Space Heater Safety Tips
Temperatures are beginning to dip lower, and the winter in New York will only get colder. If you’re planning to heat your home or apartment with a portable space heater, be sure you’re doing so safely.
Buy a Safe Heater
Do your research before buying a space heater, and ensure it’s safety certified. Also, be on the lookout for additional safety features, such as overheating protection or a heater that will turn off if it’s been knocked over.
Check for Breaks
Before using your heater, check that there are no cracks in the plastic or wires in the cord. Using a heater with these defects is a serious safety hazard.
Don’t Leave It Unattended
You should never leave a space heater turned on for an extended time when you’re not around. Accidents still happen even when you take the necessary precautions for the safe use of the heater. Keep an eye on your space heater, turn it off, and unplug it when you leave the house or sleep.
Keep It Stable
Space heaters should be placed on the flat, stable ground, so they’re less likely to fall over and start a fire. Don’t put space heaters on counters or high shelves. Keep them on the floor.
Create Space
A good rule of thumb is to keep at least three feet of space between your space heater and anything flammable. You want to ensure enough airflow for the heater to function and not cause any damage.
Use as Intended
Space heaters are made to heat a room, so they should not be used to thaw frozen food or pipes or dry out wet clothes. Using a space heater for something other than to warm up a room can make it less effective and more likely to cause a fire.
Reliable Heating Repair
When you need to turn to a space heater, there’s a good chance your heating system needs maintenance or replacement. Contact D. Rohde Plumbing, Heating & AC for all your heating needs.