Space heater vs. Turning up the heat?

I fed that same prompt to GPT, if you're curious what it said.

Using a space heater versus turning up your central heating depends on several factors, including energy costs, the size of the space you need to heat, and your personal comfort preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help decide what’s best for your scenario:

Cost Comparison

1. Space Heater:
   • Your 750W heater costs $0.22/hour (at $0.29/kWh total energy cost).
   • For 5 hours of use per evening:
     0.22 × 5 = $1.10/day or about $33/month (based on weekdays only).
   • Space heaters are ideal for heating a small, localized area when you're stationary (e.g., sitting at a desk or watching TV).
2. Turning Up the Heat (Boiler for 20-30 Minutes):
   • Oil consumption: A boiler typically burns 0.8-1.7 gallons/hour for a home like yours. Assuming 1 gallon/hour:
     • 0.5 hours × $4/gallon (approximate oil cost) = $2.00 per use.
     • For 5 evenings per week: $10/week or $40/month.
   • Central heating warms the whole house, which may feel more comfortable but is less targeted.

Efficiency and Comfort

• Space Heater:
  • More efficient for localized warmth.
  • Allows you to keep the house cooler overall, saving energy.
  • Works well in small spaces or for single-person use.
• Central Heating:
  • Provides even heating throughout the house.
  • Reduces risks like frozen pipes if outside temperatures are extremely low.
  • May feel more comfortable if you frequently move between rooms.

When to Choose Each

• Space Heater: Best when you’re stationary and only need to heat a small area, such as when sitting on the couch or working at a desk. It’s economical and avoids unnecessary heating of unoccupied spaces.
• Central Heating: Makes sense if:
  • You feel uncomfortable in other parts of the house.
  • The space heater can’t adequately warm your surroundings.
  • You’re hosting guests or moving between rooms frequently.

Other Considerations

1. Wear Layers: Using blankets, warm clothing, or heated pads can complement a space heater, reducing the need for central heat.
2. Steam System Efficiency: Your one-zone oil/steam system takes time to distribute heat. Upgrading vents or adding more efficient controls (e.g., programmable thermostats) could optimize its use when needed.
3. Safety: Always prioritize safety with space heaters—ensure tip-over protection and avoid leaving them unattended.

General Consensus

Most energy experts and homeowners agree that space heaters are cost-effective for targeted heating, especially in scenarios like yours. However, central heating is better for whole-home comfort or in situations where a consistent, evenly heated environment is necessary. Balancing both approaches based on your habits (e.g., space heater during solitary evenings, central heat for broader use) can provide the best compromise.