As temperatures drop in Alberta, many homeowners turn to space heaters for extra warmth. These portable heating devices are marketed as energy-efficient alternatives to central heating, but are they truly saving you money? While space heaters can provide targeted warmth, misuse or over-reliance on them can actually increase your electricity bill.
This article explores the true costs of using space heaters, how they compare to central heating, and when they can be an effective solution.
How Much Does a Space Heater Cost to Run?
The cost of running a space heater depends on wattage, usage time, and electricity rates. Most space heaters use 1,500 watts (1.5 kW) per hour. At Alberta’s average electricity rate of $0.15 per kWh, running a space heater for:
- 4 hours per day costs around $18 per month
- 8 hours per day costs around $36 per month
- 24/7 usage can exceed $130 per month
If multiple space heaters are used in a home, these costs add up quickly. Many homeowners underestimate the long-term impact of keeping space heaters on throughout the day, leading to unexpectedly high electricity bills.
Do Space Heaters Save Money Compared to Central Heating?
Space heaters can save money in specific situations, but they are not a cost-effective replacement for central heating. Here’s how they compare:
When Space Heaters Can Help You Save
- Heating a Single Room Instead of the Whole House: If you spend most of your time in one room, using a space heater while lowering the thermostat for the rest of the house can reduce energy costs.
- Supplementing Heat in Drafty or Poorly Insulated Areas: Homes with poor insulation or rooms that struggle to retain heat (like basements) may benefit from targeted heating instead of turning up the central thermostat.
- Providing Extra Warmth for Short Periods: A space heater used only for an hour or two in a small space is less expensive than running an entire furnace at a higher setting.
When Space Heaters Increase Your Energy Bill
- Using Multiple Heaters in Different Rooms: Running two or more space heaters throughout a home often costs more than using central heating efficiently.
- Keeping a Space Heater on for Extended Hours: If a space heater runs for 6+ hours per day, it may cost more than simply increasing the central thermostat a few degrees.
- Relying on Space Heaters Instead of Addressing Home Efficiency Issues: If certain rooms are too cold, fixing insulation, sealing drafts, or upgrading windows is a better long-term solution than relying on space heaters.
Space Heater Efficiency: Electric vs. Gas vs. Infrared
Not all space heaters operate at the same efficiency levels. Understanding the differences can help reduce costs and improve effectiveness.
Electric Space Heaters
- The most common type, usually 1,500 watts
- Effective for small areas but expensive for long-term use
- Converts electricity into heat with 100% efficiency, but electricity costs are higher than natural gas
Gas or Propane Space Heaters
- Run on natural gas or propane instead of electricity
- More cost-effective in areas where natural gas rates are lower than electricity
- Requires proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup
Infrared Space Heaters
- Use infrared radiation to heat objects instead of the air
- Can feel warmer faster and distribute heat more evenly
- Typically lower wattage than standard electric space heaters, making them slightly more energy-efficient
Alternatives to Space Heaters for Cost-Effective Heating
Before relying on a space heater, consider lower-cost and energy-efficient alternatives that can keep your home warm without driving up your utility bill.
1. Optimize Your Central Heating System
- Lower the thermostat by 1-2°C and wear warmer clothing instead of relying on space heaters.
- Use programmable or smart thermostats to reduce heating costs when you’re not home.
2. Improve Home Insulation and Sealing
- Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent heat loss.
- Add insulation to attics and crawl spaces to keep warmth inside.
3. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Heat
- Reverse the direction of ceiling fans in the winter to push warm air down and distribute heat more evenly.
4. Consider Zoned Heating
- Some modern HVAC systems allow zoned heating, where different rooms can be heated to different temperatures, eliminating the need for space heaters.
Final Verdict: Are Space Heaters Worth It?
Space heaters can be a useful short-term heating solution, but they should not be used as a primary heat source. While they provide immediate warmth, their high electricity usage makes them expensive for long-term use.
Instead of relying on space heaters, optimizing your home’s insulation, using programmable thermostats, and maintaining an efficient central heating system are more effective ways to reduce energy costs.
Looking for ways to cut heating costs this winter? Compare our rates and see how Peace Power can help you save on electricity and natural gas.