Nowadays, it is quite common for most households to have space heaters. Portable space heaters not only take up less space but are also convenient because of their size. However, they are not the safest way to heat your home. Portable space heaters come with notable fire and electric shock hazards if not used properly.
Safety should always be the top consideration when using space heaters. To help you stay safe and sound while using this small warming equipment, we are sharing some useful safety tips with you.
The Do’s
1) Start from the basics. Make sure that your space heater is in a good place. Keep it on a hard, even, and a non-flammable surface where there is less chance for it to fall.
2) Buy a good quality space heater that is certified and has good ratings. Ensure that it’s labeled by a recognized testing laboratory such as U.L. or A.G.A.
3) Not all space heaters are the same. Before using a space heater, make sure that you have read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully to know how to use it.
4) Inspect thoroughly for cracks, loose connections, and frayed wires before you use it for the first time.
5) Most space heaters come with a cord that’s 6 feet long. Make sure that your heater is securely plugged into the power outlet and not into an extension cord.
6) Maintain adequate space in all directions around your space heater. Follow the three feet rule. This means maintaining a minimum distance of 3 feet from anything that could catch on fire, including beds, sofas, curtains, paper, furniture, or any other flammable items.
7) Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every floor of your home. Make sure that they are in proper working condition.
8) If your space heater uses fuel, make sure that you fill it with the right kind. Store the fuel away from your home and always use an approved safety can for storing the liquids.
9) Give your space heater frequent checkups and cleaning to ensure that it is functioning correctly. A dirty or neglected heater is a critical fire hazard.
10) Turn your heater off when you are leaving the room or going to sleep.
The Don’ts
1) Never use your space heater for anything else other than heating. Activities such as warming bedclothes, cooking food, or thawing pipes should be avoided.
2) Never place your heater on any flammable surface, including cabinets, tables, furniture, or carpets. They can get overheated and start a fire.
3) Do not use an extension cord or power strip when plugging your heater. Also, do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater.
4) Place heaters out of high traffic areas and doorways where they may cause tripping.
5) Make sure that there is proper ventilation around when you use your fuel burning heater. Burning fuel such as kerosene or coal produces deadly fumes.
6) Never leave children unsupervised in a room with a space heater. If you have a pet, make sure that it stays away as well.
7) When refueling your heater, avoid overfilling it; especially if it’s cold kerosene. Kerosene tends to expand as it warms up and may cause burner flooding that may ultimately lead to a fire.
8) Never cover a heater’s cord with carpeting or furniture, as the covered cable may heat up and catch fire.
9) Never use a space heater in the bathroom. Most space heaters don’t come equipped with a GFCI plug, which prevents electric shock.
Still have questions?
Have questions regarding your space heater? Get in touch with our experts at A-1 Cooling & Refrigeration, and they will resolve all of your concerns! We care about our customers and strive to make them happy!
