If your car's heater isn't meeting your needs, or you want to be prepared for emergencies, a portable car heater is the solution.
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Best-Rated Portable Auto Heaters for Comfortable Winter Driving
Updated on Mar. 28, 2024
Most cars generate enough heat under normal operation to keep occupants warm and defrost the windshield. There are times, especially in chilly places or emergency situations, when the engine’s heat just doesn’t cut it. That’s when you’ll be glad you’ve got one of the best car accessories on hand: a portable car heater. It hooks up to your car’s power, bringing extra warmth and comfort during those cold snaps or unexpected situations when the regular heater falls short.
If you’re wondering whether you need one, just take it from certified master mechanic Todd Bialaszewski, who says, “It’s better to have a portable car heater and not need it, than need it and not have it.” Bialaszewski explains: “Having a portable heater on-hand gives you reliable warmth in frigid conditions instead of waiting for your engine to warm up.” He says they are great for emergency prep, but he also recommends them for cold-weather locales, noting they are useful year-round in chilly climates.
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Best Portable Heater for Vans or RVs
Pros
The Caframo Limited True North Space Heater is more like a standard space heater, useful in large vans and RVs. It’s mountable and takes a standard 120v AC jack so it’s easy to set up.
Unlike many portable heaters, it offers a range of temperatures instead of just two or three. It puts out enough heat to temporarily replace a broken heater, which can be a lifesaver in the right circumstances.
- Mountable with a standard 120V AC jack
- An automatic thermostat maintains selected temperature
- Automated anti-freeze setting
- Dual overheat protection
- Five-year warranty
Cons
- Requires a lot of power
- Too powerful for small vehicles
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Best Portable Heater for Defrosting
Pros
Don’t let the name Golf Cart Heater fool you. This heater works well in cars, especially for frozen windshields. It features an oxygen depletion system, porcelain coated reflector and a pilot wind guard. The ergonomic design fits into any standard cup holder. It delivers 4,000 British thermal units (Btus) for up to five-and-a-half hours on one propane tank.
- Quickly defrosts frozen car windows and doors
- Heats up to 95 square feet
- Easy on and off button
- Safety switch shuts off the unit if it tips over
Cons
- Requires propane
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Best Propane-Powered Portable Heater
Pros
