When your furnace or radiator isn’t producing enough heat, you may rely on a space heater to keep you warm. Space heaters are convenient, inexpensive and can thoroughly heat smaller areas like bedrooms or the living room. Many families bring out their space heaters once winter begins, relying on these small, efficient devices to keep utility bills down. Following proper safety protocols when using a space heater is essential to the safety of your family and home.
Shop Responsibly
Space heaters provide a cheaper alternative to entirely relying on your home’s heating system. However, you should still shop responsibly to ensure the heater won’t break prematurely or short-circuit. Avoid buying the least expensive option available, instead opting for a reliable brand that has a thermostat and protection against overheating. You may also be interested in an auto-off feature in case you’re liable to fall asleep when it’s on. Know how to maintain and properly use the space heater before purchase to avoid creating a potential fire hazard.
Set Up Correctly
Space heaters should sit on level surfaces at least three feet away from any flammable materials. Elevate your heater if you have small children or pets in the home. Follow all manufacturer guidelines concerning usage and turn off when you leave the area. Space heaters are generally safe appliances, but anything could become a source of danger if improperly used or accidentally knocked over while unattended.
Don’t plug your space into an extension cord. Directly connect it to the outlet if it requires an electrical energy source. If your heater runs on gas or alternative fuel, make sure the room is properly ventilated and that
the heater is vented. Ensure your home has fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to keep your family safe from potential dangers.
Never Leave Unattended
While you may be tempted to leave this appliance on when you’re not around so the house stays warm, you should never leave a space heater unattended. This appliance is a strong source of heat and energy that could quickly catch a blanket, curtain or shirt on fire. Space heaters must be monitored for the entire time they’re on in case of an accident or mechanical issue.
Many professionals compare a space heater to a candle in that neither should be left unattended or on for extended periods. Monitoring the space heater during the day will enable you to immediately identify any issues and turn off the appliance before the problem worsens.
Regularly Check for Damage
Many space heaters today are wired with an assortment of functions and settings. When setting up your heater, check the wires and paneling thoroughly for any damages, exposed wires or missing parts. If you live in a humid environment, check for odd smells, mustiness or signs of mold. Any compromising changes in your space heater could result in a fire hazard. Properly store your heater when it’s not in use and replace the appliance when it begins to show signs of inefficiency.
Don’t Leave on When Asleep
This is one of the most common dilemmas you may face with a space heater. You want to leave it on when you’re sleeping to keep the room warm and toasty. However, an unattended space heater is a hazard to the home. Unplug the heater when you’re going to bed and move it out of the way of foot traffic. If you struggle to turn it off before falling asleep, invest in a better model with an auto-off feature.
Waking up to a slight chill is preferred over being startled awake by a fire in the room. Bundle up at night and keep the space heater running right up until you go to bed. This will maximize the heat in your room, and the heater will be nearby and easily accessible when you wake up.
Respected Heating and Cooling Experts
Rely on Rosenberg Plumbing & Air for quality, honest service in San Antonio, TX, that fulfills all your expectations. We have more than 30 years of experience helping the community with every heating and cooling need. Trust us to maintain and install your air conditioning unit and furnace. We can also check your indoor air quality, clean your ductwork and install an effective, whole-home dehumidifier. We’re here to provide you with the friendly, quality service you deserve. Contact us now for fast, easy appointment scheduling and 24/7 emergency services.
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