL: Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual-Fuel Generator
7. BEST POWER STATION: Generac GB2000 Portable Power Station
8. ALSO CONSIDER: Champion 7500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

When shopping for a generator, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the available options on the market. While the following models vary in fuel type, electrical load, and intended use, each one earned a spot on this lineup by excelling in real-world tests.

Best Overall

Champion 8500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator With CO Shield

See It

What We Like

• Runs on both gasoline and propane
• Suits a range of power needs with 6 outlets
• Built-in carbon monoxide (CO) shutoff

What We Don’t Like

• Relatively heavy at 209 pounds

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 5/5; Power 5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs

• Wattage: Gasoline: 10,625 peak watts and 8,500 running watts; propane 9,565 peak watts and 7,650 running watts
• Fuel: Gasoline or propane
• Outlets/ports: One 120 volt (V)-30 amp (A) locking outlet; one 120/240V-30A locking outlet; four 120V-20A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets
• Weight: 209 pounds

Read our full review: Champion 8500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator With CO Shield

This Champion 8,500-watt generator comes from a well-known manufacturer of quality generators, and it excelled in our hands-on tests. This dual-fuel generator runs on gasoline or propane, so if you stock up on both, you’ll be ready for any power emergency.

We tested several power tools and appliances with the Champion. We also connected it to a travel trailer’s 30A cord, and it generated enough power to run all our appliances without flipping any breakers, even at maximum load. The Champion features six outlets, a digital display for monitoring runtime and power output, and a built-in detector that shuts down the generator if it registers a hazardous carbon monoxide gas level.

However, this is a heavy unit. It weighs 209 pounds without fuel, making it a challenge to lift in and out of the back of a pickup truck bed. But for a powerful home generator to run several tools or appliances simultaneously, this Champion model is tough to beat.

Get the Champion 8,500-watt home generator at The Home Depot.

Best Bang for the Buck

Pulsar 2200-Watt Dual-Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator

See It

What We Like

• Light enough to move around without strain
• Easy to set up and get the engine running
• Ability to run on either propane or gasoline

What We Don’t Like

• Access panel to change the oil was difficult to remove
• Changing the oil required tipping the generator on its side

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Power 4.5/5; Portability 5/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4.5/5

Product Specs

• Wattage: Gasoline: 2,200 peak watts and 1,800 running watts; propane: 2,000 peak watts and 1,600 running watts
• Fuel: Gasoline or propane
• Outlets/ports: Two 120V-15A AC outlets; one USB-A port
• Weight: 46.5 pounds

A no-frills dual-fuel generator that’s small enough to tuck away in the corner of a garage or in a truck bed, the Pulsar 2200-watt generator delivered an easy experience powering our test equipment. The 1.18-gallon generator can run for up to 8 hours on half load on a single tank of gas.

Setting up the generator for the first time was fairly straightforward, though filling the oil for the first time proved to be a challenge. The side panel that we needed to unscrew and pop off to access the oil fill port and dipstick was difficult to remove. We also had to lay the generator on its side to fill it with oil, which required a bit of balancing as it’s not completely flat. Balancing while pouring oil was a bit tricky, to say the least. Starting it was a piece of cake. Turning on the Pulsar requires pulling a recoil start, but the engine kicked on after just a couple of pulls—even in the cold.

We used several appliances, including a couple of heat guns and hair dryers at the same time to test the generator at different loads. As promised, the generator handled a combined 1,800 watts without much issue and shut power off when we overloaded it with 2,300 watts.

The Pulsar’s noise level seemed louder than expected, but it was still in a reasonable range for its output. It’s a great option for budget-priced backup power for light-duty power needs such as small DIY projects and powering a couple of household appliances during an outage.

Get the Pulsar home generator at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Inverter

Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator

See It

What We Like

• Remote control offers starting and stopping from a distance
• Eco mode saves energy when power draw is minimal
• Extendable handle and wheels make it easy for 1 person to move

What We Don’t Like

• Only runs on gasoline with no option for propane

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5

Product Specs

• Wattage: 4,500 peak watts and 3,700 running watts
• Fuel: Gasoline
• Outlets/ports: One 120V-30A outlet; two 120V-20A outlets; 2 USB-A ports
• Weight: 104.7 pounds

Read our full review: Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator

It’s hard to beat Westinghouse’s 4,500-watt inverter generator for power output, versatility, and portability. It’s not the highest-wattage model we tested, but it excelled at running several power tools, including grinders and saws, as well as the essentials in our travel trailer. Setting it up was a snap—all we had to do was add oil and fill the gas tank. Best of all, it’s quiet and efficient.

The iGen4500 has a 3.4-gallon gasoline tank that can run up to 18 hours. Since it’s an inverter, it only burns enough to cover the appliances or tools it’s powering. This makes it more eco-friendly than noninverter models that burn fuel at a set rate no matter how much power is being drawn. This backup generator offers a variety of power ports, including a 30A port, two 20A ports, and two USB ports. However, it weighs almost 105 pounds without fuel, so lifting it up and down can be challenging for one person.

While this would be a great emergency generator, we also think it’s a top-notch pick for RVs, camping, and remote powering due to its quiet and efficient operation.

Get the Westinghouse home generator at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., or Walmart. 

Best Whole-House

Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect DX 26kW Home Generator

See It

What We Like

• Turns on automatically within seconds of a power outage
• Supplies ample power to run all appliances, including HVAC
• Users can configure it to run weekly self-tests

What We Don’t Like

• Can’t be installed inside a garage, shed, or other enclosure
• Local codes may require licensed pros to hook up

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Noise 4/5; Portability N/A; Power 5/5; Value 4.5/5

Product Specs

• Wattage: 30,000 peak watts and 26,000 running watts
• Fuel: Propane or natural gas
• Outlets/ports: Not applicable
• Weight: 540 pounds

The only standby generator we tested, the Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect is in a class by itself. It requires professional installation, often required by local code, because it connects to electrical power at the meter and to a home’s gas line. Prior to installation, this unit required site analysis and preparation (trenching in electrical lines and pouring concrete for a pad), and we also had an assessment to ensure it could run every appliance at the test home.

Once installed, we tested the generator by shutting off the electricity at the meter, and it started automatically in about 15 seconds. Surprisingly, the Briggs & Stratton only generated about 72 decibels of noise during operation. We turned on an HVAC unit, electric range, and all the lights in the house. We even plugged in some power tools as well, and the generator provided enough power for it all.

Although they can be pricey depending on capacity and local installation fees, standby generators are the best choice for ensuring reliable and comprehensive backup power.

Get the Briggs & Stratton home generator at Lowe’s.

Best Quiet

Honda 2200-Watt Inverter Generator with CO-Minder

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What We Like

• Whisper-quiet operation
• Provides cleaner electricity with lower noise
• Lightweight construction and compact build
• Reliable and easy-to-start engine
• CO-Minder advanced CO detection

What We Don’t Like

• Not equipped with USB ports
• Premium price point

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs

• Wattage: 2,200 peak watts and 1,800 running watts
• Fuel: Gasoline
• Outlets/ports: Two 125V-20A outlets
• Weight: 47.4 pounds

The Honda EU2200i inverter generator offers reliability, simple operation, and low noise. Honda estimates that the EU2200i runs at 48 to 57 weighted decibels, and we found that its sound easily gets lost in the background. It comes equipped with a Honda GXR120 commercial series engine that delivers 120 volts and up to 1,800 running watts and 2,200 starting watts. A 125V-20A duplex outlet allows users to plug in two electrical cords without worrying about overloading the generator. T

his machine is compatible with the Honda My Generator mobile app for remote monitoring and is parallel-ready for use with a second Honda EU2200i (connection kit sold separately). It also features a built-in carbon monoxide sensor and safety shutoff. In two separate tests, we used the Honda generator to power a full-size refrigerator for 4 hours and then a portable table saw and miter saw for an 8-hour workday. We even added a USB hub to charge a phone and laptop.

In each test, the devices worked perfectly, the electrical current remained strong and steady, and the breaker didn’t trip. The generator’s molded plastic handle is well placed, and when combined with the machine’s proportions, the unit is fairly easy to carry, even though it weighs nearly 50 pounds. We would have appreciated a built-in USB port in addition to the wall-style outlet, though. As it was, we had to unplug a tool that draws 10A just to charge a device using less than 3A.

Still, a clean electrical current and quiet operation in a lightweight, easy-to-stow package make the Honda an excellent choice for a home backup generator.

Get the Honda home generator at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Northern Tool + Equipment. 

Best Dual-Fuel

Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual-Fuel Generator

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What We Like

• Runs on either gasoline or propane
• Comes with 3 ways to start
• Features digital data display for real-time information

What We Don’t Like

• On the heavy side at 211 pounds

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Power 5/5; Portability 4/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4.5/5

Product Specs

• Wattage: Gasoline: 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts; propane: 11,200 peak watts and 8,500 running watts
• Fuel: Gasoline or propane
• Outlets/Ports: Four 120V-20A GFCI outlets, one 120V/240V-30A outlet, and one 120/240V-50A outlet
• Weight: 211 pounds

Westinghouse WGen9500DF is an all-around top pick when the power goes out. It has a 6.6-gallon gasoline tank that will keep it running for 12 hours at 25 percent load and up to 8 hours at 50 percent load. (Actual tank runtime may vary depending on gasoline quality and electrical load.) With a 20-pound propane tank, the generator will run up to 7 hours at 50 percent load.

This is a heavy model, weighing 211 pounds, but it mainly came assembled—all we had to do was attach the wheels and the handle. We tested it first with gasoline, followed by propane, and the results were excellent with both fuels. We ran several power tools simultaneously and powered an oven/range and a clothes dryer (at separate times). A nice perk was the remote fob, which allowed us to start the generator from 90 feet away.

The WGen9500DF is a good pick for those who want an emergency generator to power more than just a couple of cell phones.

Get the Westinghouse home generator at Amazon. 

Best Power Station

Generac GB2000 Portable Power Station

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What We Like

• Charges to full capacity in 3 to 4 hours
• Enough power for tools, appliances, and digital devices
• Designed for emergency, off-grid, or recreational use

What We Don’t Like

• Solar panels are not included

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 5/5; Portability 3.5/5; Power 4.5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs

• Wattage: 3,200 peak watts and 1,600 running watts
• Power source: AC, DC, or solar
• Outlets/ports: Three 120V-13.3A outlets; one 12V DC port; 2 USB-A ports; 2 USB-C ports
• Weight: 43 pounds

A distinct downside with fuel-powered generators is the inability to run them indoors due to hazardous fumes. Power stations, however, can be used indoors to power several appliances and electronic items, depending on their capacity. The Generac GB2000 is a beefy power backup that provides up to 1,600 running watts of electricity and comes with three standard outlets, four USB ports, and a 12V DC car port. Charging the GB2000 took about 3.5 hours when we plugged it directly into a standard AC outlet.

We also charged it with solar panels, but the day was slightly overcast, which kept it from charging quickly—it took about 5 hours to charge from 28 to 100 percent. A sunnier day or stronger solar panels would likely have charged it more quickly. When fully charged, we used it to run our fridge, a miter saw, lamps, a laptop, and cell phone—not all simultaneously. We made about 20 cuts with the miter saw and noticed no lag in the saw’s power. It took a couple of hours to fully charge the cell phone by placing it on the wireless charging panel at the top of the GB2000.

We left the fridge and laptop plugged in for several hours without depleting the battery—we still had 20 percent when we unplugged them. The Generac is well suited as an emergency backup for essential appliances or a remote power source for tailgating and camping, but at 43 pounds, it’s a bit heavy if you plan to carry it very far on trails.

Get the Generac home generator at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, Walmart, or Generac.

Also Consider

Champion 7500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator

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What We Like

• Fuel efficient
• Easy-to-use electric start is user-friendly
• Digital screen tracks voltage, hertz, and runtime
• Features a built-in surge protector and automatic low-oil shutoff

What We Don’t Like

• Higher fuel consumption than more efficient models
• Heavy at 205 pounds

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 5/5; Value 5/5

Project Specs

• Wattage: Gasoline: 9,375 peak watts and 7,500 running watts; propane: 8,400 peak watts and 6,750 watts running
• Fuel: Gasoline or propane
• Outlets/ports: One 120/240V-30A locking outlet; one 120V-30A locking outlet; four 120V-20A GFCI outlets
• Weight: 205 pounds

This Champion 7,500-watt dual-fuel generator delivers enough electricity to power up an off-grid jobsite or keep critical home circuits running through a utility outage. It includes numerous convenience features, like a push-button electric starter, covered outlets, and a fold-out transport handle. In our tests, the push-button starter worked perfectly, no matter the weather.

We appreciated its two locking 30A outlets (one 120V and one 120/240V) for powering a home, workshop, RV, or heavy-duty tools like portable welders. It also has four household-style 120V-20A outlets for lower-wattage applications. On a 7.7-gallon tank of gas, this generator supports a 50 percent load for up to 10 hours or up to 5.5 hours with a 20-pound propane cylinder. Using propane, we ran a portable table saw, miter saw, router, and air compressor for 4 hours and had just under half a tank of propane left over.

On the downside, its heavy weight made it tough to navigate across a yard and lift in and out of a truck. It also does not include an idle controller, which leads to more fuel consumption than eco-throttle-equipped generators. Still, it offered plenty of power and access points for the price.

Get the Champion 7500-watt home generator at Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Home Generators

Before testing, we carefully researched more than 40 portable and standby generators and over a dozen high-capacity power stations. We looked at consumer satisfaction, ease of use, price, and versatility. We also considered brand reputation—manufacturers like Champion, Honda, Westinghouse, and Briggs & Stratton are highly respected in the generator industry.

Our goal was to pinpoint models that would suit diverse user needs. This list includes powerful, gas-fueled, and dual-fueled generators in addition to quieter inverters and even solar power stations.

Team members assembled and fueled the generators using the appropriate fuel types. Then we plugged in power tools, home appliances, and electronic devices to see if the generators would produce the advertised wattage. We used an online wattage calculator to help us estimate the correct wattage for testing. In addition, we took note of the noise the generators produced when operating (some models are quieter than others), and we took portability into account.

For each generator, we awarded points based on quality and performance. At the end of testing, we averaged the points to determine which models were best suited to specific applications and users.

Testing Stats

Products tested: 8

Hours spent testing: 55

Tests performed: 5

Average price: $1651

What to Consider When Choosing a Home Generator

Several factors can affect each type of generator’s overall functionality when the power goes out. Keep the following considerations in mind when searching for the best home generator to keep you powered up when severe weather or a natural disaster causes an outage.

Types of Home Generators

Finding the best generator for your power needs involves weighing the four types available. Each type has its own set of pros and cons, and one is likely to suit your home’s specific needs better than the others.

Home Standby Generators

Home standby generators, also called whole-house generators, are large, permanently installed generators that connect to a home’s electrical panel for backup power during an electrical outage. They are equipped with an automatic transfer switch (explained in later sections) that automatically switches on the generator’s power supply when it detects a loss of utility power. Home standby generators are most commonly powered by natural gas or propane, but some diesel models are available.

Home standby generators have the largest power ratings and are usually, though not always, powerful enough to satisfy the electrical demands of an entire home. They can power utilities such as water heaters and central air conditioners. The downside is that they’re the most expensive to purchase and install and require installation by certified professionals. An electrician is needed to connect it to the electrical panel, and a plumber may be required to connect the propane or natural gas line to the generator.

Portable Generators

As the name suggests, portable generators are small and can be moved to different locations. Compared to standby options, these are cheap home generators. They can have a wide range of power output ratings. Some may only power a limited number of electrical items and appliances, while large-capacity portable generators may have a 30A outlet for connecting a transfer switch.

Many options are gas-powered generators, but some are powered by diesel or propane. Multifuel generators (dual- and tri-fuel) are powered by multiple fuel sources, including gasoline, diesel, propane, and/or natural gas. Be advised that fuel-powered generators should never be used indoors since the engine can emit a toxic level of CO, leading to sickness or death.

Inverter Generators

Inverter generators are technically a type of portable generator, but they offer a different set of pros and cons. As opposed to conventional generator engines that constantly operate at the same output rate, inverter generators adapt to power demand.

This makes them more fuel efficient, allowing them to have smaller fuel tanks and more portability than other generators. This efficiency reduces their CO emissions. It also makes them quiet generators, usually only producing around a 60-decibel noise level—the same volume level as a typical conversation.

All of these advantages make them a popular choice among campers and RVers who value silent operation and portability. The disadvantages? Inverter generators are typically more expensive than regular portable generators and generally produce less power.

Portable Power Stations

Portable power stations are essentially battery banks that store electrical power. Instead of using gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas, power stations are charged in a standard electrical outlet or via solar panels. Solar-powered power stations are often called solar generators and offer a practically unlimited and renewable power source—just as long as the sun is shining.

These power stations are usually designed to be compact and lightweight for incredible portability. They are also virtually silent when in operation. In addition, they can be safely used indoors since they don’t produce any harmful emissions.

The primary disadvantages are that they’re usually more expensive than conventional portable generators and have significantly lower power output. That being said, they can be used to power a handful of essential appliances during an outage.

Fuel or Energy Type 

• Gasoline: A widely available fuel source, gasoline is a common fuel source for portable generators. The primary disadvantages are that gasoline is more expensive and less efficient than other fuel sources, and gasoline engines typically emit the highest levels of CO. Also, storing gasoline in a gas can for long periods of time requires a fuel stabilizer and can present a significant fire hazard if stored incorrectly.
• Diesel: Although generators fueled by diesel aren’t as common as those fueled by gasoline, diesel is more efficient and can be stored for longer periods without a stabilizer. Diesel storage also doesn’t pose as significant a fire hazard as gasoline.
• Propane: Propane is a common fuel source for standby generators and may either be tied into a home’s primary propane gas tank or have a designated tank strictly for the generator. It’s not commonly a primary fuel source for portable generators, but some tri-fuel and dual-fuel generators accommodate propane as a backup fuel source. The main disadvantages are that propane isn’t as energy efficient as other fuel sources, and a generator fueled by propane will usually have a lower runtime and produce less power. Propane also presents a fire hazard if stored incorrectly.
• Natural gas: As a fuel source, natural gas is used exclusively with standby generators. For use with a generator, it is tied into a home’s natural gas line to offer a practically limitless source of fuel. The disadvantages are that natural gas is less energy efficient than propane and considerably less energy efficient than diesel and gasoline.
• Solar energy: As a source of power for portable battery banks, solar energy is silent and clean. It’s also free. The disadvantages are that the power capacity is determined by the number and size of the panels and the size of the battery it charges. A solar panel’s ability to charge a battery is also dictated by the amount of available sun, so it isn’t as reliable a fuel source as other options.

Size

A generator’s size equates to the amount of power in watts it can generate, ranging from 800 to greater than 50,000-watt power capacity. Generators are sized in both “peak watts” (also called “starting watts”) and “running watts,” but the running watts rating reveals how many continuous watts the generator can supply to keep the electricity running to the connected items. Peak watts are the number of watts the generator can produce for a few seconds to satisfy the extra demand from starting motor-driven items like power tools.

The running watts rating dictates the number of electrical appliances you can run simultaneously and for how long. Because a generator’s starting watts can be 1,000 to 2,000 watts greater than its running watts, it’s important to understand the difference when determining your home’s power requirements.

Power Requirements

To determine the generator size you need, calculate the total number of watts your most essential electrical items consume. All electrical appliances are required to have a label that displays their wattage rating; you simply need to add together the wattage figure listed on each item you want to power during an electrical outage.

Generally speaking, a refrigerator consumes between 700 and 1,200 watts; a window air conditioner consumes around 1,000 watts; a portable space heater consumes about 1,500 watts; and lights can be anywhere between 60 and 600 watts. Most households typically require around 5,000 watts to power the most essential components.

Transfer Switch

A transfer switch connects a generator to a home’s main electrical panel and allows you to switch, or “transfer,” between grid power and generator power. There are both manual and automatic transfer switches. Manual transfer switches require you to physically switch over the power at your electrical panel when the power goes out, while an automatic transfer switch automatically switches over power from the grid to generator power when it detects a loss of power.

Convenience

Generators can be equipped with various features that make their operation as convenient as possible. These include:

• Electric start: Instead of using a pull cord to manually start a generator, many modern generators offer an effortless electric start. This mechanism can be in the form of a push button, a switch, and even a remote control.
• Multiple outlets: Not only are multiple outlets convenient, but they also help distribute the generator’s electrical load when powering multiple appliances. Having a generator with at least four household electrical outlets is recommended for efficiently spreading the electrical load. Generators may also have household 30A, RV 30A, and 50A outlets as well as USB ports.
• Low-oil shutoff: A generator with a low-oil shutoff will automatically turn off when the oil falls below a certain level. This feature can save a generator from irreparable engine damage caused by low oil levels.
• Fuel gauge: A fuel gauge allows you to closely monitor the fuel level in the generator. This feature is typically only necessary for gasoline- and diesel-powered generators with internal fuel tanks. However, solar-powered battery banks usually have battery life indicators, and propane tanks often have integrated fuel gauges.

Safety 

Along with the various features that contribute to convenience, there are also a few important safety features that many generators incorporate into their design, particularly with regard to CO detection. These include:

• Automatic CO shutoff: To reduce the risk of poisoning, many portable generators are equipped with an internal CO sensor that will automatically shut off the generator when CO levels reach a certain level. This feature can be labeled as “CO Sense,” “CO Shield,” “CO Protect,” and similar designations.
• Low-CO engine: Along with an automatic CO shutoff, some generator engines are specifically designed to emit considerably less CO. Despite being safer than conventional engines, low-CO engines still shouldn’t be operated indoors.

Tips for Using a Home Generator

Operating a generator isn’t complicated, but there are a few tips you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure effective and safe operation and avoid any harm to yourself or your generator when the power goes out.

First of all, it’s important to use extension cords that are sufficiently powerful. As a general rule, use at least 12-gauge outdoor-rated electrical cords for larger appliances (like refrigerators) and at least 14-gauge cords for everything else. Cord length is also a concern since the voltage drop from cords that are too long can damage or destroy the appliances they’re supplying. Although you’ll want to keep a portable generator outside and away from your home, remember not to exceed a 100-foot extension cord length.

