During the winter, your family might want to use a few space heaters around the house to supplement the warmth provided by the furnace. While these devices are convenient, they can also cause problems if they malfunction or are not used properly. Here are a few tips to remember to help keep your home and family safe this winter. 

A Guide to Space Heater Safety

1. Don’t Leave Heaters Unattended

Never leave a space heater running in an unoccupied room. If it is allowed to run freely, the device could become very hot to the touch, burning curious children or pets. Units that are old or damaged may malfunction and spark a house fire. Never use one that has physical signs of damage. 

2. Skip the Strip

Heat-generating appliances like portable radiators, clothing dryers, and hair dryers use a significant amount of energy. If you plug these into a power strip or surge protector, they could pull more electricity than the outlets are designed to handle. This could melt or ignite the strip. Instead, plug space heaters directly into wall outlets. However, keep them at least 3 feet away from walls to prevent overheating the wall itself.

3. Place Devices in Safe Places

Set a space heater on a hard, stable, and nonflammable surface to prevent accidental fires and keep the device from tipping. Keep papers, books, and other flammable materials away from the area, as well.

Avoid letting family members or friends move the unit since they may not be mindful or aware of clearance requirements. If you aren’t sure how much room a space heater needs around the device, refer to the owner’s manual and follow the instructions carefully.

If your space heater isn’t providing the warmth your family needs this winter, reach out to the team at Dousman LP Gas. For more than 37 years, this trusted vendor has been serving home and business owners throughout Waukesha County, WI. They provide everything from propane delivery to furnace and air conditioning installation, repair, and replacement. To learn more about how their furnaces and propane tanks can keep you warm during the cold winter months, visit them online or call (262) 965-2679.