Should I get a space heater or upgrade my heating system?
admin • November 7, 2011

If your heating system isn’t really cutting it in your Molalla home anymore, it may be time to take a step back and consider what your options are. After all, upgrading to an entirely new heating system is a big investment and a large project that will likely disrupt your life at least for a short period of time. However, under certain circumstances it’s the best alternative out there.

One option to consider when you’re unhappy with your home heating situation is supplementing your central heating system with space heaters. These are generally inexpensive and can be placed virtually anywhere in your house or taken with you from one room to another.

Especially if there is a small part of your home that your heating system just doesn’t seem to reach or that you want to keep a bit warmer than the rest of the house, space heaters can be an excellent option. They’re small, safe and portable and can easily keep a smaller portion of your home or room cozy and warm.

However, you’ll have to take into account the operating costs of a space heater as well as the initial investment when you’re trying to evaluate the overall cost effectiveness of this option. Most space heaters run on electricity, which often costs considerably more than oil or natural gas. If your home heating system runs on electricity anyway, this might not be so much of a factor. But if you have an oil or gas furnace , you could wind up paying significantly more to run space heaters as supplemental heat over time.

Also, it’s worth considering that new home heating systems are likely much more energy efficient than the system you currently have in place. Although the initial installation cost can be pretty substantial, you’ll wind up saving a very large amount on your monthly heating bills by upgrading to a newer model.

Plus, you’ll be getting a system that should be able to satisfactorily heat your home without the need for space heaters or other supplemental heat sources. This translates into a pretty hefty savings over time and that’s something you’ll certainly have to take into consideration when you’re evaluating your options.

A thermostat with a smiley face on it is covered in a knitted hat.
By Rodger Brown May 5, 2025
Learn four common signs that you need a new gas furnace.
The inside of an electric furnace is shown with the door open.
By Rodger Brown April 21, 2025
Learn the early warning signs can help you avoid a complete breakdown and keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient throughout the colder months.
A woman and a boy are playing with a dog on a couch.
By Rodger Brown April 7, 2025
Learn the top benefits of getting ahead of AC repairs before minor problems turn into major headaches. The post What Are the Benefits of Taking Action Early on AC Repairs? first appeared on Clean Air Act Inc..
A person is holding a remote control in front of an air conditioner.
By Rodger Brown March 24, 2025
Learn about the key steps involved in a ductless heat pump installation and why professional expertise makes all the difference. The post Steps for Installing a Ductless Mini Split System first appeared on Clean Air Act Inc..
A close up of a humidifier in a room with a plant in the background.
By Rodger Brown March 10, 2025
Learn about the benefits of a humidifier and how one of these unique systems can benefit your family.  The post What Are the Benefits of a Whole-House Humidifier? first appeared on Clean Air Act Inc..
The Clean Air Act Technician is holding a thermometer in front of a furnace.
By Rodger Brown February 24, 2025
Learn about three repairs that we get calls for when it comes to gas furnaces and the signs of each one. The post 3 Common Gas Furnace Repair Needs first appeared on Clean Air Act Inc..
Show More