How to Compare Electric Heaters

Electric heaters cost about three times more to operate than a traditional natural gas heater, but electric heaters are the most common form of heater on the market. If your existing heater isn't cut out for the job anymore, you can shop for a new electric heater so you can heat your home more efficiently. Compare electric heaters based on features and price then compare it to its competition to make sure you have the features that you need.

Instructions

1. Check the Energy Star rating, a number on a scale from one to six that rates the efficiency of that item. The higher the Energy Star rating is, the more efficiently your electric heater runs.

2. Shop for portable heaters or space heaters to heat small rooms or areas. If you want to heat your entire house with an electric heater, look for central heat. If you want to heat the floors, ask about electric slab heating, which heats up the concrete under your floors through electric cables.

3. Ask if the electric heater comes with a built-in blower or fan. Using a built-in fan or blower with your electric heater allows you to save energy because the fan blows heat throughout your home.

4. Buy portable heaters or space heaters that have automatic shut-offs, heat guards and anti-tipping devices when you conduct your electric heater comparison.

5. Match the BTU (British thermal unit) output of your electric heater with the size of your home. Purchasing a new heater that's too large or too small means it won't work appropriately in your home.

References

• eBay