November 7, 2019

Pros And Cons Of Space Heaters

Indoor space heaters can be a polarizing topic. Some swear by them while others contend that the risk outweighs any benefits. At Scott-Lee Heating Company in St. Louis, we maintain that space heaters can play an effective role in heating your home if you are aware of the pros and cons.

Pro: Potential Cost-Savings

Space heaters are inexpensive relative to other heating equipment. These heaters also cost less to operate than running a central heating system at the same temperature. You can save by keeping the main thermostat 10 degrees or even more below what you would normally need, and you can stay warm by using the space heater in the room you are actually occupying, such as a family room.

Con: Fire and Burn Risk

The National Fire Protection Association warns that space heaters account for more than 40% of all home heating-related fires. Space heaters are also responsible for most fire-related deaths during winter, and they account for thousands of burn-related injuries each year.

Pro: Easy to Use

Modern space heaters are often elegant, user-friendly, and very easy to use. If you are in an emergency situation where you need to heat your living space, there is no option faster or more convenient to use. Manufacturers have done a good job of making products less prone to causing fires and burns.

Con: Require Constant Attention

While modern space heaters are much safer than products in the past, they have not reached the point that you can leave them unattended. Many of the aforementioned fires occur because people fell asleep. They are not a safe option for bedrooms, and you have to be careful not to use a space heater in one area for too long.

A Better Way to Heat Your Home

Space heaters may be part of the solution to achieving optimal heating for your home. But they’re not the only option. Scott-Lee Heating Company can assist you with any heating and cooling services, including installation, repair and maintenance. We also provide services related to air cleaners, humidifiers, dehumidifiers and energy recovery ventilators, so contact us at your earliest convenience to schedule an appointment.