6 Energy Efficient Tips for Electric Heaters
By John Karbowski · November 18, 2024
Electric heaters are convenient and effective, but they're also one of the highest-draw electrical loads in any space. Used inefficiently, they can significantly inflate your utility bills. These six strategies help you maximize the heating output you get for every kilowatt-hour consumed.
Right-Size Your Heater for the Space
An undersized heater runs constantly without achieving comfortable temperatures, while an oversized unit wastes energy cycling on and off. Use roughly 10 watts per square foot as a starting point for insulated commercial spaces, and size up for poorly insulated areas or high ceilings.
Use Programmable Thermostats and Timers
Program your heaters to reduce output or turn off during unoccupied hours. Even reducing the setpoint by 7–10°F for 8 hours can cut heating costs by up to 10%. Modern smart thermostats can learn occupancy patterns and optimize automatically.
Zone Your Heating
Rather than heating your entire facility uniformly, zone your heating to provide more warmth in occupied areas and less in storage or low-traffic zones. This is especially effective in warehouses and large commercial spaces where only portions are consistently occupied.
Seal Air Leaks First
A heater can never be efficient if the heat it generates immediately escapes. Before investing in heating improvements, ensure doors, windows, and building envelope penetrations are properly sealed. In commercial facilities, dock doors and large openings are often major sources of heat loss.
Choose the Right Heater Type for Your Application
Radiant heaters are most efficient for heating people directly without warming the entire space — ideal for outdoor areas, garages, and spot-heating workstations. Convection heaters (including oil-filled radiators) work well for enclosed spaces where you need to heat the air volume.
Maintain Your Heating Equipment
Dirty coils, clogged filters, and worn components force heaters to work harder to achieve the same output. Regular cleaning and maintenance keeps your equipment operating at peak efficiency and prevents costly breakdowns.
Electrical Services for Houston Businesses
Need circuits added or upgraded for heating equipment? Southern Electrical Services provides expert commercial electrical services throughout the Houston area.