The cold has arrived: How to heat the house inexpensively?

Discover these tips to warm the house without spending much.

According to what is read on Notícias ao Minuto, DECO PROTeste presented a set of recommendations to guide consumers in choosing the best way to heat their homes.

In recent days, temperatures have dropped considerably, leading many people to seek solutions for home heating. However, these choices are not always the most efficient or economical.

According to DECO PROTeste, portable heaters, such as fan heaters, convector heaters, electric radiators, and oil-filled radiators, are popular due to their affordability. However, these options can substantially increase the electricity bill and have a significant environmental impact due to high consumption.

Experts suggest, first of all, improvements in the building's surroundings, such as the installation of efficient windows or strengthening of thermal insulation. When this is not feasible, it is essential to opt for more efficient heating systems that reduce energy costs and CO2 emissions.

The choice of the ideal system depends on the type of housing and specific air conditioning needs. Among the most cost-effective options are: & nbsp;

• Air conditioning: Reduced energy cost and versatility, as it can also be used in the summer for cooling.

• Salamanders with pellets: An efficient solution with lower energy costs than portable heaters.

According to DECO PROTeste, for 4 hours daily, 5 days a week, over 5 months, the average annual costs are:

• Fan heaters: 152 euros.

• Salamanders pellets: 52 euros.

• Air conditioning: 42 euros.

If portable heaters are chosen, DECO PROTeste recommends models with timers to program the operating time, avoiding energy waste. Among the portable ones, fan heaters stand out for their speed in heating the environment, taking about 23 minutes to raise the temperature, compared to 44 minutes for convector heaters and 73 minutes for radiant heaters. 

However, the use of these devices should be occasional and secondary. Once thermal comfort is achieved, it is advisable to turn off the device to reduce energy consumption.

For frequent heating needs, systems such as air conditioning or pellet stoves are cost-effective in the medium term. Despite higher initial costs, the investment is recovered through energy savings over time. Additionally, air conditioning has the advantage of acting as a cooler in the summer.

These guidelines help ensure thermal comfort and efficiency, balancing costs with environmental impact.  

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