Using space heaters during the winter months can actually help your electricity bill.

But you must use them thoughtfully.

Here are some variables, from columnist Karen Youso of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, that affect whether space heaters help the energy bill:

¢ How well temperatures can be managed in your home. Can you close doors to isolate the area the space heater is in?

¢ The amount of time you use the heater.

¢ The cost of the fuel you use and the heating system’s efficiency. With the current high prices on fuel oil and propane, an electric space heater is likely to cost less to operate.

¢ Heater type. Consider a directional radiant heater. In these, a reflector surface behind the radiant heat element targets the energy at you rather than the whole room.

Space heater safety is the most important issue. While modern space heaters are engineered and built with safety in mind, proper operation is critical.

Space heaters of any kind are not intended to be used continuously. Follow all instructions carefully.

Keep all combustibles at least 2 feet from a space heater of any kind. Never use extension cords with space heaters. Never use any kind of space heater around combustible vapors or liquids.