Heater Safety Tips

During the cold seasons, homeowners across the globe take appropriate measures to keep themselves as well as their loved ones warm and safe. One of those measures is usually the installation of heating systems. When used correctly, gas or electric-powered heating units are not only safe, but can be a great way to enjoy the much-needed comfort during winter. What’s more, portable space heaters are a great way to save money as well as energy usage.

However, despite their great importance, heaters pose some serious safety concerns. If you didn’t know, heating systems are currently the second leading cause of home fire hazards, behind household cooking appliances. Statistics suggest that nearly half of all home fire incidences occur in winter and heating equipment is to blame. Fire and electrical hazards are usually caused by heating units that lack safety features, heater installed near combustibles, or those that are improperly plugged in.

Because of the potential dangers associated with the use of heaters, safety should always be at the top of your list when using space heating units. Below are proven safety tips you should consider when using heaters:

• Look for safety features: The latest heater models come equipped with a range of safety features to help make them more user-friendly and safe for homeowners. Some of the most common safety features to consider include tip-over protection, overheat protection, and perhaps cool-touch housing. A heater with tip-over protection automatically shuts off if it is tipped over for any reason. On the other hand, cool-touch housing will prevent accidental burns caused by touching the heater’s exterior. A heater equipped with overheat protection will detect when internal parts become excessively hot. This implies that if extreme temperatures are detected, the unit will automatically shut off to prevent overheating.
• Always schedule routine heater service and maintenance: Regular heater service and maintenance will not only allow your heating unit to function at peak conditions, but will equally help identify any potential dangers before they finally erupt. Look for a heater repair professional to inspect your heater, especially when you first buy the unit. It should be cleaned and maintained frequently to ensure it remains in tip-top condition.
• Always shut off and unplug your heater when not in use: This is not only important for energy-saving reasons, but your safety as well. Turn off the heater when going to sleep or leaving the room.
• Plug it directly into an outlet: As a rule of thumb, you should plug your heater directly into an outlet that has sufficient power to support its energy demands. If you were not aware, connecting an extension cord to your heater only increases the likelihood of overheating as well as electrical shock and fire injuries.
• Electrical heating units must be kept out of damp or moist places such as bathrooms since water could easily result in a fire or electric shock hazard.
• Keep your electric heater at least 3ft away from bedding, furniture, drapes as well as other flammable materials. What’s more, you should keep pets and children away from space heaters.
• You should also have smoke alarms installed in your rooms, especially in a place like a bathroom. What’s more, have a carbon monoxide alarm in your room.
• If you are using a gas-powered heater, it is highly recommended that you take the necessary steps to help guard against the buildup of carbon monoxide. This includes making sure that your heater is correctly rated for your space. An oversized heating unit could easily deplete the available air, resulting in excess production of the dangerous carbon monoxide gas.
• Place your space heaters away from high foot-traffic zones in your home to minimize the chance of them being tripped over. If possible, purchase a heater that features tip-over protection, which implies that if in any case the heater is tipped over, it will shut off automatically.
• Only use a heating unit that has been examined, tested, approved and certified by a trusted equipment testing laboratory. Also, make sure that you have read and understood the instructions manual. Follow the instructions regarding its operation and maintenance.
• When seeking for heater repair services, always ensure your heater is maintained or repaired by a proven technician.

These are proven and practical heater safety tips that every homeowner should have at her/his fingertips. However, if an incident occurs, you should act fast and call our local heater repair and maintenance expert on 1300 100 040.