Space Heater vs Heat Pump: Which Should You Buy and Why?

There are different ways you can keep your home warm when it begins to get cold. With several heating options available, determining the right one for you can be difficult. The most common heat sources are space heaters and heat pumps. If you’ve wondered what the differences between both options are, this space heater vs heat pump comparison will provide all the answers you need. 

This article will explore what they are and the main differences between the heat sources. If you want to find out about these differences, keep reading. 

What is a Space Heater?

Before we dive into the space heater vs heat pump comparison, it’s crucial to understand what they are and how they work. Space heaters are room heaters as they work to heat a room if you can’t afford a centralized heating system. They come in different shapes, outputs, sizes, and heating methods. 

There are different types of space heaters: electric, natural gas, propane, oil, and fuel. Most people prefer electric space heaters because they’re safer than other types. In addition, they are quite portable and can provide a significant amount of heat in quite a short time. They’re the best option for you if you live in a drafty building. 

What is a Heat Pump?

They are in the family of centralized heating systems as they work to warm the entire building or home. A heat pump draws cool air from the outside and releases it as hot air within the home. Heat pumps are considered a clean energy alternative to furnaces. In addition, they don’t use fossil fuels, making them a safer option for the environment. 

The exciting part about heat pumps is that you can change the flow of the refrigerant to provide warm or cool air indoors. This is possible with a reversing valve that makes it easy to switch from providing heat to cooler air. 

Space Heater vs Heat Pump – A Detailed Comparison

There are varying differences between a heat pump and a space heater. These factors would help you determine the right option for your note. On that note, let’s take a look.

When to Use

Space heaters are not the best to heat your home throughout the winter. It’s best when autumn first arrives and the mornings are chilly. Therefore, this heat source is the best option when you need heat for a shorter period. Since the autumn afternoons are usually the warmer periods, you don’t need heat indoors all day. They’re also best when you need extra heat in a draft room. They’re best for older homes or apartments that can get cooler even when the heat pump is running.

On the other hand, the heat pump can be used when the temperature drops long enough to affect the indoor hair. Since it provides heat to every room in the house, it is a better option for wintertime. In addition, the heat pump is ideal if you want to prevent the pipes in your home from freezing.

Comfort Level

If you’re wondering which heat source offers more comfort and coziness during winter, you should opt for the heat pump. On the other hand, space heaters only provide minimal heat in limited areas, so people would have to gather around this heat source to stay warm. 

Heat pumps, however, ensure that the entire home always remains warm and cozy. Some heat pumps can heat multiple rooms with just an outdoor unit. However, it’s noteworthy that space heaters are a smart option when you want to heat a room.

Energy Efficiency

Another difference to point out in this space heater vs heat pump comparison is heat efficiency. Heat pumps are more efficient when you need to heat your entire home without causing the electric bills to skyrocket. Space heaters can only heat a few square feet for a couple of hours, but you’ll have to plug in several throughout your home to heat the entire house. Additionally, your energy bills will skyrocket if you plan to use them throughout the winter.

Indoor Air Quality

The indoor air quality for both heat sources differs. A space heater is designed to heat a defined area, but it won’t help solve any air quality issue. In some cases, they can make the problems worse.

Heat pumps are quite different and have many features that improve indoor air quality. For example, most models come with washable air filters that remove pollen, pet dander, dust, and other airborne pollutants. You can ensure the air stays clean by washing and replacing the air filters regularly. Some also feature dehumidifiers that’ll remove excess moisture from the air to enhance their heating and cooling features.

Ease of Installation

Another crucial feature that differentiates both heat sources in this space heater vs heat pump comparison is the ease of installation. Space heaters are the easiest to install because all users have to do is plug them in and then turn them on. Although heat pumps are also easy to install, getting a professional is best to ensure a smooth installation process. Placement options are more flexible for space heaters than heat pumps. However, you can easily find spots that work in your home for your heat pump.

Running Cost

The cost also determines which is best for you. For example, a space heater might be the best option if you’re looking for an affordable heat source because heat pumps are at least four times the cost of one space heater. However, this is because a space heater only heats a room and a heat pump keeps the entire home warm.

In addition, space heaters have a longer lifespan, lasting from 15-20 years. On the other hand, heat pumps last an average of 15 years. Heat pump maintenance costs are also significantly higher than space heaters. Therefore, while maintaining the heat pump at least twice a year, you must be careful using the space heaters. 

Portability

Space heaters are a better option if you’re looking for a portable option. They’re usually small in size, and you can easily carry them in the back of your car from one location to another. That’s not the same for a heat pump as it isn’t to be moved from one location to another without professional help. If you’re constantly on the move, a space heater is your best option. However, a centralized heating system like a heat pump is the better option if you won’t be moving around. 

Final Verdict

Space heaters and heat pumps are excellent heat sources to keep you warm and cozy. They both have unique features that set them apart. While space heaters are great for heating small spaces, a heat pump is more efficient for heating an entire home. We’ve pointed out the differences in this space heater vs heat pump comparison to help you make an informed choice.