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Portable space heaters can be a big help in boosting the warmth in rooms, while cutting heating costs associated with central heating systems. But sometimes the price is paid with a lack of heater and electrical safety. More than 25,000 fires that occur each year are blamed on portable heaters, which can also introduce indoor pollutants. Heed the following tips to learn how to use a portable heater safely.
Steps
Use a space heater with the Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) label attached. This symbol confirms that the model has undergone product testing for electrical safety.- Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLS) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) also certify the safety of space heaters..
- Always read the warning labels and manufacturer instructions before operating your portable heater.
Buy the correct size portable heater for the space you want heated.- Check the product specifications for the square feet a portable heater is rated for in order to maximize heater safety.
- Using a space heater that is too large can discharge air pollutants and use lots of energy.
- Using a space heater that is too small may lead to the device overheating.
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Choose portable heaters with a tip-over safety switch and overheat protection.- A tip-over safety switch shuts off a space heater in the event it is accidentally knocked over.
- A temperature sensor protects against overheating by automatically switching off a space heater when it becomes too hot.
Check for proper ventilation before operating gas heaters.- Gas heaters are fueled by natural gas, propane, butane, or kerosene. Never use a fuel that is not approved for your heater.
- These fuels can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide and other unhealthy gases if not properly vented.
- Portable gas heaters should be vented so that exhaust fumes are expelled outside.
- Let a heater cool down before filling and be careful not to overfill.
Place space heaters a minimum of 3 feet (.914 meters) from furniture, draperies or clothing.- Do not place anything on a portable heater.
Put space heaters on flat, hard surfaces.
Keep a portable heater away from water or damp places.- Damp locations like a bathroom or basement can cause problems with heater safety.
- Don't touch a heater with wet hands, which can lead to an electrical shock.
Position a space heater away from foot traffic and away from children and pets.
Avoid plugging a portable heater into an extension cord or power strip. An outlet provides better electrical safety.- Don't plug other electrical devices into the same outlet as the space heater.
- Verify that a plug and outlet have a good fit to avoid overheating.
- Never pull on the cord to unplug a space heater; only pull on the actual plug.
- If you have no other choice but to use an extension cord, use a heavy-duty one with at least 14-gauge wire.
Turn off a portable heater and unplug it if you are leaving a room. Space heaters should never be unattended.
Inspect space heaters regularly for electrical safety.Advertisement
Community Q&A
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- QuestionShould I use the heater on the floor or a table?
DvortygirlCommunity AnswerAll else being equal (sturdy, solid, level surfaces, clear of things that could catch fire, etc.), go for the floor. Heat rises. Also, especially if the floor is tile or concrete, the floor will retain some of the heat and help keep the space more evenly warm. - QuestionCan I leave a space heater on all night?
Community AnswerIt's best not to leave a space heater on and unattended for extended periods of time. You might start a fire. - QuestionCan I use an outlet surge protector to protect a space heater?
Community AnswerNo, you should not use anything that goes between the plug of the heater and the wall outlet. This can increase the likelihood of a fire, because there are more connections and longer wires. It is best to get a heater with the safety features included inside the heater.
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