When running a home generator, it’s best to keep it on a level surface. If a generator is placed on a slope or hill, the internal lubrication system could malfunction and lead to premature engine wear and damage. Finally, ensure the generator has cooled down before you refill it since spilling gasoline on a hot engine can cause a fire.

Keep the following tips in mind:

• Prevent theft by securing your generator with a lock and chain if you store it outside.
• Don’t run your generator with stale fuel to avoid start-up issues.
• Keep extra oil and filters on hand to ensure you can maintain the recommended maintenance schedule through extended power outages.

FAQs 

Since generators can be both lifesaving and expensive, it’s natural to have some questions before you’re confident in your decision. To this end, consider the answers to these frequently asked questions. Together with the above shopping considerations, these answers provide you with just about everything you need to know about emergency power generators.

Q. Do I need a permit for a home generator?

Most municipalities and towns require that you have a permit before a standby generator is installed. However, not all locations have this requirement. Check with your local zoning authority to find out if a permit is required in your community.

Q. What size generator do I need for my house?

To determine the necessary power rating for your generator, add up the wattage of all the appliances you want to run during an electrical outage. As a general rule, a generator should have at least a 5,000-watt capacity to power a home’s essential appliances. But, your home could require substantially more power than that.

Q. Do home generators need oil?

Yes, fuel-powered home generators require oil to operate properly without wearing out the moving parts.

Q. Where should a whole-house generator be located?

Most manufacturers recommend that the whole-house generator be installed at least 5 feet from doors, windows, vents, and any flammable material. There may also be local regulations about the placement of a whole-house generator, so make sure to check local guidelines to ensure that your whole-house generator meets local building codes and installation guidelines.

Q. Can you plug a generator into a house outlet?

No. A generator should not be plugged into a house outlet because it is both dangerous and illegal in many locations. This is called backfeeding and it can severely damage the home’s electrical system or even cause a fire. Additionally, any technicians who are working on electrical lines on the same power grid are at increased risk of electrocution.

Q. How do you hook up a generator to your house?

You can connect a generator to individual appliances using a series of extension cords, or if you want direct power for entire circuits in the home, have a standby generator professionally installed.

Q. How long does it take to install a whole-house generator?

On average, it will take an experienced technician about 1 to 2 full days to complete the installation of your whole-house generator. It could take 1 to 2 weeks to prep for the installation, such as pouring a concrete pad and running the wires connecting the generator to the electrical panel.

Q. How long do whole-house generators last?

The exact lifespan depends on the specific product, but in general, the overall lifespan of a whole-house generator is about 1,500 to 3,000 hours.

Meet the Testers

The Bob Vila test team is made up of contractors, remodelers, home design enthusiasts, and freelancers from across the nation. Each member is dedicated to delivering high-quality product information to our readers so they can shop with confidence, knowing the products they purchase have been fully tested and vetted.

Austin Fracchia is a writer and manager at BobVila.com. As a DIY hobbyist, he tests products with a focus on user-friendliness and reliability so readers can find the right products for their home projects.

Zach Lazzari is a freelance writer splitting time between the great outdoors, travel, and DIY projects ranging from camper builds to home renovations and maintenance.

Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer. She focuses primarily on construction, woodworking, and DIY tools and techniques.

Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester, focused on mechanical durability and user convenience. As a green industry veteran and an avid DIYer, he has gained valuable insight on choosing dependable power equipment and avoiding poor-quality machinery.

Additional research was provided by Timothy Dale and James Fitzgerald.

The post We Tested Home Generators to Find the Best Picks a Power Outage appeared first on Bob Vila.

Best Overall

Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy Heater

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Best Bang for the Buck

Mr. Heater MH4B Little Buddy Propane Heater

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Best Tank Top

Camplux Outdoor Tank Top Propane Heater

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Propane heaters are an incredibly effective way to quickly heat a medium to large living space using liquid propane (LP) as fuel, making them suitable for a range of heating needs.

We researched more than 30 propane heaters and then selected several top-rated models for hands-on testing by the Bob Vila test team. We also consulted Alex Rushwin, technical service manager for Enerco Group, manufacturer of the ever-popular Mr. Heater line of propane heaters.

Today’s propane heaters burn cleaner and are safer than early models. “Mr. Heater patented the first indoor propane heater back in 2000,” Rushwin says, “and that was a huge step forward for portable propane heat.” Since then, Mr. Heater has improved on the technology, and their indoor heaters are safer than ever.

Finding the best propane heater for your purposes depends on how you will use it, where it will be used, the heat output you need, and the important safety features included. Our favorite of the bunch was Mr. Heater’s MH9BX model for its portable design and quick heating capabilities. While intended use varies, each of the following models excelled in our hands-on tests and earned its spot in this lineup of the best propane heaters.

1. BEST OVERALL: Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy Heater 
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Mr. Heater MH4B Little Buddy Propane Heater
3. BEST TANK TOP: Camplux Outdoor Tank Top Propane Heater 
4. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Dyna-Glo Delux 300,000 BTU LP Forced-Air Heater 
5. BEST PATIO: East Oak Pyrol Outdoor Patio Propane Gas Heater
6. BEST INDOOR: Dyna-Glo 30K BTU LP Blue Flame Vent-Free Heater
7. BEST FOR GARAGE: Mr. Heater MH18CH 18,000 BTU Cabinet Heater

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

The following are some of the best propane heaters on the market in their respective categories. They were selected for quality and price, with a focus on the shopping considerations mentioned above.

Best Overall

Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy Heater

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This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.

Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.

Product Specs

• Type: Radiant
• Heating power: 4,000 or 9,000 BTUs
• Weight: 10.6 pounds
• Safety features: Tip-over shutoff, ODS

What We Like

• Propane bottle is easy to connect
• Portable and compact design
• Comes with an oxygen-depletion sensor and tip-over shutoff

What We Don’t Like

• Lower BTU range not sufficient for spaces over 250 square feet

Rushwin says that Mr. Heater’s Buddy series is one of its most popular sellers, and it’s been one of our favorites for years, as it was our standby heater for mountain camping adventures. The MH9BX was new to us though, and we were impressed right off the bat by the new swivel-connector feature that allowed us to twist the 1-pound propane bottle into position with ease. Some of the older models didn’t have the swivel connector, so good going, Mr. Heater! That’s a huge plus.

The Buddy MH9BX has an attractive design with a sturdy fold-down carrying handle that makes it easy to pick up and take wherever it’s needed. The heater has a choice of two heat outputs, either 4,000 or 9,000 BTUs, making it capable of heating up to 225 square feet of space. We tested the MH9BX in a 180-square foot room, and on high, it raised the temperature from 70 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit in just 30 minutes. It’s a radiant heater, so it warms objects, not the air, but the heated objects in turn warmed up the room.

This heater is able to burn propane at near-100 percent efficiency, which makes it an option for indoor applications. Its oxygen-depletion sensor (ODS) ensures that the oxygen level never drops to a dangerous point. Plus, its tip-over safety mechanism immediately shut the heater off when we tipped it over.

Read our full review: Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy Heater 

Get the Mr. Heater MH9BX propane heater at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best Bang for the Buck

Mr. Heater MH4B Little Buddy Propane Heater

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Product Specs 

• Type: Radiant
• Heating power: 3,800 BTUs
• Weight: 5.8 pounds
• Safety features: Tip-over shutoff, low-oxygen sensor

What We Like

• Lightweight and portable
• Reliable emergency heat source for indoor use
• Warms nearby objects and people
• Good safety measures

What We Don’t Like

• Radiant heat only

Our second Mr. Heater pick is the Little Buddy MH4B, which provides instant warmth at an attractive price point. Not only is the Little Buddy easy on the wallet, but it’s also simple to carry along when tailgating or just spending a little time bird-watching on a chilly day. It’s an excellent pick for supplemental indoor emergency heat, too. It burns clean and comes with a low-oxygen sensor that shuts it off if the oxygen level in the space drops to an unhealthy level.

The Little Buddy is designed to heat spaces up to 95 square feet, so we tested it in a bathroom, where it raised the room’s temperature by 15 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 minutes. Keep in mind that temperature increases will vary depending on the type of space, starting temperature, and whether the space is insulated or if it is being used as a tent heater without any insulation.

Like its big brother, the Buddy heater, Little Buddy is a radiant propane heater, and it warms nearby objects—and people. We found it excellent for warming our gloved hands outdoors, but it doesn’t blow hot air. The tip-over shutoff turned the heater off immediately when we laid the Little Buddy on its side.

While this little propane heater isn’t powerful enough for warming up large rooms, it’s an excellent small heater that’s safe for indoor use.

Get the Mr. Heater Little Buddy propane heater at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Tank Top

Camplux Outdoor Tank Top Propane Heater

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Product Specs 

• Type: Radiant
• Heating power: 9,000 to 30,000 BTUs
• Weight: 5.07 pounds
• Safety features: Tip-over shutoff

What We Like

• Easily attaches to the propane tank
• Dual burner design; adjustable operation
• Provides significant radiant heat

What We Don’t Like

• Requires ventilation

Tank tops aren’t just sleeveless attire for hot summer days. The Camplux Tank Top propane heater attaches to the top of a 20-pound or larger propane tank, and it quickly warms nearby objects or people—making it a handy heater for outdoor use or in ventilated shops and garages.

This is not an in-home model; the manufacturer suggests having a 0.5-square-foot opening for fresh air for every 15,000 BTUs being used. For example, if using both burners simultaneously on the highest setting (total of 30,000 BTUs), opening a 24-inch wide window just 1 inch would be sufficient. A door does not need to be wide open; just crack a window.

It comes with two radiant burners and attaches securely to the steel collar at the top of a standard propane tank. It was easy to connect to the tank and held firmly throughout our tests. We tested the Camplux dual-burner propane heater in a mobile workshop with an open-end wall.

It was simple to connect to the top of the propane tank and easy to light—but be aware this is a manual-light heater; we had to insert a lit match in a hole in the side of the reflective cover and then slowly turn on the propane. It fired right up. Each side lights and operates independently.

The Camplux Tank Top heater provided a lot of radiant heat—so much that we couldn’t stand any closer than about 4 feet without feeling uncomfortably hot when running it on the high setting. On the low setting, it was more tolerable, but it still puts out a lot of heat. It didn’t appreciably raise the temperature in the mobile shop, but that was due to one end of the shop trailer being completely open, which allowed cool breezes to blow through.

This is a powerful, no-frills propane heater for use in a ventilated workshop or on a jobsite.

Get the Camplux propane heater at Amazon.

Best Heavy-Duty

Dyna-Glo Delux 300,000 BTU LP Forced-Air Heater

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Product Specs 

• Type: Convection (forced air)
• Heating power: 300,000 BTUs
• Weight: 32.6 pounds
• Safety features: Overheat shutoff, delayed ignition shutoff

What We Like

• A high-performance model
• Adjustable thermostat
• Reliable electronic ignition
• Carry handle and cord wrap

What We Don’t Like

• Requires an electrical outlet to operate
• Must be connected to a 100-pound or larger propane tank

Here come the big boys in the propane heating world! The Dyna-Glo Delux isn’t a heater that most will want to keep in a living room unless the living room happens to be around 7,000 square feet in size, but it is an excellent option as a space heater in a large garage, barn, warehouse, or worksite because it can produce up to 300,000 BTUs.

We took the Dyna-Glo to our shop and connected it to a propane tank—but nothing happened. It didn’t fire up. We saw the pilot light flicker inside and smelled propane, which led us to shut down the unit promptly, but there were no flames or heat. We suspected the reason might be a too-small propane tank, and we were right—the instruction manual specifies connecting the Dyna-Glo to a tank no smaller than 100 pounds. So, that’s what we did; we hauled in a larger tank and tried again, and the heater fired right up.

And, boy did it put out the heat! Within 30 minutes, our shop went from a chilly 56 degrees Fahrenheit to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a forced-air (convection) heater—a strong fan blows heat out of the front end of the combustion chamber at a forceful rate.

Ventilation is a must: The manufacturer recommends 11.25 square feet of open-air space when running the heater at maximum force. It features a safety shutoff if it overheats and another shutoff that keeps the heater from igniting if propane has been circulating through. The latter is to prevent the type of fireball that can result if propane gas is in the combustion chamber before it ignites.

The Dyna-Glo must also be plugged into an electrical outlet to power its heavy-duty fan. While it weighs 32 pounds, it has a carrying handle and a built-in cord wrap, making transportation easier. Overall, this powerful heater will keep large areas toasty warm, but don’t use it in the house.

Get the Dyna-Glo Delux propane heater at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Patio

East Oak Pyrol Outdoor Patio Propane Gas Heater

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Product Specs 

• Type: Radiant
• Heating power: 48,000 BTUs
• Weight: 57.3 pounds
• Safety features: Anti-tilt, flame-out protection, low-oxygen sensor

What We Like

• Embossed design in stainless steel
• Heats up in just 5 minutes
• Efficiently heats nearby objects and people
• Propane tank is concealed right inside the base
• Adds a measure of ambience

What We Don’t Like

• Assembly is complex and time-consuming

The East Oak patio heater offers ambience and is a stunning focal point for a chilly outdoor winter gathering, but plan on spending at least an hour or more assembling all the parts. As we were setting it up, more than once we wondered whether the heater would be worth the hassle of trying to peel off the stubborn protective blue film—with some pieces coming off in tiny bits rather than sheets—and then putting together literally everything on the unit.

Once we got the East Oak pyramid heater together and fired up, we changed our minds—it was worth it. The glass cylinder in the pyramid’s center showcases beautiful dancing flames that rise to the upper vent, where the heat is reflected downward and outward toward anyone standing nearby. The outdoor temperature and breezes will affect its heating range, but we could feel warmth when standing about 10 feet away.

This is strictly an outdoor propane heater, so don’t take it in the house—it needs ample ventilation. It comes with tip-over shut-off protection and also shuts down propane flow if the flame goes out to keep propane gas from leaking into the air. We tested both, and they worked well. It connects to a 20-pound propane tank that fits right inside its base.

The East Oak pyramid heater also provides a good amount of light, so it can be used as supplemental lighting for outdoor entertaining. We really liked this tower heater, but we would have been happier with our experience if it had come at least partially assembled. It’s a lot to put together for even those familiar with assembling tools and appliances.

Get the East Oak propane heater at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Indoor

Dyna-Glo 30K BTU LP Blue Flame Vent-Free Heater

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Product Specs

• Type: Convection
• Heating power: Up to 30,000 BTUs
• Weight: 24.6 pounds
• Safety features: Overheating shutoff, low-oxygen sensor

What We Like

• Designed for indoor use
• Slim profile fits neatly on interior walls
• Equipped with low-oxygen sensor
• 5 heat settings and thermostat

What We Don’t Like

• Cannot install the heater too close to side walls or ceiling
• Propane tank should be located outdoors

Those looking for a designated source of propane heat for indoor use, such as to warm a chilly basement, may need to look no further than the Dyna-Glo wall-mount propane heater. It features a slender profile that fits nicely on an interior wall, and it uses a gentle fan to help circulate heat.

No assembly was necessary with this wall-mount heater, but we had to install brackets on the wall and then hang the heater on the brackets. Just make sure the brackets are level and the heater is not positioned too near something flammable. The manufacturer recommends locating the heater a minimum of 8 inches away from perpendicular walls on either side of the heater and a minimum of 36 inches below the ceiling. In addition, keep all furniture, draperies, and other items a minimum of 36 inches away from the front of the heater.

We ran a long propane hose from an outdoor tank (don’t use propane tanks inside a house) and then fired the heater up using its simple push-button ignitor. It produces up to 30,000 BTUs of heat on the high setting but can be turned down when less heat is desired. A control knob features five heat settings and serves as a thermostat to turn the heater on and off. We found it increased our 200-square-foot test space 11 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 minutes, but results will vary depending on room size and ambient temperature.

This Dyna-Glo comes with an automatic overheating shutoff as well as a low-oxygen sensor. It’s a nice little heater that would serve well as a source of emergency heat during a power outage or for supplemental heat.

Get the Dyna-Glo vent-free propane heater at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best for Garage

Mr. Heater MH18CH 18,000 BTU Cabinet Heater

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Product Specs

• Type: Radiant
• Heating power: 6,000; 12,000; and 18,000 BTUs
• Weight: 23 pounds
• Safety features: Tip-over shutoff, low-oxygen sensor

What We Like

• Efficient radiant heating
• Offers 3 heat settings
• Rugged steel casing with 4 heavy-duty swivel wheels

What We Don’t Like

• Limited coverage for spaces more than 450 square feet

For many DIYers, the garage is the only covered space available for working on projects. Losing that space to cold weather is avoidable when using a propane heater like this one from Mr. Heater, which can heat a space of up to 450 square feet. The heater has three radiant-heat output settings, including a low setting of 6,000 BTUs; a medium setting of 12,000 BTUs; and a high setting that reaches 18,000 BTUs.

We put the MH18CH in a corner in a three-stall garage for testing. It was a chilly day, and also cold the day before testing, so the temperature in the garage was 53 degrees Fahrenheit. We turned the MH18CH on the high setting, and within 30 minutes, the temperature in the nearest stall rose to 61 degrees Fahrenheit, but the farthest stall registered just 54 degrees Fahrenheit. This was in an uninsulated garage, and results would vary in different-size garages or an insulated garage.

The propane heater has a space in the back designed to accommodate a 20-pound propane tank so that users can move the entire unit around easily on the four attached swivel wheels. This product also has a tip-over safety mechanism and an ODS sensor to automatically shut down the heater if the oxygen level gets too low.

This is a nice portable little propane heater that can be rolled around a garage or shop, which is a convenient way to heat the space where work is being done.

Get the Mr. Heater MH18CH propane heater at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Propane Heaters 

We examined several factors when choosing the propane heaters we wanted to test. Safety was essential, and beyond that, we looked at heat output (British thermal units, or BTUs), heater type (convection vs. radiant), ease of use, and cost. We considered the brand; after all, Mr. Heater and Dyna-Glo are well-respected names in the propane heater world. Still, we didn’t automatically dismiss smaller niche brands if the heaters were durable, safe, and highly rated.

The actual testing of the heaters was pretty simple; after all, they serve one primary purpose: to warm up a space or warm up nearby objects and people. We noted how easy (or challenging) the heaters were to assemble, and then we connected them to propane tanks or bottles, as called for by the manufacturer.

We tested the heaters’ ignition features and noted how much heat they produced and how quickly. Each propane heater was scored using a rubric. The better the heater performed on a test, the more points we awarded. After testing, we averaged the points to determine our top pick and to establish the best uses for each model.

What to Consider When Choosing a Propane Heater

Before choosing the best propane heater for a patio, garage, or home, take a look below to learn about some of the most important shopping considerations that can help you select a heater that suits your needs.

Ignition

Propane heaters must have the pilot light ignited before the unit will produce any heat. Keep in mind that igniting the pilot light requires the gas to be turned on. These units typically have one of three different ignition methods: manual ignition, push-button ignition, and continuous ignition.

• Manual ignitions require users to light the pilot light with a long match or a barbecue lighter. Liquid propane heaters with this ignition type are usually more affordable.
• Push-button ignitions are the most common ignition option for indoor propane heaters. After turning the gas on, push a button for the indicated amount of time so that an integrated sparking mechanism will light the pilot light. (Before using, make sure to follow all of the safety considerations listed in the safety section below and in the manufacturer’s directions for indoor propane heaters.)
• Continuous ignitions are more common on large, commercial propane heaters. This style of ignition will automatically begin sparking when the gas is on. This feature prevents the hazardous build-up of propane gas that can occur if the delay is too long between sparks. After the pilot light is lit, the continuous ignition stops creating sparks.

Location

One of the main benefits of having a propane heater is that they are usually portable and can be connected to a small or large propane tank. It’s relatively easy to take a portable propane heater to another room, to the garage, or to the outdoors. However, if the heater will be used in one or two main locations, the product needs to be suited to those main areas.

In general, only heaters that accommodate 1-pound propane bottles are suitable for use indoors. Those that connect to 20-pound or larger propane tanks should be connected to a hose that’s long enough to locate the tank outdoors. The exception is models designed to hold 20-pound tanks that can be used in ventilated garages or workshops. Read the manufacturer’s safety precautions carefully.

The best outdoor propane heaters have enough heating power to deal with the rapid dissipation of heat that will naturally occur in a wide-open space. For those who want a great camping heater, a large outdoor option might be best. An alternative is a handheld propane heater that will keep people warm instead of heating the entire area. Some users may prefer to have a wall-mounted propane heater to save floor space and to keep the heater out of reach from kids and pets.

Portability

Portability is one of the features that sets propane heaters apart from electric or natural gas heaters, but not all propane heaters can really make the claim that they are portable. Some propane heaters that have built-in fans or other electronic components will typically need to be plugged into a power source, despite their main fuel being propane.

If portability is a key personal factor, then a propane heater that doesn’t need an electrical power source is often a better choice. A smaller size and a carrying handle will make it easier to pick up and move around. However, if a larger heater is needed for commercial or industrial applications, there are powerful propane heaters that sit on a set of wheels. The wheels make it easier to move the heater around a space.

Safety

Whenever using any type of heating device, it’s critical to be certain that all the necessary precautions are being followed to ensure that no one is at risk. This includes the proper storage of propane tanks and adequate ventilation when the heater is in use. There are other safety features to consider like overheating protection, a tip-over mechanism, and an oxygen-depletion sensor.

• The overheating protection feature senses the rising temperature and shuts down the heater to prevent damage to the room or any flammable objects and to stop internal damage to the heater.
• Tip-over mechanisms protect users from the risk of fire if the heater falls over. The impact of the fall is what activates this feature, turning off the heater so that it cannot start a fire by igniting any nearby items, like carpeting or curtains.
• An oxygen-depletion sensor is designed to measure the available oxygen within the local vicinity. If the oxygen level drops below a specified point, the heater will automatically turn off to allow the oxygen to increase and prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

BTU Capacity

The heat output of a propane heater is normally measured in BTUs, with each BTU equal to the heat it would take to increase the temperature of 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. The BTU rating of a propane heater can range widely from as low as 3,000 BTUs to higher than 300,000 BTUs. The best BTU output for a heater will depend on how and where it will be used. For example, outdoor heaters naturally require a higher heat output.

Before deciding on a product, measure the room that needs to be heated. To help figure out which heater is best suited to a particular need, most manufacturers list the BTU output and include the approximate square footage that is appropriate for the heater. For example, a heater with a maximum of 10,000 BTUs may heat a space of approximately 250 square feet, while a unit that has a maximum of 18,000 BTUs will have no problem with 450 square feet.

