Woman heating her hands near the radiator, cold in the house. Saving heating. Expensive utility bills. 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

7 Space Heater Safety Tips You Absolutely Need to Follow This Winter

Jeanique

Space heaters can be a great way to stay warm during the winter, offering quick heat in specific areas of your home, especially when your central heating system isn’t cutting it. But, while they’re convenient, space heaters can also be risky if not used properly.

The danger doesn’t just lie in the heaters themselves—often, accidents happen because of user mistakes. These can lead to burn injuries, carbon monoxide poisoning, and even fires. The good news is that by following some simple safety precautions, you can enjoy the warmth of a space heater without putting your home or health at risk.

Are Space Heaters Safe?

Heating equipment is a major cause of home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Every year, there are over 44,000 home fires caused by heating equipment, and between 2016 and 2020, portable and stationary space heaters were responsible for 88% of the deaths related to these fires. The winter months—particularly December, January, and February—see the highest number of heating-related incidents.

While space heaters can be effective for heating, they do come with risks. It’s important to use them safely and make sure you follow all the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize those risks.

Space Heater Safety Tips

  1. Place Your Heater in a Safe Location The first step in using a space heater safely is choosing the right spot for it. Make sure to place your heater at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire, like curtains, blankets, or furniture. It should also be on a flat, non-flammable surface. Avoid putting it near carpets or rugs, which can overheat. And, if you’re using it in a bathroom or kitchen, make sure it’s away from sinks or water sources to prevent electric shock.
  2. Pick the Right Size Heater for Your Space Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to space heaters. A smaller unit can sometimes work just as well or even better depending on the room size and heater design. When choosing a heater, consider its wattage and airflow efficiency. A general rule is to aim for about 10 watts per square foot. So, for a 150-square-foot room, look for a 1,500-watt heater.
  3. Avoid Using Extension Cords It’s tempting to use an extension cord, but this can be dangerous. Always plug your space heater directly into the wall. Extension cords can overheat and increase the risk of a fire.
  4. Never Leave the Heater Unattended It’s a good idea to turn off your space heater when you’re not in the room or when you go to bed. If you need a heater to run while you’re away or asleep, consider a model with smart controls that let you adjust the settings remotely. This way, you can monitor and control the heater from your phone, adding extra peace of mind.
  5. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors If you’re using a fuel-burning space heater (such as a kerosene or propane model), make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector nearby. This invisible gas can be dangerous, and space heaters that burn fuel are a common source of it.
  6. Replace Old or Faulty Heaters If you’ve been using the same space heater for years, it might be time for an upgrade. Worn-out cords or faulty wiring can lead to fires, so it’s important to check your heater regularly for damage. If you find any issues, don’t try to fix it yourself—just replace the unit.
  7. Opt for Smart Heaters with Built-in Safety Features Newer models often come with built-in safety features like automatic shut-off switches that activate if the heater overheats or tips over. Many also have flameproof materials and thermal insulation, which reduce the risk of fire. When shopping for a heater, look for certified models (like those with ETL or UL markings) to ensure they meet safety standards.

Bonus: Save on Energy Costs with Eco Mode

Space heaters can be energy hogs, with typical models using around 1,500 watts. That could cost about $51 per month if you run it 8 hours a day, adding up to $258 per year. To save both energy and money, consider heaters with an Eco Mode. These heaters automatically adjust their power output based on the room temperature, which helps prevent overheating and can reduce energy use by up to 50%.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a warm and safe winter without worry!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *