Space heaters can be a great way to add extra heat to a room on those brutally cold days; on the other hand, they can become a severe fire hazard when misused or when operating a space heater designed with a less than optimum level of safety. Here are some quick tips on how to safely operate a space heater and for choosing the safest types of space heater to use in your home this winter:
SAFETY TIPS FOR USING A SPACE HEATER
TIP #1:
Try to avoid using extension cords. If an extension cord must be used, make sure it is at least 14-gauge wire.
TIP #2:
Place the heater on a stable level surface. Keep away from foot traffic, pets, and children.
TIP #3:
Be sure to keep items that could combust such as curtains, sofas, papers, clothes, beds, or anything else that has the potential to ignite at least 3 feet away from your space heater.
TIP #4:
Be sure the cord is securely plugged into the power outlet.
TIP #5:
Inspect all of the cords to be sure they are not frayed or damaged.
TIP #6:
Check your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are on and functioning.
TIP #7:
Review safety tips with everyone in your household to be sure every precaution is being taken no matter who is operating it.
SPACE HEATER SAFETY TIP #8:
If your space heater uses fuel, be sure you are using the correct designated fuel type for your space heater that is listed in its manual. Using an incorrect fuel type in your space heater could create great potential for a fire hazard.
HOW TO PURCHASE THE SAFEST SPACE HEATER MODELS:
PURCHASING TIP #1:
Only buy newer models with current safety features.
PURCHASING TIP #2:
Ensure the heater carries the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label.
PURCHASING TIP #3:
Buy a space heater with a thermostat. This will ensure the unit turns off when the desired level of warmth is reached and prevent overheating.
PURCHASING TIP #4:
Don’t buy a heater too large for the room you wish to heat. Most heaters will have a sizing guide to let you know how big of a heater you need.
PURCHASING TIP #5:
Purchase heaters with a tip-over safety switch. These models ensure that if the unit were to tip over, it would automatically shut off.
As useful as a space heater can be, there are better solutions to heating rooms in your home that won’t require installing vents, radiators, or a new central heating system. A ductless mini-split is a perfect solution for heating rooms wide in areas with too few vents, garages, dorm rooms, basements, sunrooms (in the winter), lofts, and more. Extend comfort into these ‘untouched’ areas of your home with ductless mini-split heating.