Size

Size is a factor that can impact where the heater will be used, how it is set up, and whether it’s a portable heater or a stationary unit. A small heater can often be picked up and carried around without a problem. Always check with the manufacturer, but smaller units usually can be used both indoors and outdoors without producing harmful fumes, as these smaller heaters tend to burn fuel at a slower pace.

Large propane heaters can take up a lot of space, which can become a safety hazard if they are too close to flammable objects in the room. Their size also may affect the placement in the room, or it may limit the product to outdoor use. However, a larger propane heater is able to hold an equally large propane tank so it won’t need to be replaced as frequently as the fuel in a small heater.

The Advantages of Owning a Propane Heater

There are many advantages to owning a propane heater. One of the defining features is that these heaters are typically fueled by a portable container of propane, giving users the freedom to carry them from room to room or even take them out into the middle of the woods when camping. Unless the heater has a built-in fan unit, users won’t have to be tethered to a power outlet with this heater.

There is also the benefit of cost savings with a propane heater. This is because the average cost of electricity is higher than the average cost of propane. With a propane heater, there is a wide range of heat-output options that can increase well beyond the capabilities of an electric or natural gas heater, allowing users to rapidly heat up large outdoor spaces.

• Unless the heater has a built-in fan unit, propane heaters don’t normally need to be plugged into a wall, allowing users to move the heater wherever it’s needed.
• Propane is more cost-effective than electricity for heating an area, so users save money with this style of heater.
• The same high heat outputs aren’t available from electric heaters or natural gas heaters as from a propane heater.

FAQs

Whether you want to supplement heat for a greenhouse or have access to a source of emergency heat when the power goes out, propane could be the answer. If you still have questions about propane heaters, read below to find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Additional research provided by Timothy Dale and Bob Beacham.

The post The Best Propane Heater Can Be Used Almost Anywhere—Even Inside appeared first on Bob Vila.

A good sump pump is invaluable in times of flooding to prevent the damage caused by water standing for an extended period of time, minimizing the damage and discouraging mold and mildew from forming. Sump pumps typically sit on the basement floor or reside in a pit set below the floor. Once standing water reaches a certain level, the pump turns on and pushes groundwater out and away from the home’s foundation. 

We used sump pump reviews and user experiences to get a feel for which sump pumps were considered the best and why. We then selected several of the top-rated sump pumps on the market for closer scrutiny. We tested four of these pumps, our favorite of which was the Wayne WSS30Vn Basement Backup Sump Pump because of its ease of setup, reasonable price, and high water-pumping capacity.

Below, you’ll find a guide explaining what you should know before buying a sump pump, as well as a roundup of some of the best sump pump options available based on our research and testing. 

1. BEST OVERALL: Wayne WSS30Vn Basement Backup Sump Pump
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Superior Pump 92250 ¼-HP Thermoplastic Sump Pump
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3. BEST ENERGY-SAVING: Basement Watchdog SIT 50-D Sump Pump
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4. BEST VALUE CAST IRON: Zoeller Model 53 Submersible Sump Pump
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5. BEST PRIMARY: Superior Pump 92551 ½-HP Cast Iron Pedestal Pump
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6. BEST BATTERY BACKUP: Wayne ESP25 Reinforced Battery Backup Sump Pump
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7. BEST COMBINATION: Zoeller Aquanot Spin 508 Sump Pump With ProPak
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8. BEST SMART: Basement Watchdog BWSP Special Connect Sump Pump
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9. MOST VERSATILE: Wayne CDU1000 1-HP Submersible Sump Pump
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Our Top Picks

To select our top picks, we considered some of the highest-performing sump pumps offered by the industry’s most reputable manufacturers. As such, what you’ll find below is what we think are the best sump pumps for crawl spaces and basements.

What our tester says: “I was really impressed with the Wayne WSS30V. Aside from its impressive performance, I also appreciated how easy it was to set up. It went from box to pumping in just a few minutes, which isn’t always the case with sump pumps. Another that I really liked was the Superior Pump 92250. It was incredibly easy to use and very portable.”—Mike Larson, Product Reviews writer and tester

Best Overall

Wayne WSS30Vn Basement Backup Sump Pump

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What We Like

• Comes pre-assembled; hardly any installation required
• Can pump about 5,100 gallons of water per hour (GPH)
• Backup battery can handle 10,000 gallons per charge

What We Don’t Like

• Not very versatile; can only work indoors

Specs

• Type Combination
• Flow rate 2,700 to 5,100 GPH
• Motor power ½ horsepower (hp)

Our Ratings: Ease of Setup 5/5; Pumping Capacity 5/5; Price 4/5 

For moisture-prone areas that experience regular flooding and power outages, you need a powerful sump pump that will keep your basement dry—even when the power’s out. This combination sump pump comes equipped with a ½ hp motor capable of pumping out up to 5,100 GPH when the power is on and up to 2,700 GPH when it isn’t. Operating off of a 75-amp hour backup battery, this submersible sump pump will continue operating for hours after the power goes out. 

This basement sump pump conveniently switches over to battery power during outages, preventing delays in pumping. Among the top-rated water pumps out there, this basement and crawl space sump pump will work in basins 16 inches in diameter and larger. 

The test for this pump was straightforward: we tried to overwhelm it. The test basically involved creating our own basement “flood,” using a hose to pour water into the basin. The hose was no match for the pump, which handled the inflow of water without issue. Even hitting the main breaker to turn off the power had little effect; the backup battery ensured that the pump just kept going.

Get the Wayne WSS30Vn sump pump at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Best Bang For The Buck

Superior Pump 92250 ¼-HP Thermoplastic Sump Pump

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What We Like

• Lightweight, submersible design is easy to install
• Tethered float activates pump if water level rises
• Portable sump pump; usable indoors and out

What We Don’t Like

• No adapter included

Specs

• Type Submersible
• Flow rate 1,800 GPH
• Motor power ¼ hp

Our Ratings: Ease of Setup 5/5; Pumping Capacity 3/5; Price 5/5 

There’s no need to spring for a pump with firehose-like power for basements that only experience minor excess water issues. A light-duty sump pump such as this one from the pump specialists at Superior Pump will do the job well. With a ¼ hp motor, this submersible-style pump is a great option for basements that face occasional light to moderate flooding. It’s capable of pumping out up to 1,200 GPH to a height of 10 feet. It features a suction screen that filters out up to ⅛-inch solids. 

The pump’s body is constructed of thermoplastic, which resists corrosion. This reasonably-priced sump pump option is highly functional for basements or for light-duty outdoor activities like pumping out a clogged rain barrel or standing water from an uneven spot on the lawn.

What our tester says: “During testing, I was unable to overwhelm the Superior Pump, and I was happy with the way it moved water when it was completely submerged. That being said, there’s no denying that its ¼ hp motor is definitely on the lower end in terms of pumping capacity. Still, I appreciated its versatility and portability.”—Mike Larson, Product Reviews writer and tester

Get the Superior Pump 92250 sump pump at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Energy-Saving

Basement Watchdog SIT 50-D Sump Pump

What We Like

What We Like

• Heavy duty; outer shell is made of cast iron
• Permanent Split Capacitor motor delivers industry-leading energy efficiency
• Equipped with two float sensors for extra protection

What We Don’t Like

• A little pricey for a ½ hp pump

Specs

• Type Submersible
• Flow rate 3,420 GPH
• Motor power ½ hp

Our Ratings: Ease of Setup 5/5; Pumping Capacity 4/5; Price 3/5 

The first thing you notice when you take the Basement Watchdog out of the box is that it is not a lightweight pump. While most of the pumps we tested (and most on the market) feature a plastic housing, the Basement Watchdog is made of cast iron. Just the feel of it makes you trust that it’s going to last.

The ½ hp motor keeps the water moving, pumping between 3,500 and 4,400 GPH depending on the water level. The pump also features dual float switches, which is a nice safeguarding feature, just in case one of them fails. 

During our testing, we did our best to create a flood, but we were unable to get the pump to flinch. We even manually disabled one of the floats to see if the backup would work. It did. All in all, we felt that this was a high-quality pump we could rely on. The price is steep, but this is a heavy-duty pump that should last much longer than plastic alternatives thanks to its cast-iron housing.

Get the Basement Watchdog SIT-50D sump pump at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot. 

Best Value Cast Iron

Zoeller Model 53 Submersible Sump Pump

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What We Like

• Cast-iron construction is built to last
• Can pass larger solids than many competitors
• Functions at 19¼ inches deep without losing power

What We Don’t Like

• Heavier than comparable models

Specs

• Type Submersible
• Flow rate 1,550 GPM
• Motor power 3/10 hp

Our Ratings: Ease of Setup 4/5; Pumping Capacity 4/5; Price 3/5 

Given that submersible pumps spend their lives in murky, damp sump-pump pits, durable materials are necessary to ensure they’ll endure these wet environments. With its cast-iron construction, this green sump pump from Zoeller is built for these conditions. It features a 3/10 hp motor capable of pumping out more than 1,550 GPM, which is ideal for basements with moderate flooding problems.

The Zoeller Model 53 is also powerful enough to pass solids up to ½ inch in diameter. A large float regulates the on/off switch at a water depth of 19¼ inches. The pump also includes a built-in thermal overload to prevent damaging the motor from overheating. While the Zoeller was relatively easy to set up, it is a bit heavier than most of the other pumps, including the Basement Watchdog, which is also made of cast iron. The Zoeller also hits hard at the wallet.

During the course of testing, the Zoeller Model 53 happened to be hooked up during a natural flood. With water coming into the basin, the Model 53 was a savior, keeping things dry and pushing the water out easily. 

Get the Zoeller Model 53 sump pump at Amazon.

More Great Options

We tested four of the best sump pumps on the market ourselves, but there are a lot more pumps out there that we were unable to put through the paces. Tapping into our research, we put together a short list of some other pumps we think are worth considering.

Best Primary

Superior Pump 92551 ½-HP Cast Iron Pedestal Pump

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What We Like

• Heavy, cast iron base gives pump good support
• Air cooled motor keeps pump from overheating
• Solid steel drive shaft made to last

What We Don’t Like

• Pump is susceptible to debris, hindering performance.

Specs

• Type Pedestal
• Flow rate Up to 3,600 GPH
• Battery Power ½ hp

A good pedestal pump will keep its vulnerable motor safely out of harm’s way while performing its duties and will provide easy access when you’re doing routine checks. With its 3-foot height, this pedestal-style primary sump pump from Superior Pump keeps its powerful ½ hp motor dry, while its five-blade impeller pumps out up to 3,600 GPH, or 2,700 GPH at a height of 10 feet. 

Features include a durable stainless steel construction and a heavy cast-iron base for stability. An adjustable float switch turns the pump on or off based on water depth. With its impressive motor and its tall design, this heavy-duty sump pump is a great primary option for basements that flood regularly. It can even handle water at temperatures of up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Hopefully, you’ll never find yourself in a situation where your basement is flooded with water that hot, but it’s nice to know that this sump is up to the task nonetheless.

Pedestal sump pumps can be bulky, taking up valuable real estate in a basement, but this sump pump’s tall and thin profile keeps it safely out of the way.

Get the Superior Pump 92551 sump pump at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Best Battery Backup

Wayne ESP25 Reinforced Battery Backup Sump Pump

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What We Like

• Durable cast-iron construction
• Can move 2,500 gallons of water per hour
• Includes a battery in a corrosion-resistant waterproof case

What We Don’t Like

• Costs a bit more than similar models

Specs

• Type Battery backup
• Flow rate 2,500 GPH
• Battery power 12 volt, 75 amp hours

When a storm is raging and the power goes out, unless you have enough family members to form a bucket brigade, you’d better have a quality battery-powered sump pump to keep your basement from filling with water. This 12-volt battery backup system can serve as your stopgap against a flooding disaster. 

The ESP25 from Wayne utilizes a 75-amp hour battery to produce up to 2,500 GPH of pumping volume, and it can pump up to 10,000 gallons of water on a single charge. Its cast-iron construction makes this a durable pump, while its top suction design prevents air locks from happening. The kit comes with a waterproof protective battery case that features an LED display and emits an audible alarm when the pump switches on..

Get the Wayne ESP25 sump pump at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best Combination

Zoeller Aquanot Spin 508 Sump Pump With ProPak

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What We Like

• Sturdy, hermetically sealed thermoplastic exterior
• Easy-to-read LED screen
• Flexible battery options

What We Don’t Like

• Pricey when compared to similar options
• Battery must be purchased separately

Specs

• Type Submersible
• Flow rate 72 GPM (ProPak); 35 GPM (backup)
• Battery power ⅓ to ½ hp (ProPak); 12 volt (backup)

For high efficiency and reliable flood protection in a combination unit, look no further than the Zoeller Aquanot Spin 508 combination primary and backup sump pump system. This nested unit features a primary ProPak pump that can move 72 GPM of water at a 5-foot lift and a backup pump that can move 35 GPM at 10 feet on its 12-volt battery.

This combination unit features an engineered thermoplastic exterior, and the housing is filled with oil and sealed hermetically to protect the pumps. The battery charger has an LED screen that displays the voltage left in the battery and other essential system information.

When the power goes off, the Zoeller combination pump system emits an audible alert. The unit works on AC for the primary pump and a 12-volt battery (not included) for the backup pump.

Get the Zoeller Aquanot sump pump at Amazon, Sump Pumps Direct, or Ferguson.

Best Smart

Basement Watchdog BWSP Special Connect Sump Pump

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What We Like

• Syncs with smartphones and sends alerts via Wi-Fi
• Pairs with downloadable app
• Emits audible alarm when power goes out

What We Don’t Like

• The primary pump is not included

Specs

• Type Battery backup
• Flow rate 2,600 GPH
• Battery power 115-volt AC

Receive notifications when the power goes out with the Wi-Fi–enabled battery backup sump pump from Basement Watchdog. This submersible, backup-only pump is designed to sync with your home’s Wi-Fi system and send notifications directly to your smartphone via a downloadable app. You also can monitor the pit’s fluid level and the remaining battery charge from your phone.

In order to use this pump, you must have a primary sump pump already installed or plan to install one at the same time: This battery backup system is only designed to be used as support for a primary sump pump. When the power goes out, it springs into action, pumping up to 1,850 GPH at a 10-foot lift, or 2,600 GPH at a 0-foot lift. In addition to sending notifications to a smartphone, the backup pump emits an audible alarm when the power goes out or when maintenance is needed.

Get the Basement Watchdog BWSP sump pump at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Most Versatile

Wayne CDU1000 1-HP Submersible Sump Pump

See It

What We Like

• Can move up to 5,400 GPH at a 10-foot depth
• Automatically turns on when water reaches set level
• Works in basins of 11 inches in diameter or larger

What We Don’t Like

• Some users have complained of rust-prone components

Specs

• Type Submersible
• Flow rate Up to 6,100 GPH
• Battery power 1 hp

A powerful unit that is capable of pumping out thousands of gallons of water in an hour is a sensible option for basements prone to flooding. With a 1 hp engine and 1.5-inch diameter discharge, this sump pump submersible can move up to 5,400 GPH to a height of 10 feet and at peak power, it can pump 6,100 GPH. This makes it one of the most powerful submersible sump pumps money can buy. 

It’s made of durable cast iron and stainless steel. It also features a top suction design, eliminating the dreaded air lock problem that can stop some sump pumps in their tracks. A large float operates a manual switch, automatically turning the unit on when the water reaches a set level. This automatic sump pump will work in sump pump basins 11 inches in diameter or larger. 

Get the Wayne CDU1000 sump pump at Amazon or Ace Hardware.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Sump Pumps

Our testing guidelines for these pumps were simple: try to overwhelm them. Each pump spent a week hooked up during autumn’s rainy season in the hope that we would have a big storm. If rain didn’t come, we overwhelmed the pump manually with the help of a hose. We also submerged each pump to see firsthand how much water it could move and how quickly it could do it.

We also interviewed Ben Illig, a general contractor with decades of experience and owner of Ben Illig Construction in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. His main advice for shoppers is to opt for high-quality options: “Durability is important because it’s something you put in your basement and want to never need to check. If it stops working, your basement floods,” he explained. For this reason, he suggests considering slightly higher price points to ensure you have a reliable and durable sump pump because, as he adds, “You don’t know it’s bad until it’s too late.”

Some of these sump pumps go above and beyond in their user-friendliness by including long power cords, compatibility with various basin sizes, and double-float power switches for ultimate control while using. Make sure that a battery is included with those models that do not have a plug-in feature, as some manufacturers sell batteries separately.

What to Consider When Choosing a Sump Pump

It’s crucial to understand the difference between various types of sump pumps before buying one. It’s also important for shoppers to know which features they should pay closest attention to when choosing between the most reliable sump pump systems, such as the materials, power capabilities, and ease of installation.

Types of Sump Pumps

When shopping for a new sump pump for a home, there are four main types to consider: submersible, pedestal, battery backup, and combination.  

Submersible 

A submersible sump pump is designed to work in a pit called a sump basin, located below the basement floor’s surface. When water enters the basement, it drains into the pit. Once the water in the pit reaches a certain level, it triggers a sensor on the sump pump. The pump then turns on and begins pumping water out of the basement via a pipe running to the home’s exterior. 

Since the pump sits in a sump basin, submersible pumps are quieter than other sump pumps and are out of the way of other activities that take place in the basement. Typically, they are more expensive than other sump pump types.

If you plan on choosing a submersible pump, keep in mind that unless there’s already a pit under the basement floor, you’ll need to have a sump pump basin dug in your basement floor, which can be an arduous and expensive endeavor. 

Pedestal

Unlike submersible pumps, which live in a sump pump basin, pedestal pumps sit on the basement floor. They draw in water from the pump’s base and, like a submersible pump, pump the water through a pipe leading to a drainage area outside the home. 

The pump’s motor, which is not waterproof, is located at the top of the unit. Pedestal pumps are less expensive than submersible pumps and don’t require the costly expense of digging a sump pump basin; however, the motor’s position on the unit’s exterior makes them noisier than submersible pumps. 

Battery Backup 

Pedestal and submersible sump pumps cannot work without electricity, which is significant given that flooding often occurs during storms that knock out power. A battery backup sump pump works similarly to a standard sump pump but uses a battery instead of an electric outlet for power. When a power outage sidelines your sump pump, the battery backup pump will step in to pump water out of the basement. 

The average battery-powered sump pump can pump up to 100 gallons of water on a single charge. Since battery life is limited, a battery backup will eventually give out during extended power outages; Keeping a spare battery charged is a good idea, but there’s still the possibility that the battery will run out before the water is gone.  

Combination

The best sump pump brands include a built-in backup. These versatile units combine a standard electric sump pump with a battery backup option to provide relief in emergency situations. Combination pumps use a single pump and are more cost-effective than purchasing two separate pumps.  

They also tend to be larger than standard submersible pumps, so if you have an existing sump pump basin, a combination unit may not fit. Check the minimum basin size requirements for the unit before you make a purchase.

Basin Space

A standard sump pump basin is 30 inches deep by about 18 inches to 24 inches across, giving it a capacity of around 26 to 30 gallons. A sump pump placed in a smaller basin will have to work harder, as the basin will fill more quickly, causing the unit to turn on more often. Different submersible sump pumps require different minimum basin sizes. Those sizes can vary significantly, ranging from 7 inches to 16 inches, so make sure you purchase a submersible pump that will fit the basin in your home. 

Core Material

As with any motorized tool or appliance, durability is always an important factor to consider. Sump pumps are built with a surprisingly wide variety of materials. More affordable pumps are made with high-grade plastic that resists wear, while higher-end sump pumps feature stainless steel or heavy cast-iron constructions. Stainless steel has anti-corrosive properties, while cast iron’s efficient cooling abilities help better distribute heat from the motor. 

The interior of a sump pump is just as important. Impellers—the fan-like mechanisms that draw water into the pump—can be made of plastic or stainless steel, with the latter being the more durable of the two. The shaft that spins the impeller should be made of steel for long-lasting functionality. 

Power Source

Most sump pumps are electric-powered and feature 9-amp motors. Some energy-efficient sump pumps will operate at about half that amperage, saving you electricity and money. Battery backup sump pumps operate off of a 75 amp hours (Ah) battery, which provides enough power to operate at a reduced pumping rate for a few hours before a recharge is needed. Combination sump pumps are electric-powered with a 75 Ah battery backup that springs into action in a power outage. 

Horsepower

Sump pumps typically range in power from ⅓ hp to 1 hp. The principle here is simple: the more powerful the motor, the more gallons of water per hour the pump can remove. If you have a moderate to low accumulation of water in your basement, then a low-flow ⅓ hp pump should suffice. However, if your basement is prone to flooding, it’s best to invest in a more powerful 1 hp sump pump. 

No-Screen Intake

When a basement floods, it typically isn’t with crystal clear water. Usually, there is a fair amount of debris floating in it. While straining to keep your basement dry, the sump pump will inevitably suck that debris into it. Lower-end sump pump brands feature screens that filter out this material. That helps keep debris out of the impeller, but screens also eventually clog, reducing the pump’s ability to move water until you manually clean it. 

Some pumps feature no-screen intakes that can process that solid material and eject it along with the water. These higher-end pumps are worth the additional investment if you have a basement that floods periodically. 

Switch Type

The switch is the part of the pump that turns it on and off. Switch types fall into two categories: digital and manual. Manual pumps use a float that attaches to the switch. When the water rises, so does the float, which flips the switch, turning the pump on. When the water level drops, the float drops, and the switch turns off. 

These floats can work on a tether that hangs next to the pump or on a vertical rod, which hangs below the pump. While these are effective for most homeowners, this type of switch can sometimes get hung up, especially if the pump basin is small, causing it to malfunction. 

A digital switch is mounted vertically in the basin and features two sensors: an “on” sensor and an “off” sensor. When the water rises to a certain level, it triggers the sensor that turns the pump on until the water level drops to the off sensor, which shuts the pump off. Unlike manual sensors, which switch on or off based on one set level, a digital sensor allows the pump to run until it reaches the second sensor before switching off. This allows the pump to operate until the basin is nearly empty.

