Space heaters are one of the easiest and most convenient ways to keep warm during the cool winter months. When used correctly, they can work well to heat a small area. But, like any electronic device, space heaters have a few potential hazards. Follow these easy tips to use a space heater safely.
Keep the Space Heater on the Floor
When using a portable space heater, it’s essential to keep it on the floor. Never put it on a table or countertop — that’s how fires start. Also, be conscious of what material your space heater is on. Carpets, rugs, and other flammable materials should be avoided. The best place to put your space heater is on a smooth tiled floor or a heatproof mat.
To use a space heater safely, never put it on top of furniture or appliances because it could fall and cause a serious injury or fire. When you place a space heater on top of tables or dressers, you risk burning yourself or damaging your belongings.
Move Flammable Objects Away
Space heaters are generally not intended as the primary heating source in any room or area of a home or building. Instead, they’re designed to supplement central heating systems in small rooms or spaces where additional heat is desired.
And keep all flammable objects away from your space heater, including curtains and drapes. Ideally, anything should be at least 3 feet away from your space heater. Even if the space heater is turned off, make sure nothing is around it until it’s completely cooled.
Never Leave the Space Heater Unattended
Never leave your space heater unattended. If you go to sleep or leave the house for any length of time, turn off the space heater and unplug it.
Always unplug your space heater before leaving the room or going to bed at night. The fact is that a space heater should never be left unsupervised. If the space heater overheats while you are out, the damage can be astronomical.
Avoid Using Power strips or Extension Cords
Extension cords should never be used with space heaters because they are not meant for such high-wattage devices.
Keep Kids and Pets Away
Curious children and hot space heaters are a bad combination. Children can burn themselves from touching the hot surfaces or knock over the space heater by getting tangled in the cord.
If you must use a space heater in an area where there are young children, install safety guards around the front of the unit. Ensure that no part of the guard is missing or damaged so fingers cannot get caught inside. The same goes for curious pets. They could get burned by touching the heated surface or accidentally knock it over.
Never Put it Near Liquids
Water and space heaters don’t mix. It’s a common misconception that you can use a space heater in the bathroom or near water, it can cause an electric shock or start a fire.
This is because water conducts electricity, when it comes into contact with an electrical source, it can cause sparks or fire.
Contact the experts at Sierra for your home heating needs this winter.
