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Electric Heater Safety Tips

Not every home is equipped with a sufficient heating system, and as we drift into colder weather, maintaining a safe and comfortable temperature at home has become a high priority for many. One of the most common secondary heating methods for houses and apartments are electric space heaters, and while they are generally a safe and effective way of controlling your home’s temperature, there are still some safety measures that need to be taken to ensure no problems arise.

 

Do Not Use Extension Cords, Plug Heaters Directly Into an Outlet

Extension cords may be tempting when it comes to moveable heaters, as they allow you more freedom in where they can be placed, however extension cords also increase the risk of a fire or electrical short with these devices. Electric heaters use a large and steady amount of electricity, and most extension cords can’t handle that pull. As high amounts of electricity move through the extension cord, it can generate heat, melt the insulation, and cause a short or fire. It is far safer to plug electric heaters directly into an outlet, which is generally much more suited for the higher electrical pull.

Position Them Carefully

The location of your electric heater is often what decides if it is safe or not. Even though there is no open flame, there is still a fire risk when flammable objects come into contact with the heater. In general, it’s best to keep a 3-foot safety zone around your heater, with no walls, items, and especially bedding within this zone.

Turn the Heater Down or Off When Leaving or Sleeping

In an ideal world, we’d all be able to shut our heaters off when we’re leaving the house or going to sleep. This would completely avoid the risk of a fire or short while we’re not around to take care of it. However, if you’re using an electric heater, you might not have another form of heat to keep your home comfortable during these times. As such, the second most safe thing to do is to turn the heaters down and pull them to a wide open space when you’re not around to watch them. This reduces the amount of energy they use and the heat they put out, which in turn reduces the risk of a fire. This does NOT completely remove the risk, though so other safety measures should still be taken.

Stay safe and warm this winter, and remember to check social media and the news for any urgent weather updates!

Fire Hazards for Portable Electric Heaters

Here are some safety tips for using electric heaters this winter:

  • Never operate a heater you suspect is damaged. Before use, inspect the heater, cord, and plug for damage. Follow all operation and maintenance instructions. Visit www.cpsc.gov or www.SaferProducts.gov to see if your electric heater has been recalled.
  • Never leave the heater operating while unattended, or while you are sleeping. 
  • Keep combustible material such as beds, sofas, curtains, papers, and clothes at least 3 feet (0.9 m) from the front, sides, and rear of the heater. 
  • Be sure the heater plug fits tightly into the wall outlet. If not, do not use the outlet to power the heater. 
  • During use, check frequently to determine if the heater plug or cord, wall outlet, or faceplate is HOT! If the plug, outlet, or faceplate is hot, discontinue use of the heater, and have a qualified electrician check and/or replace the plug or faulty wall outlet(s). If the cord is hot, disconnect the heater, and have it inspected/repaired by an authorized repair person.
  • Never power the heater with an extension cord or power strip.
  • Insure that the heater is placed on a stable, level surface, and located where it will not be knocked over.
  • When purchasing a heater, ask the salesperson whether the heater has been safety-certified. A certified heater will have a safety certification mark. 
  • Never run the heater’s cord under rugs or carpeting. This can damage the cord, causing it and nearby objects to burn. 
  • To prevent electrical shocks and electrocutions, always keep electric heaters away from water, and NEVER touch an electric heater if you are wet.
  • SPREAD THE NEWS! Inform family, friends, and coworkers of the ways to use an electric heater more safely.