Special Features and Accessories

Setting up sump pumps for basements requires more than just the pump itself. If you’re using a submersible sump pump, you’ll need a sump pump basin and cover to hold the pump. Basins come in various sizes, so make sure you know what size the sump pump you are purchasing requires. 

You’ll also need a discharge hose that carries the water from the sump pump to an area outside your home that drains away from the house. If you’re purchasing a combo kit or battery backup unit, you will need to buy a battery for the unit. Sump pumps typically run off of 75 Ah batteries. 

Some household sump pumps will sound an audio alarm when the pump turns on, letting you know there is enough water accumulating in the basement to require its services. There are even high-end “smart” sump pumps that will text you when they switch on. 

FAQs 

If you have lingering concerns about sump pumps, read on for the most common questions. 

Meet the Tester

Mike Larson is a professional journalist and DIYer in Pittsburgh. He’s become well schooled in sump pumps due to the wet basement in his 100-year-old house. As a product tester, he likes to use a method and criteria that reveal the value of the product as a whole in a way that helps other homeowners.

Additional research provided by Tony Carrick.

The post The Best Sump Pumps for Crawl Spaces and Basements appeared first on Bob Vila.

The winter months are tough for anyone who doesn’t enjoy the cold; short days and bitter temperatures don’t exactly make for paradise. But for those stuck inside—or worse, outside shoveling—having the right supplies on hand can make these days bearable, or even enjoyable. From conquering the snow and ice to staying warm and cozy, here are the tools to survive winter’s blast.

1. Snow Joe Shovelution Snow Shovel

Shoveling snow is never a fun chore, but it can be a little easier with the Snow Joe Shovelution Snow Shovel. This snow shovel is our top pick tested for our best snow shovel guide, mainly due to its ergonomic design. It’s lightweight with an integrated spring-assisted lifting handle for moving those heavy scoops of snow. 

What our tester says: “During testing, we didn’t want to like the Snow Joe. The additional lift-assist handle seemed like a gimmick, but it required much less bending over compared to a traditional shovel and plenty of leverage for scooping.” — Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Snow Joe Shovelution Snow Shovel at Amazon for $40.09

2. Greenworks 80V 12″ Cordless Battery Snow Shovel

If a snow shovel doesn’t quite cut it for the amount of snow, the Greenworks 80V 12″ Cordless Battery Snow Shovel is the next level up. This electric snow shovel tosses snow 20 feet away from its path with minimal effort. It was our top pick for the best electric snow shovel because of its ample 45-minute run time and quick 30-minute charge time. That gives plenty of time to clear walkways, and if the battery runs out, there’s only a short wait for it to recharge.

What our tester says: “Overall, this is a fantastic, well-built electric snow shovel. There are a couple of cheaper models that perform nearly as well, but anyone who wants top-notch power and battery life might want to pay just a little more for the Greenworks 80V.” —Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Greenworks 80V 12″ Cordless Battery Snow Shovel at Amazon for $249.99

3. Toro Power Max e24 60V Two-Stage Snow Blower

Bring in the big guns with an electric snow blower. The Toro Power Max e24 60V Two-Stage Snow Blower is our top pick tested for our best electric snow blower guide. This is a heavy-duty blower with a durable steel construction that we recommend for all terrains; it’s sturdy enough to perform for many years in very snowy conditions. 

What our tester says: “We found this unit’s overall power on par with gas models, and it held up well against a top-tier machine we also own in terms of traction and performance.” —Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Toro Power Max e24 60V Two-Stage Snow Blower at Tractor Supply Co for $1,599.99

4. Best Home Fashion Wide Basic Thermal Blackout Curtain

Thermal blackout curtains are a small investment that can reduce the effects of poorly-insulated windows and make a room feel warmer through the winter. As our top pick for the best thermal curtains, the Best Home Fashion Wide Basic Thermal Blackout Curtain insulates well, and just as important, looks nice too. The curtains block light and are available in several sizes and colors. 

Get the Best Home Fashion Wide Basic Thermal Blackout Curtain at Amazon for $34.99

5. Everlasting Comfort Luxury Faux Fur Throw Blanket 

A cozy blanket is a must-have to get through the winter. We tested the Everlasting Comfort Luxury Faux Fur Throw Blanket for our best blanket guide, and we loved that it offered comfortable warmth without being too heavy. It drapes beautifully, comes in various appealing colors, and is machine-washable for easy cleaning. 

What our tester says: “The Everlasting Comfort faux fur throw rose to the top for its softness and the beautiful drape of the fabric. I couldn’t stop running my hand over the fabric because it felt wonderful, and this made me want to use it all the time.” —Stacey L. Nash, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Everlasting Comfort Luxury Faux Fur Throw Blanket at Amazon for $21.99

6. Beloskida Car Emergency Roadside Tool Kit

A car emergency kit is a prudent investment at any time of year, but it comes in particularly handy in winter. Stay safe on the roads with this comprehensive kit, which includes a small shovel, tow rope, and emergency blanket that are extra useful to have in the winter. It also comes with a 500-Amp jumper cable, a hand crank light, a first aid kit, and more, so drivers are ready for any emergency. 

Get the Beloskida Car Emergency Roadside Tool Kit at Amazon for $48.99

7. JOJOMARK Tire Traction Mat

All drivers should know how to get their car unstuck from the snow. First, dig as much slush and snow out from under the tires as possible, then get back in the car, turn the wheel slightly, and slowly accelerate or reverse. If there’s nothing for the tires to gain traction against, though, drivers are fighting a losing battle. Add traction by wedging these JOJOMARK Tire Traction Mats between the edge of the tires and the slippery substrate to get back on the road quickly and safely. 

Get the JOJOMARK Tire Traction Mat at Amazon for $69.99

8. Snow Joe Ice & Snow Melt

It’s no surprise that traditional ice melt is an imperfect solution. Sure, it melts snow and ice on driveways and walkways, but its caustic formula also damages shoes, boots, landscaping—even pets’ paws. Snow Joe’s natural alternative ice melt uses different ingredients that are effective against snow and ice while protecting shoes and Fido’s paws. It’s our budget-friendly pick for the best ice melt since it’s safe but still effective. 

What our tester says: “We really loved this ice melt’s shaker container for easy spreading. The larger granules also minimized our need to reapply.” —Zach Lazzari, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Snow Joe Ice & Snow Melt at Amazon for $25.99

9. Snow Joe 18″ Telescoping Snow Broom & Ice Scraper

Simple but effective, the Snow Joe 18″ Telescoping Snow Broom & Ice Scraper is an ideal car tool for frigid and snowy winters. This two-in-one extendable windshield ice scraper and snow broom has the necessary parts to clear snow and ice from the car. It’s fairly compact, very lightweight, and has a non-abrasive foam head that won’t damage glass or paint. 

What our tester says: Zach Lazzari, a Bob Vila staff writer and product tester, reviewed a version of this product. “I’ve used the scraper end daily for several weeks without issue,” he noted. “It’s nothing fancy, but it works reliably and as intended. I was initially skeptical about the foam head, but it’s very rigid, and I love not worrying about scratching the car.”

Get the Snow Joe 18″ Telescoping Snow Broom & Ice Scraper at Amazon for $29.99

10. Scotts Elite Spreader 

Quickly spread salt across large surfaces with the Scotts Elite Spreader. This multi-use wheeled push spreader holds enough salt (or fertilizer or grass seed in the warmer seasons) to cover up to 20,000 square feet with a 6-foot spread width. It makes applying salt much less tedious for those with a lot of area to cover, and provides a more even application with less waste than hand-spreading. 

What our tester says: “If I could only choose one salt and fertilizer spreader, this would be it. It holds a ton of product, moves easily over uneven terrain, and makes quick work of large areas.” —Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Scotts Elite Spreader at Amazon for $149.99

11. Dreo Solaris H3 Slim Space Heater

Compact, quiet, and very effective, the Dreo Solaris H3 Slim Space Heater came out on top during our testing for the best electric heater. It’s slim and lightweight, so it’s easy to move around and place in any room. Even better, we found it warmed up spaces even larger than its recommended coverage area of 200 square feet. 

What our tester says: “This is my favorite electric heater of all the options I tested. I keep it by my desk for chilly mornings, and it warms my toes without taking up much space. Though I love its tall and narrow design, I’m glad it shuts off when it tips over. My dogs seem to have a special ability to run right into it when they come running in to say hi.” —Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Dreo Solaris H3 Slim Space Heater at Amazon for $74.99

12. Sunbeam Royal Ultra Fleece Heated Electric Blanket

The Sunbeam Royal Ultra Fleece Heated Electric Blanket is weighty and thick. Choose from one of its 12 heat settings and it feels like a big, warm hug on a cold winter’s day. Ideal for layering on a bed, it’s our top pick for the best electric blanket with even heating and a long 12-hour timer to get cold sleepers through the night. 

Get the Sunbeam Royal Ultra Fleece Heated Electric Blanket at Amazon for $78.54

13. Duraflame Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove Heater

The Duraflame Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove Heater provides ambiance as well as heat. This infrared fireplace looks like a wood stove but is much easier to use: It’s electric, so it doesn’t create any smoke, but it does create lots of heat to warm spaces up to 1,000 square feet. The faux 3D flame effect looks charming and we appreciate that the infrared heating doesn’t dry out the air in the room. 

Get the Duraflame Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove Heater at Amazon for $249.99

14. Levoit Classic Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier

For those who feel particularly parched in the winter or suffer from sinus or lung problems due to dry air, a humidifier can be a saving grace. The best room humidifier chosen in our testing is the Levoit Classic Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier. It has great features at a reasonable price, with a 6-liter water tank providing up to 60 hours of run time, four mist levels, and smart controls so users can set schedules and timers. 

Get the Levoit Classic Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier at Amazon for $79.99

15. Mr. Heater Portable Heater

Don’t let the cold prevent DIY projects out in the workshop. This portable propane heater from Mr. Heater warms up to 225 square feet on one of two settings using the small propane tanks often used for camping and cookouts (or up to 40-pound tanks with the right hose to connect them). A few hours with this radiant heater will keep the shop toasty enough to complete whatever task couldn’t wait for a warm day. 

What our tester says: “This powerful little heater is dependable and burns clean—I keep one in my mobile shop during cold weather to take the chill off and provide a quick warm-up at a moment’s notice.” —Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Mr. Heater Portable Heater at Amazon for $83.99

16. Resideo Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector

Indoor pipes can freeze and burst during cold snaps, and while there’s not always a way to prevent that from happening, acting fast when a pipe does burst can mitigate the amount of damage caused by the water. Place the Resideo Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector near the areas most likely to be affected, such as the water heater or a sink located on an exterior wall, and this gadget warns users of dangerously low temperatures that might cause those pipes to freeze via a smartphone app. Users can then take action before disaster strikes by adjusting the heat accordingly, but if it’s too late, the system’s cable will detect and alert users to the presence of water so they can address it before the damage spreads too far.

Get the Resideo Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector at Amazon for $109.94

17. Decorealm Heavy-Duty Door Draft Stopper and Blocker

As one of the best door draft stoppers we tested, we like that the Decorealm Heavy-Duty Door Draft Stopper and Blocker can work for just about any home. It’s a freestanding stopper and doesn’t need to be attached to the door, so it’s damage-free and renter-friendly. It’s heavy-duty, filled with ceramic beads that kept it in place better than some other products we tested. The herringbone-pattern fabric is also attractive so this draft stopper isn’t an eyesore. 

Get the Decorealm Heavy-Duty Door Draft Stopper and Blocker at Amazon for $46.90

18. FosPower Emergency Weather Radio

It’s never a good time to lose electricity. It’s especially bad in the winter, at least in those parts of the country where temperatures drop below freezing. To be prepared for anything and everything, pick up an emergency radio. The FosPower Emergency Weather Radio tunes in to three bands—AM, FM, and NOAA VHF—and its built-in LED light and phone charger make it a multipurpose, there-when-you-need-it lifesaver for indoors or out.

Get the FosPower Emergency Weather Radio at Amazon for $34.99

19. Garage Insulation

The Reach Barrier 3009 uses reflective aluminum on the front and back, with a laminated bubble layer sandwiched between the layers to create an effective boundary between the garage and the extreme temperature outdoors in both winter and summer. The kit comes with eight precut panels that measure 4 feet long by 2 feet wide—a size suitable for most standard single-car garage doors. When we installed ours, we noticed an immediate decline in the sound transfer through the door, and the temperature measurements on the insulated side were notably different than on the uninsulated side.

What our tester says: Some garage door insulation kits can be a hassle to install, but this one makes installation easy. “All that’s required is to clean the door, attach the adhesive squares, and stick the panels in place. During testing, I found that the Reach Barrier was as easy to install as claimed: I simply placed a few of the adhesive squares along the perimeter of each section and pressed the insulation into place.” —Tom Scalisi, contributing Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Reach Barrier garage door insulation kit at Amazon.

20. 3M Window Insulation

Windows are one of the most common spots for energy loss, but a thin layer of plastic can offer a fair amount of protection. This 3M insulator kit comes with enough film to cover up to five windows measuring 5 feet long by 3 feet wide. This relatively thick film provides enhanced insulation thanks to its thickness of 0.75 mils (a unit of measurement equal to a thousandth of an inch). The film comes in one cut-to-fit sheet that measures 17.5 feet long by 5.16 feet wide. This kit also comes with a 27.7-yard roll of double-sided tape to facilitate installation and ensure it stays in place all season.

What our tester says: “This was my favorite [window insulation] kit to install… It kit allowed me to reposition the plastic a few times before pressing it down and heating it. Also, the kit does cover a lot of square footage, but the ends of the sheet can be tough, so it’s important to take your time. After I finished installing the kit, removing wrinkles was extremely easy. This kit provided the best results alongside the other 3M products that use the same plastic.” —Tom Scalisi, contributing Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the 3M indoor window insulation kit at Amazon.

The post The 20 Best Products for Surviving Winter appeared first on Bob Vila.

Breathing easy at home should be simple enough. Unfortunately, some gases, such as radon and carbon monoxide, are colorless and odorless but also hazardous if inhaled. The good news is that indoor air quality monitors may detect such gases in the home as well as identify additional pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and airborne particulate matter like dust and pollen. These home devices can be a first alert to safety. They may let you know when to leave an area where the air is unsafe to breathe or simply start you on a path to removing pollutants from the air, thereby avoiding or alleviating health problems. Keep in mind, however, that not all air quality monitors detect all harmful pollutants.

Concerned about the dangers of hidden pollutants lingering in the air of typical homes, we decided to test a number of today’s most popular air quality monitors. We began by extensively researching more than 40 air quality monitors to narrow the field and then selected a range of models to test. (Spoiler: Not all of the air quality monitors we tested earned a spot on this lineup.)

It’s easy to take steps to improve the air quality in your home with an air quality monitor. The best air quality monitor will depend on which pollutants you want to keep track of and whether you prefer a basic or tech-forward model. Our favorite is the Airthings 4200 House Kit Air Quality Monitor. It monitors total VOCs (TVOCs), radon, temperature, humidity, mold risk, and outdoor pollen levels. It also comes with smart-home capability and easy-to-use air quality indicators, and it’s suitable for multi-room usage.

Ahead, find out about what the devices can do and see how the models listed below fared in our hands-on testing to help you choose the best air quality monitor for your home.

1. BEST OVERALL: Airthings 4200 House Kit Air Quality Monitor
2. RUNNER-UP: Temtop M10 Air Quality Monitor
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Airthings 292 Wave Mini Indoor Air Quality Monitor 
4. MOST HIGH-TECH: Airthings 2950 Wave Plus Radon & Air Quality Monitor
5. MOST COMPREHENSIVE: uHoo Smart Indoor Air Quality Monitor 
6. BEST FOR ALLERGIES: IQAir AirVisual Pro Indoor Air Quality Monitor
7. BEST PORTABLE: Temtop P600 Air Quality Monitor
8. BEST FOR BEDROOMS: Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor

Product Comparison

	Monitors	Smart-Home Integration	Number of Rooms
Airthings 4200 House Kit Air Quality Monitor	Total VOCs (TVOCs), radon, temperature, humidity, mold risk, outdoor pollen levels		Multiroom coverage (1 monitor per room)
Temtop M10 Air Quality Monitor	PM2.5, TVOCs, formaldehyde, Air Quality Index (AQI)		Single-room coverage
Airthings 292 Wave Mini Indoor Air Quality Monitor	TVOCs, temperature, humidity, outdoor pollen levels		Single-room coverage
Airthings 2950 Wave Plus Radon & Air Quality Monitor	TVOCs, radon, carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, outdoor pollen	(via IFTTT)	Single-room coverage
uHoo Smart Indoor Air Quality Monitor	TVOCs, ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide, plus temp and humidity		Single
IQAir AirVisual Pro Indoor Air Quality Monitor	PM1, PM2.5 PM10, CO2, AQI, temperature, humidity		Single-room coverage
Temtop P600 Air Quality Monitor	PM2.5, PM10		Single
Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor	PM2.5, CO, TVOCs, humidity, temperature		Single

Our Top Picks

When it comes to air quality monitors, accuracy is essential. While we didn’t have access to a laboratory for testing, we could offer a measure of control by testing all the monitors under similar situations to see if the readings would correspond when compared to one another. The following monitors all detected the presence of pollutants in our hands-on tests, and we would not hesitate to recommend any of them to help our readers choose a product to detect airborne pollutants in the home.

Best Overall

Airthings 4200 House Kit Air Quality Monitor

See It

What We Like

• Offers both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Readings were consistent
• Colored lights indicate air quality

What We Don’t Like

• No carbon monoxide or particulate matter detection
• Colored indicator lights don’t stay on full-time

Product Specs

• Monitors: Total VOCs (TVOCs), radon, temperature, humidity, mold risk, outdoor pollen levels
• Smart-home integration: Yes
• Number of rooms: Multiroom coverage (1 monitor per room)

The Airthings 4200 House Kit offers a fairly complete way to keep track of potential problems in the household air. It includes the Airthings Wave 2nd Generation, the Wave Mini, and the Airthings Hub. Prior to testing, we downloaded the Airthings app to our smartphone and followed the steps to set up the monitors via Bluetooth. That was simple; the app detected and automatically synced with the monitors.

We decided to test the Airthings Wave 2nd Generation radon detector in a friend’s home, where radon was an issue. We placed the detector in the friend’s basement and left it there for a full week. The monitor showed a radon reading of 3.7 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) when we retrieved it. This is just below level 4, where the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends radon mitigation measures. This was also within 0.2 of a point from our friend’s radon monitor. We were pleased with the accuracy.

At home, we easily connected the Wave Hub to sync the Wave Mini with our Wi-Fi network. Then we used voice commands, such as “Alexa, open Airthings,” to hear an air quality report on our Alexa Echo Dot.

The Wave Mini is made to detect TVOCs and mold risk. The mold risk detector factors in room temperature and humidity levels over time and uses color-coded lights to indicate whether there is a low, medium, or high risk of mold development.

It also detects and reports outdoor pollen levels drawn from local weather reports. We poured a small amount of oil-based wood stain into a dish and put it in our test box with the Wave Mini and other monitors we were testing. We closed the lid of the box and gave the fumes several hours to infiltrate the air.

The monitors in this series use the word “wave” because they flash a colored light—green, yellow, or red—when someone waves a hand in front of them. When we opened the box and passed our hand in front of the Wave Mini, the light flashed bright red—a warning that the air quality wasn’t safe. We then checked the app on our smartphone and sure enough, the app showed high TVOC levels.

The Wave Mini also registers temperature and humidity. Both of those readings were within 2 degrees of the other monitors that earned a spot on this lineup, so we deemed those functions to be accurate.

We liked the Airthings House Kit but wished the monitors would have displayed the green, yellow, or red lights full-time rather than only when we waved our hand in front of them. We found the Airthings monitors to be easy to set up, and they offered fairly accurate readings. Still, they don’t test for either carbon monoxide or particulate matter, so if such detection is important, a different monitor may be a better choice.

Get the Airthings 4200 air quality monitor at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Airthings.

Runner-Up

Temtop M10 Air Quality Monitor

See It

What We Like

• LED display with color-coded light indication
• Detects formaldehyde levels, VOCs, and particulate matter
• The screen is large and bright

What We Don’t Like

• No carbon monoxide or radon detection
• Light is difficult to see from a distance
• Does not sync with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi

Product Specs 

• Monitors: PM2.5, TVOCs, formaldehyde, Air Quality Index (AQI)
• Smart-home integration: No
• Number of rooms: Single-room coverage

While we appreciated the accuracy of the Temtop M10 air quality monitor, we had issues with some of its functionality. Though its 3.2-inch square display screen proved easy to see, even from across the room, we had to repeatedly press a button on the top to scroll through all the various air quality readings. The display defaults to its AQI setting (not to be confused with the AQI reported by local weather stations) and reflects Temtop’s PM reading.

The monitor features a color-coded light at the top that shines green to indicate good air quality, yellow when the air quality isn’t optimal but isn’t hazardous, and red for poor air quality. We considered the light to be a bit too small and not bright enough—not easily noticeable unless we stood within a few feet of the device.

The Temtop detects TVOCs, and it specifically detects formaldehyde. Its formaldehyde (H2CO) reading increased when we put an oil-based stain in the test box (stain contains formaldehyde). Its TVOC numbers also increased, since formaldehyde is also a VOC. The TVOC numbers were consistent with the TVOC readings of the other monitors. In addition, its red light alerted us that the air quality was poor.

To detect particulate matter, we shook a dust mop over the box and let the dust and debris fall while we watched the PM readings. Temtop’s PM number tripled about 10 minutes later, which we felt was a good indicator of accurately sensing the dust; the number dropped after about 25 minutes as the dust settled.

Get the Temtop M10 air quality monitor at Amazon or Temtop. 

Best Bang for the Buck

Airthings 292 Wave Mini Indoor Air Quality Monitor

See It

What We Like

• The color-coded light indicator
• Detects TVOCs that are circulating in the air
• Reads the room’s temp and humidity levels
• Shows outdoor pollen levels (via app)

What We Don’t Like

• No carbon monoxide, radon, or PM2.5 detection

Product Specs

• Monitors: TVOCs, temperature, humidity, outdoor pollen levels
• Smart-home integration: Yes
• Number of rooms: Single-room coverage

To measure chemical pollutants in the air without spending a lot, consider the well-priced Wave Mini. We tested a model independently from the one in our best overall pick, and to keep the two monitor tests separate, we downloaded another Airthings app on a different smartphone to track it. Unfortunately, the two Minis interfered with one another, so we disconnected the Airthings House Kit and then tested the Wave Mini separately.

