Space Heater Safety and Purchase Tips

A Few Tips On Space Heater Safety and What to Buy

Space heaters can be a great way to heat a room that doesn't get great circulation. Or perhaps you'd like to heat a small area for those who are less tolerant of the cold, such as children or the elderly, without heating up the entire house. Space heaters are great for these situations, but be careful though when using them. They can be very dangerous if not used properly. Last year alone, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, space heaters caused more than 25,000 residential fires, which resulted in over 300 deaths and more than 6,000 burn-related trips to the hospital. In fact, a terrible tragedy happened just a few days ago in Kentucky in which a mother and eight children lost their lives in a house fire started by a piece of material that caught fire because it was too close to a space heater.

That kind of incident, though very tragic and heartbreaking, could have been avoided. When using combustion or electric space heaters, take the proper precautions and read the user manual before operating. Never use gasoline in any combustion heater. Most are usually kerosene. And never fill it up when it is still hot! With an electric heater (and with any space heater), keep it away from any combustible materials such as blankets or rugs. Make sure to keep an eye on any children or pets that are nearby, and be sure to place the heater on a level surface away from any foot traffic.

Also, if you are thinking of purchasing a new space heater or just doing some research, only buy newer model heaters that have all of today's current safety features. Newer models should come with an Underwriters Laboratories label (a label which ensures the product has been tested and deemed safe for use). Be sure to look for this label. Make sure to select a heater that is appropriately sized for the space you are heating. Most new heaters come with a general sizing label. Also, try to find one with a tip-over safety switch which will automatically turn off the unit if it gets tipped over.

If you would like more information on this topic or wish to speak with us about electric baseboard heating for those irritatingly cold rooms that just don't seem to get warm enough, give us a call or Contact Us using our online form. We'd be more than happy to help!

Image courtesy of Federico Stevanin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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