Although energy efficiency often comes to mind when considering heaters, there are many other things to consider when choosing a heating device for the home.
With the current improvements in technology, electric room heaters may be the best overall option compared to other heating systems.
A geothermal heat pump is the prime example of an ecological heating system.
It uses vapor-compression refrigeration cycle and a heat pump stored in shallow ground.
Since this system needs to be stored underground and regular HVAC ducts are not sufficient for use with it, a geothermal heat pump can be an expensive investment, especially in cases when it won't be used during the rest of the year.
Natural ingredient heaters, such as gas devices or pellet stoves, are also ecological heating devices.
However, these pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Propane heaters have the same risk, in addition to the fact that all gas heaters are susceptible to gas leaks as well.
Furthermore, temperature control is not an exact science with these and the units themselves can be hot to the touch, often encased in stainless steel.
Electric room heaters used to be criticized for the glowing nichrome wire heating elements, but today they use infrared or ceramic heating elements for safer warmth generation.
Electric heating systems have also since been combined with electric fans for better distribution.
They are now encased in cool-to-touch plastic or stainless housings with child-safe air vents that keep children's fingers away from the fan blades.
Others feature tip-over protection, and some even run on low electricity and are equipped with accurate thermostats, timers and remote controls to help them remain energy-efficient.