Caution Is Essential When Using A Space Heater
Winter is a time when many people are able to turn to their central heating systems to keep warm
. It's also a time where HVAC and heating and cooling specialists are kept busy with furnace installations in homes where owners have decided it's time to upgrade from radiators or older heating systems.
Of course there are those who simply cannot afford central heating or new climate control equipment and must rely on space heaters. These come in a wide variety of sizes and styles, and are powered mainly by electricity, propane or gas. A single space unit is usually able to heat a single room depending on the size of the room, outside temperature and variables such as the amount of draft or lack of insulation in a particular room or space.
Space Heater Risks
Though convenient and relatively inexpensive, space units do carry risks and are potential fire hazards. They can cause severe burns to those who get careless around them. Some faulty fuel-burning space heaters can even give off carbon monoxide, a deadly, odorless gas.
Additionally, human error is at the center of many heater accidents, such as:
Leaving a space heater on all day with nobody home to monitor it in case it overheats or malfunctions.
Placing a space heater too close to drapes, linens, clothes, newspapers or other flammable materials.
In fact, thousands of homes are destroyed each year due to space heater accidents. National averages compiled by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) between 2004 and 2008 show 32 percent of home heating fires and 82 percent of home heating fire deaths were caused by unit heaters.
Space Heater Precautions and Safety
When shopping for a heater, make sure it's tested by an independent testing laboratory such as Underwriter's Laboratories (UL). Carefully read the safety precautions before plugging it in and turning it on. Look for a heater designed to be fully enclosed that has no external surfaces that reach temperatures capable of igniting surrounding material. The heater should also have thermostat controls and automatic shutoff features in case it should tip over. Also, try to avoid oil-filled radiant heaters.
Additional tips and precautions:
If you live in a condo community, apartment complex or desire to use a space heater at work, you should get approval from the building manager before purchasing or using one.
Never place an electric heater in a bathroom. Water and electricity are a deadly combination.
It's always safest to plug a heater directly into an electrical outlet. Avoid using light-duty extension cords or a multi-outlet strip.
The heater must be grounded with a three-pronged plug.
Always make sure to run the heater power cord in a way that no one will step on or trip over it.
Avoid putting anything within three feet of a space heater. Space heaters need space. Keep it in the open and away from walls.
Of course, always turn off and unplug a heater when the home or living space is unoccupied. Be conscious of all precautionary measures surrounding your space heater, and your winter will be safe and warm.
by: Wesley Holm
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