is it cheaper to use electricty to have my wall heater on or to plug in a portable heater?

January 9th, 2010
portable heater
anonymity asked:


It is so cold out and I am curious to know if it costs more to run my (not gas) wall heater or to purchase a portable heater. I really want to purchase one of the electric fireplaces that home depot sells, just wondering if it would help save my power bill.
Thank you
I am in Seattle

5 Responses to “is it cheaper to use electricty to have my wall heater on or to plug in a portable heater?”

  1. fae Says:

    Every area is different I would use the wall heater and check the first bill and then try the plug in and see if its less expensive.

  2. Helen M Says:

    amps x voltage = watts , more watts more money

  3. googie Says:

    The wall heater may be more substantial than the portable heater. First, forget the electric fireplace. Try the wall heater. Take a meter reading first and see what amount of power it requires at a temperature. Then use the portable heater under similar conditions. See which gives you the best warmth at what cost, Then make the comparison. You may find the wall heater gives the best heat at the higher cost.

  4. datsleather Says:

    this is a hard one both will run your bill up which one will tho keep you warmer? that is the one to use.

  5. hiamps Says:

    your wall heater should be more efficient than a plug in heater. The wall heater is most likely hooked to 240 volts which will use less energy to heat up a room than a plug in 120 volt heater. having insulated walls and attic and “newer” windows will keep the heat in. Check with your power company for windows or insulation, Most areas will pay for some of the work, depending on if your on low income or not. Good luck

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