Should You Use Space Heaters in Winter? Energy Experts Weigh In

As temperatures drop, many people turn to space heaters to supplement their home's central heating and warm up specific areas like bedrooms or home offices. While they offer a quick heating solution for smaller spaces, space heaters also present potential downsides, including increased energy consumption, fire hazards, and dry air. We consulted with an energy professional to determine if using a space heater at home is a worthwhile option.

Bill Taylor, HVAC Contractor Manager at South Jersey Gas & Elizabethtown Gas, advises that space heaters should only serve as supplemental heat sources and not replace your home's primary heating system. While using a space heater can certainly increase comfort, especially if you spend most of your time in a single room, it's important to be aware of the associated safety risks and additional costs.

Ultimately, deciding whether to use a space heater during the winter depends on individual needs, how you intend to use it, and how diligent you are about turning it off when not needed.

Safety Considerations

Space heaters can pose a fire risk if not used properly. Taylor emphasizes the importance of placing them on a stable, flat surface, keeping them at least three feet away from flammable materials like blankets, clothes, and paper. It's also crucial to never leave a space heater unattended or use it while sleeping.

Another important safety tip is to avoid plugging space heaters into power strips or extension cords. Due to their high amperage, space heaters can overload these devices, increasing the risk of fire. When purchasing a space heater, prioritize models that meet current safety standards, are appropriately sized for the room, and include safety features such as automatic shutoff in case of tipping or overheating.

Energy Consumption and Costs

Like any electrical appliance, space heaters consume energy and contribute to your overall energy bill. Taylor cautions that space heaters can use more energy than many people realize, especially if left on for extended periods or in unoccupied rooms. Many models, however, come equipped with timers or automatic shut-off features to help manage energy use.

It's both wasteful and potentially dangerous to operate a space heater in an empty room. Similarly, using a space heater in a drafty space, such as a garage, will result in significant energy waste with minimal improvement in comfort, as the heat will escape through gaps and cracks. Addressing these drafts through proper sealing is a more energy-efficient solution.

Furnace Efficiency

While using a space heater doesn't automatically indicate a problem with your furnace, it can be a sign of underlying issues. Taylor suggests that frequent space heater use might point to inadequate insulation, unsealed vents causing drafts, or the need for a furnace tune-up. In such cases, consulting a qualified heating professional is recommended. They can assess your system and recommend long-term solutions that may involve upfront costs but lead to significant savings in the long run.

Tips for Minimizing Costs

If you decide to use a space heater, there are several ways to reduce energy costs. Taylor recommends limiting heating to a single room, using a timer (even if the heater doesn't have one), and unplugging the unit when it's not in use to prevent phantom energy draw.

Complementary strategies include opening curtains during the day to utilize sunlight for warmth and closing them at dusk to minimize heat loss.