When you live in a place where cold winters are a natural part of life, you need a way to warm up your living space. Two of the most well-known heating options include central heaters and space heaters.
In theory, a space heater may sound like a more practical option, especially for homeowners. But is it really? Read on to learn more about these two types of heaters and when it is more practical to use one type over the other.
Space Heaters
Comparing central heating units to space heaters, these types of heating devices are smaller and more portable. Space heaters normally lack heat transfer ducts but they can run on the same energy sources as central heaters.
Of the different types of space heaters, models that rely on combustion are the least eco-friendly and most dangerous to use. Combustion heaters have the highest risk of causing fires in homes. Plus, the combustion process also releases hazardous types of gases into the air which adds to the danger of using these types of space heaters.
Homeowners are advised to have fire detectors installed in areas where the space heaters will be placed and used. Look for space heaters that can turn off when the unit accidentally fails. You should also avoid plugging in a space heater into an extension cord. Space heaters normally use around 1500 watts. By using an extension cord, you are placing a huge load on a single socket.
When it comes to efficiency rates, electric space heaters that produce radiant heat are the most efficient types. These types radiate heat along their line of sight. They are good options for warming up small spaces such as a dinner table.
There are also convection heaters. These types of space heaters function by warming up the air in the room. Both convection and radiant heaters fall under the same price range.
Central Heat vs Space Heaters
Some people buy or use space heaters thinking that these would help bring down their energy costs. They are indeed useful devices, but they are not a practical option in every situation.
There are several factors to consider when it comes to choosing between space heaters and a central heating system. One involves the size of the space being heated up.
If you only need to heat one or two rooms in your home, a space heater may be a more practical choice. Space heaters do use less energy as compared to using central heat. As such, having a space heater in every room in the home and turning them all on at the same will only cost you more, not less.
When you bought your heater is also a factor. Newer models are designed to be more energy-efficient than older ones. If you find that your central heating system is no longer producing the same warmth as it used to, have it checked for possible issues or consider having it replaced.
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