Here are the Do’s and Don’ts of Space Heater Safety:
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Do: Make sure the heater is approved to use.
- They should be approved with a nationally recognized testing laboratory mark (common ones include Underwriters Laboratories or FM Global Technologies)
- It must not take more than 1,500 watts to operate
- It should have tip-over protection, so it will automatically shut off if it falls over and overheat protection, which will automatically shut the unit off.
Don’t: Plug any other electrical device into the same outlet as your heater.
- Heaters draw a lot of power so you cannot plug one into a surge protector, multi-outlet box or extension cord. The high current flow can cause components to deteriorate and excessive heating can cause fire.
- Do not operate an electric heater with a damaged cord or plug.
Don’t: Place heaters on filing cabinets, tables or desks.
- Heaters should only be located on the floor to avoid being knocked over.
- You need a 3 foot clearance from combustibles such as paper, garbage, recycling containers, furniture, clothing, or anything else that can burn.
Do: Inspect your heater frequently.
- If the heater plug, cord or wall outlet or face plate is hot, discontinue use right away.
- The heater must be turned off any time the room or area being heated is unoccupied.
Watch this Space Heater Safety Demo video from the Electrical Safety Foundation
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Questions? Contact our safety guy, Neel Horst, at [email protected] or 717-761-4600 ext. 3038