This model doesn’t come with a hub (so no Wi-Fi connection), but it offers Bluetooth connectivity. We could read the numbers on our smartphone when we were within Bluetooth range (approximately 100 feet of the monitor).

The Wave Mini detects TVOCs, humidity, and temperature in the room. After spending a few hours exposed to a dish of oil-based stain in a closed box, the monitor’s TVOC levels spiked. When we compared its temperature and humidity readings to other monitors being tested, the readings were comparable. We believe it accurately portrayed all three readings.

The Wave Mini offers visual indication of air quality in the room, which is accessible when the user waves a hand in front of the monitor. A light flashes green for “healthy,” yellow for “caution,” and red for “poor” air quality.

Users can purchase a hub separately, allowing them to integrate with smart-home products such as Google Assistant and Alexa. The Wave Mini also tracks outdoor pollen levels via the app that syncs with a local weather service. If users don’t have a specific need for monitoring carbon monoxide, radon, or dust, the Wave Mini may be just the right budget-friendly device to keep track of chemical pollutants in the home.

Get the Airthings 292 air quality monitor at Amazon.

Most High-Tech

Airthings 2950 Wave Plus Radon & Air Quality Monitor

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What We Like

• Detects radon and carbon dioxide in addition to TVOCs
• Color-coded light indicator shows air quality
• Comes with smart-home integration

What We Don’t Like

• No particulate matter detection integrated
• Not Wi-Fi capable

Product Specs 

• Monitors: TVOCs, radon, carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, outdoor pollen
• Smart-home integration: Yes (via IFTTT)
• Number of rooms: Single-room coverage

The third Airthings monitor we tested was quite an overachiever! We tested it separately from the other Airthings models to avoid conflicting app readings. This monitor, which connects using Bluetooth technology via the Airthings app, provided detailed reports about our home’s air quality. It will also connect to smart-home devices, such as Alexa, but not via Wi-Fi. Instead, users must download the IFTTT app for their smartphone, which allows a connection between Wave Plus and Alexa.

The first test we performed on the Wave Plus was in a friend’s home where radon was previously detected and is being treated. They have a professional radon detector, so we wanted to see if the Wave Plus would also detect the gas. We positioned it in the basement of the home and left it there for a week.

On our return, we checked the Airthings app and found a radon reading of 3.5pCi/L. This was the exact reading the professional radon detector was showing. When we waved a hand in front of the Wave Plus, it flashed a yellow light that told us the air quality was affected but not hazardous. When we took the Wave Plus outside in the fresh air, the radon level dropped, and the light turned green to indicate healthy air.

We then tested the Wave Plus in our test box where we exposed it for 2 hours to a dish of oil-based stain, a product that contains VOCs. When we checked the monitor, the light was red (indicating hazardous air quality), and on the app we saw that the TVOC reading had spiked. We also compared the monitor’s temperature and humidity readings to those of the other monitors, which were consistent.

We performed one more test—a very unscientific CO2 test. We know that smoke contains CO2, so we took the Wave Plus to the garage and put it on a bench. We used our beehive smoker to blow little puffs of smoke directly on the monitor. The CO2 levels on the app increased slightly, and the indicator light turned yellow. We felt it was detecting some CO2, but we couldn’t tell if it was sensing as much as it should have been. Still, it registered an increase similar to the CO2 detectors on other monitors, so we felt the smoke from the beehive smoker didn’t contain much carbon dioxide.

Get the Airthings 2950 air quality monitor at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Most Comprehensive

uHoo Smart Indoor Air Quality Monitor

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What We Like

• Detects a wide range of airborne pollutants
• Sleek and attractive look
• Syncs with smart-home devices

What We Don’t Like

• No visual indicator of air quality

Product Specs

• Monitors: TVOCs, ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide, plus temp and humidity
• Smart-home integration: Yes
• Number of rooms: Single

With its attractive cylindrical shape and lack of a screen, the uHoo air quality monitor didn’t look like a monitor of any kind. And we were slightly discouraged to find that it didn’t come with an instruction manual. Then we found the uHoo app and downloaded it to our phone, and it walked us through the setup. We synced the uHoo with our Wi-Fi network without any problems; it also has the ability to sync to smart-home devices, such as Alexa, with the IFTTT app. The monitor itself does not offer any visual displays—all readings are accessed over a smart device via the app.

We put the uHoo in a large box with an open dish of oil-based wood stain to see if it would react to the VOC fumes released by the liquid. We closed the box and checked the app in 2 hours. The VOC numbers had almost tripled, and the app showed a red caution bar indicating a dangerous level of VOCs.

We tested for particulate matter by shaking a dust mop over the box and then observing the PM2.5 reading on the app. As the dust filtered down through the box, the PM reading spiked and fell again in about 25 minutes as the dust seemed to settle.

We used some creative—but not scientific—tests to see if the monitor could detect CO2.

• To test for CO2, we put the uHoo on a shelf in the garage and used our beehive smoker to blow puffs of smoke directly on the monitor.
• To test for NO2, we started a wood-burning fire in the fireplace of our she shed and then closed the chimney flue, causing smoke to back up in the shed.
• To test for CO, we put the uHoo in the garage, started the car, and then closed the garage doors to let the exhaust accumulate.

The uHoo monitor detected a small amount of CO2 and larger amounts of CO and NO2. We watched the corresponding readings on the smartphone app (while we remained safely outside).

The only test that failed to provide a successful reading was for ozone. We’d read that printers can increase ozone levels, so we put the monitor beside a printer and printed dozens of pages—but we saw no change on the uHoo app. Our second test was a spur-of-the-moment one, as a large thunderstorm with lots of lightning was occurring (lightning generates ozone). We placed the monitor on a table on our covered patio, but the app readings didn’t fluctuate. We don’t know if that was the monitor’s fault or whether the storm created little to no ozone.

We also compared the temperature and humidity as reported by the uHoo to the readings we got on other monitors, and it was consistently within a couple of degrees. To check air pressure readings, we compared the uHoo to the barometric reading of our professional weather station, and it was pretty close there as well.

Get the uHoo air quality monitor at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.

Best for Allergies

IQAir AirVisual Pro Indoor Air Quality Monitor

See It

What We Like

• Easy-to-see digital display
• Detects airborne particulates in a wide size range
• Displays outdoor weather readings (AQI)
• Will send alerts to smartphone

What We Don’t Like

• No radon or TVOCs detection
• Must be plugged in to operate

Product Specs

• Monitors: PM1, PM2.5 PM10, CO2, AQI, temperature, humidity
• Smart-home integration: Yes
• Number of rooms: Single-room coverage

The AirVisual Pro air quality monitor by IQAir boasts advanced laser technology, airflow control, and a crafted calibration algorithm to detect precise particulate matter and CO2 data. We felt the most important readings on this monitor for allergy sufferers were the PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 readings. These sensors detect various-size airborne particles, ranging from pollen, which is rather large and can be detected by the PM10 sensor, all the way down to ultrafine dust that can’t be seen but is easily inhaled.

The AirVisual Pro syncs with smart-home systems using either Wi-Fi or IFTTT. We tested both, and both worked well. The best thing about this monitor is its large visual display screen. It’s nice to be able to check the app, but in our opinion, it’s even better to see a visual display at a glance without having to use a smartphone first. Another plus: This monitor gathers outside air quality ratings via local weather reports and displays them prominently.

When we put the AirVisual monitor in our test box and shook a dust mop over it, all three PM sensor readings spiked, which indicated that it was detecting a range of particulate matter sizes. After 30 minutes, the PM10 and PM2.5 readings dropped, as we suspected they would, because the dust had settled. However, the PM1 reading only declined slightly, which we think was due to the extra-tiny particulates that remained airborne longer. The PM1 reading didn’t drop for another hour.

The air quality monitor also detectsCO2 levels, temperature, and humidity. We tested the CO2 sensor by putting the monitor in the garage and blowing puffs of smoke on it from our beehive smoker. The CO2 readings increased slightly, but they didn’t spike. Still, that was consistent with our other monitor tests for CO2.

This specific monitor had some trouble with temperature and humidity, as both readings were off by more than 7 degrees Fahrenheit/points compared to the other monitors. Also, it doesn’t detect VOCs. Overall, this is a handy monitor to detect the presence of primary allergy triggers, such as airborne particulates.

Get the IQAir air quality monitor at Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy.

Best Portable

Temtop P600 Air Quality Monitor

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What We Like

• Large digital readout for quick checks and monitoring
• Battery-operated for portability indoors and out
• Simple construction

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t detect VOCs in the air
• Needs daily recharging
• Doesn’t sync with smart devices

Product Specs

• Monitors: PM2.5, PM10
• Smart-home integration: No
• Number of rooms: Single

Those looking for a portable air quality monitor to detect pollen and other airborne particulate matter may find the Temtop P600 air quality monitor to be just the ticket. It uses a Quantum Semiconductor International (QSI) laser diode to detect particulate matter as small as 2.5 microns. A highly sensitive diode also found in professional laboratory equipment, it also detects larger particulates, such as pollen, in the 10-micron range.

The unit has a kickstand that folds out, so users can stand the monitor on a table, nightstand, or even a tent floor when camping out. The first thing we did was charge it fully using the included USB cord, then we started testing.

There wasn’t too much to test on this one, however, since the P600 detects only airborne particulate matter. We put it in our test box and shook a dust mop over it. This monitor doesn’t sync with smart devices, so we couldn’t monitor the readings remotely from a smartphone. Instead, we checked it every few minutes to see if it had changed. The readings predictably spiked after 10 minutes and then gradually dropped (after about 25 minutes) as the dust settled.

One of the upsides to this Temtop model is that it displays air quality over 12 hours on a chart readout. This helped us see air quality changes over the course of a day. Unfortunately, the battery runs down pretty quickly—we had to charge it every morning for a couple of hours in order for it to run the rest of the day. The alternative is to leave it plugged into the USB cord, but the cord plugs into the bottom of the monitor so it won’t sit upright when plugged in. As a solution, we recommend turning the monitor on periodically to check the air quality in a room and then turning it back off to save battery life.

Get the Temtop P600 air quality monitor at Amazon or Walmart. 

Best for Bedrooms

Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor

See It

What We Like

• Detects multiple elements
• Works with Amazon Alexa
• Multicolor LED status indicator

What We Don’t Like

• No carbon dioxide detection or radon levels in the air

Product Specs

• Monitors: PM2.5, CO, TVOCs, humidity, temperature
• Smart-home integration: Yes
• Number of rooms: Single

Amazon, increasingly offering more of its own brand of products, has entered the air quality monitor field with this device, which measures particulate matter, TVOCs, carbon monoxide, humidity, and temperature. It’s ideal for bedrooms because the small white cube with a little stainless steel vent in front doesn’t have a large display that might keep some folks awake. Instead, a tiny indicator light at the top that shines green, yellow, or red notifies the user of the current air quality. We didn’t find the indicator light to be bright enough to be annoying; it was just bright enough to display the air quality at a glance. However, it only works in a darkened room—it’s not bright enough to see it in sunny daylight.

The Amazon smart air quality monitor syncs with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and we found it simple to connect to both. We were unable, however, to connect the monitor to our Echo Show (not included), although it’s advertised as being able to do so. We’re not sure what caused the glitch, since our Echo Show and the monitor individually synced with the Alexa app, but it’s possible it will only connect with newer models of the Echo Show (ours is an older model). Still, the Alexa app on our smartphone provided excellent real-time readings and charts that made it easy to see the air quality.

We tested this monitor in our test box for VOCs and particulate matter. For the first test, we put a dish of oil-based stain in the box, gave it a couple of hours to infiltrate the air, and then checked the app. The VOC reading had spiked. We then opened the box to check the monitor—the indicator light shone red (hazardous air quality). For the second test, we shook the dust mop over the box and monitored the app on our phone. The PM2.5 reading spiked in about 5 minutes and fell 20 minutes later as the dust settled.

To test the CO sensor, we put the monitor in the garage, started the car, and closed the doors. We watched on our smartphone as the CO reading on the app rose. When we opened the garage door, the indicator light was red. We brought the monitor out into the fresh air, and the light turned green in about 10 minutes.

Compared with the other monitors we tested, the Amazon smart air quality monitor’s temperature and humidity readings were right on target. Overall, we liked this little monitor, and we felt it was accurate and discreet enough not to detract from bedroom or nursery decor.

Get the Amazon air quality monitor at Amazon. 

Also Tested

Biaoling Air Quality Monitor

Not all the air quality monitors we tested earned a spot on this lineup. We had high hopes for the Biaoling air quality monitor because it has a large display screen and is supposed to detect a range of pollutants. Unfortunately, the only pollutant it detected was CO2, and even then, the increase was much smaller compared with the other monitors with CO2 sensors. We saw no movement when testing for formaldehyde, TVOCs, or particulate matter, so we had to eliminate the Biaoling from our lineup.

When checking product reviews, we found some buyers liked this monitor and felt it was accurate, so perhaps we just got a defective model.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Air Quality Monitors 

Before we chose monitors for hands-on testing, we researched more than 40 models, looking for various sensor types and paying close attention to buyers’ reviews and ratings. We also reached out to an industry expert to get some additional insight. Lisa Townley, the associate director of product management/replacement parts at Carrier, a global provider of HVAC solutions, says, “As people are focused on the health of their indoor environments more than ever before, it’s imperative that they take steps to improve their living and working spaces, including the air they breathe.” She goes on to say that knowing what’s in your air is important because you can “take steps to lower the likelihood of mold … better manage allergens and asthma triggers … and create conditions for improved sleep.” She adds that air monitors with advanced technology to detect finer particles down to 2.5 microns or smaller are particularly useful in the home. We took this expert advice into consideration when choosing which products to test.

For our actual tests—and we must say right off the bat that these were not scientifically controlled trials—we created situations we felt mimicked (or exceeded) real-life air quality problems. To test whether monitors with particulate matter (PM) sensors worked, we put them in a large box and shook a very dirty dust mop over the top. We then monitored the PM readouts on smartphones (or manually) to see when or if they spiked and when they fell (as the dust settled).

We used wood stain, which contains VOCs, including formaldehyde, to test the monitors with VOC sensors. We placed an open dish of oil-based wood stain in the test box and allowed the fumes to infiltrate the box for a couple of hours before checking the readings.

We got a little more creative when testing other sensors! We tested monitors with carbon dioxide (CO2) sensors by blowing puffs of smoke directly on the monitors using our beehive smoker. We tested for carbon monoxide (CO) by putting the monitors with CO detectors in a closed garage with a car running inside. We tested a single monitor to see if it would detect nitrogen dioxide (NO2) by starting a wood fire in the fireplace of our she shed and then closing the flue and monitoring the readout on our smartphone.

To see how well radon sensors worked, we tested them in the basement of a friend’s home, where we already knew radon was an issue.

Temperature and humidity were casually tested by comparing those numbers with other monitors and using the average of the readings (minus the highest and lowest, which we threw out) to determine consistency.

We looked for readout increases and decreases but didn’t compare actual numbers. The detection numbers varied from monitor to monitor from the start, and we felt that one monitor might receive more exposure to a pollutant than another, even though we tried to keep the exposure levels similar. If the readings more than doubled, we deemed it a “spike.”

We also examined and analyzed how easy it was to sync the monitors with Bluetooth; Wi-Fi; or If This, Then That (IFTTT) capability.

To arrive at our awards, we gave models points using a rubric—the better we felt the monitor performed during a test, the more points it received. At the end of testing, we added the points and used them to determine the best category for each monitor.

What to Consider When Choosing an Air Quality Monitor

The monitors we tested ranged from single-pollutant sensors, such as simple radon detectors, to multiple-pollutant detection models that tracked the e humidity levels and several toxic gases. In most cases, a consumer will want a monitor that detects the type of air pollution that puts their home and family at the most significant risk.

For example, consumers who live in a region with known radon problems will want to look for a radon detector or a carbon monoxide detector if they’re concerned about automobile exhaust fumes seeping in from an attached garage. In addition, the following factors are important considerations for consumers shopping for an air quality monitor.

Precision

Consumer-quality monitors are not as precise as laboratory detectors, but they’re typically good enough to alert household members that airborne particulates and toxic gases are present.

Monitors that detect dangerous gases, such as VOCs and carbon monoxide, feature electrochemical sensors that react to the presence of gaseous toxins in the air. In some monitors, these sensors must be manually calibrated, but many of the newer models are precalibrated.

Monitors designed to detect dust, allergens, and other airborne particulates do so by estimating the amount of particulate matter that passes in front of a laser. Though valuable, these measurements may not be exact for two main reasons: larger PM might not drift into the laser chamber, and the laser might overlook the tiniest PM.

Detected Pollutants

Home air quality monitors can detect a range of pollutants and will generally detect one or more of the following. Some may detect additional contaminants, but these are the most common.

• Total VOCs: Most monitors will usually not differentiate between different types of VOCs but will record them all as “total VOCs” or “TVOCs.”
• Formaldehyde: Potentially a problem in new homes and caused mainly by the off-gassing of new products (such as newly refinished furniture or freshly laid carpeting), formaldehyde can cause respiratory symptoms, especially in those prone to allergies. Most monitors don’t specifically measure H2CO, but some do. Formaldehyde is a VOC, so a monitor that detects TVOCs will also pick up H2CO; it just won’t specify it as such.
• Radon: Colorless, odorless, and toxic, radon is a natural byproduct of decomposition in soil—particularly soils that are heavy in clay. Radon detectors should be located in the lowest rooms of the house, typically the basement or crawl space, because that’s where radon enters and accumulates. Unless a monitor specifies that it measures radon levels, it probably doesn’t.
• Ozone: Created in nature (think the smell of the air after a thunderstorm) or as a product of electronic devices (such as printers), ozone can trigger headaches and respiratory symptoms in some people. Only a few air quality monitors can detect ozone.
• Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide: Odorless and highly toxic, carbon monoxide is present in automobile exhaust. It can also be found in homes with wood-burning stoves that are not adequately vented. Some monitors also detect carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide as well. All three are carbon gases and considered detrimental to humans and the environment. While CO is the most dangerous to humans, high concentrations of both CO2 and NO2 can trigger respiratory symptoms.
• Particulate matter: For allergy sufferers, airborne pollutants such as dust and pollen are primary symptom triggers. Monitors that detect particulate matter are usually rated PM2.5, which means they will detect particles as small as 2.5 microns. For comparison, a human hair is about 70 microns thick. Some monitors offer smaller particulate detection of PM1, which would include, for instance, ultrafine dust. Others offer PM10 detection, which can be helpful for allergy sufferers because large pollen particulates can be in the 10-micron range.
• Pollen: Rather than detecting actual pollen levels in the room, an air quality monitor that tracks pollen levels most likely syncs with a local weather service to report local outdoor air quality conditions (see the section on AQI below).
• Mold: Not all mold is toxic black mold (Stachybotrys), but the airborne spores from virtually all types of mold can cause headaches and respiratory symptoms. Homes in damp or humid areas, or rooms prone to high humidity (such as bathrooms), may benefit from mold detection that can alert the user to a mold problem nearby.
• Temperature: Often, this simply measures the temperature in the room where the monitor is located, but it may also be the local outdoor temperature if the monitor syncs with an online weather service.
• Humidity: A monitor’s ability to detect humidity can inform users about when to run a humidifier or a dehumidifier if desired to increase comfort.
• Air Quality Index: Some monitors sync with local weather services to let users know the outdoor air quality daily, which is known as the local Air Quality Index. Others report indoor AQI based on the amount of particulate matter they detect in a room.

Ease of Use

While some air quality monitors are relatively straightforward, others are pretty high-tech. For example, some models are Wi-Fi capable, and others connect to smartphones and devices via Bluetooth capability or IFTTT technology. Such monitors come with apps that can be downloaded to a smartphone, and then the app walks users through the installation process.

Single-pollutant detectors, such as carbon monoxide detectors, are among the simplest to use because they often just plug into an outlet. If they detect the gas in question, they emit a high-pitched alarm. The best air quality monitor for any individual should be easy to use, depending on the person’s technical skill level. Consumers will want to avoid choosing a complex model with a huge learning curve that requires watching online videos for hours just to figure out how it operates.

Size

Most air quality monitors are relatively small devices, with a sensor unit and a screen that displays how much of the pollutant is currently in the air. Portable units, which fit in a tool belt, purse, or tool bag, are the smallest of all. These are well suited for testing the air on jobsites or in rental homes that don’t have stationary monitors.

Versatility

Many monitors have the ability to detect numerous problem gases and pollutants and are suitable for multiple spaces. Those who want air quality monitoring to integrate with smart-home technology—so it can display information on a phone or respond to voice commands—will want to look for a smart air quality monitor.

Some people prefer visual alerts rather than numbers or charts that can be challenging to decipher. Today’s monitors often provide color-coded lights that indicate air quality at a glance. Typically, a green light indicates good air quality, a yellow light signifies the air quality is less than optimal but not dangerous, and a red light is a warning that the air quality is poor.

Response Time

Response time refers to how quickly an air quality monitor will sense the problem and alert the household. Higher-quality devices often have quicker response times because their sensors are more accurate. Response times will also vary depending on which pollutant the monitor is tracking.

For example, some carbon monoxide monitors will sound an alarm after detecting a low level of gas over a few hours; however, if they detect a higher level, the monitor will sound the alarm after just a few minutes. Monitors that measure dust and pollen may not emit a warning at all but simply track and record the varying levels of the pollutants by the hour.

Power Supply

Air quality monitors are either corded (running on electricity from a standard household outlet) or battery-operated (powered by rechargeable batteries). Both are efficient, but for those who need to test air quality in a storage shed or another remote location, a battery-operated model is the handiest.

FAQs

Very few things are as important as the quality of the air your family is breathing. If you’re new to air quality monitors, you likely have some questions.

Q. Are air quality monitors accurate? 

According to SmartAir, a developer of air filtration products, the accuracy of air quality readings on monitors falls between 70 percent and 85 percent. While most monitors are as accurate as possible, no single model is 100 percent accurate.

Q. What are the most common airborne pollutants?

The most common pollutants are airborne particulate matter, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. However, some other airborne irritants to be aware of are carbon monoxide, lead, radon, and carbon dioxide.

