Do you struggle with expensive energy bills during the winter? Are you considering boosting your home’s heating with space heaters? These convenient appliances are great for small areas where you need a little extra heat. They don’t take up a lot of space and are widely available at local retailers. However, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to completely turn off your furnace this winter. Determine your ideal heating solution by evaluating your household needs and home size. Here’s what you should consider when deciding to use space heaters in your home.
Furnace
A furnace is a large appliance that provides heating to your entire home from one central point. These days, the most commonly used furnaces require natural gas, electricity or oil to produce heat. They consistently heat large amounts of air and push it out into your home via its ductwork, making them one of the best ways to heat a large area. This massive amount of heat requires a lot of energy, making furnaces the most expensive option.
Furnaces also require expert maintenance services. If you neglect to schedule regular professional tune-ups for your system, you may experience lowered air quality in your home, increased energy bills, and a variety of safety risks. For instance, furnaces run the risk of leaking carbon monoxide, especially if they’re older and aren’t correctly maintained. If you’re struggling with increased energy bills during the winter, consider professional maintenance to lower your costs and maximize your system’s efficiency.
If your home has a zoning system or you get one installed, you can use your furnace to heat the house without having to waste money by warming up rooms you’re not using. Zoning systems enable you to focus heat where you need it most. For instance, you can avoid wasting energy to heat your bedroom if you’re using a home office for the majority of the day. These systems work best if you have a large house with many areas not in use during the winter.
Space Heaters
Space heaters are less expensive than furnaces and can last up to 20 years with proper care and storage. These appliances often use fuel or electricity to generate a moderate amount of heat. Your local energy rates can vary, but fuel is typically the least expensive option.
Common space heaters include radiant heating and fan-forced heating. Radiant heaters slowly warm the air around the unit and take a long time to reach ideal temperatures. This option is best for medium-sized areas being used by several people. You’re more likely to find fan-forced heaters in your local stores. They provide immediate heat but require more power and won’t heat as much of the room. This type of unit is great in individual rooms where only one person needs the heat.
Many space heaters can get hot to the touch, presenting a hazard to objects and family members. Unlike your furnace, space heaters should be constantly monitored while in use. Never leave a space heater unattended, especially if you have children or small animals capable of knocking it over. Clear away all flammable objects, and elevate the appliance on a flat, stable surface to ensure it’s out of reach. Fuel-based space heaters should be properly ventilated to prevent carbon monoxide from building up in the home.
While space heaters may seem like a great alternative to using your central heating system, they’re often best used in a complementary role. Use your furnace to heat the home to a minimally safe temperature, or no lower than 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Never risk your family’s well-being or the efficiency of your plumbing, electronics, and belongings. Once your furnace has staved off the worst of the winter chill, use space heaters to supplement your regular heating. Space heaters can enhance your indoor comfort but should never be solely relied on.
Your Local HVAC Team
is committed to offering the highest quality HVAC services in Albany, NY and the surrounding areas. We’re a woman-owned company that’s been in operation since 2016. You can always expect exceptional service and a great experience when choosing our team. Our NATE-certified technicians can install, repair, and maintain your heat pump, furnace, or cooling system with ease. We can improve your air quality, provide excellent air filters, and boost your home’s ventilation. Trust our team with all your indoor comfort needs in Albany. Call today to ask about our seasonal specials.
