Baseboard Heater or Heater from Wal mart?

Question

I am trying to decide whether I should just buy a heater, like a fan forced air heater rather than use my baseboard. I have a 450 Sq. Ft. Studio Apt. My bill goes from 40 dollars to 80ish using my baseboard.

Answer 1

Hi - I just went through the same dilemma. I opted to purchase a portable heater instead of using the costly and inefficient baseboard heat that I too have in my apartment. I ended up purchasing a “Holmes Ceramic Dual Viziheat Heater”: it heats my living space well, oscillates, has good safety features, and doesn’t dry the air out to much. I haven’t received an electric bill since I started using it, but it has to be better on my budget than the baseboard. I also recommend doing some research on portable heaters for yourself, as there are plenty to choose from. Good luck and stay warm!

Answer 2

I have found free-standing electrical heaters are very convienent and help our electricity bill.  We have the option of using natural gas and we just can't afford it.  Our home is around 1,500 s.f. and our bill goes up around $75-100 during the really cold months.

I did find over the years that heaters with electric coils are much more efficient.   If for some reason the heater you choose doesn't meet expectations, keep your receipt and you can always return it.

Hope this helps!

Answer 3

I had baseboard heaters throughout my house.  After one winter of unbelievable bills I switched them off and never used them again. I use free standing heaters for awhile and they were helpful because I would use them only where I was rather than the whole house.  Those with fans were best.

Answer 4

I have a small heater for my bedroom at home.Where I live during Winter it is usually about 60 in the day,so I only need morning heat.At nite I use a feather comforter for warmth.It only gets to 38 so its not too cold for me.And during the day I am working or on the go,so it works best for me...