Q. How do I improve my indoor air quality? 

A few simple ideas can improve poor air quality:

• Clean regularly
• Keep your home well ventilated
• Purchase an air purifier
• Maintain your heating and cooling systems
• Add house plants
• Clean air ducts

Q. How do air quality monitors work?

They sense high or unhealthy levels of particulate matter or toxic gases and alert residents if the levels become dangerous. Many options on the market rely on color-coded air quality indicators to alert users as to the status of the air quality.

Q. Can air quality monitors detect mold?

Most consumer models can’t detect mold. However, consumers can purchase a home mold test with a petri dish and ingredients that will trigger mold growth if the home has a mold problem. While growing mold may seem counterproductive, it allows consumers to discover whether mold spores are present in the air, so they can take steps to locate the source of the mold and get rid of it.

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

The post The Best Air Quality Monitors to Keep Your Home Safe appeared first on Bob Vila.

A water softener for well water is fitted to a plumbing system to filter unwanted minerals out of hard water. This prevents the buildup of scale that can clog pipework and reduce the working life of household appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. One typical sign of excess hard water is white deposits in showerheads. City water can also be hard, which explains the need for a variety of different water softener systems. 

There are a number of important technical aspects to consider when choosing the right hard water treatment for your home, and we explain these in detail in this article. We have also included our recommendations for what we believe are currently the best water softeners for well water on the market.

Best Overall

Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Whole House Water Softener

See It

Pros

• High-capacity softener at a competitive price
• Multi-function digital control head
• Heavy-duty corrosion-resistant tank

Cons

• Requires considerable floor space
• Faults aren’t common but do occur

Specs

• Type Salt-based, dual tank
• Grain Size 48,000
• Suitability Up to 5 people, 3 to 4 bathrooms

Aquasure has been developing water softeners for over 25 years. This model from the Harmony Series is designed to work with both city and well water. It is a dual tank system, which is usually recommended for well water, with a 48,000 grain capacity. This will deliver softened water for families of up to five in homes with three or four bathrooms.

A digital control pane clearly indicates the flow rate and time left until regeneration is recommended. The intuitive control head can be programmed to maximize efficiency based on the household’s water usage. Installation is straightforward, and a heavy-duty polyethylene tank with a fiberglass lining provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Models ranging from 30,000 to 72,000 grains are also available.

Get the Aquasure water softener for well water at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

More Water Softeners for Well Water Worth Your Money

Our best rated water softener will satisfy many buyers, but there are always exceptions. The following options cover a range of prices and specifications to suit different-sized homes and families.

• AO Smith Whole House Descaler System, available at Amazon or Lowe’s.
• Aquasana Whole House Well Water Filter System, available at Amazon.
• Whirlpool 40,000 Grain Softener, available at Amazon.
• Durawater Fleck Whole House Water Softener, available at Amazon.
• Pro+Aqua 80,000 Grain Whole House Water Softener, available at The Home Depot or Amazon.

How We Chose the Best Water Softeners for Well Water

Finding a water softener system for homes with well water is more challenging than for those that use city or municipal supplies, but because there are fewer options, it allowed us to research the market in depth. We looked at each of the technical aspects discussed below and also considered ease of installation, durability, any maintenance requirements, and price.

We also took expert advice. John Wilson, CEO of Wilson Plumbing and Heating, told us that finding out your well water’s hardness was a good idea. You can check typical hardness in your zip code at sites online, but testing your well water is better, and kits are widely available. Deciding which type of water softener you need is key: “Salt-based systems are generally more effective for treating hard water, while salt-free options are ideal if you want to avoid salt altogether.” Choosing the correct size for your household needs is important because an under-specified model will actually be more expensive to run. He also said to “look for a model that’s easy to maintain, with infrequent salt refills and minimal upkeep.”

What to Consider When Choosing a Water Softener for Well Water

One of the main benefits of water softener use is the reduction of scale, something we discuss in detail in our article “So you want to install a water softener.” Doing so can increase the life of appliances, reduce the amounts of detergents and soaps you use, and improve how your skin and hair feel. Once you have identified the problem and decided a water softener for your well water is the right course of action, you’ll want to think about the following features.

Types of  Water Softeners

There are basically two water softener types: those that use salt and those that are salt-free. Salt-based models work on the ion exchange principle and have a brine tank and a resin tank. The resin has negatively charged ions that draw the minerals with positive ions, which cause hardness, out of the water. These negative ions need to be replenished, hence the use of salt water for the brine tank. The softener manufacturer may recommend a brand of water softener salts, but there are numerous other options to choose from as well.

Salt-free systems use an electromagnetic system that causes minerals like calcium and magnesium to crystallize so they don’t form scale in your plumbing or appliances. They are cheaper but only effective with low hardness, so they’re not generally recommended for well water.

Capacity

Water softener capacity is measured in grains per gallon (gpg), though usually just the term grains is used. Technically speaking, 1 grain equals 0.002 ounces of calcium carbonate dissolved in a gallon of water. Water with a gpg of 7.5 and above is considered hard.

To calculate the grains you need, you should multiply your water hardness by the average daily water consumption. Aquasure, who manufactures our top pick, gives the following guide.

32,000 grains is enough for 1-3 people and 1-2 bathrooms.

48,000 grains is enough for 4-5 people and 3-4 bathrooms.

64,000 grains is enough for 5-7 people and 5-6 bathrooms.

72,000 grains is enough for 7+ people and 6+ bathrooms.

Installation

There are two things to consider when it comes to installation: the space available and whether to tackle the job yourself. Salt-based water softeners for well water have two tanks, one for resin and another for the brine (salt water) necessary for regeneration. These can take up considerable space. The optimum position is as near the water’s entry point to the home as possible, so the size of the tanks may have an impact on your choice. It is possible to install an outdoor water softener, and some are available with weather covers, but bear in mind it still needs an electrical supply.

While the plumbing fixtures for water softeners are fairly straightforward, the process of installation may not be. Understandably, many people prefer to have installation carried out by a professional.

FAQs

The information above applies to a variety of home water softening systems for those who have well water and will help you find the right model for your needs. During our research, we found several specific questions relating to water softening that crop up regularly, so we have answered those here.

The post We Researched and Compared Over 20 Water Softeners to Find This Top Pick appeared first on Bob Vila.

Salt-free water softeners may not be as common a solution to hard water problems as traditional models, but these systems are often easier to install, cheaper to maintain, and better for producing healthier water. Since many homeowners aren’t familiar with them yet struggle with scaling and clogged water lines, we researched a range of popular salt-free systems and reached out to a plumbing expert to compile a list of five top options.

Based on our product research and expert’s insights, we chose the Yarna Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler System as our best overall pick for its compact construction, unlimited flow rate, and easy 15-minute installation. Read on to learn more about the models that made our list and see why these systems are such a smart option. By understanding how they work and which of the best salt-free water softeners we recommend, you can choose the right unit for your home. 

1. BEST OVERALL: Yarna CWD24 Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: iSpring ED2000 Whole-House Water Descaler
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Aquasana Rhino Whole-House Salt-Free Water Filter
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4. BEST WHOLE-HOUSE: AO Smith Whole-House Salt-Free Descaler
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5. BEST ELECTRIC: Eddy Electronic No-Salt Whole-House Water Softener
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Before You Buy a Salt-Free Water Softener

According to Roy Barnes, master plumber and co-owner of Rockville, Maryland’s Service Force Plumbing, the term “softener” is a bit of a misnomer. “Water softeners actually eliminate the causes of hard water, mostly calcium and magnesium, and make it ‘un-hard’ (i.e., soft). Salt-free systems don’t actually remove [these minerals] but seek to mitigate their effects.”

Salt-based water softeners require the regular addition of salt in combination to draw out minerals, preventing them from causing scaling on plumbing while also making soap sudsier for bathing, washing dishes, and cleaning clothes. 

As their name suggests, salt-free systems don’t use salt. Rather, they soften hard minerals so they don’t build up on faucets and showerheads. While salt-free water softeners are an excellent option for many homeowners, they may not be adequate for those with very hard water or serious issues like lead contamination. To help decide whether a salt-free water softener is right for you, consider your home’s water quality by looking for signs your home needs a water softener and performing a hard water test. 

Best Salt-Free Water Softeners Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

We narrowed down a range of popular products to this list of five top picks, each with its own pros and cons. Each of these salt-free water conditioners are effective and easy to install. 

Best Overall

Yarna CWD24 Capacitive Electronic Water Descaler

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What We Like

• Compact and efficient 
• Installs in about 15 minutes
• Little to no maintenance is required 

What We Don’t Like

• Treated water will revert back in 2 to 7 days
• 10 inches of pipe space required for installation

Specs

• Type: Electromagnetic 
• Size: 6 inches long by 2 inches in diameter
• Flow rate: Unchanged, attaches to max 1-inch diameter pipes

The Yarna Capacitive electronic water descaler earned the best salt-free water softener system award for its effective design and easy installation process—no plumbing skills required. The innovative descaler uses copper bands wrapped around a section of your home’s main water lines. As water flows through that section, the system emits electrical impulses that convert hard particles into small crystals. These crystals don’t stick to one another, preventing scale buildup in pipes and appliances. 

This simple hard water treatment system only takes 15 minutes to install, and no tools are necessary. Simply locate about 10 inches of pipe on your main water line (up to 1 inch in diameter) and a nearby outlet. Wrap the copper bands around the pipe, plug the unit in, and enjoy maintenance-free water softening. 

Get the Yarna salt-free water softener at Amazon or Yarna.

Best Bang for the Buck

iSpring ED2000 Whole-House Water Descaler

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What We Like

• Electromagnetic design reduces energy consumption 
• Works on a hardness of 10 to 19 grains per gallon
• Easy DIY installation

What We Don’t Like

• Water reverts back after traveling 50 feet

Specs

• Type: Electromagnetic 
• Size: 3.5 inches high by 7 inches wide by 2 inches deep 
• Flow rate: Unchanged

With a simple, maintenance-free design, this affordable descaler is an attractive option for eliminating harmful scaling without a lot of effort. It works by applying electromagnetic impulses to water as it passes through a supply pipe, stopping it from forming deposits that can clog pipes, damage appliances, and affect skin and hair. 

As with our top pick, installation requires no plumbing knowledge. Wrap the unit’s wires around a section of water line entering the home (to create a coil that serves as a conduit for the electromagnetic impulses), and plug it into a standard 115-volt outlet. This water softener for home use is suitable for water hardness levels between 10 and 19 grains per gallon, but water will revert back to its original state after moving through about 50 feet of pipe. Large homes may need to add another unit farther down the plumbing line to remedy this issue.

Get the iSpring salt-free water softener at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Upgrade Pick

Aquasana Rhino Whole-House Salt-Free Water Filter

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What We Like

• Improves both water quality and hardness
• Removes contaminants and minerals from water 
• Filters last over 3 months

What We Don’t Like

• More expensive since it’s also a filtration system
• Professional installation is recommended

Specs

• Type: Whole-house filtration system
• Size: 54 inches high by 46 inches wide by 9 inches deep
• Flow rate: 7 gallons per minute

While this water softener is more of an investment than other options on this list, that’s because it doesn’t simply mitigate hardness—it also removes impurities to enhance purity and taste. The Rhino uses carbon and KDF filters to eliminate calcium, lime, iron, and other minerals as well as contaminants like mercury, chlorine, lead, herbicides, and pesticides. If you are looking for a water softener for well water, this is an excellent choice. 

With a flow rate of 7 to 8 gallons per minute, this water filtration system is best in households with four or fewer members. It uses two main filters that should each last about 3 months before requiring replacement. Since installation requires plumbing the system into your home’s main water line, you may want to seek the help of a professional if you don’t have much plumbing knowledge. 

Get the Aquasana salt-free water softener at Amazon, Walmart, or Aquasana.

Best Whole-House

AO Smith Whole-House Salt-Free Descaler

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What We Like

• Lasts over 600,000 gallons or up to 6 years
• Lower home water filtration system cost than that of many units
• Easy to add a sediment filter, central water filter, post-filter, and ultraviolet (UV) filter

What We Don’t Like

• Requires plumbing into main water line

Specs

• Type: Whole-house filtration system
• Size: 26.5 inches tall by 8 inches in diameter
• Flow rate: 7 gallons per minute

Replacing water filters every few months can be a pain, but this whole-house water softener offers a hassle-free solution. It installs directly into the main water supply line, requires no electricity or frequent filter changes, and effectively descales water to prevent buildup on faucets, sinks, showers, and appliances. 

With a 600,000-gallon lifespan—roughly 6 years for a family of four—this descaler provides long-lasting, low-maintenance operation. You can use it on its own or pair it with AO Smith’s whole-home system, which includes a sediment filter, central water filter, post-filter, and UV filter for comprehensive water treatment. 

Get the AO Smith salt-free water softener at Amazon or Lowe’s.

Best Electric

Eddy Electronic No-Salt Whole-House Water Softener

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What We Like

• Consistently prevents scaling
• Easy installation and maintenance
• Longer cables available for pipers larger than 1 inch

What We Don’t Like

• Requires access to an outlet

Specs

• Type: Electromagnetic
• Size: 3.5 inches high by 6.75 inches wide by 1.5 inches deep
• Flow rate: 10 gallons per minute

With a low-maintenance yet effective design, the electronic water descaler from Eddy is a good solution for those dealing with deposits clogging faucets, pipes, and appliances. This descaler consists of two wires that wrap around the main supply line entering the home to create an electromagnetic field that prevents minerals from sticking to one another or surfaces and causing scaling. 

Unlike other water-softener types, this descaler won’t affect the flow rate of water into your home. It can treat up to 10 gallons of water per minute, is easy to install with no plumbing required, and plugs into a standard 115-volt outlet. 

Get the Eddy salt-free water softener at Amazon or Walmart.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Salt-Free Water Softeners

When gathering our top picks for water softeners, we included both salt-free water conditioners that are simple electromagnetic units as well as whole-house filtering systems that provide additional benefits. Electromagnetic units are typically small water softener systems that are relatively inexpensive, simple to install, and require little to no maintenance. Rather than removing minerals, they simply alter them to prevent them from causing scale buildup. 

Whole-house filtration systems filter out common water contaminants in addition to softening water, providing a more comprehensive water treatment solution. While these larger salt-free water conditioners may require professional installation, they are worth the investment for those dealing with problems caused by hard water or looking for well water softener systems.

What to Consider When Choosing a Salt-Free Water Softener 

Understanding how the best salt-free water softeners work and how much water they can treat each day is integral to purchasing the right soft water system for a home. 

Type

There are several types of salt-free water softeners on the market, each with its pros and cons. These types include polyphosphates, electromagnetic and magnetic, and full filtration. 

Polyphosphates 

The use of phosphates to soften water is a practice that dates back nearly 200 years. Instead of removing impurities from the water, this process conditions the water so impurities cannot create scaling on plumbing or faucets using a filtration cartridge. This type of system is used primarily in restaurants and other commercial settings to protect appliances from scaling.

Electromagnetic and Magnet

Like all salt-free water softeners, electromagnetic softeners don’t remove hard water particles but instead condition them to prevent scaling. These softeners work by magnetizing mineral grains so they don’t adhere to surfaces, a process that doesn’t require plumbing but does require power from an electrical outlet. 

Magnetic models perform the same task but without the use of electricity. However, they are not as powerful as electromagnetic models and are only suitable for very small homes.

Full Filtration

Whole-house water filter and softener systems soften water and remove other contaminants. They typically require installation into your home’s main plumbing line and work by crystallizing minerals so they don’t stick together and cause scaling. Since they also remove contaminants like herbicides, bacteria, viruses, pesticides, and chlorine, they are generally more expensive than basic salt-free systems. Their filters also require regular replacement. 

Size and Water Usage

The best salt-free water softeners come in different sizes to meet each household’s water usage and hardness needs. Needing to treat harder water can increase a water softener system’s cost. 

To calculate water usage, multiply the number of people living in your home by the average use rate of 75 gallons per day. Using this equation, a family of three will use an average of 225 gallons of water per day. 

To determine water hardness, which is measured in grains per gallon, you’ll need a water test kit. Water with 7 to 10.5 grains per gallon is moderately hard, while water with more than 10.5 grains per gallon is very hard. 

To calculate which size softener you need, multiply water hardness by water usage. A home that uses 225 gallons of water per day with a water hardness of 10 grains per gallon requires a water softener with a capacity of 2,250 grains per day. 

Flow Rate 

A salt-free water-conditioning system sits between the main water line’s intake and outtakes, treating water as it flows into your home’s plumbing. Since electromagnetic water treatment systems aren’t plumbed into your home’s water system, they don’t affect flow rate. 

However, salt-free systems that use filtration can affect water flow, potentially slowing it. Therefore, water softeners with filtration systems must have a flow rate that meets the demands of the household to prevent a drop in water pressure. Homes with one to three bathrooms need a filtration system with a flow rate between 8 and 12 gallons per minute. Larger households require around 15 gallons per minute.

Installation

Installing a water softener that’s salt free is generally relatively easy. While traditional salt softeners typically require professional installation, salt-free systems don’t require any plumbing knowledge and will likely only take about 15 minutes for the average DIYer to install. All you need to do is wrap the unit’s wires around your water supply pipe and plug it in.

Full filtration systems and whole-house systems are more involved. Unlike under-sink water filters, descaler and filtration combination systems generally need to be plumbed into the incoming water supply pipe. Still, these units are typically designed to be relatively quick and easy to install, meaning some DIYers may be up to the task. 

The Advantages of Using a Salt-Free Water Softener

The benefits of a soft water system that’s salt free range from producing healthier water to being easier to maintain, install, and operate. 

• They’re healthier: Unlike traditional water softeners, salt-free water softeners do not use sodium chloride, meaning they don’t add salt to drinking water. This can be a significant benefit if members of the household must limit their salt intake due to high blood pressure or other health issues. 
• They’re low maintenance: Unlike traditional water softeners, which must be refilled with 40 pounds or more of salt each month and periodically cleaned, salt-free water softeners require very little maintenance. While some units have water filters that must be replaced every 3 to 6 months, electromagnetic models require little to no maintenance whatsoever. 
• They have low operating costs: Since traditional water softeners require a steady stream of water softener salt and electricity to create the ionization process that softens water, they have higher operating costs. Salt-free systems do not salt, meaning they are less expensive to operate over time. 
• They protect plumbing and appliances: As with salt-based water softeners, salt-free water softeners eliminate scaling that can clog pipes. This helps optimize the performance of washing machines, hot water heaters, and dishwashers. 

FAQs

Though you likely aren’t still asking yourself, “What is a water softener?” you may still have questions about how salt-free water softeners work or if your new water softener is functioning properly. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about these appliances. 

The post Prevent Damaging Scale Buildup in Your Home’s Pipes With This 15-Minute Upgrade appeared first on Bob Vila.

Homeowners are always looking for ways to decrease their monthly bills. One way to do that is by improving the efficiency of their home systems. For instance, traditional tank-style water heaters constantly heat and reheat water, which isn’t a highly efficient way to supply a home with hot water. If a more efficient (though pricey) tankless system isn’t in your budget and it’s not yet time to replace your water heater, consider taking steps to increase your hot water heater’s efficiency and save you money. 

One of the simplest methods to do this is with a water heater cover. This water heater blanket insulation will help hold heat longer and keep the water heater from running as often. With this minor addition, you’ll be able to lessen your home’s energy consumption and lower your monthly heating bill. Our favorite was the Frost King SP60 Water Heater Insulation Blanket, a fiberglass product with superior insulating abilities. We tested six models to help determine the best water heater blankets for your home.

1. BEST OVERALL: Frost King SP60 Water Heater Insulation Blanket
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: US Energy Products 80-Gallon Water Heater Blanket Kit
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3. BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Reflecto-Foil 60-Gallon Water Heater Jacket
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4. BEST MULTIPURPOSE: US Energy Products 10-Foot Reflective Foam Insulation
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5. BEST EASY INSTALLATION: SmartJacket 80-Gallon Water Heater Blanket
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6. BEST FOR SMALL TANKS: Reflecto-Foil 40-Gallon Water Heater Jacket
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Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

Choosing the best water heater blanket for your needs is a fairly straightforward process, and you’ll have all the information you need after you read up on the top products described below. Be sure to keep our considerations in mind when comparing water heater blankets to make an informed choice.

Best Overall

Frost King SP60 Water Heater Insulation Blanket

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Our Ratings: Installation 4.5/5; Effectiveness 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5 

Product Specs 

• Material: Vinyl-backed fiberglass
• Size: 3 inches thick by 90 inches long by 60 inches wide
• Insulating power: R-10

What We Like

• Variety of sizes available
• Efficient insulator

What We Don’t Like

• Messy installation
• Personal protective gear required 
• Included tape not sticky enough

When it comes to insulating a water heater as much as possible, Frost King’s SP60 water heater insulation blanket is tough to beat. This fiberglass insulation is 3 inches thick, providing an insulation value of R-10. The blanket is nonflammable and has a foil face to reflect as much heat back into the tank as possible. At 90 inches long by 60 inches wide, this product is suitable for heaters up to 60 gallons. Different size options are available for smaller heaters.

Once installed, the Frost King blanket does a great job. That said, be prepared for installation. Since the product contains fiberglass, we recommend wearing long sleeves, gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask. Also, take the time to measure your water heater before unrolling the hot water heater cover. Once you unroll it, be prepared to quickly cut and install to ensure the least amount of exposure to the fiberglass. Although this product comes with foil tape, we were unimpressed by the quality and backed it up with some extra foil tape.

Yes, we disliked the installation, but we can’t argue with the results.This super-thick blanket truly made our hot water heater snug for the winter.

Get the Frost King water heater blanket at Amazon or Walmart. 

Best Bang for the Buck

US Energy Products 80-Gallon Water Heater Blanket Kit

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Our Ratings: Installation 4.5/5; Effectiveness 4.5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Material: Reflective foam
• Size: 3/16 inch thick by 84 inches long by 48 inches wide
• Insulating power: R-5

What We Like

• Easy and clean to install
• Multiple layers
• Tape and cutter included

What We Don’t Like

• Not as thick as other products
• Needed to supplement included tape with our own

If you’re researching water heater blankets, saving money is already on your mind. The US Energy Products heater blanket kit provides everything you need from blanket to tape to cutter for one affordable price. This is an ideal choice for someone who doesn’t have a lot of tools on hand. With its two layers of air bubbles inside the foil face, this roll of foil-type insulation offers both reflective insulation and a thermal barrier.

