This depends on the efficiency of your house heating system, and on the power rating of your space heater. In general, a space heater uses resistive coils to generate heat, which is not as efficient as a high-efficiency heat pump. However, if the space heater is a small one, and the house heating unit is not an efficient one, it may be cheaper to use the space heater.

Two other considerations are that (a) if you use the central unit, you'll be forcing your husband to share in the higher temperature, which he may or may not be comfortable with, whereas with the space heater you can set it near you, and he can stay in cooler areas of the house; and (b) a space heater is not as safe as a central heating unit, and should not be left on when you're not in the house and awake.
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We use an oil filled electric space heater.It has an auto shut off if it tips over. Works well for small rooms
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We had this issue crop up in our home last winter. My wife is constantly freezing and I do not like heat above 68 degrees farenheit. Heat is for comfort but too much of it can be dry and cause harm to your skin, breathing, etc....YUCK!

We came up with a solution and it seems to be working well..it is much better then having portable units laying around that can be dangerous...especially if they are left on and or in a home that has children.

The solution: Heating Blankets with DUAL controls. This way, whether you are in bed or on the couch, you can leave the heat turned down and the person that is cold can warm their side up....VOILA. Works like a charm:
Source(s):
http://www.sunbeam.com/ProductDetailBedding.aspx?section=bedding&pid=70...

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Consumer reports has efficiency ratings for various types of heaters. Maybe you could find one that is similar to yours in order to give you a better idea.

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/appliances/heating-cooling-and-air/index.htm?EXTKEY=SG72H00&CMP=KNC-CROHOMEGARDG&HBX_OU=50&HBX_PK=heater

You can also find information at http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=heat_cool.pr_hvac about the efficiency of heating and air conditioning systems and how to get the most out of them. A central heating and air system running at its peak efficiency may be more efficient than your space heater depending upon the individual system and heater capabilities.

Have you considered a Snuggie or a robe? I am also cold-natured and have a warm-natured husband. I sometimes wear a robe around the house and encourage the cat to curl up in my lap when I'm home. The cat and I keep each other warm.
Source(s):
See Above

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