USING A FURNACE VERSUS A SPACE HEATER: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Admin • March 17, 2022

Woman and Her Dog Relaxing — Colorado Springs, CO — Home Heating Service, Inc.

If you are dealing with furnace issues or are looking to save money on heating costs, you may be wondering if you can simply use a space heater to keep yourself warm. While space heaters are portable, compact, and affordable, using them in lieu of a furnace won’t necessarily save you money or keep you warmer. Here are a few things you should consider before buying one or more space heaters to rely on instead of a furnace.

SPACE HEATERS HEAT A ROOM AT A TIME

Many people who start out using space heaters are basing their heating plan on the fact that they use one or two rooms for most of the day. They think that heating the rest of the house may not be as important. It can seem like a great idea for your budget to just heat a couple of rooms and leave the rest of the home cooler than you normally would.

This can save you money if you only heat one or two rooms on occasion or just want supplemental heat for a small space like your home office. If you rely on space heaters for multiple rooms or use one continuously, however, you are definitely going to see this reflected on your monthly electricity bills.

Space heaters use a lot of electricity for the amount of heat they create. Also, the simple act of opening doors to a room heated with a space heater will drop the room’s temperature, requiring more electricity to reheat the space.

FURNACES ARE MORE EFFICIENT

Of course, furnaces have many times the power of space heaters. They are designed to keep your whole house heated on just a small amount of gas or electricity per day. Modern furnaces are designed to be even more energy efficient, making them a much better option than heating your home with space heaters.

If you find that your furnace isn’t keeping your home evenly heated or your energy bills are going up from month to month, there are things you can do to improve its efficiency. Ensuring that you get regular furnace maintenance from a qualified company like Home Heating Service, Inc. will keep the unit operating optimally. Regularly changing furnace filters (at least every three months) will also keep your furnace efficient.

While it is an investment, replacing your old furnace with a new model with modern features and improved efficiency may also be a wise choice. You will see lower energy bills each month while enjoying a comfortable, evenly heated home. If your furnace still has life left in it, consider purchasing a programmable smart thermostat to help you manage your energy usage. Many programmable thermostats can be purchased for the price of a space heater, and they can result in significant energy savings.

FURNACES ARE SAFER TO OPERATE

In addition to being more efficient than space heaters, furnaces are much safer to operate than space heaters. If you get regular maintenance and timely repairs, you can be assured that your furnace is completely safe. The main safety concern with a gas furnace is a carbon monoxide leak, but this can be addressed by placing a carbon monoxide detector near the unit.

Space heaters have also become safer over the years thanks to features such as child detection and auto shut-off. However, they still present a significant risk in your home. According to recent statistics, space heaters are responsible for approximately 1,700 home fires each year. They can also potentially cause burn injuries if not handled correctly. What’s more, unlike a furnace that you can set and forget, you can’t simply turn on your space heater and leave it unattended without putting you and your family at risk.

SPACE HEATERS CAN BE APPROPRIATE IN SOME SITUATIONS

While we’ve established that furnaces are typically the better option for heating your home, there are some situations in which you may want to consider using a space heater. If you have a small apartment, a space heater may be all you need to stay warm. Space heaters may also be a good option during the spring when the weather begins to heat up but you still need a bit of warm air in your home. Homes with basements, attics, or other areas that lack HVAC ducting can also benefit from using space heaters for supplemental heating.

At Home Heating Service, Inc., we provide a full range of heating services, including furnace repairs, maintenance, and installation. If you need a new furnace or want to improve the efficiency of the one you have in your Colorado Springs home, we can help. Our team also works on cooling systems and provides additional services, including home energy audits, indoor air quality solutions, and water heater installation and repair. Contact us today to set up an appointment.

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7 Simple Habits That Can Extend Your HVAC System’s Life by 5 Years

