Portable heaters can cause fires if they are placed too close to combustible materials, such as drapes, furniture or bedding, so make sure to place them at least three feet away from these materials.
Space heaters may be small in size, but they can be one of the most dangerous appliances in your home when it comes to fire due to their high wattage. One of the most common ways a space heater can cause a fire is by tipping over. Other ways are overheating, or being placed too close to flammable items like curtains.
The biggest threat associated with space heaters is fire. In fact, each year space heaters are responsible for about 55,000 fires, 450 deaths, and more than 1,500 injuries.
Yes, they are safe to leave on all night, provided that you take all the necessary and sensible precautions. They should not be left near anything that can burn. They and their cords should not be where they could be tripped over. They and their cords should be in good condition.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, space heaters are involved in more than a thousand home fires every year.
Space heaters can pose potential risks if not used properly. They have the potential to cause fires if placed too close to flammable materials or left unattended. Additionally, using extension cords that are not rated for the heater's power can increase the risk of overheating and electrical hazards.
Long-term use of heaters in enclosed spaces can be hazardous because it increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can lead to headaches, nausea, dizziness, and weakness.
Sealed combustion heaters are much safer to operate than other types of space heaters, and operate more efficiently because they do not draw in the heated air from the room and exhaust it to the outdoors. They are also less likely to backdraft and adversely affect indoor air quality.
The duration for which you can leave a space heater running depends on the time of day and your specific needs. During the Day: It's safe to leave your heater on for 6-8 hours if you're in the room. If you're busy or moving between rooms, consider using a timer to automatically shut it off after a few hours.
Keep the space heater at least 3 feet away from combustible materials, such as furniture, bedding, and curtains. A taller heater may need to be even farther away. Don't use a heater in a workshop or garage near flammable paints, gas cans, or matches. Turn it off when you leave the room or go to bed.
Non-business related small appliances, such as space heaters, are not permitted in the office unless approved by management. Re-locatable power taps (power strips) can be used in conjunction with small appliances if listed and labeled for such use.
Overusing the heater or using an oversized heater can result in elevated levels of carbon monoxide or nitrogen dioxide fumes in the air. These fumes can cause cold or flu-like symptoms, headaches, and eye, nose and throat irritation.
Keep the Space Heater on the Floor
Never put it on a table or countertop — that's how fires start. Also, be conscious of what material your space heater is on. Carpets, rugs, and other flammable materials should be avoided. The best place to put your space heater is on a smooth tiled floor or a heatproof mat.
Using a space heater can be a good way to boost the temperature in a small, drafty room—and it could be less expensive than cranking up your central heating system. But a space heater is economical only if you use it judiciously.
Running a space heater overnight increases the risk of fire. If the unit is left unattended or placed too close to flammable materials, such as curtains or bedding, it can ignite and lead to a devastating fire.
Be sure the heater plug fits tightly into the wall receptacle. If not, do not use the outlet to power the heater. Poor electrical connections are another leading cause of fires. During use, check frequently to determine if the heater plug or cord, wall outlet, or outlet faceplate is hot.
Cooking. Unattended cooking is listed as the number one cause of residential fires.
Curtains, blankets, papers, and other flammable objects should be kept away from your space heater.
Wall-mounted heaters are hardwired for safety
Unlike portable options, wall-mounted units are hardwired into the wall, thus there is no cord to possibly trip over.
What is the safest heater to leave on overnight? While it's not recommended to leave any space heater on if you're not monitoring it, oil-filled, radiant space heaters are considered safer than ceramic convection (hot air) types, according to Roberson. Both of these options are safer than open-coil heaters.
“No, it's absolutely not safe to use a space heater at night,” states Glenn Gault, CEO at Gault Heating & Cooling. “It's not even safe to leave your space heater running when you leave a room for just a few minutes.
Recommended Usage Times. During the Day: It's generally safe to run your space heater for 6 to 8 hours during the day while you're home and active.
Keep electric heaters at least 1 metre from people, furniture and items such as blankets, cushions and newspapers. Place your heater on a solid surface to keep it stable. Never use your heater to dry clothes.