Home Use of Electric Space Heaters for Winter Heat

As the cold months of winter approach, homeowners turn their attention to the warmth and comfort offered by the home heating system thermostat. However, when some areas of the home need additional heat, many use portable space heaters to make up the difference in temperature. While space heaters can generate a high amount of heat in a very short time, they may not be the most economical or efficient solution in the long term.

Space Heater Electric Usage

Small space heaters that are designed for use in the home can consume 1500 watts of electricity, the same as using 20 standard 75-watt light bulbs. Operating a portable space heater at this range of wattage consumption for eight hours each day will clearly add much to the monthly electric utility bill.

If there are some rooms in the home that are cooler than others or perhaps a drafty door or window, the real problem may be that these areas are not properly sealed. This will cause any heater to work harder and a large amount of the warm air created by using a space heater is going to seep out of the room. A themostatically controlled space heater used in these conditions may operate continually without ever reaching its prescribed temperature setting. Remember to check the home for the proper weather stripping around doors and the caulking around windows and correct any areas that are in need of attention

Electric Space Heater Safety

When space heaters are to be used in in the home, make certain that they are equipped with a tip-over disconnect switch which will effectively shut the heater down. Be sure to keep children and pets away from space heater at all times and keep the space heater a safe distance from paper and other combustible materials. Never leave the home when a space heater is operating and always unplug them when they are not in use.

When the decision to purchase a space heater for the home has been made, be certain to choose a space heater that has been tested and approved by Underwriters Laboratories. This will ensure that all the necessary safety features are installed.

Electric Space Heater Types

Home space heaters are available with variable-speed blower motors that aid in circulating warm air in a specific direction, while others work strictly by convection. As the heat generated by the convection-type space heater rises, it draws cool air from the floor and continues to re-circulate the air in a room in this manner. Convection heaters are often preferred for their quiet operation.

Make informed decisions when you shop for an electric space heater and, remember, always work safely.