Common Questions Answered About Space Heaters!

Everyone loves the winter season, and why shouldn't they? It's the most wonderful time of the year! But icy conditions can take a huge toll on your employees' comfort and productivity. That's where space heaters come in. They are a great way to keep cold spaces toasty, but most people are reluctant to invest in space heaters because they are not familiar with these devices. In this blog, we have compiled and answered the most frequently asked questions about space heaters. Keep reading to learn about their safety features, energy efficiency, and more!

Question #1: Is it safe to leave a space heater ON all night?

The answer to this question is a simple no; it isn't safe.

Despite all the built-in safety features introduced in the latest space heaters, it is recommended that you take the following precautionary measures:

• Avoid leaving your heater ON in an unattended room.
• Keep at least a three-foot perimeter clear around the unit.
• Always plug it in suitable sockets.
• Keep the unit out of reach of kids and pets.

So, no matter how many safety features your heater has, at the end of the day, it is a heater that emits a lot of heat, enough heat to start a fire.

Question #2: Which heating device is the most economical to heat a space?

Well, that depends on your space.

• If you are looking to heat a small room or two, a space heater would be great to warm the area and be energy efficient.
• A radiant heater will be a better choice if you're just looking to heat a part of a room. These heaters emit infrared radiation making them suitable for heating small areas.
• However, if you need to heat up more than a room or two, investing in a central heating system would save you money, as a larger system would take less time to reach and maintain the desired temperature.

Question #3: How expensive would it be if you used a space heater all day long?

The electricity consumption depends on the Watts of the heater and the number of hours you use it for. On average, electric space heaters use around 500 Watts. If you use your Space Heater even for 16 hours a day, it would cost you around $1.6 per day as per the 2020 USA national average of 13.19 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Question #4: Infrared Heater VS. Ceramic Heater, which one is better?

Let's draw a comparison of both the units, based on their pros and cons, and then you will be in a better position to decide which one would best serve your needs.

Ceramic heaters are a type of convection heater that uses ceramic plates and aluminum baffles to conduct electricity and heat. They are not only incredibly efficient heating sources but also extremely portable because of their relatively small size. Another advantage of ceramic heaters over infrared heaters is the fact that they can heat up a wider range of areas. This is because they utilize convection heating properties which heat up the air in a room. Generally, ceramic heaters are also slightly cheaper than infrared heaters. However, they can be a little noisy because of their blower fan.

On the other hand, infrared heaters are good for even poorly insulated places since they focus on heating objects (or people) directly rather than warming the air. Secondly, if you are going to be in the same place for an extended period of time, a radiant heater can heat it up much more efficiently than a convection heater. They take just 40% of the energy required of electric convection heaters to produce the same level of warmth and comfort. Furthermore, unlike ceramic heaters, they are a much more comfortable heat source because they don't constantly circulate the air through your heating system, which often leads to dry or irritable skin. Lastly, infrared heaters are incredibly quiet since they don't use a fan to blow hot air. However, they glow a yellowy-orange when they are being used, which can be annoying for some people.

Question #5: Ceramic Heater VS. Oil Filled Heater, which one is better?

To answer this question, we have made a quick checklist that would help you decide whether to go for a ceramic or an oil-filled heater.

Oil Filled Heater

• You need to heat medium to large rooms for longer periods.
• 'No noise pollution' is a priority.
• You don't mind slow heating.
• You have allergies that might be triggered by dust particles.

Ceramic Heater

• Instant heating is needed.
• You just want a small area to feel warm, such as your desk.
• You have kids around, and their safety is a serious concern.

Question #6: Do space heaters produce carbon monoxide?

No! Electrical space heaters do not produce carbon monoxide and pose no threat because carbon monoxide is only produced by devices that burn fuels.

Question #7: Is it safe to put a space heater on the carpet or a rug?

Space heaters must never be placed on either carpet or rug while using. Make sure that your heating unit sits on the floor, which has a hard surface such as wood, laminate, tile, or vinyl. Despite all the safety features, space heaters can be dangerous if placed on top of an area rug or carpeting.

We hope this article has answered your questions and now you are in a much better position to decide which Space Heater would be a good fit for your facility. If you have any more questions, feel free to call us at (877) 776-8228 to speak with one of our HVAC experts. You can also check out our online store to browse through an extensive range of electric space heaters. ProServices Supply offers the best prices with delivery service all across the US.