Space heater on wood floor in Arizona home.

Space heaters can be a great tool for warming a small space for a short time. However, some people use these units to heat their bedrooms all night. While it may seem like a good idea, this option can present some issues. 

Donley A/C & Plumbing understands the importance of reliable heating during Arizona winters. Here are the benefits of using a space heater to warm your room and the potential problems.

Benefits of a Space Heater

Using a space heater provides a variety of benefits, including:

  • Heating small spaces with minimal energy use
  • Heating to a specific temperature
  • Receiving a warm breeze from the unit

Many people have a space heater they use for warming areas of their homes as needed. They can be easy to use and convenient for many who find themselves struggling to stay warm even with their HVAC system running.

What Could Go Wrong?

While running a space heater all night to warm a single bedroom may seem like a good idea, it’s not a safe option. Several problems could occur when using a space heater overnight, including:

  • Fire: Space heaters can catch fire after hours of constantly running or be bumped by a sleeping person, exposing fabrics to the heating element.
  • Overheating: Many space heaters run hot and quickly heat a room, sometimes making for an uncomfortable space when left on.
  • Electricity usage: Space heaters that run all night use a lot of electricity and may not offset the fuel cost of operating a furnace.
  • Lack of heat for other spaces: Even when the spaces are empty, rooms like the bathroom and kitchen need heat to prevent frozen pipes.

Running a space heater all night comes with various risks that could be avoided by using a heating system, such as a furnace or ductless mini-split.

Is It Safe To Run a Space Heater for Hours?

Space heaters are designed to run for a few hours and warm a small space. These units aren’t intended to run all day or night, operating without stopping for eight hours or more. When heating your bedroom overnight, using a space heater is not a safe option.

Fire risk and overheating are common reasons to avoid using a space heater overnight. Homes also need heating during the day, so using a central heating system like a furnace, boiler, or heat pump is always a better option. These units provide heat for every room whenever needed.

Preventative Maintenance Tips for Heating Systems

Whether your HVAC system fails or has broken down completely, preventative maintenance could help keep it running well after repairs. To keep your heater working right, it’s best to:

  • Replace the air filters every three months.
  • Keep the area around your system clear of debris.
  • Schedule annual maintenance from a professional in the fall.

Regularly maintaining your heating system allows you to enjoy reliable heat for every room without having to rely on space heaters for additional warmth.

Choose Donley A/C & Plumbing for Heating Services

For over 40 years, the Donley A/C & Plumbing team has been a go-to choice for Phoenix homeowners. Our team has the tools and talents to get any heating system back in working order. We offer maintenance plans that will also help keep your heater running well. 

For all your heating repairs, maintenance, and installation needs, look no further than Donley A/C & Plumbing.

Schedule heating services in Phoenix and surrounding areas by calling 602-787-3956.