There are many different ways that you can heat your home. You can use a whole home heating unit, such as a furnace, boiler or HVAC unit. You can light a fire or use a gas fireplace. Or you can use a space heater. If you are considering the use of a space heater, it is important that you understand how they work, when they should be used and how to safely use one. Here's what you need to know about space heaters. 

The Different Types of Space Heaters

Not every space heater is the same. There are different types of space heaters, including baseboards heaters, plug-in heaters and freestanding heaters. The different types of heaters also can be powered by different sources, including electricity, gas or oil, generators or batteries. Regardless of which type you decide to go with, it is important to carefully read the safety instructions that come with the space heater and follow them when it comes time to use it.

How to Safely Use a Space Heater

Every type of space heater has their own safety instructions. But there are a few rules that should be followed with every single type of space heater. The first rule is to turn the heater off when you are not in a room with the unit. They can catch on fire or start fires if they are left running too long and are not monitored. The second is to keep all paper, clothes and other flammable objects at least three feet away from the heater. Lastly, always let a space heater cool completely before attempting to move it. 

When Should You Use a Space Heater

A space heater is not designed to heat your entire house and should only be used to heat a small space. A space heater is a great option for unheated spaces you may be in, such as when you are doing laundry in an unfinished basement or working in an outdoor shed in the winter. 

Why a Space Heater is Not a Replacement for a Whole House Heating Source

A space heater is not a replacement for a whole house heating source for a few reasons. First, space heaters can be dangerous. They can lead to fires or carbon monoxide poisoning if not used correctly. They can also burn children or pets who touch them when they are hot. The other reason why these are not a whole house heating source is that they are expensive to purchase and operate. Operating a whole house heating source is typically cheaper than using multiple space heaters to heat your home. 

A space heater serves a purpose. It can help to heat a space you rarely use or provide heat if your furnace or home heating unit suddenly goes out. But it is not designed to be used all the time to keep your entire home warm. Here at Action Heating & Air Inc., we can help you find the right heating solution for your home, install it and maintain it. Contact us today and let us help you.