12 Important Space Heater Safety Tips

As temperatures across Australia continue to fall, many households are bringing out their space heaters (with the help of air conditioning Sydney experts) and cranking up the warmth. While space heaters can be a great way to keep cozy indoors, they come with some safety risks that should not be overlooked.

What is a space heater?

A space heater is a device that heats a room or area without having to heat the entire house. It is an electric appliance that utilizes convection, radiation, and/or resistance heating to warm up a specific area. Space heaters can be found in many places such as offices, warehouses, factories, homes, and even garages and sheds.

Space heaters come in various sizes and shapes with different power ratings depending on how big of an area they are intended to serve. They vary from small units that have enough power to warm only one person comfortably to larger ones capable of warming an entire house or office building. The most common types include panel heaters, fan-forced convection heaters, radiant heaters, and oil-filled radiators.

It is important to remember that space heaters can cause serious fires if they are not used properly. This makes following these safety tips essential for anyone who owns a space heater or plans on purchasing one in the future. Be sure to read through each piece of information carefully and take all necessary precautions before operating any type of heating system in your home or office.

Space heaters are an effective way to keep your home and workspace warm during the chilly winter months. However, due to their potentially hazardous nature, it's important to take necessary safety precautions when using a space heater.

By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere at home or the office without putting yourself or others at risk.

Inspect the Space Heater Before Use

Inspect the heater for any signs of wear or damage before plugging it in or turning it on. This is an especially important step if you’re using a used heater or one that has been stored away for some time. 

Place the Heater On A Level Surface

It’s important to make sure the heater is placed on a level surface to avoid any potential tipping hazard. 

Keep Space Heaters Away From Water

Never place the space heater anywhere near a water source such as a sink or bathtub, as this could lead to an electric shock or even fire if the heater comes into contact with water. 

Make Sure There Are No Combustible Materials Near The Heater

It’s also important to make sure there are no combustible materials such as curtains, furniture, clothing or bedding near the heater in case of fire risk. 

Don’t Use Extension Cords With Space Heaters

Extension cords should never be used with space heaters as they can overheat and start a fire. 

Keep Children And Pets Away From Space Heaters

Never leave children and pets unsupervised near space heaters, as they may be tempted to touch the heater or even knock it over. 

Give The Heater Plenty Of Ventilation

It’s important to make sure there is enough ventilation for the space heater to prevent it from overheating and starting a fire. 

Don’t Leave The Heater Unattended

Never leave the space heater unattended while it is turned on and always turn off the heater when you are leaving the room or going to sleep. 

Properly Dispose of Old Space Heaters

Old space heaters should be disposed of properly and never thrown in the garbage. 

Don’t Place Objects On Top Of The Heater

Objects such as books, magazines or other combustible materials should never be placed on top of a space heater, as this could lead to a fire. 

Avoid Overloading Outlets

Make sure to not plug too many appliances into one outlet at once, as this can cause an overload which will not only affect the performance of the space heater but also increase the risk of fire. 

Install Smoke Alarms And Fire Extinguishers Nearby

It is always good practice to have smoke alarms and fire extinguishers nearby when using space heaters, in an emergency. 

By following these essential safety tips you can ensure the safe and effective usage of space heaters this winter season. Remember, if you are ever unsure about any aspect of using a space heater it is always best to consult an expert or seek professional guidance. Stay warm and stay safe this winter!