• Running an electric heating system all day can cause a large spike in energy costs.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Electric heating systems have many benefits, including a lack of environmentally harmful emissions and no fuel to purchase. These advantages are somewhat mitigated by several negative side effects which can affect everything from the utility bill at the end of the month to how a room is decorated. An electric heating system must be carefully managed to ensure the greatest return for the money.
  
  

Expensive to Operate

• Using an electric seating system in your home can have a negative impact on your electric bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, which is true of baseboard electric heating systems, duct-based systems or radiant heating systems that are installed in the floor. Electric heating systems use high voltage to produce enough energy to heat rooms. High voltage means more kilowatt hours, which translates into an expensive heating bill even with a small home.
  
  

Air Filtration

• Duct-based or fan-based electric heating systems require filtration to keep dust particles, insects and allergens like pollen from entering the home air supply. Clogged air filters can allow harmful particles to enter the home, which can aggravate allergies or cause illness. A backed-up filter can also force the system to work harder, which can increase an electric bill even higher than it already is. Regular cleaning or replacement of air filters is necessary to keep the system operating at peak levels.
  
  

Room Decor Issues

• Furniture and carpeting must be kept clear of baseboard-style electric heating systems to ensure they operate at peak efficiency, which can be a negative side effect for anyone attempting to decorate or furnish a room. Furniture must be kept away from the walls, which can further decrease the available living space and make a room seem cluttered. Keeping furniture against walls is also a negative side effect as it reduces the efficiency of the heating system, poses a potential fire hazard for anything pressed against it and forces the system to work harder, thus increasing the electric bill.