Portable heaters are considered one of the most popular products of the winter season. Everyone might need it, especially in colder areas; a space heater that can be deployed anywhere at any time is a blessing. Portable space heaters usually work on electrical energy. Due to modernization, they are safer than previous generation electrical heaters; they have more safety features and various design tech that helps smooth the functioning of the portable space heater. But they are still hazardous and should be used with extreme caution because, after all, they are electrical and heating devices and contain both hazards.
In this article, we will know more about the safety parameters of portable space heaters, some preventive measures in the usage of portable heaters, where you should use them, and where you should not. So without wasting any time, let’s begin!
Something More About Portable Heaters Safety
These Portable heaters are considered a far safer approach than conventional gas heaters. But they are still a risk and a significant cause of the fire and electrical accidents around the United States. Space heaters cause around 25000 fire incidents in the country each year, and a large portion of it belongs to portable space heaters. There are many types of portable space heaters available in the market, and each one has its associated risks.
To make the use of portable space heaters safe. Many certification systems are working to certify the use of portable space heaters, and you should always ask them before purchasing any portable space heater. Other than that, many safety features should be installed in your portable space heater.
Safety Features In Portable Space Heaters
To make the operations of portable space heaters safe, there are many safety features that you should always consider when you are planning to purchase a new portable space heater.
Tip-Over Protection
Portable space heaters are not wall-mounted, and they are designed to be used anywhere. When using them in new areas, there is always a risk of tipping them accidentally. Tilting the space heater can cause massive damage due to breakage of the heating element, and that is why tip over protection is necessary. It automatically turns off the space heater when it detects an anomaly in position or a sudden change in the position.
Overheat Protection
Overheating is a major issue and the primary cause of space heating accidents. Overheating can be caused by the failure of the thermostat or other sensors. When the portable space heater temperature exceeds certain limits, it automatically turns off the heater, preventing further damage.
Cool To Touch
Some portable space heaters might get hot when they are in use. This poses a severe threat as one can accidentally touch it and burn its skin. This is an even more significant risk with pets or children in the house. Cool to touch is a safety feature designed to keep the portable space heater surface cool preventing any damage.
Thermostat
Many people think of the thermostat as the efficiency feature that helps regulate the temperature, but it is also important for temperature-related hazards. The thermostat is the first countermeasure against the overheating of portable space heaters.
Timer
A timer switch enables the user to turn off the space heater after a certain time not to keep working overnight. A timer adds valuable safety features to the working of portable space heaters.
Precautionary Measure For Safe Working Of Portable Space Heater
Having a portable space heater with necessary safety features is necessary because their working environment constantly changes, and extra precaution is required to make them work safely.
These are some preventive measures that must be taken before using the space heaters:
Position
The position of the portable space heater is very important; never use the portable space heater on an unstable surface. Use the space heater in the corner of the house or office to not accidentally disturb it. Using the space heater on the tiled or wooden floor is better. Do not use the space heater near the crowded area or pathway. The firm and stable position of a portable space heater is the key element in its working safety.
Power Cable
The main cause of portable heater-related fire incidents is caused by an electrical spark in the wire or power supply. Always check the power cable to point out any damage in it. Do not use the extension wire to power the portable heater because many extension wires are rated for 1000 watts, and portable space heaters use about 1500 watts of power. Do not plug any other appliance into the socket where the portable heater is plugged. With these measures, you can rectify the power and cable-related hazards.
Water Is Fire
Water near the portable space heater is like a fire. Do not use the portable space heater where there is water spilled on the floor under any circumstances. If you accidentally drop water on the portable space heater or near it, immediately turn it off and unplug the power.
Do Not Leave
Do not leave the portable heater unattended and unsupervised when used. Some of the major fire incidents are caused by this. A tiny spark starts, and no one is there to turn the heater off, and the fire spreads.
3 Feet Rule
Do not leave any flammable or fire catching in the 3 feet area near the portable heater, especially the infrared heaters. The object might overheat and catch fire. In these situations, the overheat protection of a portable heater is of no use because its working area is limited to the heater. Always check the surroundings of the portable heater before using it.
Constantly Monitoring
To prevent a bigger accident, make sure to constantly check your space heater to point out any minor damages or malfunctioning system. Regular checking the heater can save you from a bigger accident and ensure smooth working.
Conclusion
A modern portable space heater is far safer than the ordinary space heater, but it does not mean that it can be used without any safety parameters. No matter how safe space heaters get, there is always a risk of fire and electrical hazards because they employ both. Portable space heaters are responsible for a large portion of fire incidents every year, and the major cause is negligence. By proper precautionary measures, you can ensure a safe working and increase the serviceability of portable space heaters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe To Use A Portable Space Heater Overnight?
Using the portable space heater overnight is not a recommended option, but if there is no other way, better use the timer switch to turn it off and follow all precautionary measures automatically.
Can a portable heater catch on fire?
The chances of catching fire from a modern portable heater are pretty low, but yes, they can catch fire. The nearby objects are more prone to catching fire than the portable heater itself because there is no safety measure installed in them; that is why it is recommended to remove any fire-catching object from the 3 feet radius of the portable heater.
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