Cheap Ways to Heat a Small Living Space

Sunlight

• Sunlight is a renewable energy source that provides heat to the planet every day. You can use it to heat your home if you plan accordingly. Instead of drawing your blinds and closing windows to block out the glare of the sun, open them up and let the sun's rays in to heat the space. Sunlight shining through a pane of glass can raise the temperature of the room considerably, depending on the amount of cloud cover and amount of light you let into the room.
  
  

Thermostat Adjustment

• Perhaps the easiest way to heat a small space for less money is to set your thermostats in a smart way. Getting a programmable thermostat if you don't already have one is essential to saving money with a central heating and air system. At night and when you are away from home, set your thermostats on a cooler temperature than you would normally set them. You can always cover up with extra blankets at night and if you're gone to work during the day, the house can be considerably cooler than you prefer until you get home and adjust the level up.
  
  

Space Heaters

• A small space heater will do wonders in heating a small living space. They use considerable amounts of energy, but they use far less than a furnace and you can use them only in the spaces where you actually are. There is no need to heat an entire house when all you need to warm is the portion you are using at the time. Space heaters do pose fire and burn risks, though, so use them with caution and don't leave them unattended while they're on.
  
  

Electric Blankets

• If you want to stay warm at night in the cheapest way possible, invest in an electric blanket. These devices will adjust to the warmth level you find comfortable and they go right on top of your existing blankets in the bed. You can even use it to cover up with on the couch in the evening as you unwind and watch television or read a book. They use electricity, but they use little of it. You can turn your other heat down very low at night or possibly turn it off completely as long as the temperatures aren't freezing.