Space Heater Safety: What You Need to Know

Space heaters are an effective way to stay warm. They're incredibly energy efficient. They distribute heat evenly and operate quietly. A space heater can effectively warm spaces at a rapid rate, providing enough heat to keep you and your family comfortable.

On average a space heater warms spaces as large as 300 sq. ft. They spread warmth around the room and keep you feeling exceptionally comfortable. Using a space heater is a great way to reduce winter chill.

Space heaters offer a variety of amenities like: heat settings, temperature adjustments, multiple fan speeds, easy to use controls, and a remote control that make them an ideal winter option.

There are a variety of reasons to consider a space heater as a source of warmth this winter.

A space heater can make up for inconsistent heat - as is often the case in apartment living - eliminate the need for central heating, keep a dorm room warm for the college student, or provide extra warmth when built-in versions aren't enough.

Ideally, a space heater is a superior winter companion; however, there are safety facts you must remember. If used improperly, a space heater can be dangerous. So if you plan on using one to keep warm this season, bear in mind a few essential safety tips to keep you and others safe this winter.

Avoiding Space Heater Accidents

A space heater is a terrific way to stay warm, but it should be used with caution. First, consider the type of space heater you plan to use. There are many varieties to choose from.

Space heaters contain a heating element that warms spaces at a rapid rate. Your space heater might contain a hot coil, oil, bulb, or fan. This heating element gets hot so where you set up your space heater is important. Keep your space heater in a clear, accessible space, away from combustibles.

Because space heaters are freestanding, placement is important. So when deciding where to set it up, you need to remember that your space heater is going to get very hot. The heating element is what spreads warmth around the room.

Even if your space heater offers a cool touch exterior, it's important to keep in mind your surroundings. Making a conscious effort to put your space heater in a safe place?away from pets and children who can accidentally knock it over?will help eliminate potential accidents.

Keep the area around your space heater free of debris. Picking up clothes, papers, and other household items will prevent accidental fires. Keep spaces around your space heater neat.

Space Heater Safety: Consider these Safety Tips for Safe Use

Listed below are a few safety conditions to consider as suggested by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:

• Don't operate a damaged heater
• Keep it away from furniture, drapes, bedding, clothes, or papers
• Keep clear a 3 ft. circumference around the heater
• Never leave the heater unattended
• Make sure the plug is secure in the wall outlet
• Don't overload the plug
• Place the heater on a stable, level surface

Moreover, don't use the same circuit as other high wattage appliances to prevent overheating. Plugging too many high wattage appliances into one circuit outlet can cause overheating, a fire hazard that can be avoided.

In addition to observing the safety tips above, choose a space heater with built-in safety features. Many space heaters offer numerous safety features designed to eradicate potential accidents.

Space Heaters and Additional Safety Features

Most space heaters offer advanced multi-level safety protection. Select one with features that are sure to meet all of your needs. Everyone's needs are different, but there are so many varieties to choose from, it's easy to find a match.

Some safety features include:

• Tip over safety switch
• Overheat protection
• Cool-touch cabinet and grille
• Auto- Shut-Off
• Stable base

Space heaters can be used in a safe effective manner. They're an ideal heating option, eliminating the need for central heating and combating the cold. For those who don't have a regular, accessible source of heat this winter, using a space heater is an ideal option.

Using a space heater in a responsible manner, following a few safety tips, you can have a positive experience. Accidents can be avoided, and you can enjoy a comfortable living environment.

Did you know...?

Did you know that space heaters are responsible for 32% of all home heating fires and 82% of home heating fire deaths?

Studies show that 20% of these fires are caused by combustibles like bedding, magazines, newspapers, clothing, or furniture. 7% were caused by rugs, carpets, or mats.

These accidents can be avoided.

A Harvard University study indicates that "space heaters present the greatest potential for human errors such as leaving them too close to combustible materials or failing to install, fuel, operate and maintain them properly." As in all electrical appliances, safety must be a top priority.

The CPSC or the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission indicates that more than 25,000 residential fires are caused by space heaters. Misusing heating equipment results in life threatening accidents that had safety directions been observed could have been avoided.

So what should you do?

• Read manufacturer installation instructions thoroughly and abide by manufacturer guidelines.
• Choose a space heater with safety features.
• Consider the CPSC safety guidelines and create a safe environment to use the space heater.

Remember, space heaters are high wattage appliances. A space heater requires access to a wall outlet, one that's secure.

A Few Final Words

A space heater will keep you warm and comfortable this winter. They provide superior heat in a quick, efficient manner.

Many space heaters are easy to setup and easy to use. They offer user friendly controls and heating options that make them ideal for anyone.

Observing a few safety tips and choosing a space heater that offers safety features, makes using a space heater a worry-free experience. Get ready for winter with a space heater and enjoy the warmth a space heater can provide.