Thanks for taking the time to reply! I'll dig into the diagram and set up a parts list. I'm using AeroGarden Farms right now but thinking simpler might be better long term.

Do you have some designs posted someplace? I have Arduino experience but I don't know how to build anything for $3.

In the US the max a 110v outlet can pull is about 1500W so 700W is 50% or so for what's available. I'm with you though, those heaters are a stopgap at best. Base layers and clothes/blankets can help a lot though.

These also exist they're tables with an electric heater and a blanket attached (kotatsu). It won't do much for your upper body but they do a good job keeping your legs and core warm.

edit: everyone says kotatsu, that's great

Thanks very much for the writeup, encouragement and advice. I'm in the planning stages right now and anything to prepare helps a lot.

It's so not worth the trouble of, you know... dying and all.

Agreed, the NYT opinion section has been pretty suspect for a long time now but they can still stumble into the truth. I think the main issue is people not having the resources to eat better and it's going to be a bonanza for these companies.