SPACE HEATER SAFETY TIPS

Dec 13, 2019 | Blog

Space heaters are a great way to add some warmth to your home this winter without cranking up the thermostat. Some areas of your home may require just a little extra heat, such as the basement, attic, garage, or rooms you don’t use all the time. Space heaters can add just the right amount of warmth to these areas to make them comfortable. 

One of the best things about space heaters is that they are convenient and easy to use. However, there are some safety tips you need to observe before and during their use. Be sure to follow these important space heater safety rules: 

 

Read the Information Manual 

This may seem like a waste of time since most space heater operation is pretty self-explanatory with just a glance. Still, it is very important that you take a few minutes to read over the operator’s manual that comes with your heater. There may be one simple point that could be significant to the use of your space heater that could make a big difference. 

 

Check Space Heaters for Damage Before Using 

Check your space heater for any signs of damage both when you are putting them away for the season and when you get them back out for use once again. Even the smallest, seemingly insignificant amount or type of damage can cause significant problems once you put your space heater to use. If you notice any type of damage to your heater, even if it seems to be only cosmetic, do not use it. What seems like an unimportant issue could put your home in your family in harm’s way. Better safe than sorry.

 

Choose Safe Locations for Space Heaters 

Never place a space heater in a small, closed-off area. Ensure that there are at least three feet of open, clear space on each side of the heater. While modern space heaters are manufactured to stay cool on the outside and to shut down immediately if they are turned over or if they become overheated, a heating device of any type requires is safe, clean, open space surrounding it for safety. 

 

Don’t Leave Space Heaters Out When Not in Use 

Since space heaters are generally compact in size and don’t take up much room, you may want to leave them out for convenience’s sake. However, this is not recommended. Putting your space heaters away in between uses will help keep them clean and will reduce the chances of any type of damage being done to them. Accidents happen, but if your heaters are put safely away, there will be no chance of them being inadvertently damaged. 

 

Don’t Plug Space Heaters Into Power Strips 

Do not use extension cords or power strips to connect your space heater. Power strips and extension cords are not able to handle the current flow that space heaters require in order to operate. This can result in a fire as the cords become overheated. Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet in a safe location keep an eye on space heaters for safety whenever they are in use. 

 

Check Walls Near Outlets for Warmth 

Feel the wall near the outlet where the space heater is plugged in. If the wall or the outlet itself feels warm to the touch immediately and contact an electrician as this could be an indication of a serious electrical problem in your home. Do not use the outlet at all until the situation has been checked out by a professional. 

 

Monitor Space Heaters While in Use 

A good quality space heater has many safety features, but it is still a good idea to check on them while they are in use. They are so convenient it’s easy to turn them on and leave them to do their thing, but accidents can happen even in the best circumstances. It only takes a moment to check on them and make sure everything is A-OK. 

Make Sure Smoke Detectors Are in Working Order 

Of course, this is important all the time, not just when space heaters are in use. Smoke detectors are a must in every home. They provide peace of mind and an added layer of security for your family should the unthinkable occur. 

 

Space heaters are a great way to supplement the heat in your home. They are not meant to be the primary heat source. They aren’t designed to provide high levels of heat. If your furnace isn’t keeping your home as warm as it should be, contact Centerville Heating and Cooling at 937-353-1169 or visit us online at https://www.centervilleheatandcooling.com/appointments/ to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed, professional HVAC technicians. We will make sure your home will remain warm and cozy throughout the winter months. 

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