In This Article
With winter coming around, people often leave their furnaces on all day to heat their homes. In some cases, this can be a waste of energy and money.
To ensure you have a safe and efficient heat source during the cold months, consider these alternatives to keep you and your family warm in case of an emergency.
This article will cover mainly indoor heating, but if you want to learn wilderness bushcraft heating, we have a separate article. Learn how to start a fire in the wild today.
Electric Heaters
If you live in a condo or apartment building, you may not be able to install an oil furnace. However, there is a safe and efficient solution for this issue. Electric space heaters can deliver warm air at your fingertips – and it is much safer than using an oil furnace.
A space heater can be a factor of safety for you and your loved ones if you are forced to leave your home due to a fire, water damage, or other emergencies.
Electric Blankets
This is great for indoors and outdoors. But, if you want to know which is the best camping blanket for you, here is an article covering the warmest blankets.
An electric blanket can warm your body without having to turn up the thermostat. There are various types of electric blankets available on the market today.
Some offer a “pre-heat” feature that warms the blanket before it is turned on, while others warm only the sleep surface. Electric blankets are affordable and an efficient way to stay warm during cold winter months.
Gas Fireplaces
A gas fireplace adds charm and luxury to any home. They allow you to stay in the comfort of your home during the cold winter months.
Some models, such as drop-down and wall-mounting fireplaces, require minimal installation and maintenance. Others offer a full surround sound stereo system that puts you and your family in a tropical paradise.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are efficient and can save you money on your energy costs. They circulate air to bring in the heat from the outside and transfer it into your home. Heat pumps can also supplement and replace your existing furnace and deliver consistent levels of heat.
The clever design of a heat pump allows it to use outside air as a “heat reservoir” during the day, making it more efficient at collecting heat from pollution sources, such as smog, UV rays, etc.
Propane Heaters
A propane heater is a safe and efficient supply of heat for your home or business during cold winter months. A propane heater does not produce emissions, which are dangerous to your health.
A propane heater’s efficiency is very high, allowing it to heat a large space efficiently. When purchasing a propane heater, make sure the manufacturer offers a “clear-view” or open-air burner in addition to a standard cover and damper.
Kerosene Heater
A kerosene heater is a safe, efficient, and portable heat source that quickly moves or stores. Kerosene heaters are inexpensive to operate, require little maintenance, and are convenient because they do not require electricity to run.
Kerosene heaters should only use 1-K Kerosene, which will help the unit run more efficiently. You should also make sure to purchase a unit with an auto-shut-off feature in case anything gets on the heater.
Boiled Water Heater
A boiler can be used as an emergency heat source for your home during the winter, but it needs regular maintenance and upkeep throughout the year to prevent freezing. If you want a source of heat that can be left unattended for months at a time, then a boiler is the best choice.
Fireplace
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, then it is likely that you will use your fireplace to heat your home. Wood burning is an efficient means of heating but is not feasible for everyone year-round.
A wood-burning fireplace requires regular maintenance and upkeep throughout the year to prevent freezing. To maintain the efficiency of your fireplace, make sure you clean the glass doors and check for cracks in the damper area.
Wood-Burning Stove
A wood burning stove can be a great source of heat for your home during the winter months. It is an efficient and safe source of heat and is a great option for anyone but they require regular maintenance and upkeep throughout the year to prevent freezing. You also need to check for cracks in the chimney area somewhat frequently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, no matter what type of emergency heating source you decide to use this winter, be sure to properly maintain the unit during the year to prevent it from breaking down when you need it most. A properly maintained unit will run efficiently and keep your family warm when they need it the most.
When in need of emergency heat, consider installing one of these sources in your home to stay warm. Take care of these units throughout the year to prevent them from breaking down when it is too late.
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