This hot water heater wrap comes with enough material to wrap water heaters between 20 and 80 gallons. It features a commercial-grade design that’s resistant to tearing for added durability. We appreciated the design with thoughts of our curious cats in mind; we won’t have to be concerned about insulation strewn across our utility room. This kit came with tape included and although it was probably sufficient to get the job done, we do recommend purchasing extra tape just in case so you don’t run out of tape in the middle of the job. Personally, we used a bit more than was included, but it’s possible we went a little overboard.

Get the US Energy Products 80-gallon water heater blanket at Amazon or US Energy Products.

Best Lightweight

Reflecto-Foil 60-Gallon Water Heater Jacket

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Our Ratings:Installation 4.5/5; Effectiveness 4.5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

• Material: Reflective foil
• Size: 3/16 inch thick by 72 inches long by 76 inches wide
• Insulating power: Unspecified

What We Like

• Neat look after installation
• Easy to cut
• Fits into some tight spots
• Includes tape and spacers

What We Don’t Like

• Insulating power not listed

At first glance, the Reflecto-Foil insulated blanket for a water heater seems unimpressive. However, upon closer examination you’ll see that even though it is lightweight there is a honeycomb of insulation sandwiched between the foil layers. With this water heater jacket, you can maintain tank temperature without having to manage a bulky covering. This kit comes with a roll of foil-type insulation that measures 72 inches long by 76 inches wide, allowing users to insulate tanks between 50 and 60 gallons. It’s also Class 1/Class A fire rated.

Because our water heater is crammed into a tight corner, the lightweight design of this insulation blanket made it the ideal choice. We appreciated how easy it was to cut (we found a box cutter and scissors equally effective) especially when fitting it around pipes. The kit includes the foil tape and spacers (small chunks of foam used to make a consistent circumference around the tank) necessary for installing it on a variety of tank sizes.

Get the Reflecto-Foil 60-gallon water heater blanket at Amazon.

Best Multipurpose

US Energy Products 10-Foot Reflective Foam Insulation

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Our Ratings: Installation 4.5/5; Effectiveness 4.5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

• Material: Reflective foil with foam core
• Size: ⅛ inch thick by 120 inches long by 48 inches wide
• Insulating power: R-8

What We Like

• Good for installation in tight spots
• Enough for multiple uses
• Can cut with scissors
• Easy to fit around pipes

What We Don’t Like

• Not as thick as some other products
• Not tall enough for larger tanks

If you have several insulation projects in your plans, the reflective foam water heater insulation blanket from US Energy Products can meet all your needs with one purchase. After wrapping your water heater, you’ll have plenty of leftover insulation, as the aluminum-polyester foam insulation comes in a 10-foot roll. We actually had enough to wrap our water heater and our neighbor’s! Since it’s only 48 inches wide, though, it might not be suitable for taller water heaters. 

This product includes a foam thermal barrier and a reflective foil surface to reflect heat back into the tank. It is an easy-to-work-with material that has uses beyond water heaters; we think it would be ideal as a water heater pipe insulation product. It features a fire-resistant rating of Class 1/Class A, and since it’s a fiberglass-free product, you don’t have to be concerned about working with loose fibers.

Get the US Energy Products 10-foot water heater blanket at Amazon or US Energy Products.

More Great Options

We wanted to mention these additional products that have traits that may make them the ideal choice for your home. Although these products were not tested, we are recommending them on the strength of our research, consumer reviews and additional information from the manufacturer.

Best Easy Installation

SmartJacket 80-Gallon Water Heater Blanket

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Product Specs 

• Material: Polyethylene and double-sided aluminum foil
• Size: ⅛ inch thick by 80 inches long by 24 inches wide
• Insulating power: R-7.1

What We Like

• Clean and easy installation
• Works in tight spots
• Thin material for easy application around fittings

What We Don’t Like

• Very sticky tape; separate insulation tape might be better

Want to retain a high level of insulation power but don’t want to work with fiberglass and all the safety precautions that go along with it? Check out this water heater blanket from SmartJacket. This ⅛-inch-thick foil-type insulation kit comes in an 80-inch-long roll, which is plenty of material to insulate water heaters with tanks between 20 and 80 gallons.

The ease of installation makes this a good choice for newbie DIYers. It comes with the foil tape necessary to secure it around the tank, but it’s a good idea to invest in an extra roll just in case. The material is easy to cut for use around drains and burners, and while there is no mention of fire resistance in the product information, foil isn’t flammable.

Get the SmartJacket water heater blanket at Amazon or Walmart.

Best for Small Tanks

Reflecto-Foil 40-Gallon Water Heater Jacket

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Product Specs 

• Material: Reflective foil
• Size: 3/16 inch thick by 76 inches long by 48 inches wide
• Insulating power: Unspecified

What We Like

• No fiberglass for a simple and clean installation
• Includes foil spacers and tape 

What We Don’t Like

• Insulating power not listed

Buying a large kit to insulate a small tank can be a waste of money, so it’s more cost-effective to buy only the material you need. Reflecto-Foil’s water heater jacket is designed to work with water heater tanks up to 40 gallons to save cash and avoid wasted material.

This kit features a roll of Class 1/Class A fire-rated foil insulation, foil tape, and the spacers (small chunks of foam used to make a consistent circumference around the tank) necessary for a good fit. The roll of insulation measures 76 inches long by 48 inches wide to cover most smaller water heater tanks with ease. And because it’s fiberglass-free, there’s no need to worry about wearing long sleeves or other protective gear.

Get the Reflecto-Foil 40-gallon water heater blanket at Amazon. 

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested Water Heater Blankets

In choosing the best water heater blankets among those currently on the market, we looked at two top factors: material and size. Our list of recommendations covers the most popular types of water heater blanks, including thick fiberglass options as well as thinner foam and foil options.

We also made sure to include a range of sizes on our list with options to cover most water heater shapes. For oddly shaped water heaters with awkward piping, we included recommendations for several easy-to-cut options that can fit snugly around even the most difficult water heater shapes or those in tight spaces.

What to Consider When Choosing a Water Heater Blanket 

Before shopping for a water heater blanket, read this section to understand the factors and features to keep in mind. This will help you make an informed decision.

Material 

When perusing water heater blankets, you’ll notice that there are a few different types available. This mostly comes down to the type of insulating material. Some are easier to work with during installation than others, as they often need to be trimmed to fit individual water heaters. 

• Fiberglass insulation traps heat with a barrier made from pockets of air. Empty space, such as an air pocket, does not conduct heat, so fiberglass insulation is highly effective at insulating a water heater. However, fiberglass insulation is messy, itchy, and no fun to work with, so it’s essential to wear long sleeves, long pants, a mask, gloves, and glasses when installing this insulation.
• Foil insulation works by reflecting escaping heat back into the water heater. It also creates a thermal barrier with small air bubbles sandwiched between the foil layers. This type of insulation is thinner and much easier to install, but it doesn’t do quite as good a job of insulating as fiberglass. 
• Cotton and denim insulation, typically made from recycled clothing such as jeans, is fairly uncommon. Though it works similarly to fiberglass insulation and is reasonably effective, it doesn’t do the job quite as well as fiberglass or foil, yet is more expensive due to the production process. Plus, cotton and denim are not fire-resistant.
• Foil-faced foam insulation works similarly in theory to foil and fiberglass, using the reflective surface to reflect heat back to the tank. The foam also creates small air pockets. These insulators are usually easy to install and fire-resistant.

You may also find combinations of materials, such as fiberglass insulation with a foil face. This can offer the best of both worlds, as it uses a thick, insulating layer of air pockets and radiates heat back into the tank.

Size

Water heaters, like most appliances, come in different sizes. The size of house and family and the number of sinks and showers all affect how large a water heater a home needs. While water heaters range between 30 and 98 gallons, 40-, 50-, and 60-gallon tanks are the common sizes used in homes. 

Water heater blankets also come in similar sizes, so it’s important to find one that will work for your tank. If you have a 50-gallon tank, finding a water heater blanket to fit it should be no problem. Water heater blankets large enough to fit 98-gallon tanks, commonly found in commercial settings, may be harder to track down.

Thickness

When it comes to materials such as fiberglass, cotton, and denim, the thicker the water heater blanket, the better it will be at insulating. A water heater located in a cool basement calls for a thicker blanket. Thicker blankets will do a better job of separating the cool air and the heat radiating from the tank than thinner ones.

Because foil works primarily by reflecting the heat instead of relying on an air-pocket barrier, it needn’t be thick to function efficiently. Most water heater blankets made with foil are less than ½ inch thick, which is another reason foil water heater blankets are so easy to work with.

Insulating Power 

Just like your home’s insulation, water heater blankets come in a variety of insulation ratings. These ratings are described as R-value, where the R stands for resistance. The higher the R-value, the more resistance the insulation has against heat transfer. Essentially, more is better.

The highest R-value you’re likely to find for a residential water heater blanket is R-11, but values of R-7 and R-8 are more common. To get the most from your investment, it’s best to use the water heater blanket with the highest R-value.

It’s important to keep in mind, though, that foil-type insulation rarely offers an R-value; R-values apply to fiberglass and other similar types of insulation.

Fire Resistance

Water heaters have burner assemblies that get very hot. The point of insulating a water heater is to save energy and money, not cause a fire. Different water heater blanket materials have varying degrees of fire resistance to combat that risk. While the most common designation is Class 1/Class A, it’s helpful to know which types are the most fire resistant.

• Fiberglass and foil-type insulation are nonflammable.
• Cotton and denim are flammable and not likely to have a fire-resistance rating.

If fire resistance is of utmost importance, a fiberglass or foil water heater blanket is the way to go. Some fiberglass or foil products aren’t fire rated, but that doesn’t mean they’re unsafe. Just be sure to keep the insulation clear of the burner by a few inches.

Versatility

There are two types of water heaters: electric and gas. Electric water heaters have a heating element inside that energizes and heats the water that surrounds it. Gas water heaters have burners underneath that kick on to heat water through convection. 

Fortunately, water heater blankets are interchangeable between the two water heater types. However, if you have a gas-powered heater, it’s crucial that the blanket doesn’t cover or otherwise obstruct the flue (aka exhaust) at the top. If you have an electric model, the blanket must not cover or obstruct its control box or access panel, typically located on the side of the tank. Also, be sure to cut the insulation back from the burner by at least 2 inches while installing.

FAQs 

For additional information about buying and using the best water heater blanket, consider the answers to these frequently asked questions.

Meet the Tester

Jodi Webb is a DIYer who tests products with her contractor husband so readers get the advantages of both an expert’s and DIYer’s viewpoint. She visited several neighbors bearing water heater blankets and was able to test the product in a variety of setups. 

Additional research provided by Tom Scalisi.

The post Our Favorite Water Heater Blanket Offers Superior Insulation appeared first on Bob Vila.

Shower valves are the components in showers that control water temperature and the rate of water flow. Choosing the wrong valve—or worse, a low-quality product—can result in a poor fit and may lead to leaks. To help you select the proper option for your bathroom and budget, we researched dozens of popular shower valves and reached out to a plumbing expert for insights on shower valve types and key features. 

Based on the expert’s knowledge and our team’s research, we chose the Hansgrohe iBox Universal Plus Rough Shower Valve as the best overall option for most users. This universal valve has an adjustable depth collar, durable brass construction, and a leak-preventing design. It might be the right choice for your DIY shower valve replacement, but one of our other top picks could also offer a great fit for your shower. Keep reading to see which of the best shower valves will work for you.

1. BEST OVERALL: Hansgrohe iBox Universal Plus Rough Shower Valve
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Grohe Grohsafe Pressure Balance Rough-In Valve
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Moen Smart Shower 2-Outlet Digital Thermostatic Valve
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4. BEST WITH SHOWER HEAD: Delta Faucet Ashlyn Monitor 14 Series Shower Faucet
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5. BEST SHOWER ARM DIVERTER: Mingor-Style Brass Shower Arm Diverter Valve
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6. BEST FOR OUTDOOR SHOWERS: EZ-Flo Self-Closing Pull-Chain Shower Valve
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7. BEST VINTAGE: Kingston Brass Two-Handle Wall-Mount Tub Faucet
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Shower Valves Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

Check out this collection of some of the best shower valves you can buy to replace or upgrade your existing model. From high-tech to super simple, there is a wide range of options for updating showers indoors and out.

Best Overall

Hansgrohe iBox Universal Plus Rough Shower Valve

See It

What We Like

• Adjustable collar fits most walls
• Works with pressure-balancing or thermostatic valves
• Leak-preventative design seals around wall

What We Don’t Like

• Does not come with trim kit

Specs

• Type Universal (thermostatic or pressure-balancing)
• Outlets 2
• Material Brass

The Hansgrohe iBox Universal Leak Preventing Valve is all about flexibility—for use and installation now and in the future. As a rough-in valve that works with any Hansgrohe or Axor shower trim, including The Hansgrohe iBox universal shower control valve is all about flexibility—for use and installation now and in the future. As a rough-in valve that works with any Hansgrohe or Axor shower trim, including pressure-balance and thermostatic, it allows users to maintain and update their showers at any point. There’s an adjustable depth collar meant to fit most wall thicknesses, and it mounts directly to the wall studs, providing extra strength and stability from water hammer or multiple showers each day. 

This Hansgrohe iBox can supply multiple shower outlets, including a shower head, tub spout, and handheld shower wand. Its PVC housing was designed to help reduce in-wall vibrations and noise, allowing for a quiet and relaxing shower. However, it does require a trim kit, so you’ll need to buy and install shower valve trim separately.

Get the Hansgrohe shower valve at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Build With Ferguson, or Hansgrohe.

Best Bang For The Buck

Grohe Grohsafe Pressure Balance Rough-In Valve

See It

What We Like

• Wide temperature adjustment range
• Built-in check valves to prevent back-feeding
• Plug included to close extra outlet

What We Don’t Like

• Requires a trim kit

Specs

• Type Pressure-balancing
• Outlets 2
• Material Brass

The Grohe Pressure Balance Rough-In Valve is a worthy contender for anyone on the hunt for a quality sThe Grohe Grohsafe pressure-balance rough-in valve is a worthy contender for anyone on the hunt for a quality shower valve at an affordable price. It has two inlets for hot and cold water and two outlets for a shower head and a tub. For those who prefer to use just the tub spout or shower head, there’s a plug to seal off the other outlet. This pressure-balance valve works with any Grohe trim kit, though no kit comes with purchase.

This shower valve has a wide range of temperature adjustability, rotating 265 degrees between handle stops so users can make small adjustments. It also has built-in check valves to prevent back-feeding hot or cold water into the other line. For maintenance, the Grohe features two built-in shutoffs for working leak-free within the wall. 

Get the Grohe shower valve at Amazon.

Upgrade Pick

Moen Smart Shower 2-Outlet Digital Thermostatic Valve

See It

What We Like

• Smart valve controlled via smartphone
• 2 outlets for a faucet and shower
• Offers personalized temperature settings

What We Don’t Like

• Controller sold separately

Specs

• Type Thermostatic
• Outlets 2
• Material Copper

Dialing in the perfect temperature is now easier. The Moen Smart Shower Digital Thermostatic Valve lets uDialing in the perfect temperature is easy with the Moen Smart Shower digital thermostatic valve. This valve is the foundation for building a smart shower system that lets you adjust the shower temperature from your phone when paired with a Moen Shower Smart Controller (sold separately). It uses a thermostatic shower mixer valve to adjust for consistent temperature and installs easily in a standard 2×4 stud wall. 

This shower valve has 0.5-inch inlets and outlets, and it will work with both the tub spout and shower head (or a handheld shower in place of the spout). It also comes with a 30-foot-long data cable and necessary power supply unit, though users can also upgrade to a separate battery backup if desired. 

Get the Moen shower valve at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Build With Ferguson, or Moen.

Best with Showerhead

Delta Faucet Ashlyn Monitor 14 Series Shower Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Available in multiple finishes
• Universal fit for simpler installation
• Maintains temperature within 3.6 degrees

What We Don’t Like

• Only 1 outlet

Specs

• Type Pressure-balancing
• Outlets 1
• Material Brass

Whether upgrading an old shower or installing a new one, consider the Delta Faucet Ashlyn shower faucet. This pick is sold as a complete kit, meaning it includes the necessary components to revamp current shower trim, including a pressure-balance valve, a shower head, a tub spout, and hardware. It comes in four different finishes—Venetian bronze, matte black, stainless, and chrome—to suit your bathroom’s decor.

The rough-in valve itself features universal 0.5-inch inlet and outlet fittings, allowing users to replace most older valves without coupling up or down in pipe size. Its pressure-balance functionality maintains a set temperature within plus or minus 3.6 degrees, eliminating the negative effects of flushing toilets or using washing machines. This valve only features one outlet, however, so it’s only suitable for showers. 

Get the Delta Faucet shower valve (various finishes) at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Wayfair.

Best Shower Arm Diverter

Mingor-Style Brass Shower Arm Diverter Valve

See It

What We Like

• Available in 4 finishes
• 3-position handle for shower, faucet, or both
• Durable 1-piece brass construction

What We Don’t Like

• Diverter valve only; doesn’t mix temperature or balance pressure

Specs

• Type Diverter valve
• Outlets 2
• Material Brass

Shower head valves can be finicky, especially in homes with hard water. If your diverter valve isn’t working properly, it may be time to upgrade to this model from Mingor-Style, which features durable one-piece brass construction that can withstand hard water situations. It comes with the necessary O-rings for installation and is available in four finishes to match chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze shower trim. 

For users who don’t already have a separate shower wand, this diverter valve allows for an easy installation, as it threads onto the pipe behind the shower head. When the handle is 180 degrees backward, all of the water will flow to the wand. When it’s 180 degrees forward, all the water will exit through the shower head. At 90 degrees, it mixes both outlets equally. Keep in mind that this valve doesn’t mix hot and cold water, however, so a basic shower valve kit is still necessary.

Get the Mingor-Style shower valve at Amazon.

Best For Outdoor Showers

EZ-Flo Self-Closing Pull-Chain Shower Valve

See It

What We Like

• Automatically shuts itself off
• Universal 0.5-inch threads
• Protects drought-prone areas

What We Don’t Like

• Needs a hook to catch the chain to prevent freezing

Specs

• Type Stand-alone
• Outlets 1
• Material Brass

Kids forgetting to turn off an outdoor shower can turn into a disaster for the wallet, and it’s especially bForgetting to turn off an outdoor shower can be disastrous, especially for those using well water or living under drought conditions. This stand-alone EZ-Flo self-closing shower valve installs directly in line with an existing shower head and will operate as long as there is tension on the pull chain. After releasing the chain, it automatically shuts off to conserve water. 

This valve’s brass construction and chrome finish make it a durable choice for outdoor applications. It features a 0.5-inch inlet and outlet, allowing for direct installation of most water-supply pipe fittings. 

Pro tip: Be sure to drain the outdoor shower’s pipes before winter and install a catch to hold the pull chain open to lessen the chances of a pipe bursting. 

Get the EZ-Flo shower valve at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best Vintage

Kingston Brass Two-Handle Wall-Mount Tub Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Stylish look with durable all-brass finish
• Comes with shower head
• Installs as wall or tub-mounted

What We Don’t Like

• No balancing or temperature control

Specs

• Type Stand-alone
• Outlets 2
• Material Brass

TThose looking for a stylish upgrade for a clawfoot tub or luxury shower should check out the Kingston Brass wall-mount tub faucet. Using its two-hole installation pattern, this kit installs as a wall-mounted unit for shower applications or attaches directly to a clawfoot tub’s plumbing. It has two stand-alone valves for adjusting to the perfect temperature and features a built-in tub spout with a 59-inch shower wand that rests on the spout. It comes in nine finishes, including chrome, matte black, brushed nickel, and antique brass.

Though this model looks charmingly old-fashioned on its surface, it still features a durable all-brass body (regardless of finish) and drip-free quarter-turn valve cartridges, helping to avoid the small leaks for which older tubs are notorious.

Get the Kingston shower valve (various finishes) at Amazon, Wayfair, Build With Ferguson, or Kingston Brass.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Shower Valves

To create a list of the best shower valves, we performed extensive product research, drew upon our team’s DIY plumbing knowledge, and spoke to Sam Chmielarski, licensed plumber and owner of Full Flow Plumbing and Drainage. After identifying dozens of potential options, we narrowed our recommendations to just seven based on features, materials, and overall value. The resulting list is made only of models we’d feel good installing in our own homes and suggesting you use in yours. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Shower Valve 

Believe it or not, there is more to a shower valve than simply twisting a knob and letting the water flow. The following are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind when choosing the best shower valve.

Type

Generally speaking, there are three basic types of shower valves: diverter, thermostatic, and pressure-balancing. Each works differently, so it pays to understand them before purchasing one.

• Diverter valves are simple devices that control the direction in which the water flows, such as through the wand or out the shower head. Installing a shower diverter valve is typically relatively easy. 
• Pressure-balancing valves can sense a drop in hot or cold water pressure and adjust the opposite pressure to match and maintain a constant temperature. For instance, if someone flushes a toilet and the cold water pressure drops, a pressure-balancing valve will automatically change the hot water pressure coming from the water heater to match and maintain the same temperature.
• Thermostatic shower valves work similarly to pressure-balancing valves, except they maintain temperature, not balance. These valves have basic thermostats within them that allow the user to adjust the water temperature more accurately and consistently. 

There are also stand-alone shower faucets with individual valves for hot and cold water. These valves are much simpler, though often more expensive. It’s also important to know that the term “rough-in” refers to the shower valve cartridge itself, which the plumber installs during the rough-in phase of construction. A rough-in valve won’t have trim kit components, such as the ring plate, handle, or other finished fixtures.

Outlets

Shower valves have varying numbers of outlets. Since each outlet will feed a fixture, having the proper number is important.

For example, folks with a simple shower head can get away with a shower valve with just one outlet. Those with a shower head and spout will need two outlets. Those with body jets will require three outlets, and so on.

It’s best to come up with a plan for the shower before choosing the shower valve. This will ensure enough outlets for the plan at hand, allowing DIYers to build the shower of their dreams. 

