Central Furnace VS Space Heater: HVAC Tips
When the temperature drops, we all rely on some kind of heating system to keep our homes warm and comfortable.
For most homeowners, the two most common options are home furnaces and space heaters.
While both can be effective in heating your living space, there are some important differences to consider when choosing which one to run.
Here, we’ll take a closer look at home furnaces and space heaters to help you determine which one is best suited for your needs.
Home Furnace
A home furnace is a central heating system that uses gas, oil, or electricity to produce heat. The system typically consists of a furnace that is located in a designated area of the home, such as a basement or utility room.
Heat is then distributed through a network of ducts that run throughout the house.
One of the main advantages of a home furnace is that it is capable of heating the entire house at once. This is especially useful in larger homes where multiple rooms need to be heated.
Because the furnace is connected to a thermostat, it can maintain a consistent temperature throughout the day and night.
Another advantage of a home furnace is that it is a relatively low-maintenance option. As long as the system is properly installed and maintained, it should last for many years without any major issues.
Additionally, most furnaces are equipped with safety features that prevent carbon monoxide leaks and other hazards.
However, there are some downsides to using a home furnace. For one, the initial installation costs can be quite high, especially if you don’t already have a duct network in place.
Additionally, furnaces require regular maintenance, such as filter changes and annual inspections, to ensure that they are operating safely and efficiently.
Space Heater
A space heater, on the other hand, is a portable heating device that can be moved from room to room as needed.
These heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be powered by electricity, gas, or kerosene.
One of the main advantages of a space heater is its portability. Because it is not connected to a central system, you can move it to wherever you need it most. This is especially useful in homes where certain areas tend to be colder than others.
Another advantage of a space heater is its affordability. These heaters can be purchased for as little as $20, making them an attractive option for those on a budget.
Additionally, most space heaters are designed to be energy-efficient, so they can help lower your heating bills.
However, there are some downsides to using a space heater. For one, they are not capable of heating an entire house at once. Instead, they are designed to heat a single room or area.
This means that you may need to purchase multiple space heaters if you want to heat multiple rooms.
Additionally, space heaters require more attention and maintenance than home furnaces. Because they are portable, they are more prone to accidents, such as tipping over or overheating.
Additionally, they need to be plugged into an outlet or connected to a fuel source, which can be a fire hazard if not done properly.
Which One Should You Choose?
So, which one should you choose: a home furnace or a space heater? The answer depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
If you have a larger home and want to heat multiple rooms at once, a home furnace is likely your best option.
While the initial installation costs may be higher, the system will pay for itself over time with lower heating bills and fewer maintenance costs.
On the other hand, if you have a smaller home or only need to heat a single room, a space heater may be the better choice.
These heaters are more affordable and can be moved from room to room as needed. Additionally, if you are on a tight budget, a space heater can be a good option temporarily.
Please do not hesitate to call Any Season Heating & Cooling today at 847-766-9654 for all your Heating and Air Conditioning services such as furnace repairs, AC Replacement or Home Furnace Replacement needs. Schedule an appointment for a Free Binding home furnace replacement quote.
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