For those of us who work from home and prefer to do it in comfort – which, let’s be honest, is anyone working from home – managing heating costs is crucial. We’re all feeling the pinch with rising living costs a daily part of life, and energy prices are certainly part of that. This makes finding cost-effective ways to use your space heater without sacrificing comfort all the more important.
Whether you’re using your space heater in your home office or even in the living room once you’ve knocked off for the day, the choices you make can dramatically affect your household energy bills. And by choices, we’re talking about the type of space heater you have and the way you use it. By deciding between an electric or gas-powered heater and using that heater efficiently, you can maintain a cosy environment while keeping costs in check.
Electric heaters vs. gas heaters: Which is better?
First and foremost, if you’re shopping around for a new space heater, it certainly helps to know your options. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the types of heaters that are available:
Electric heaters
These include fan heaters, infrared heaters, and oil-filled radiators. Electric space heaters are user-friendly, often portable, and generally great for small spaces. Use it too much though, and they can be quite expensive.
Gas heaters
Gas space heaters can include everything from wall furnaces to gas log fires and portable heaters. For larger rooms, they’re typically more cost-effective than electric heaters. However, they do need proper ventilation and regular maintenance to avoid gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Side by side comparison of heaters
Electric heaters are typically more convenient and easier to install, while gas heaters offer better efficiency for larger areas. However, depending on your needs and the size of your space, an electric heater may be more expensive to run.
Assessing your heating needs
Once you’ve settled on the right type of space heater, the next step is determining the most suitable model to help you achieve that comfort vs. cost balance. This requires you to assess your heating needs.
Evaluating your home heating needs
Start by considering the size of the room you need to heat. Larger rooms typically need a heater with greater power, while you’ll generally be able to get away with a smaller, more energy-efficient unit for a smaller room.
Another important point of consideration is insulation. A well-insulated room retains heat far better, meaning you won’t need to run your heater nearly as much or at a higher setting.
Don’t forget to factor in your local climate. Southern cities like Melbourne are more susceptible to colder weather than areas like Brisbane, which experiences more tropical climates. So if you live in a colder region, you’ll likely need a more powerful heating solution.
Finally, consider which rooms you want to heat and how often you use them. If you only use specific rooms at particular times, zoning your heating or using portable heaters can be a cost-effective way to heat only the areas you need.
Getting the most out of your space heater
So now that you’ve determined your heating needs and know what kind of heater you want, you should consider just how to get the most out of it. Many households are looking for new and creative ways to save money while still remaining comfortable. So how can you effectively and efficiently heat your home?
Improving electric heater operation
If you’ve settled on buying an electric space heater, you’ll want to run it as efficiently as possible to keep your energy bills at a reasonable level. It’s all about being smart with how you use it.
The first all-important step is to choose an energy-efficient model with a high star rating. This will give you maximum heat with minimum energy use. Most appliances come with a rating between 1 and 6 stars, with 6 being the most efficient.
Smart thermostats and timers can also be the energy-saving friend you never knew you needed. They allow you to control when you run your heater and how long, so you’re not wasting energy.
Though the expression “Location! Location!” is typically more associated with real estate, it’s equally as important to your electric heater use. Placing your heater in a centralised location will allow it to spread warmth evenly. It’s also wise to remember to keep your heater clean. Get rid of any dust accumulation; this will mean it doesn’t need to work as hard to provide the same level of heat.
Optimising gas heater performance
Decided that electric heating isn’t right for you, and you have your feet firmly in the Team Gas camp? Here’s what you’ll need to do to get the best performance from your heater while keeping energy costs in check.
If you’re planning to run a gas-powered space heater, you will need to have sufficient ventilation in your room. Good airflow is crucial for both efficiency and safety when using gas heaters. A flued heater will naturally expel any potentially harmful gases and fumes outside, but using an unflued heater will require you to keep your windows open for safety.
Much like with the electric space heater, choosing an energy-efficient gas-powered model with a high star rating will make a significant difference. Again, regular maintenance is a must; check for leaks, clean burners, and use a licensed gas fitter to make sure all components are in peak working condition. A well-maintained gas heater operates safely and more efficiently. It also lasts longer, saving you money in the long run.
Energy-saving tips and practices for heating your home
As good as a reliable space heater can be, one of the most effective ways to reduce its running costs is to run it in conjunction with some simple energy-saving practices. Here are some practical tips to help you keep your heating costs down while staying warm:
- Reduce standby power: If you have an electric space heater, make sure to turn it off completely when not using it, rather than leaving it on standby, This will save electricity.
- Layer up: Wear warm clothing and use blankets to reduce the need for heating, allowing you to keep the thermostat lower.
- Use timers: Set timers on your heaters so they only run when you need them on.
- Avoid running your heater while you sleep: Consider not leaving heaters on overnight. You’ll save energy while also lowering overheating and safety hazard risks.
By adopting these tips, you can enjoy a cosy home while keeping your energy usage under control.
Stay warm and save money
Cutting down on space heater running costs is more than just about saving money. It’s about making smart choices that keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient.
You can potentially lower your energy bills in a big way by understanding the differences between electric and gas heaters, assessing your specific heating needs, and implementing practical strategies for maximising efficiency.
Adopting small but significant energy-saving practices, like using timers and avoiding leaving space heaters on overnight, can make a big difference. By taking these steps, you’ll enjoy a warm, cosy environment while keeping your heating expenses under control.
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