Are Modern Furnaces More Efficient Than an Electric Blanket?

Heating and Cooling | February 2, 2024

Electric blankets are a great way to find immediate warmth during a cold Alberta winter, but are they doing your heating bill any favors?

When winter’s chill settles in, it’s important that you prepare for the season with home heating equipment.

And in an effort to save money, you’re probably looking for more affordable options.

Let’s take a look at electric blankets and modern furnaces and see which offers more efficiency and lower costs in the winter:

Is It Cheaper to Use an Electric Blanket or Heating?

Winters in Alberta can be brutal and unpredictable, and we understand why you are looking for budget-friendly heating solutions.

Let’s take a look at how electric blankets and HVAC systems (heating, ventilation & air conditioning) compare when it comes to lowering your energy bills:

Electric Blankets

Electric blanket energy consumption is between 100-150 watts per hour. This translates to a cost-effective option when it comes to targeting warmth in one small area.

Using it only when needed and with the ability to adjust settings can contribute to lower energy usage and savings.

HVAC Systems

On the other hand, HVAC units offer distinct considerations. These systems can heat entire rooms or homes.

While they provide year-round comfort, it’s important to consider the costs involved. Installation, maintenance, and day-to-day operation all factor into the total expense of HVAC systems.

When it comes to comfort and affordability, HVAC systems can warm your entire home and ensure a steady source of warmth regardless of the temperature outside. 

Staying Warm in the Winter

Navigating the winter chill requires a thoughtful approach to staying warm. Whether considering the localized coziness of electric blankets or the comprehensive coverage of modern furnaces, understanding each option is key to achieving optimal comfort during the colder months.

Electric Blankets

Even though electric blankets offer the convenience of localized warmth and lower energy costs, there are things you need to keep in mind if you choose to rely on this heat source.

For instance, electric blankets do have their limitations. They can only warm one specific area at a time. So while they are great at keeping your bed or couch warm, they can’t provide heat and comfort around your home.

Plus, there are safety concerns you need to consider as well. While most electric blankets have shut-off mechanisms to prevent overuse and overheating, they are not 100% safe.

Continuous use or faulty wiring can result in electric shock, and folding or bunching can lead to hotspots and fire risks. And the older the blanket gets, the more these risks increase.

HVAC Units 

Modern furnaces equipped with HVAC units are ideal for winter energy savings. When it comes to heating your living space and staying comfortable during the frigid months, you get more bang for your buck.

One of the key features of modern HVAC systems is their zoning options. This allows you to control exactly where the heat goes.

There are different ways you can heat your zone with an HVAC unit:

• Zone Dampers: These are valves placed in the ductwork that allow you to regulate airflow to different areas of your home based on the thermostat settings.
• Multiple Thermostats: For better heating efficiency, you can also use a thermostat in each zone to control the heat around your home.
• Smart Thermostats: A smart thermostat helps manage and coordinate different zones. You can also program and schedule when your heat comes on to provide heat for however many hours a day you want.

An HVAC system is an efficient way to heat your home and provides comfort and energy savings.

Seasonal Changes and Heating Costs

As seasons transition, so do the considerations for efficient heating. While electric blankets aren’t great in extreme cold, modern furnaces with HVAC systems offer a year-round solution.

They provide adaptable comfort that extends beyond winter and mitigates potential drawbacks associated with seasonal fluctuations in heating costs.

Electric Blankets

Relying solely on electric blankets for winter warmth may not be enough when it comes to dealing with extreme cold. Using them as your sole heating solution in the bitter cold can lead to discomfort. It’s not a versatile heating option that can cater to varying temperatures throughout the winter.

HVAC Systems

HVAC systems ensure comfort throughout the changing temperatures and seasons. They allow you to enjoy consistent comfort during the winter, especially when the temperatures fluctuate. They are a sustainable and reliable home heating solution.

When Should You Use Electric Blankets?

While electric blankets are technically cheaper to use during the winter, it is not recommended to rely solely on them as a source of heat.

Your home needs a robust HVAC system, but that doesn’t mean you can’t supplement your HVAC system and allow you to stay comfortable during the winter without compromising on savings.

Here are some ways you can use your electric blanket safely along with your heating system:

• Milder Winter Days: On days when the cold is more manageable, electric blankets are a cost-effective way to stay without running your HVAC system all day. This targeted use lowers energy consumption, which can help you save on your utility bills.
• Zone-Specific Comfort: If you find yourself spending more time in a specific area of your home, such as the living room or bedroom, using electric blankets allows you to customize comfort without heating the entire house.
• Evening Relaxation: Whether reading a book or watching TV, the focused warmth an electric blanket offers ensures comfort without the need to elevate the thermostat, contributing to energy efficiency.

Finding a balance between cost and comfort is possible by using both an electric blanket and your HVAC system.

Tailored Warmth: Choose Wisely, Act Warmly!

For a heating solution that caters to your unique needs and preferences, reach out to First Call Heating & Air Conditioning today.

Our experts can help you choose the best heating equipment for your home.

Don’t let the winter chill catch you off guard! Book an appointment, and let’s get started.