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Since the oil crisis of the 1970s, many households have begun installing lower-cost space heaters to supplement their existing heating systems in order to conserve energy. The term "space heater" usually refers to a small heater that is either portable or wall-mounted. Space heaters usually provide warmth to a space (usually enclosed) such as a room or home, and they keep the air and surroundings at a comfortable temperature when the main heating system is inadequate or when central heating is too expensive to operate or install. Unlike central heating systems which warm many connected spaces at once, portable space heaters generally warm a small area. |
The Benefits of Space Heaters:
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In situations where only one room is to be warmed or when supplemental heating is needed, space heaters can be very cost-effective . A normal space heater will heat an insulated area of up to 150 square feet. Electric space heaters are also great for boosting the temperature of rooms without overheating the entire home or office.
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Electric space heaters are used more often than natural gas heaters or propane heaters because they're safer to use. There is no danger of carbon monoxide poisoning when using these efficient heaters, and they are less expensive, too!
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In order to heat an area, most modern electric space heaters utilize ceramic heating elements. This allows for the even distribution of heat with the near elimination of the chance of fires or burns. Modern portable electric space heaters now include safety features such as tip over safety switches or thermal cutoff switches in order to decrease the risk of fire hazard.
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A large number of these electric heaters rely on convection, or the circulation of air in a room to provide heat, but some rely on radiant heating, which refers to the emitting of infrared radiation that directly heats objects or people within their line of sight. Radiant heaters can also be very cost effective if you're going to be in a room for a few hours, as they only heat the occupant and the occupant's immediate surroundings as opposed to the entire area.
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When it comes to convection, or non-radiant type heaters, some of the best types incorporate the use of oil which is warmed by the heating element in the heating unit. This heated oil provides some heat storage, allows the heater to cycle less, and provides a more constant heat source. Furthermore, theseoil-filled space heaters are popular because they're relatively quiet when compared to heaters that utilize fans. Regardless of whether you choose an infrared heater, a gas heater, or a 240 volt electric heater, a space heater can add warmth to just about anywhere and will provide instant comfort.
See Portable Space Heaters >>
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See Chart of Space Heater Types >>
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