Dangers of Portable Heaters

Now that we’re well into December, chances are you’ve been doing all you can to stay warm at night. And even though your central heating is a reliable source for comfort, there’s always that one spot in the home that just won’t seem to warm up.

If you’re like most people, you probably turn to your portable heater to get that spot feeling more cozy. Although portable heaters are convenient and easy to use, they can also be a major fire hazard. Stay safe by keeping the following rules in mind when using these heating devices:

 

Give it space.
It sure feels nice to sit close beside your portable heater, but think twice before you do. These devices can heat up pretty quickly, and if too close to flammable materials you might be at risk of a house fire. So create a specific space for them, at least a few feet away from furniture and bedding.

Use it sparingly.
Go ahead and heat up that cool bedroom before dozing off or your living room before guests arrive, but don’t forget to shut it off (or set it on a timer to go off) before you leave the room or fall asleep. Leaving these devices unattended can be a hazard to your health and can add a larger expense to your electric bill.

Shut it off.
Don’t leave your portable heater on all day either. Not only should you turn them off before dozing off or leaving the room, but you must also turn it off before leaving your home. Of course, each portable heater is different, so be sure you read instructions before using. If you really need the extra heat, turn to your central heating system as a more safe option.

For all your winter heating needs, turn to the professionals at Nassau Plumbing and Sewer Rooter. We offer a comprehensive selection of services to ensure that your home receives the best repairs and maintenance for optimal indoor temperatures all season long. To view a full list of our heating services, click here. For more information, call us at  877.713.8136 or visit our website for more information.