Use a variable AC transformer to adjust the output of a radiant heater

heaterregulatortransformervoltage

During the winter I use a radiant heater under my desk to supplement the house's furnace, something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Tangkula-Adjustable-Thermostat-Overheating-Protection/dp/B07J5V76H6/ref=sr_1_40?dchild=1&keywords=radiant+heater&qid=1595091662&sr=8-40

It has a high and low setting (800/400 watts). But often I want something less than low (200w? 300w?), and occasionally something in between high and low (600w?). Is it safe to use a variable AC transformer for such control? Note: The heater has an optional motor that swings the heating elements from left to right; I will NOT use that.

Assuming that it is safe to do so, would 10 amp be enough, and where's a good place to find a reliable and not-too-expensive ones? Here is one example from amazon

https://www.amazon.com/YaeCCC-Transformer-Variable-Voltage-Regulator/dp/B078Z7GL9H/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=variable+voltage+transformer+10a&qid=1595092024&sr=8-3

There are many similar ones and I can't tell them apart. And then there are ones like this

https://www.amazon.com/Electronic-Controller-Variable-Adjuster-Hydroponics/dp/B07T9BLJ7L/ref=sr_1_10?dchild=1&keywords=adjustable+AC+regulator&qid=1595092192&sr=8-10

and even

https://www.amazon.com/Yeeco-Regulator-Thermostat-Temperature-Controller/dp/B00MKU4W3Y/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=adjustable+AC+regulator&qid=1595092241&sr=8-3

What's the difference?

I will use these devices indoor and I'm not an electrician, so safety is my top concern. With that in mind, I would like to not spend more than necessary for a $40 heater 🙂

Many thanks for your help. Please let me know if you need additional information.

Best Answer

I wouldn't mess with stuff like you are proposing. Electrical resistance heating always requires a lot of power. There's too much junk out there to be sure it's safe to use with a constant load like an electric heater. Like Harp has "harped on" (pun intended) often is stuff sold on Amazon often doesn't meet UL listing and other USA safety testing. There are a number of good alternatives to the setup you are proposing, like under desk warming panels that are safe. Do some research, but don't try to power down a heater like you asked, it's asking for trouble and potential fire.