It’s not as dramatic as Freddy vs. Jason or Alien vs. Predator, but the debate between an electric blanket and a space heater may still be dramatic. The more factions you have at home, the more important this is.
When it comes to heating your home, it doesn’t matter if you have a central heating system or if you only use these products once or twice per year. Everything from cost, convenience, and beauty to safety must be considered.
You are reading: Electric Blanket vs. Space Heater Comparison
Overview – Electric Blankets vs. Space Heaters
First, consider yourself whether or not you really need either item! You may be able to save money by layering up to keep warm. Check your home’s insulation and weatherstripping to ensure that you’re retaining as much heat inside as possible.
While an extra pair of socks of quality insulation can help, there is also something to be said for a layer of warmth that extends beyond what an extra pair of socks of premium insulation can provide. For example, having a nice blanket to cuddle under at night is like nothing else!
A space heater, on the other hand, is equally amazing in that it can swiftly and cheaply heat an entire room.
When it comes to choose which one to have in your home, it depends on what you want to accomplish.
What Are Electric Blankets?
It is a blanket that heats up. Although it appears to be an ordinary blanket on the outside, there are wires within that generate heat. A power wire and a control dial are also included.
Timers, a crucial safety element, have been made possible by recent technological advancements. Additionally, wireless systems that can be controlled by a remote and do not require a wall outlet have recently been introduced.
You can use these gadgets to keep your personal space warm even if the rest of the house is chilly, whether you get cold at night or just need some extra warmth for a movie night.
In 1912, a doctor was trying to keep his ill patients warm and came up with the idea for this product. Before long, prototypes had been refined and mass-produced for general consumption.
Wattage
About 200 to 400 watts is typical for a blanket. For safety reasons, it’s not advisable to leave the light on all night long, which would cost anywhere from 25 to 50 cents every night depending on where you live in the country.
Construction
There is little variation in the interior of these units. When the blanket is turned on, the heating source consists of wires that are uniformly distributed between the two layers of cloth. It can be composed of a variety of materials, the most common of which is soft fleece, but acrylic, wool, and other materials are also common.
Unique Features
Colors and designs are unlimited, and there are even a variety of sizes to pick from depending on the sort of mattress you have in your bedroom. With timers and automatic shut-off capabilities, newer versions save money on energy bills and increase safety.
Pros
- Portable.
- Inexpensive.
- Energy-saving measures.
- Consistently warms the entire body.
- Choose from a wide variety of colors, fabrics, and sizes to suit your needs.
- There are certain models that have timers, automated shut-offs, and temperature controls.
- Avoid overheating the entire room by creating a personal heated cocoon for yourself.
Cons
- Though there is no evidence that electromagnetic fields injure the human body, many people are concerned about their potential negative effects.
- There is a risk of fire and burns if you use an older model.
- If the blanket is not utilized properly, it might also injure the user.
- Pets or poor care can easily cause damage.
Safety
When it comes to the safety of a heated blanket, there are a few things to keep in mind.
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The first is related to the risk of fire. If your blanket has frayed or exposed wires, it’s imperative that you check it before using it.
Secondly, your own safety is at stake. If you’re sleeping, it’s possible that you won’t notice that your blanket is overheating.
Last but not least, there’s the issue of being completely engulfed in an electric field. There are different reports about the safety of this behavior, and there is no evidence to support the link between using an electric blanket and developing cancer. Many other electrical items in your house or business may represent a greater risk than the dimmer switch.
Cost
When it comes to staying warm and cozy, heated blankets are a great investment for the money you’ll spend on power. You can use them for a fraction of the cost of other heaters like a space heater, a gas fireplace, or central heating systems.
Material, size, features, brand, and overall quality all affect the price of a product. The prices range from as low as $30 to as much as $200, so do your research.
What Are Space Heaters?
It is a portable heater that may be used to heat specific parts of a room. You don’t have to heat your entire home with one of these devices; instead, you may put one in a specific area where you need a little more warmth.
You can choose from a variety of designs and sizes, including red-coil contraptions and sleek, modern-looking machines. In spite of their higher price, they have the advantage of being able to be used by the entire family rather than just one person or couple.
Wattage
Depending on the model, the power output can range from 750 to 1500 watts, which is equivalent to around two to four times the power output of a heated blanket. As a result, the cost of running a space heater in your home can vary widely.
Construction
This, too, varies greatly. There are toaster-sized portable devices as well as several-foot-tall units. Then there’s the rest of it, of course. As a thermostat, some high-end designs have temperature controls that extend beyond the “high, medium, and low” options.
Unique Features
Additionally, you can opt for safety features such as an automated shut-off. The heater’s stability is especially critical in the event that it is tipped over or knocked to the ground. Unless it is turned off, the potential of a fire is very real.
