The 7 best solutions 2026
Small spaces seem easy to heat, but in reality, they often feel cold the fastest. Think of a home office, small bedroom, studio, bathroom, or attic room. The cause? Heat loss, insufficient power, or a central heating system that's simply not designed for the space.
Fortunately, there are modern, energy-efficient solutions to heat small spaces quickly, safely and affordably without having to heat the entire house.
In this guide, you'll discover the 7 best solutions for 2026.
Why small spaces often feel colder
Many small rooms lose relatively more heat than larger spaces. Older homes or rooms with extensive window space are particularly affected. Windows, cracks, and cold floors cause heat to literally escape.
In addition, small spaces often don't heat up well with central heating because the thermostat is in a different room. This leaves your home office or bedroom underheated, even when the rest of the house feels comfortable.
1. Infrared panels: the most economical solution available today
Infrared panels are becoming increasingly popular in Dutch homes. They don't heat the air, but you and the objects around you, just like the sun. This makes them extremely efficient.
Why infrared is ideal for small spaces:
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up to 40% more economical than conventional electric heaters
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virtually no heat loss
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heats up in 1–2 minutes
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no dry air or noise
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can be mounted on ceiling or wall → saves space
2. Compact convectors: heat quickly and evenly
Convectors heat the air in a room. The air warms up, rises, and spreads throughout the room. This works surprisingly well and quickly for small spaces.
Advantages:
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rapid heating
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energy-saving eco mode
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virtually silent
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compact size
3. Electric towel radiators: perfect for small bathrooms
Heating a small bathroom can be challenging, especially when there's no standard radiator. An electric towel radiator is the perfect solution.
It warms your towels and the room itself. Modern models have timers and a thermostat, making them very energy-efficient.
4. Office heating: ideal for home rooms up to 10 m²
Small offices and workspaces are often not heated efficiently. Central heating warms the air in the room, but not you at your desk.
Modern office heating solves this perfectly:
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under-desk heaters for your legs and feet
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heated mouse pads for warm hands
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mini convectors for direct zone heating
Highly energy efficient, focused and comfortable.
5. Infrared floor panels: warm feet without installation
Infrared floor panels are ideal for hobby rooms, attics, small bedrooms, or workspaces. They're plug-and-play and provide wonderfully warm feet in minutes.
They consume little power and feel extremely comfortable.
6. Smart timers and eco-thermostats: save energy automatically
A small room never needs to be heated all day. With a smart thermostat or timer, you can only heat when you're present.
Recommended settings:
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Eco mode: 17–18°C
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Comfort: 20–22°C
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Automatic switch-off after departure
This way you save without thinking about it.
7. Extra insulation: small adjustments, big effect
The most underestimated way to save energy is extra insulation. Small spaces are particularly susceptible to drafts and heat loss.
Simple improvements:
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draft strips on windows and doors
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window film
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rug on a cold floor
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thicker curtains or thermal roller blinds
Can be arranged within one day and you will immediately feel the difference.
Which solution best suits your space?
Small bedroom → infrared panel (quiet, economical, direct heat)
Home office → desk heater + mini convector
Small bathroom → electric towel radiator
Attic room or studio → compact convector or small IR panel
Do you want to be sure which solution best suits your space?
Check out our recommendations below.
Conclusion
Heating a small space doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. With the right heating solution, you can save up to 40% on energy, feel warm faster, and significantly increase your living comfort.
At Ruby Home we combine warmth with design for a home that feels comfortable and stylish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my small space always cold?
Small rooms often lose heat through windows, drafts, and cold floors. A local heating solution or better insulation quickly resolves this.
What is the most energy-efficient way to heat a small space?
Infrared panels are the most energy-efficient. They don't heat the air, but you directly without heat loss.
Is office heating really effective?
Yes, because it heats very precisely. You use much less energy than if you had to heat the entire room.
What is better: infrared or convector?
For direct, economical heat: infrared.
For rapid heating of the air: convector.
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