Space Heater Safety

Electric space heaters can help warm a room quickly. However,...

by Franklin PUD Public Affairs

Space Heater

Electric space heaters can help warm a room quickly. However, they can be as dangerous as convenient if used improperly. Everyone in the home should understand the importance of using space heaters safely:

  • Purchase only space heaters that have been safety tested and UL approved. Make sure the unit has an emergency tip-over shut-off feature and heating element guards.
  • Before using a space heater, make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working condition.
  • Make sure the heater is clean and in good condition.
  • Place the heater out of high-traffic areas and on a level, hard, non-flammable floor surface—NOT on carpets, furniture, or countertops.
  • Space heaters have one purpose —to provide supplemental heating. Never use them to thaw pipes, cook food, or dry clothing or towels.
  • Remember to keep space heaters at least three feet from combustible liquids, like fuel, spray cans, and paint, and flammable items such as draperies, blankets, and sofas.
  • Never allow pets or children near an electric heater. Accidental contact could cause serious shock or burns.
  • Do not overload circuits. Never use extension cords or multiple plugs with a space heater and make sure not to plug the unit into the same circuit as other electric appliances.
  • If your space heater is plugged into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and it trips, don’t assume there is something wrong with the GFCI. Immediately stop using the heater until a professional can check it— if not, a serious shock could occur.
  • Never leave space heaters unattended. Turn off your space heater and unplug it before leaving the room or going to bed.
  • Replace older space heaters with newer, safer models.