Looking ahead to the arrival of colder weather, space heaters can be an effective way to provide temporary or supplemental warmth to a home or garage. Along with this utility, however, come hazards of fire, shock and burn when used incorrectly. Follow these safety tips if you plan to use a space heater this winter.
- When purchasing a new heater, be sure that it has been tested and certified to the applicable standards by an accredited certification organization.
- Always follow the manufacturer's installation and operating instructions and read all warnings before using the space heater. Contact the manufacturer with any questions.
- Electric portable fan heaters are designed to provide temporary warmth only. They should never be permanently installed or mounted and should not be operated continuously over extended periods of time. Portable heaters should never be suspended from ceilings or rafters.
- Never remove the plug and direct wire a portable heater to a power supply, or modify or tamper with the construction of the unit.
- In order to avoid overheating, electric fan space heaters must have adequate ventilation across the elements. Never position the heater in an area that will limit the airflow to or from the fan.
- Before turning the heater on, make sure the power supply cord's plug cap is fully inserted into the outlet. To avoid overheating and a potential fire hazard, do not use an extension cord with the heater.
- Use of an electrical outlet with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) or ground fault protected circuit is recommended. Only use a properly rated fused circuit or breaker protected for powering the unit as indicated by the manufacturer's instructions.
- To avoid the risk of fire, do not use heating equipment near combustible surfaces. Heaters should only be installed on a non-combustible surface that extends sufficiently beyond the front of the heater. Never operate a heater near flammable materials or in proximity to any volatile or flammable chemicals or vapors.
- Never block a heater's air flow. Obstruction of a heater's air intake or exhaust could lead to overheating and a potential fire hazard. Do not insert or allow foreign objects to enter any air vent as this could potentially cause an electrical shock, fire or damage to the equipment. Never use the heater to dry clothes.
- Use caution when operating portable heaters. Do not leave a heater running while unattended or use a heater in a position where it can be easily fall or be overturned.
Lastly, space heaters are one of the most commonly recalled appliances, so keep up to date with this information and take appropriate action when needed.
Comments(2)