| Energy efficient space heaters are one of the | | | | Radiant heaters usually look reminiscent of the old |
| best ways to cheaply lower your heating bill. | | | | fashioned steam radiators. They are usually cooler |
| According to US Government statistics, the | | | | to the touch but will heat an individual or nearby |
| average American spends $1,900 per year for | | | | object rather quickly. They are not necessarily |
| home energy, nearly half goes to heating and | | | | the best choice for heating an entire room. It will |
| cooling. Space heaters can help lower this bill. Here | | | | take some time for them to heat an entire room. |
| is how to make the most of an energy efficient | | | | Convection type heaters have ribbon or wire |
| space heater. | | | | heating elements. They are a better choice for |
| First, you have to be willing to turn down the heat | | | | heating larger areas quickly. |
| in the entire house and use the space heater for | | | | In either case, make sure you purchase |
| the preferred room. Otherwise, you will only | | | | something that is safe. Look for the UL listing. |
| increase your energy bill. This often works well if | | | | Radiant style heaters usually have a lesser chance |
| one person is elderly and wants additional warmth | | | | of burning someone or causing safety issues as |
| or there is one area of the house that the family | | | | the wire elements can get very hot in convection |
| congregates after mealtime. | | | | style heaters. Also, look for automatic |
| Choices are wide ranging. For this discussion, we | | | | temperature control so the room doesn't change |
| are interested in portability and the only portable | | | | temperature from day to night and waste |
| units are electric. Electric portable heaters convert | | | | additional energy. Take a look at a few of each |
| electricity to heat by radiant heat or convection | | | | type to determine what best suits your needs. |
| heat methods. | | | | |