I don't think you are rude at all. I don't know why the disabled guy getting so grouchy and say that you are rude just because you tell him that being disabled is the same as if you are deaf. He did not get the idea of what you are saying to him when you give him the answer to the question about would you rather be hearing than to be disabled? I think he was insulted about his disability to walk. Oceanbreeze made a good point. I hope I make it clear for you to understand.
How about electric fireplace that you can put against the wall in your house if there is enough room like in the living room or in your bedroom? You don't have to have a big electric fireplace, just a small electric fireplace would be fine. It does give warmth but I don't know about how long the electric fireplace last. It does not cost much, but reasonable price. Building a real fireplace cost a lot of money and you don't have time to wait to get the house warm up again. lol I would love to give you my hug to keep you warm. 