By Sydney Bagby • September 8, 2025

Picture this: It’s the coldest night of the year in Colorado Springs, the kind of evening that calls for soft blankets, hot cocoa, and a cozy home—when suddenly, your furnace quits. If you’ve ever felt the sting of an unexpected HVAC breakdown, you know not just the discomfort, but the worry about repairs, costs, and who you can trust to help. Here’s the good news: With just a handful of simple, proactive habits, you can help your HVAC system run more reliably for years to come—potentially extending its life by five years or more. No technical skills required. Just a little bit of neighborly advice and a regular routine can keep your family comfortable, save money, and bring real peace of mind. At Home Heating Service, we believe every homeowner deserves honest, straightforward guidance—never pressure. That’s why we’ve put together the essential habits that every Colorado Springs resident can practice to protect their investment and steer clear of costly surprises. Ready to take control of your comfort? Let’s jump into the seven habits that can add years of life—and peace—to your home’s most important system. The Real Cost of Neglecting Your HVAC System in Colorado Springs When it comes to HVAC systems, a little neglect can add up—fast. According to industry data, the average furnace repair in Colorado Springs ranges from $200 to $800, and replacing a system can easily top $5,000. But the highest cost might be the comfort you lose when your home goes cold or hot at the worst moment. Many homeowners tell us their biggest worry isn’t just the bill—it’s the fear of being caught off guard or having to scramble to find a trustworthy pro. Here’s the truth: most breakdowns happen not because systems are old, but because a few small, preventable issues are left unchecked. The good news? Staying ahead is easier than you think. Habit #1 – Change Your Air Filter Regularly A clean filter is your HVAC’s secret weapon. When filters are clogged, your system works harder, burns more energy, and wears out faster. In Colorado’s dusty, dry climate, check your filter every month—especially during peak heating and cooling seasons. Most homes do best with a change every 1–3 months. Quick test: Hold the filter up to the light—if you can’t see through, it’s time for a new one. Habit #2 – Keep Vents & Registers Clear Ever moved a sofa and noticed the vent beneath it was blocked? Obstructed vents force your system to work overtime and can shorten its life by years. Once per season, do a sweep of your home: move furniture and drapes, check for toys or debris, and vacuum around the registers. Proper airflow keeps every room comfortable and your system humming along, stress-free. Habit #3 – Schedule Seasonal HVAC Maintenance in Colorado Springs Preventative care is powerful. Having your system checked by a trusted professional each spring (for cooling) and fall (for heating) can catch little issues before they grow into big, expensive problems. Professional maintenance includes cleaning burners, inspecting electrical connections, lubricating moving parts, and running safety checks—all things that keep your system efficient, safe, and long-lived. Comfort Club benefit: Two included tune-ups each year, priority scheduling, and a technician who treats your home like their own. Habit #4 – Monitor and Adjust Your Thermostat Smartly Constantly raising and lowering the temperature wears out your system’s components and spikes your utility bill. Instead, set a comfortable range—68–72°F in winter, 75–78°F in summer—and use a programmable or smart thermostat to keep temperatures steady when you’re away or asleep. If you’re not sure how to set up your thermostat for maximum comfort and savings, ask your Home Heating Service tech at your next visit. Habit #5 – Address Unusual Noises or Smells Promptly If your system rattles, bangs, or starts to smell odd (think burning, musty, or chemical odors), don’t ignore it. These can be early signs of mechanical problems, electrical issues, or leaks. Catching and fixing these early—with a quick call to your trusted local technician—can prevent major, costly repairs and keep you safe. Comfort Club priority: Members get front-of-the-line scheduling when issues pop up. Habit #6 – Keep Outdoor Units Clean and Unobstructed Your outdoor condenser (AC) or heat pump needs space to “breathe.” If it gets clogged with leaves, grass, or snow, the system strains and wears out quickly. Every month, glance outside: clear away debris, trim back bushes by at least two feet, and make sure gutters aren’t dripping on the unit. Seasonal tip: In spring and fall, do a deeper clean and check drainage to prevent hidden blockages. Habit #7 – Invest in Professional Duct Cleaning & Sealing Dirty or leaky air ducts can rob your system of efficiency and lead to wear-and-tear that shortens its life. If you’ve noticed uneven heating, excess dust, or higher bills, it may be time for duct cleaning or sealing. Signs you need service: visible dust blowing from vents, odd odors, or rooms that never seem comfortable. Comfort Club advantage: Ask about annual duct checks and members-only pricing. Common Pitfalls—What Shortens HVAC System Life? Even the best intentions can be undone by a few common habits. For example: Skipping regular filter changes Ignoring annual tune-ups Blocking vents with furniture or decor Attempting risky DIY repairs Postponing small fixes until they become big ones Avoid these “don’ts” and your HVAC system will thank you with years of steady service. How Comfort Club Simplifies HVAC Maintenance in Colorado Springs Every tip above is easier—often worry-free—with Comfort Club. Members get: Automatic reminders for tune-ups Two included professional maintenance visits each year Priority scheduling (no waiting when you need help most) Honest, no-pressure advice from trusted local technicians Special discounts on repairs and services Here’s what Carol, a long-time Comfort Club member, shared: “I used to worry every season that something would go wrong with our furnace. Now, I know Home Heating Service has us covered—and I can actually relax.” FAQs Q: How often should I really change my air filter? A: Every 1–3 months—more often during heavy use or if you have pets. Q: Does regular maintenance really make a difference? A: Absolutely. Our technicians catch small issues before they become costly, and well-maintained systems run longer and more efficiently. Recap The 7 simple habits: Change your air filter regularly Keep vents and registers clear Schedule seasonal professional maintenance Use your thermostat smartly Address unusual noises or smells fast Keep outdoor units clean and unobstructed Invest in professional duct cleaning and sealing Start with one—then make them all part of your routine. Small habits lead to big comfort and real peace of mind. Ready to make comfort worry-free for years to come? ✅ [Join Comfort Club today] for priority service, expert care, and neighborly support since 1988. Questions? Our team is just a call or click away—neighbors helping neighbors, since 1988.