7 Best Life Saving Space Heater Safety Tips
With winter upon us, many homeowners turn to space heaters for a quick and cost-efficient way to warm up specific areas like a bedroom, home office, or drafty living room. While these devices offer convenience and comfort, they also come with potential safety risks if not used responsibly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are a major contributor to home heating fires. By following proper safety guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth they provide while safeguarding your home and loved ones.
How do space heaters cause fires?
Space heaters can cause fires primarily by overheating when placed too close to flammable materials like curtains, bedding, or furniture, or if they malfunction due to issues like damaged cords, overloaded circuits, tipping over, or lack of safety features like automatic shut-off mechanisms, potentially igniting nearby combustibles; essentially, the intense heat generated by the space heater can directly ignite flammable items in close proximity.
What are the safety precautions for space heaters?
Follow these tips on how to make a space heater safe
- Don’t leave the space heater unattended. Space heaters cannot regulate temperature very well for long periods of time, so never leave them on overnight or unattended, especially around children and pets.
- Plug the space heater directly into an outlet. Space heaters use a lot of electricity, so don’t use extension cords or power strips, which can overheat.
- Install smoke detectors and ensure they are always working properly. Test them monthly.
- Keep the space heaters away from flammable objects and high traffic areas on a level, hard, non-flammable floor surface. Make sure your space heaters are at least 3 feet away from anything that could catch fire. Purchase space heaters that have been safety tested, and UL approved. Do not put space heaters on carpets, furniture and countertops.
- Use a newer model space heater. Newer space heaters often have more safety features like emergency tip-over switches, auto shut-off, heating element guards and thermostats.
- Clean and inspect the space heater on a regular basis. Cords should not be frayed, brittle or cracked. Dust buildup and damage can lead to fires so inspect your heater and its plug regularly.
- Follow the manufacturers instructions. Read and follow all the operations and care instructions that come with your space heater.
Stay Safe with Phoenix Electrical
Space heaters can be a helpful tool during the winter and using them safely is essential. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a cozy and secure winter season. If you think there may be a problem with your electrical outlet or circuit, Phoenix Electrical is here to help with a full range of electrical services, from outlet replacements and wiring installations to preventative maintenance.
