The Truth About Space Heaters: Are They Safe in Saskatchewan Winters?

As temperatures drop in Saskatoon and surrounding areas, many homeowners turn to space heaters for quick, localized warmth. But what is a space heater exactly, and are they truly safe for Saskatchewan winters? Understanding the risks, proper usage, and alternatives can help you stay warm without compromising safety.

1. The Pros of Space Heaters

Space heaters are a popular choice because they:

  • Provide instant warmth to a specific room
  • Allow you to lower your main thermostat and save on energy costs
  • Are portable and easy to use

However, convenience comes with potential risks if they’re not used correctly.

2. Understanding Space Heater Energy Costs

Before relying on a space heater, it’s important to understand the financial impact. How much electricity does a space heater use? Most models consume between 750 to 1,500 watts per hour.

So how much does it cost to run a space heater? At Saskatchewan’s average electricity rates, running a 1,500-watt heater costs approximately $0.15-$0.20 per hour. How much electricity does a space heater use per month? If used 8 hours daily, that’s about $36-$48 monthly—significantly more than efficient furnace heating.

3. Common Risks of Space Heaters

Space heaters are unfortunately involved in a significant number of winter home fires each year. Common risks include:

  • Fire hazards: Placing heaters too close to curtains, furniture, or bedding can ignite fires.
  • Electrical overloads: Using extension cords or plugging multiple heaters into one outlet can overload circuits. Can you plug a space heater into a power strip? Absolutely not—this is one of the leading causes of electrical fires. Always plug directly into a wall outlet.
  • Burn risks: Some models get extremely hot and can cause burns, especially to children or pets.
  • Carbon monoxide: Fuel-powered heaters (propane, kerosene) produce CO, which is deadly if ventilation is inadequate.

4. Safety Tips for Using Space Heaters

If you choose to use a space heater, follow these safety precautions:

  • Keep a safe distance: Maintain at least three feet between the heater and any flammable objects.
  • Use approved models: Look for CSA or UL certification with automatic shut-off features.
  • Avoid extension cords: Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet—never use power strips or extension cords.
  • Turn it off when unattended: Can I leave a space heater on overnight? No—never leave a space heater running while sleeping or away from home. This is when most space heater fires occur.
  • Fuel safety: For propane or kerosene heaters, ensure proper ventilation and install CO detectors.

5. Alternatives to Space Heaters

While space heaters can be useful for short-term warmth, there are safer and more efficient ways to heat your home in Saskatchewan:

  • Regular furnace maintenance: A well-tuned furnace heats your home safely and efficiently without the high electricity costs of space heaters.
  • Smart thermostats: These allow you to adjust heating room-by-room without wasting energy.
  • Zone heating systems: Ductless mini-splits or zoned HVAC systems provide targeted warmth without the risks of portable heaters.

6. Bottom Line

Space heaters can be convenient, but they should never replace your primary heating system in Saskatoon winters. With proper precautions, they can supplement your home heating, but relying on them as your main heat source is risky and costly.

✅TemperaturePro Tip: Keep your furnace in top shape this fall and winter, and use space heaters only as a temporary solution in well-monitored spaces.