Heating cold areas of your home, increasing the warmth in one small area or to save energy are several reasons you might choose to use a space heater.

If you turn your central heating system down a few degrees and supplement the heat in a small area with a space heater, you may save money. However, if you don't turn the thermostat down and add more heat with the electric space heater, you will increase your total bill.

Small Space

If you choose to use an electric space heater to supplement your home's heating system, be sure it is used in small closed off spaces for short periods of time.

Small Number

Using several space heaters as your home's sole heating source will only increase your electric bill. A space heater near your favorite reading corner serves as a wise supplemental heating choice.

"The key word is supplemental. You don't want to rely on space heaters alone - not only is there a cost factor, there's also a safety issue," says Amy Bryan, Jackson EMC residential marketing director.

Energy Saving Tips

Before you invest in a space heater, here are a few energy-saving measures. Weatherizing your home by installing caulking and weather-stripping around doors and windows will help eliminate air leaks. Be sure to clean or replace your furnace air filter on a regular schedule, and have a licensed technician inspect your system before each heating and cooling season begins.

Resolving HVAC system performance issues can save energy and money, and eliminate the need for supplemental heating sources.

Energy Saving Questions

• Does the space heater have a thermostat?
• In what area of the house do you plan to use the space heater?
• Is the space heater safe for the area in your house in which you plan to use it?
• Does the space heater have an automatic shut-off feature?