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Stop Over-Running Your Central Heating System, Use A Space Heater Instead

Updated on July 23, 2020 by Joseph D. Nielson

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During the cold winter months, our home’s central heating system works to add additional warmth and comfort to our living space. 

Yet, even with a heating system, some areas in our home don’t get as warm as we’d like them to. Whether it’s that particular room that stays annoyingly draft or if you’re one of those people who are always cold, no matter what the season, then a space heater might be your new best friend.

A space heater provides additional warmth to a large room. 

A space heater is designed to warm up a single room or a specific area that needs that extra bit of heated attention.

This makes space heaters a more efficient way of utilizing heat because you’re directing the heat only where you need it. 

Space heaters come in a range of different sizes and capacities, ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 (BTUs). 

There are a variety of different space heaters on the market. But essentially, there are two main types of space heaters: radiant and convection. 

The radiant type is perfect for spot-heating. Convection heaters, on the other hand, are ideal for warming up an entire room. 

When space heaters are designed specifically for large rooms, these guys can quickly heat a living room or a master bedroom that’s 300 square feet or bigger.

Benefits of having a space heater

Because a space heater is a great way to raise the temperature only in those specific rooms that are draftier than others, it means that you’ll get these added benefits:

Lower energy bills

As a type of supplemental heating for only a room or two, space heaters can significantly help reduce energy bills. 

Think about it.

It is way more economical to use a space heater to warm a focused space than having to run the central heat at a higher temperature. 

Plus, with a central heating system, there is no guarantee that a particular room will successfully receive the much-needed warmth it needs. 

So instead of cranking up the thermostat this winter, every time you feel a draft, you can simply focus a space heater only where you need it. 

Lets you stay green while still staying warm

Another great thing about space heaters is that they use less electricity than your central heating system. This benefit lowers your home’s environmental footprint. 

Easy to carry around

Space heaters are portable. Their convenient size makes them easy to take around with you. While you’re not likely to take your space heater out of your house, you’ll still need to move it from room to room. 

It provides warmth, fast!

Space heaters tend to heat up pretty quickly and provide an instant heat solution. 

This is a great fix for those stubborn drafty rooms and helpful in the event of an emergency in where your main central heating system shuts down. 

Can your space heater reaaaaallly save you money?

In short, yes. A space heater can save you money. 

Central heating can be expensive, especially when trying to warm up a larger home. That’s why the option of being able to heat just one room without having to use your primary central heating system can certainly help shave a few dollars off the utility bill by the end of the month. 

Space heaters are especially helpful for those on a budget or who just moved into a new home. To really ensure that you’re saving money in the long run, you’ll want to get a top-rated efficient space heater.

Things to consider when purchasing an energy-efficient space heater 

Buying one of these guys means you could save a little money on your monthly energy bill. You’ll want to start by thinking about what type of room you’re trying to heat. 

Space heaters come in a variety of sizes for different spaces. Also, you’ll want to consider the amount of energy it uses. A lot of space heaters claim to be the most efficient, but most all use the same amount of energy. Look for a heater that uses 750 to 1,000 watts.

Also, look for models with automatic shut-offs or temperature regulators, particularly if your space heater will be running frequently or overnight. 

Tip: look for labels that indicate the unit has been tested by recognized labs like UL, ETL, or CSA.

Safe tips for space heaters

While owning a space heater provides many added benefits, you’ll still want to keep safety in mind, especially if you have pets or kids. 

For instance, In the event that you’re not home or happen to forget that it’s on, you’ll want to get a space heater with a sensor that shuts off if it overheats. You’ll also want to make sure it has an off switch should the space heater ever tip over.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission states that over 25,000 residential house fires each year are linked to space heaters. Space heaters also lead to more than 6,000 emergency room visits for burn injuries.

While these statistics are frightening, to say the least, there are a lot of things that you can do that minimize the risk of fire and injury while keeping warm.

  • How you place a space heater is essential for safety and getting the best heat flow. Position your heater on a solid surface that is unmovable. 
  • Make sure you’re placing your space heater on a flat and stable surface. Books or anything loose or stacked is not a safe surface.
  • Position the heater on a level surface away from any possible foot traffic. Keep your space heater out of doorways and walking paths. You don’t want to trip over your space heater accidentally should you need to leave the room suddenly or quickly.
  • Give your heater plenty of room. Space should be a minimum of 3 feet in circumference around.
  • Make sure the area around the heater clear of flammable objects, particularly paper, fabric, trash, paints, cleaning supplies.
  • You should avoid extension cords when using electric space heaters, in case they don’t have the proper wattage to handle the electrical load of the space heater. 
  • Be especially mindful when using a space heater in the same room as children or pets.
  • Your space heater shouldn’t be anywhere near moisture or liquids of any kind. Space heaters are not designed to be in a kitchen and definitely should not be placed in a bathroom.

Purchasing tips for space heaters

  • Purchase a space heater that shuts off by itself if it’s accidentally been tipped over.
  • Look for one with a timer, a temperature setting and remote control so that you can monitor it from afar (without ever leaving your bed). 
  • A fan feature helps distribute heat more quickly. 
  • A timer feature can give you the option of pre-setting the appliance precisely to your specifications so that you can come home to an optimally-heated home. This can also save energy and significantly reduce the scary risk of fire and injury.
  • Choose a heater with a thermostat that will help you avoid wasting energy and overheating the room. The heater will shut off when it senses that the room temperature has reached a certain level, and turns back on when it detects a drop in temperature.
  • Get a space heater that lets you adjust the amount of heated air that is released into the room.

The best space heater brands around

Dyson models are known as a twofer, which means that they can heat a room during the wintertime or cool you down in the summer. So, instead of having just a couple of settings, the device lets you select a target temperature. Dyson’s long-range heat projection made you feel the waves of warmth, even if you’re on the opposite side of a large room.

DeLonghi space heaters can be wall-mounted to keep them out of the way. The machine shuts off when it becomes too hot or if it tips over. Their sleek design and matte-black finish match most interior.

Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove is an excellent way to stay cozy this winter. It’s great for smaller living spaces, like an apartment or a separate room, adding heat exactly where it’s needed. Even when the heater is on, you’ll find that it is cool to the touch, making it extra safe for your kids or pets. 

Take Away

A space heater is a great way to ensure you keep warm during those long winter months. Even if you’re one of those people who are always cold (no matter what the season), A space heater will keep you cuddly warm when the central heating system in your house isn’t performing at peak strengths. With a few smart safety tips, investing in a space heater can help you and your family stay warm, safe, and even green this winter.

Joseph and Family
About Joseph D. Nielson

Former journalist and editor for various press groups, I now dedicate my time to reviewing products for the home and family life. When I get time to myself, I enjoy rock climbing, taking my dirt bike for a rip, and most importantly providing my family with the best home possible!