By Abby Berry
Small space heaters are meant to do exactly as their name says: heat small spaces. Unfortunately, many people use portable space heaters in an attempt to heat their entire house, which takes a toll on their energy bills.
Whether you should use space heaters depends on your home’s efficiency and energy needs. Using a space heater to compensate for problems in your home—such as inadequate insulation, drafty windows and exterior doors, or an inefficient heating system—is not a practical solution. Your best bet is to improve the overall efficiency of your home.
If you are on a tight budget, caulking and weatherstripping around windows and exterior doors is a low-cost, easy way to save energy. Depending on the size of your home, adding insulation can be a great next step. Loose-fill insulation typically costs $1 to $1.50 per square foot.
Taking these proactive energy-saving measures rather than relying on space heaters for supplemental warmth can reduce your heating and cooling bills for years to come.
Perhaps your home is energy efficient but you are cold-natured and want a specific room to be cozier than the rest. In this case, a space heater may work.
A good comparison is ceiling fans. Ceiling fans are used in the summer to cool people, not rooms. A space heater can be used in a similar way during winter months. Only use a space heater in small spaces while you occupy them and, if possible, try to shut off other rooms to contain the warmth provided by the space heater.
If you decide to use a space heater in a small area in your home, make sure the heater is properly sized for the space. Most heaters include a general sizing table.
A Word About Safety
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates more than 25,000 residential fires are associated with the use of space heaters every year, resulting in more than 300 deaths.
If you must use a space heater, buy a newer model that includes the most current safety features and make sure it carries the Underwriter’s Laboratory label. Choose a thermostatically controlled heater to avoid energy waste and overheating, and place the heater on a level surface away from foot traffic when in use. Always keep children and pets away from space heaters.
Consider alternative ways to stay warm, such as extra layers of clothing or UL-approved electric blankets. If you have hardwood or tile floors, use area rugs to provide insulation and maintain warmth.
While it is cold out there, remember in addition to safety concerns, space heaters can greatly increase your energy bills if used improperly.
Tips to Ditch the Space Heater
Space heaters are energy hogs, and other models can be extremely dangerous. This winter, ditch the space heater and try these alternative solutions to stay cozy.
- Use an electric blanket to keep warm during the night
- Caulk and weatherstrip around all windows and doors to prevent heat loss
- Consider adding insulation to your attic and around duct work