Material

Shower valves are typically tucked behind a wall somewhere with relatively limited access. For that reason, it’s important to ensure that any valve chosen features durable materials that will last for years.

The best material for plumbing fixtures is almost always brass; it’s durable and doesn’t rust. Next, look for copper shower valves. Worry less about plastics and more about the metal materials housing the cartridges that adjust the temperatures. 

FAQs

If you still have questions about choosing the best shower valves, the following answers to common questions should help. 

The post This Bathroom Upgrade Can Help Control Your Shower’s Temperature and Water Flow appeared first on Bob Vila.

I love the look and feel of a real fire, but installing a wood-burning stove or fireplace requires a complete chimney system for safety and ventilation. A pellet stove, on the other hand, can often be vented horizontally out an exterior wall, which means fewer structural changes. Plus, pellets burn cleaner than wood, producing less creosote and ash. 

There are many pellet stoves on the market, but the Comfortbilt Alpine HP42 stood out because it comes with a whopping 120-pound hopper capacity. Instead of having to remember to fill the hopper daily, I can fill it once and it won’t run out for days, depending on how often it’s burning. That means one less thing to worry about and more time for myself. Keep reading to learn more about this high-capacity pellet stove (including my DIY installation) and whether the Comfortbilt pellet stove is the right choice for your heating needs.  

Comfort Alpine HP42 Pellet Stove: At a Glance

Our rating: 4.8/5

Comfort Alpine HP42 Pellet Stove

BUY NOW

Testing the Comfortbilt Pellet Stove

I tested the Comfortbilt HP42 the same way any DIY enthusiast would—I installed it, turned it on, and enjoyed the ambiance and warmth. Since pellet stoves are frequently do-it-yourself projects, I paid special attention to the instructions that came with the stove to see if all steps were included and easy to follow. 

In addition to thoroughly enjoying the mesmerizing flames and radiant warmth, I noted how long it took the hopper to run out of pellets. I operated the stove using both the control panel and the included remote control. The one thing I didn’t do—but likely will in the near future—is connect the HP42 to a smart thermostat for even easier control. Yes, that’s doable!

The most enjoyable part of the test was relaxing by the stove for several hours while reading a book, napping, and sipping eggnog. Now that I think about it, I should probably continue that aspect of testing for a few more weeks. You can never over-test, after all.

Installation Process

If you’re concerned about installing the Comfortbilt pellet stove, by all means, have a pro do it. It’s always better to seek help if you’re unfamiliar with basic construction techniques. However, the installation instructions that come with the stove are simple to follow. They walked me through every step and had several images I could compare as I progressed.

I cut a hole through my exterior wall, and that’s probably the most challenging part—not because cutting is hard, but because it’s essential to measure the location of the vent pipe on the back of the stove precisely and transfer that measurement to the wall to get the hole in the correct spot. This is where the old carpenter saying, “Measure twice, cut once,” is good advice. The last thing you want to do is cut the hole in the wrong spot, especially on the exterior of your home. You’ll also need to avoid hitting studs, wires, and pipes. 

I had to buy a few supplies for the installation: a heat-rated vent pipe, an appliance adapter that connects the pipe and the stove, a wall thimble that offers heat protection around the vent pipe, and an exterior termination cap with a built-in spark arrestor. 

In many cases (including mine), the pellet stove can be vented horizontally through an exterior wall. It’s the simplest and most straightforward venting method and perfectly safe. 

However, you can also install the HP42 on an interior wall. To do so, you’ll need to run a vertical vent through the roof. That’s a little more complicated, but the same safe-venting principles apply. The instruction manual for the pellet stove offers diagrams of several different venting methods. I strongly recommend downloading the HP42 User Manual before purchasing the pellet stove to see the options. If you’re unfamiliar with local building codes, check with your community building authority to determine if you need to do anything else prior to installation. 

Hopper Capacity and Convenience

The Comfortbilt Alpine HP42 has a massive 120-pound pellet hopper just over 2 feet deep! That’s the largest hopper I’ve seen on a pellet stove—many have smaller hoppers that require refilling on a daily or twice-daily basis. Ultimately, the amount of pellets you use, and how often you need to refill, will depend on the home’s insulation, room size, and outdoor temperature. I filled the hopper, set the temperature on the HP42 to 68 degrees F, and didn’t need to refill for three days. That’s very convenient.

I could change the temperature directly from the mounted control panel or the remote control. The control panel also features a child lock, making the HP42 a good option for families with small children. 

A separate wired thermostat can be connected to the pellet stove, which would make it even more convenient, and the HP42 comes with a removable ash pan that lifts out of the firebox for easy cleanup. I have an ash vacuum, so I used that to suck the ashes out. 

Performance and Efficiency 

Without a doubt, the Comfortbilt pellet stove is a wonderful source of warmth and ambiance. It can produce up to 42,370 BTU of heat per hour, and one of the nicest things is an internal fan that disperses the heat outward so the whole room warms up. With other non-central heat sources I’ve had, including a wood-burning stove and wood fireplace, the warmth was always greatest near the source, but across the room, it could still be chilly. The HP42 distributes the warm air evenly.

The pellet stove is rated for spaces up to 2,800 square feet, making it well-suited to large open areas and great rooms. And it comes with an EPA certified efficiency rating of 86 percent overall and 87.5 percent on Low. 

The Comfortbilt HP42–High-Capacity Heating at a Mid-Range Price

Currently, the HP42 sells for $1,299 on Amazon and from a handful of other retailers. That’s right in line, price-wise, with other similar pellet stoves. The most significant differences are the expansive coverage area and the large-capacity hopper, which makes it possible to go longer without refilling. That’s a big deal for me because I don’t have the time to babysit a pellet stove and add pellets every few hours. 

While I can’t attest to how easy other pellet stoves are to install, the HP42 is about as easy as it gets for someone with basic carpentry and remodeling skills. 

Buy the Comfortbilt Pellet Stove on:

• Amazon for $1,299
• Lowes for $1,299
• The Home Depot for $1,299
• Comfortbilt for $1,299

Product Comparisons

Is the Comfortbilt Alpine HP42 right for you?

The HP42 is a good option for someone looking for a reliable, easy-to-use heating solution that doesn’t require an extensive chimney system. It’s efficient, and its powerful fan distributes heat throughout large open spaces. 

The Comfortbilt pellet stove is especially useful for busy homeowners who don’t have the time to monitor the stove and add pellets frequently. My favorite feature on the HP42 is the 120-pound pellet hopper that holds double or even triple the pellets other stoves hold. That means fewer refills and more time to do the things I want to do. 

If you have a working knowledge of construction, you shouldn’t have any trouble installing this pellet stove, but check local codes first, just to be on the safe side. Call a professional to help with installation if necessary.

The HP42 keeps a large space toasty, but if you live in a temperate zone or are on a tight budget, you can find a less expensive model that will suit your needs. For me, the Comfortbilt Alpine HP42 is the right choice. It puts out enough heat to warm my space, I don’t have to refill the pellets every few hours, and it offers genuine flames without the hassle. 

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer focusing primarily on construction, tools, and home appliances.

The post Installing This Pellet Stove Was The Best Decision I’ve Made This Winter appeared first on Bob Vila.

Few things are as frustrating as dealing with a clogged sink, shower, or tub, but a good drain cleaner can make quick work of those stubborn clogs. While plungers and drain augers are great first steps toward solving a plumbing issue, sometimes a powerful cleaner is the best way to get water flowing freely again.

We tested 6 of the 10 products on our list to identify the most effective solutions. The other 4, though not tested, were carefully chosen for their standout features and glowing reviews. Out of all these, our top pick is Liquid-Plumr Pro-Strength Hair Eliminator Gel, a thick gel formula that’s both budget-friendly and highly effective on tough clogs.

Whether you’re facing a slow-draining sink or a backed-up shower, this guide will help you find the best drain cleaners for the job.

1. BEST OVERALL: Liquid-Plumr Pro-Strength Hair Eliminator Gel
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Sink Snake Cleaner
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3. BEST FOR HAIR CLOGS: Professor Amos SuperFast Drain Cleaner
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4. BEST ECO-FRIENDLY: Bio-Clean Bacteria Waste Eliminator
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5. BEST CAUSTIC: Thrift Odorless Drain Cleaner
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6. BEST FOR PREVENTION: TubShroom Revolutionary Tub Drain Protector
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7. BEST ENZYMATIC: Green Gobbler Liquid Drain Clog Dissolver
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8. BEST ACIDIC: Amazing Products Liquid Fire Drain Line Opener
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9. BEST FOR KITCHEN SINKS: Drano Max Gel Clog Remover 
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10. ALSO CONSIDER: Drano Dual-Force Foamer Clog Remover
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Our Top Picks

To help you tackle stubborn clogs, we’ve rounded up the best drain-cleaning products for a variety of needs. From powerful chemical formulas to eco-friendly enzyme-based options, these products are designed to clear buildup and restore proper drainage. Below are our top picks, including both tested favorites and highly rated alternatives.

Best Overall

Liquid-Plumr Pro-Strength Hair Eliminator Gel

See It

What We Like

• Thick gel works through any clog
• No strong odors
• Quickly cleared our toughest sink
• Affordable price

What We Don’t Like

• Entire bottle required per use

Specs 

• Type: Caustic
• Suitable for: Hair, food, grease, and soap scum clogs
• Working time: 15 minutes

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 4.8/5; Value 5/5

Liquid-Plumr’s thick gel formula makes it a standout pick for clearing even the toughest clogs. Packaged in an easy-to-pour bottle, this affordable drain cleaner is designed to coat and break down blockages, whether they’re formed by hair, soap scum, or grease. While the label recommends using the entire bottle per clog—which seemed like quite a lot—we did test it on the worst drain in the house and found it highly effective, transforming a slow-draining bathroom sink into one that flowed completely clear.

Despite its powerful cleaning action, Liquid-Plumr’s formulation has no strong odors, making it more pleasant to use than many competitors. Keep in mind, though, that the gel can stain surfaces if spilled—it left a mark on a bath mat during our test. As with any caustic cleaner, avoid contact with skin or other surfaces in the bathroom. For its performance, ease of use, and budget-friendly price, Liquid-Plumr is a top choice for clearing stubborn clogs in sinks, showers, and tubs.

What our tester says: “I liked how thick this gel was—it really clung to everything clogging the drain and made short work of the buildup of hair and other debris, leaving behind a fresh new drain.”—Paul Rankin, Product Reviews tester and writer.

Get the Liquid-Plumr drain cleaner at Target.

Best Bang for the Buck

See It

What We Like

• Flexible yet strong
• Sticky end is great at catching hairs
• Ideal for poking a hole through a clog

What We Don’t Like

• Manual tool can be nasty to use

Specs 

• Type: Physical
• Suitable for: All clogs
• Working time: Variable

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 4.5/5; Value 4/5

The FlexiSnake Drain Weasel is a quick, hands-on solution for clearing clogged drains. This kit includes a 360-degree rotating handle and five flexible 18-inch wands, making it a convenient and reusable choice. Each wand is tipped with a slightly thicker end featuring a strip of Velcro-like material that grabs onto debris with ease.

During our test, the Drain Weasel proved its effectiveness by pulling out a surprising amount of hair and even tangled dental floss from a bathroom sink. The flexible wands maneuver well through curved pipes, allowing the tool to reach deep into the drain. Once the clog is removed, the disposable wands make cleanup simple and sanitary.

For tackling hair and other stubborn clogs without chemicals, the FlexiSnake Drain Weasel is an affordable and practical option to keep your drains running smoothly.

Get the FlexiSnake drain cleaner at Amazon (5 wands), Lowe’s (1 wand), Ace Hardware (2 wands), The Home Depot (2 wands), or Walmart (2 wands).

Best for Hair Clogs

See It

What We Like

• Simple to use
• Clears out hair easily
• Can be left overnight for stubborn blockages

What We Don’t Like

• Pricier than similar options

Specs 

• Type: Caustic
• Suitable for: Hair, food, grease, and soap scum clogs
• Working time: 15 to 30 minutes

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Value 4/5

The Professor Amos drain cleaner is a powerful liquid solution designed to cut through tough clogs caused by hair, soap scum, or grease. Packaged in a large bottle with enough cleaner for 4 to 6 applications, it’s a reliable option for tackling multiple problem drains.

We tested it on slow-draining bathroom sinks in an ensuite and followed the instructions to remove large clogs with the Drain Weasel before pouring. The liquid flowed easily into the drains, and after flushing with hot water, the sinks drained perfectly, with no lingering residue or smell.

While this product is slightly more expensive than some alternatives, its impressive performance, especially on hair clogs, justifies the cost. For those looking for a hassle-free and effective drain cleaner, Professor Amos’ Drain Cleaner is a great pick.

Get the Professor Amos drain cleaner at Amazon or Professor Amos.

Best Eco-Friendly

See It

What We Like

• Eco-friendly formula
• 100 treatments per container
• Easy to use scooper

What We Don’t Like

• Not nearly as effective as other products
• Requires constant reapplication
• Expensive

Specs 

• Type: Enzymatic
• Suitable for: Organic waste (including hair, food, grease, and soap scum clogs)
• Working time: 6 to 8 hours

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 3.3/5; Value 3/5

The Bio-Clean bacteria waste eliminator offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional chemical drain cleaners. Using natural enzymes and bacteria, this powder breaks down clog-causing organic matter while remaining completely safe for pipes, septic tanks, and even skin. With up to 100 uses per container, it’s an economical choice for long-term drain maintenance.

However, this product requires patience. To tackle a clog, you’ll need to apply it daily for 5 days, as a single application won’t clear a blockage. Once the clog is resolved, monthly applications are recommended for prevention. While it effectively dealt with a bad-smelling bathroom sink during our test, it falls short compared to chemical cleaners that work almost instantly.

For those prioritizing sustainability over speed, Bio-Clean is a safe and easy-to-use option. Just dissolve the powder in warm water, pour it into the drain, and let it sit overnight before flushing. While it’s not ideal for immediate results, it’s a solid pick for eco-conscious maintenance.

Get the Bio-Clean drain cleaner at Amazon.

Best Caustic

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What We Like

• Formula works instantly
• Crystals are easy to apply
• Multiple uses per bottle
• Will cut through the toughest grime

What We Don’t Like

• Strong fumes when dissolving

Specs 

• Type: Caustic
• Suitable for: Hair, food, grease, and soap scum clogs
• Working time: 1 minute

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Value 5/5

The Thrift drain cleaner is a powerhouse solution for blasting through tough clogs in record time. This caustic cleaner comes in crystal form, which dissolves easily in hot water to create an incredibly effective drain-clearing solution. In our tests, it lived up to its claim of working in just one minute—hair clogs melted away almost instantly, and the solution visibly and audibly cleared everything in its path.

Despite being labeled as “odorless,” the cleaner does produce noticeable fumes when dissolved, so make sure the area is well-ventilated during use. Additionally, due to its highly caustic nature, the crystals and solution should never come into contact with skin or other surfaces.

While its formula demands caution, Thrift drain cleaner was by far the fastest and most effective drain cleaner in our testing, making it an excellent choice for tackling stubborn clogs quickly and efficiently. Just note that if you’re looking for a toilet unclogger liquid, it isn’t the right option, nor will it work for garbage disposal blockages or any issues with standing water, since the excess water will instantly dissolve the crystals and not allow them to work their magic. 

Get the Thrift drain cleaner at Amazon or Walmart.

Best for Prevention

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What We Like

• Traps hair to prevent clogs
• Versatile design fits most drains
• Lifts out and cleans easily

What We Don’t Like

• Not compatible with stand-alone showers
• Must be removed to take a bath

Specs 

• Type: Clog prevention
• Suitable for: Hair
• Working time: Instantly

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Value 5/5

The TubShroom Drain Protector is an effective and convenient solution for preventing clogs in sinks, tubs, and shower drains. Designed to catch hair and other clog-forming debris, it works by trapping material before it can flow into the drain. Simply insert the TubShroom into the drain and let it do its job.

In our testing, the TubShroom excelled at catching hair—both human and pet. Unlike some drain protectors where hair collects visibly on the surface, the TubShroom filters debris around its inner cylinder, keeping it out of sight. This design made cleanup quick and easy. After bathing a long-haired Saint Bernard, we left the TubShroom in place for hours before cleaning it, and while the inner cylinder was packed with fur, removing it was still effortless. A quick rinse was all it needed before being placed back in the drain.

The TubShroom is a simple, reusable solution to keep drains clear of clogs, and it’s especially useful for pet owners dealing with fur in the tub. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain its effectiveness, but its ease of use and reliability make it a standout choice for keeping drains clog-free.

What our tester says: “During my 2 weeks of testing the TubShroom, I found it was very effective in trapping hair—both mine and my dog’s. What’s more, the hair didn’t gather around the top of the TubShroom where it could be seen.”—Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer.

Get the TubShroom drain cleaner at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Walmart, or TubShroom.

More Great Options

Here are more products we liked based on their standout features and positive user reviews. While we didn’t test these, they’re great options that could meet your needs for drain-cleaning.

Best Enzymatic

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What We Like

• Eco-friendly formula
• Safe for septic systems, garbage disposals, and toilets
• Odorless formula won’t leave lingering scents
• Effective, even in standing water 

What We Don’t Like

• Works less quickly than similar drain cleaner options

Specs 

• Type: Enzymatic
• Suitable for: Hair, toilet paper, cotton swabs, lint, grease, and soap scum clogs
• Working time: 15 minutes to overnight

This Green Gobbler enzymatic cleaner contains a proprietary blend of eco-friendly ingredients that gobbles up toilet paper wads, cotton swabs, hair, lint, grease, and soap scum clogs. Use it in bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks, tubs, showers, and even toilets—this biodegradable and noncorrosive drain cleaner formula is safe on all kinds of pipes, from plastic to copper. 

The dual-chambered container means no measuring required—simply pour one full chamber of the liquid into clogged sinks or tubs or two full chambers into toilets. Depending on where you’re using it, give the product from 15 minutes up to a full night of dwell time and then flush the drain with hot water to restore your pipes to pristine condition.

Get the Green Gobbler drain cleaner at Amazon (2-pack), The Home Depot, or Target.

Best Acidic

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What We Like

• Eco-friendly formula
• Safe for septic systems, garbage disposals, and toilets
• Odorless formula won’t leave lingering scents
• Effective, even in standing water 

What We Don’t Like

• Works less quickly than similar drain cleaner options

Specs 

• Type: Enzymatic
• Suitable for: Hair, toilet paper, cotton swabs, lint, grease, and soap scum clogs
• Working time: 15 minutes to overnight

Sulfuric acid is the key ingredient in this ultrastrength Liquid Fire acidic drain cleaner. It’s potent enough to clear sink and toilet clogs that other cleaners leave behind. Pour 1.5 to 2 cups of cleaner into a drain, wait 15 minutes, and then flush for 5 minutes with cold water. 

The manufacturer states that it won’t damage plastic and acid-resistant metal pipes (copper). It can also be used in tubs or showers, though avoid using it in pipes made of corrosion-prone metals like aluminum or galvanized steel.

Get the Amazing Products drain cleaner at Amazon or Ace Hardware.

Best for Kitchen Sinks

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What We Like

• Works in standing water and drains
• Safe for garbage disposals and septic systems
• Thick gel formula clings to the toughest clogs
• Multiple uses per bottle

What We Don’t Like

• Can’t use in the toilet

Specs 

• Type: Caustic
• Suitable for: Hair, food, grease, and soap scum clogs
• Working time: 15 to 30 minutes

This Drano Max caustic drain cleaner has a thick viscosity that allows the solution to stick to the interior of the drain pipe as it flows toward the clog, which helps remove any bad odors and clean the interior of the pipes. Typically, pouring just ⅕ of the bottle into the drain and allowing it to sit for about 15 to 30 minutes clears the clog. After flushing the drain with hot water, the clog should be cleared.

While this drain cleaner shouldn’t be used in toilets, it’s suitable for garbage disposals and septic systems. Follow the directions to avoid any possible accidents, such as switching on the disposal too soon, which can cause drain cleaner to spray out. This product can also be used in standing water to clear clogs and get the wastewater flowing into the septic system or to the municipal sewer system again. 

Get the Drano gel drain cleaner at Amazon, Target, Walmart, or CVS.

Also Consider

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What We Like

• Safe for all pipes and garbage disposals
• Foam solution fills the entire pipe 
• Also serves as a drain odor eliminator

What We Don’t Like

• Not designed for toilets or standing water
• Slow working time

Specs 

• Type: Caustic
• Suitable for: Hair, food, grease, and soap scum clogs
• Working time: 60 minutes

Instead of a liquid or a gel, this caustic formula from Drano is a foaming drain cleaner solution that expands when poured into the drain. Typically, liquids and gels run directly to the clog because they are more influenced by gravity, which means some areas are left untreated. By expanding, this drain cleaner fills the entire pipe, ensuring that every interior surface is affected by the cleaner. 

This method of application helps remove foul odors and works to dissolve hair, food, grease, and soap scum clogs. However, this method takes about 60 minutes to work. Additionally, the drain cleaner isn’t effective in standing water or toilets.

Get the Drano foamer drain cleaner at Amazon (5-pack), The Home Depot (8-pack), Target, or Menards.

Or, DIY Your Own Drain Cleaner

Making a version of the product shoppers are seeking is thrifty, low waste, and (can be) natural. Not to mention, it’s very Bob Vila! This section covers how to make a comparable DIY drain cleaner with common household ingredients. One tried-and-true formula to use is ½ cup of baking soda mixed with ½ cup of vinegar. Simply pour the mixture down the drain and let it sit for 1 hour. After the hour is up, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. This formula may cause a slight vinegar smell after use, but it can effectively remove scum and debris clogs. 

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Drain Cleaners

To identify the best drain cleaners, we focused on three key factors: ease of use, effectiveness, and value. Ease of use was determined by how simple it was to apply each product, including packaging and instructions. We tested effectiveness by applying the cleaners to drains that were slow to clear or totally clogged by hair, grease, soap scum, and food debris. We evaluated products based on how quickly they worked and how effectively they cleared a variety of clogs, even in standing water.

For value, we compared each product’s performance to its price, factoring in how many uses per bottle it offered and the cost per use. Products with additional features, such as a thicker gel formula, were prioritized for their superior clinging ability. We awarded points to each cleaner depending on how well it met these criteria, and we based our final rankings on a balance of affordability and cleaning power.