When winter approaches and the temperature gets chilly, it gets very important to keep the home warm. Central heating is good, but there are instances when you want a cozy area, for example, your home office, bedroom or the living room no one seems to like. For that, space heaters can be useful. But before you rush out and buy one, you might be wondering: What is a space heater, really?
To help you stay warm, safe, and energy-efficient this winter, this guide simplifies everything. We’ll go over the benefits, drawbacks, and ideal applications of each type of space heater, from gas space heater to the more popular electric space heater, so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Space Heaters?
Let’s start with the basics. What is a space heater? It is mainly designed to be portable and heat up small or medium spaces. If you want to heat up a single room, choosing a space heater is different from having an entire house heated by a central boiler. Doing this allows you to heat the room you are in, keep the main heating system lower and save energy in the process.
The main aim of any space heater is to heat you up in your area when necessary, regardless of the kind of heater and the type of energy it runs on.
Gas Space Heater Vs. Electric Space Heater
The two most common types of space heaters are gas space heaters and electric space heaters. Despite their apparent similarities, they function very differently and have different advantages and disadvantages.
What Is A Gas Heater?
Natural gas or liquid propane can power a gas heater. It works by burning fuel and typically offers more power than things powered by electricity. In places where energy is expensive or unreliable, you might notice them being used, and they are common in large, well-ventilated zones like garages and workshops, too.
Types Of Gas Heaters:
Let’s examine some typical gas heater types that you may encounter:
- Convection Heater: Because of natural movement, they gradually increase the air’s temperature in a space. They are great for bringing a steady temperature to an area that does not let heat escape.
- Radiant Heater: Radiant heaters use infrared radiation to directly heat people and objects rather than the air. They are perfect for quickly warming up certain places, like a small space or a reading nook.
- Propane Heaters: Because of their portability and versatility, propane heaters are commonly used outdoors or in semi-open areas. Propane tanks are required, and proper ventilation is always required when using them.
Benefits Of Gas Heaters:
- Effective Heating: Gas heaters work well in larger spaces because of their rapid, high-intensity heat production.
- Reduced Operating Costs: Natural gas is less expensive than electricity in many areas.
- Excellent for Off-Grid Use: Ideal for residences or cabins with restricted access to electricity.
Drawbacks Of Gas Heaters:
- Ventilation Needed: Improper use can result in a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide.
- Costs of Installation: Professional installation may be required for permanent gas heaters.
- Fuel Supply Required: To keep them operating, you’ll need a consistent supply of propane or natural gas.
What Is An Electric Heater?
An electric space heater uses a heating element to transform electrical energy into heat. These heaters are very popular for home use because they are typically plug-and-play and don’t require any special setup or fuel supply.
Types Of Electric Heaters:
Some of the most popular kinds of electric heaters are as follows:
- Ceramic Heater: The plate in a ceramic heater gets very hot quickly and then releases warm air inside. Because they are so energy-efficient, air conditioners are a good fit for small and medium rooms.
- Oil column Heaters: Electricity is used to heat the oil that is kept in columns. Oil can maintain heat for a long time after being turned off, which provides lasting warmth.
- Infrared Heaters: They rely on infrared radiation to heat people and objects straight away, just as a radiant gas heater does. They serve their purpose for spot heating, are quiet and are effective.
- Convection Heaters: These warm the area using a heating element and natural air circulation. They work well in bedrooms at night and are frequently quiet.
Benefits Of Electric Heaters:
- Simple to Use: Simply plug it in and switch it on.
- Safe for Indoor Use: No fumes or combustion.
- Low Maintenance: There are no parts to clean on a regular basis or fuel tank to fill.
Drawbacks Of Electric Heaters:
- Higher Energy Costs: In general, electricity is more costly than gas, particularly when it comes to long-term heating.
- Slower to Heat Large Areas: They function best as supplemental heat sources or in smaller spaces.
- Can Trip Circuits: If not used carefully, some models that draw a lot of power can overload outlets.
Which Heater Should You Choose?
So, now you know what is a space heater. But which one is best suited for your home? It truly depends on what you need:
- Gas Heater: Choose a gas space heater if you’re trying to quickly heat a big area and ventilation is available. They operate effectively in garages, sheds, and homes where it is hard to get enough electricity.
- Electric Heater: For a bedroom or office, pick an electric space heater if you desire ease of use. They are very useful when you can’t run a gas line, such as in temporary lodging or an apartment.
Remember to consider the size of the room, the type of insulation, the different fuel supplies, and the amount the heater is used. Focus on safety factors too; search for washers that include tip-over prevention and automatic shutdown.
Conclusion
Now that you understand what is a space heater, you can confidently choose the right type for your winter heating needs. Whether you opt for the raw heating power of a gas space heater or the plug-and-play simplicity of an electric space heater, the key is choosing the right tool for the job. You can stay warm, safe, and energy-efficient this season with a little preparation. Each type has pros and cons of its own.
Are you still unsure about which heater would work best in your house? The heating experts at Surrey Air can assist you in selecting, setting up, and maintaining the ideal heating system for your area. Make an appointment for your consultation now to avoid guesswork and stay warm throughout the winter.
