If your furnace has stopped working, you may be relying on a space heater until you get a furnace repair completed. Space heaters use a lot of energy, and you should proceed with caution when you use them. Unfortunately, space heaters can cause fires, shock hazards or serious injuries if not used properly. Safety should be top priority when using space heaters, here we discuss space heater safety tips for keeping your home and family safe and warm.
Keep the Space Heater on the Floor
Keep your space heater on the floor a hard, level, and nonflammable surface away from doorways or high traffic areas to prevent dangerous tip overs. Never place space heaters on tables, furniture, or carpet as it increases the risk of overheating and possibly starting a fire. Be sure to read all the instructions and safety warnings your heater comes with as it will often detail the type of flooring it can be used on.
Do Not Use Power Strips or Extension Cords
Plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet and keep the cords out in the open. Do not run a space heater’s cord under a rug, carpet, or piece of furniture. Extension cords and power strips are designed to handle low voltages and the space heater can overheat and cause a fire when plugged into these. Also, if your space heater is designed with an auto shut off safety feature it might not function properly when plugged into a power strip or extension cord. Before each use, inspect the heater for broken plugs or loose connections. If worn or damaged do not use the space heater. If your space heater or its power cord is running hot, turn it off and unplug immediately. If you have had the space heater for awhile it would be better to purchase a new one. Keep in mind to not donate the malfunctioning space heater.
Check the Space Heater’s Safety Certifications and Safety Features
Purchase a space heater that has a safety certification label from an independent testing organization such as the UL mark, ETL from Intertek or CSA International Group. Choose a space heater that comes with additional safety features such as an automatic shut off when it starts to overheat or tips over and a GFCI plug.
Do Not Leave the Space Heater Unattended
To minimize a fire hazard, if you are going to leave the room for an extended period of time or are going to sleep, turn off and unplug the space heater. Always unplug and safely store the space heater when not in use.
All Space Heaters Need 3 Feet of Space
Keep the space heater a minimum of at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn such as carpet, curtains, bedding, or clothing. A taller heater may need to be kept further away. It is important to keep an eye on anything near your space heater even if it is not flammable.
Keep Kids and Pets Away from Space Heaters
Do not allow kids or pets to be close to any type of heater and do not place one in a child’s room. They are naturally curious and will not understand that a heater can cause burns if touched. A space heater can easily tip over if pushed by children or pets. Be sure pets and children are supervised and kept away from space heaters.
Keep Space Heaters Away from Liquids
Never use a space heater near water or bathrooms, they use electricity which is a very dangerous mix. Another place to keep space heaters away from is your garage. It may be common, but unfortunately it still happens.
Inspect Your Smoke Alarms
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and bedrooms, be sure to check the batteries monthly. It is also important to have working carbon monoxide detectors for your gas furnace.
Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air
Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air for your heating needs this winter. We hope you have found this space heater safety tips helpful to keep you and your family safe and warm this winter. If you are in need of furnace repair or furnace replacement give us a call or contact us online, we are here to help you.
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