Drafty room? Before reaching for your space heater, consider whether it’s better to plug it in or simply turn up the thermostat.
Space heaters are designed to warm small, targeted spaces — not your entire home. If you find yourself relying on one often, it may be time to address your home’s energy efficiency.
Fix efficiency first, then supplement with a space heater
Improving your home’s efficiency helps it retain heat, reduces drafts and reduces your energy use. Many solutions are affordable and DIY-friendly, such as:
- Sealing air leaks. Use caulk and weather stripping around windows and exterior doors to prevent drafts.
- Adding insulation where it matters. Attic insulation has the biggest return on investment, and loose-fill insulation is an affordable option. Learn more about our incentives.
- Checking your heating system. Schedule regular service for your furnace or heat pump. If it’s outdated or struggling, it could be time for an upgrade. Learn more about our incentives.
- Usinge programmable thermostats. These can help reduce energy waste by heating only when and where needed. Get up to $100 when you install a smart thermostat.
Once your home is sealed and insulated, a space heater can be used to increase comfort and warm specific rooms, like a home office or bedroom, without turning up the heat for the whole house. A space heater is like a ceiling fan; it can improve comfort in a small area, but it’s not a whole-house solution.
Use space heaters efficiently:
- Heat only the room you’re currently in.
- Close doors to keep heat contained.
- Choose the right size — too small and it won’t warm you; too big and it wastes energy. Check manufacturer sizing guides.
- Use a heater with a thermostat and timer to avoid overheating the room or wasting electricity.
— Source: safeelectricity.com