Space heaters can be a huge help during chillier days, but they can also be a huge safety hazard. From starting home fires to overloading circuits, space heaters can be a danger to you, your loved ones and your home. But knowledge is power, and the electrical experts at Farryn Electric are sharing our space heater knowledge with you, so they can heat your home, rather than hurt it.
We Didn’t Start the Fire, But They May
Space heaters pose both a shock and fire hazard—that is why it is crucial to check the unit regularly. Some things you should be checking for are frayed wires and accumulation of dust on the unit’s coils, grates or grill. Just as other appliances in your home have life spans, so does your space heater. If yours is an old model, upgrading to a newer model will provide you with an appliance that should have new and improved safety features. To help decrease the chances of being electrically shocked by your space heater, do not use one in a room where moisture builds up, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
It’s Easy to Feel the Burn…and Not in a Good Way
Many times, some areas of a space heater can become dangerously hot to the touch. When this happens, they pose a threat to children, pets and adults. For kids and your furry friends, a hot to the touch space heater means they are extremely vulnerable to getting burned; for adults, burns can occur by accidentally brushing against the hot surface. Another hazard that occurs in this situation is that clothes can catch on fire. To keep everyone and everything in your home safe, don’t leave pets or young kids alone with a space heater and opt for a unit that’s equipped with a protective guard around its heating element.
They Become a Burden When They Overload Circuits
Because space heaters use a lot of electricity, they can easily overload your circuits, which can result in a power failure or fire. To decrease your chances of overloading your circuits make sure you have dedicated circuits installed, just as you would a washer or gas dryer. If you’re using an extension cord with your space heater—or if you’re utilizing the extension cord to power too many appliances in general—contact a professional who will ensure your electrical outlets and your home are safe.
Top Heavy Heaters Are Not to Be Taken Lightly
When it comes to space heaters, bigger does not necessarily mean better. In fact, tall space heaters are particularly susceptible to tipping over, which means they pose a higher threat of starting a fire. Although the industry has taken great steps in installing anti-tip detection, older models may not have this safety mechanism.
Whether you need your electrical outlets repaired before you plug in your space heater or are interested in having permanent heating sources installed, Farryn Electric has what you need! Contact us today for all of your electrical needs.
