electric heaters: Electric Heaters and Curtains Don't Mix
- 11/01/15 04:52 AM
Electric in-wall or baseboard heaters can present significant fire risks. Occupants of houses simply do not understand how hot the elements get. And, as often as not, I find these heaters in college rentals where the tenants have cardboard boxes and every other combustible item imaginable tight against the heaters. Probably the most often seen problem is the house with drapes that hang down over the heaters In my standard home inspection report, I warn against this unsafe condition. "Flammables, in this case drapes, are in close proximity to the electric heaters. Manufacturers' specifications vary, but electric heaters attain high temperatures. Maintain, as … (2 comments)
electric heaters: Electric Heater Safety
- 02/02/11 03:36 PM
Recently I read a post by Charles "Chuckie" Buell, where he talked about cords being run over electric heaters. I guess it was a coincidence but at an inspection recently, I ran into a great example of the "cord over the heater syndrome". It is a very common occurance in Bellingham. Problem is, people do not know that there is an inherent problem with the arrangement. Below is the language, and photos, straight from my report. "Electric outlets/receptacles are installed directly above bedroom and living room heaters. While this was a common installation practice a few years ago, it can be a … (14 comments)
Steven L. Smith, King of the House Home Inspection, provides information for real estate buyers, sellers and real estate industry professionals.
Blog posts emphasize issues commonly found in Bellingham, WA and Whatcom County. Smith is Washington State Licensed Home Inspector #207, a state licensed structural pest inspector, ASHI certified inspector #252760 and one of the most experienced inspectors in the northwest corner of the Pacific Northwest.
Steven L. Smith is lead instructor of home inspection at Bellingham Technical College and teaches classes for Washington State University and the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Steve was a two-term member of the state licensing board.
Electric in-wall or baseboard heaters can present significant fire risks. Occupants of houses simply do not understand how hot the elements get. And, as often as not, I find these heaters in college rentals where the tenants have cardboard boxes and every other combustible item imaginable tight against the heaters.
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