The Truth About Space Heaters: Are They Really Saving Columbus Homeowners Money?

No matter how good your home’s heating system may be, nearly every Columbus home has spots that seem to stay a bit chilly. Maybe it’s the home office in the basement, or the bedroom you added in the attic … it just never gets warm enough. That’s when space heaters may look like an attractive option. They’re designed to provide heat in small spaces. Homeowners may even turn the main system’s thermostat down and supplement it with space heaters because they think that’s saving them money.

How do space heaters keep you warm?

Unlike your Columbus home’s furnace or heat pump, space heaters are exactly what their name implies. Instead of heating your entire home, they’re made to heat small spaces within the home. They typically use electricity to generate heat, employing methods such as convection, radiant heating, or fan-forced air circulation. Common types include ceramic heaters, infrared heaters, oil-filled radiators, and fan heaters.

Do space heaters really save money?

Well, that depends on a lot of factors. Many people who buy space heaters do so because they believe that heating one small room or a similar space will cost less than heating their entire Columbus home. It’s possible that by turning down your central heating thermostat and using space heaters in specific rooms, you can reduce the overall energy consumption of your heating system. However, space heaters are typically not an inexpensive way to heat.

Are different types of space heaters more efficient?

Again, that depends on your home and the situation you want to address. For example, infrared heaters are more efficient for individual use because they heat objects and people directly rather than the surrounding air. Fan heaters heat quickly but are less efficient for prolonged use because they continuously draw high levels of power. Oil-filled radiators provide steady heat and retain warmth even after being turned off, making them more cost-effective over time.

Why do you say space heaters are not inexpensive?

Most space heaters use electricity, which can be expensive depending on your local utility rates. Some homeowners mistakenly leave space heaters running in multiple rooms simultaneously or fail to lower their central heating’s thermostat. Others keep their space heaters running even when nobody is in the room. Many try to use small space heaters to warm rooms that are just too big to be heated effectively that way. In cases like these, space heaters can actually increase energy bills rather than reduce them.

Space heaters aren’t always a safe choice

According to the National Fire Protection Association, home heating systems are one of the leading causes of fire in American homes – and nearly 9 in 10 fatal home fires involving heating were caused by space heaters and similar portable heating devices. Space heaters may also cause burns, especially among small children or household pets who don’t recognize the danger. Space heaters that are accidentally knocked over may ignite carpeting and other flammable substances. Investing in models with safety features like tip-over protection, automatic shut-off, and cool-to-the-touch exteriors can reduce some of the risks but may increase the upfront cost. Regular cleaning and maintenance are an important part of keeping space heaters running efficiently and safely.

Are space heaters ever the best choice?

There are situations when the right space heater might be your smartest options. For example, you might use a space heater to boost heating in a home office or guest room instead of the entire house. They can also be great for heating an individual room when it’s not cold enough to justify using the central heating system. Space heaters may also be a wise choice for warming up a small area for short periods, such as during a cold snap. Wherever you place your space heater, be sure to follow all the manufacturer’s safety standards. For example, you don’t want to put your space heater close to flammable materials.

Need advice about space heaters?

If you’re dealing with a room in your Columbus home that never gets warm enough or has similar issues, before you invest in a costly space heater, why not talk to the heating experts from Johnson Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing? We’ll be happy to assess your home and look at the spaces that may be frustrating you. Sometimes space heaters are a good solution, but more often, homeowners would get even more comfort and greater energy efficiency by using some of today’s advanced comfort technology. For example, zoning systems can help you bring heat to the places that most need it. And what’s known as a ductless mini-split can deliver precise heating levels in individual rooms (or garages and sheds) far more efficiently than space heaters. We’ll be happy to help.