Do winter's frigid days leave you wishing for cozy comfort? Many homeowners wonder if using space heaters with heating systems is a safe way to stay comfortable in cold temperatures. The thought of maximizing your central heat capabilities with portable warmth is understandable if you have a drafty home. However, we recommend you consider the potential long-term implications before pulling your heater out of storage.

Can Furnace Systems and Space Heaters Work Together?

Your furnace is a comprehensive heating solution that distributes heat evenly through ductwork and vents. In contrast, portable heaters deliver supplemental heat by targeting particular areas. While this combination can make sense for brief periods, relying too heavily on your space heater all winter may prevent you from noticing underlying issues that indicate the need for furnace repair or a new, economical furnace installation.

How Much Electricity Do Electric Heaters Use?

Space heater energy usage and wattage vary widely. If you've wisely kept up with regular furnace maintenance, relying on a space heater all winter will likely boost your expenses instead of reducing them. Proactively addressing energy waste by replacing old insulation and air sealing materials typically delivers better results than combining a patchwork of solutions.

Precautions to Take When Using a Space Heater With Your Furnace

Safety should always be a priority in your household. Electric heaters can create safety dangers if you put them too close to furniture or window treatments, so always maintain safe clearances. Look for models with tip-over and overheat protection to reduce risks. Be mindful of breaker load and electrical limitations, since exceeding capacity can cause electrical issues. And remember to check your heating system vents to ensure you don't expose your family to increased carbon monoxide risks when running your heat for months.

Potential Benefits of Space Heaters

Room heaters provide personalized comfort by quickly warming rooms that feel colder than others. However, modern smart thermostats and temperature scheduling or zoning often achieve the same effect even more safely and efficiently. With intelligent temperature control, you can fine-tune temperature programs, reduce power consumption and even improve humidification and comfort at lower temps without relying on additional appliances.

Avoid these mistakes when using space heaters alongside your furnace:

  • Relying solely on space heaters to replace your heating system
  • Using obsolete heaters that lack modern space heater safety features
  • Portable heater placement that blocks airflow from air ducts
  • Using a space heater that is too small to adequately warm the intended room

Alternatives to Portable Heaters for Supplemental Heat

You don't have to use several units or keep lugging a heater around different rooms in your home. These solutions often outperform space heaters in safety and affordability:

  • Zone control systems for specific area heating
  • Installing a modern, energy-efficient heating system for better performance ratings
  • Improving insulation and air sealing to reduce energy waste

Balancing Efficiency and Safety

Pairing a supplemental heater with your furnace can provide short-term relief, but it's no substitute for investing in professional furnace maintenance and lasting upgrades like improved insulation. For lasting comfort, efficiency and safety, focus on keeping your furnace in excellent condition and exploring modern upgrades that deliver complete home heating with fewer risks.