An optional fan can be found on some models. Rather of having a molten lava area within 10 inches of the heater, the blower fan within the unit may assist disperse heat more evenly across the room. This is a life-changing breakthrough.
Pros
- Inexpensive.
- It’s not completely inefficient, but it’s better than nothing.
- Multiple persons can utilize it at the same time.
- Alternatives to central heating systems
Cons
- There is a greater risk of fire.
- Costlier to operate.
- It’s a hassle to get a room heated evenly.
- Cannot leave unsupervised, especially in the presence of youngsters, without fear.
Safety
When it comes to space heaters, there are some disturbing facts. A shocking 79 percent of the time, one of these common household items was the cause of a tragic home fire. This illustrates how common it is for people to leave their devices on while they’re sleeping or otherwise disregarded.
It’s good news that this figure is expected to fall as more people switch to newer models that automatically shut off if they fall over or have been on for a predetermined period of time.
At least three feet away from anything flammable, such as clothing, draperies, furniture and bedding is a good distance to keep the unit safe.
Cost
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Prices for the devices themselves start at around $20. Higher-end models can cost up to $1000. The most important consideration is the amount of electricity consumed.
In addition to the energy efficiency rating, the label may also indicate how much it will cost to operate the heater in terms of electricity. Central heating and built-in wall heaters may be more expensive than newer units.
Which One is Better?
If you’re looking for an answer to this question, it’s up to you. Your best bet is to go with an electric blanket if you want to keep yourself toasty, but not make everyone else around you uncomfortable.
However, if you want to heat an entire room without having to cover yourself in a blanket, then a space heater may be the best option for you.
For this issue, there is no right or incorrect response; it is entirely up to the individual to decide what they prefer. If you live in a chilly climate, you’ll probably want to utilize both.
It would be perfect if you had a heated blanket with you while you slept. When it’s time to get out of the cocoon of your warm bed and strip down to take a shower in a frosty bathroom, you’ll certainly appreciate a space heater!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an electric blanket use too much electricity?
In terms of energy efficiency, an electric blanket is arguably the best option you have other than running around the house or wearing five layers of clothing. Per-hour prices are low, and it’s one of the most inexpensive methods to keep warm.
Which is easier to use?
The space heater comes out on top despite the fact that they are both simple devices. Take a deep breath and bask in the heat. With an electric blanket, you are limited to a certain region because it demands physical touch with your body.
Are electric blankets safe to leave on all night?
Millions of Americans made it through the 1980s by sleeping with their electric blankets on. It’s not advisable to leave them on while you sleep, though. As an alternative, turn it off before you go to sleep, and then turn it back on a few minutes before you wake up in the morning so it can warm up.
When left on all night, the risk of burning your skin or sparking a house fire increases.
What are other alternatives?
There are several ways to keep your home warm! Instead of using an electric heater or blanket, consider these nine options:
- Wall heater: It’s permanently affixed to the wall. Perhaps even more powerful, but far more expensive.
- Ceiling heater: From the top to the bottom, your space is heated by these magnificent inventions. Ceiling-mounted heaters are similar to wall-mounted heaters, except that they’re installed on the ceiling.
- Heated footrest: For those of us who work in a place where portable heaters have been outlawed because a coworker’s office went on fire, a footrest with a little bit of warmth can help us get through the day.
- Heated shoe insoles: What will they come up with next, you know? These will keep your feet toasty, and no one will ever know about it.
- Hot water bottles: Menstrual pains are relieved, and you stay toasty, all at the same time!
- Hand warmers: Similar like warming your feet, but these work on your hands. If it’s cold outside, keep one in your pocket for warmth.
- Fireplace: A wood-burning stove or an electric one are all viable options.
- Heated flooring: This is one of the world’s most luxurious inventions, and it is well worth the price tag!
- Added layers: That being said, it’s worth noting. Layers of clothing or blankets can help keep you warm if you’re feeling chilly and are on a budget.
How do space heaters cause fires?
Their primary source of ignition is the presence of flammable materials in close proximity to the heater. Keep the unit at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire. Clothing, furniture, draperies, beds, and mattresses all fall under this category.
It’s also dangerous if the heater falls over and doesn’t have a safety feature that instantly shuts it down.
Conclusion
Most people don’t like it when it’s cold outside! A comfortable temperature cannot be agreed upon by all residents of a house. If you enjoy being warm and cuddly but your family or partner starts to perspire when you turn up the heat, you may want to consider traveling with a blanket in the style of Linus from Peanuts.
On the other hand, if you and your family are both experiencing the chill, then strategically positioned space heaters are the best method to keep everyone warm.
Source: https://bestpillowsleepers.com
Category: Comparisons
