What are the safest space heaters? Fall has arrived, bringing chilly weather. If you have a room in your house that never seems to get warm, a space heater may be the solution. Space heaters are ideal for heating small or single-occupied rooms, helping to offset utility costs in winter. They are handy for areas like home offices that aren’t used frequently.
There are various types of space heaters, including ceramic, infrared, and oil-filled radiator models, with some being more energy-efficient than others. Ceramic heaters heat an internal ceramic plate, which evenly diffuses warmth throughout the room. Infrared heaters heat objects (such as people and furniture) directly, instead of just the air. Oil-filled radiators are shaped like traditional radiators and have a heating element that warms oil circulating inside their chambers.
A 1,500-watt space heater can warm approximately 150 square feet, so keep this in mind when selecting a heater. Another essential consideration is the number of safety features your heater includes. A safe space heater should feature overheat protection and a tip-over switch that automatically shuts it off if it’s knocked over. Some are also designed to stay cool to the touch—though this is not always the case with oil-filled radiator models.
When leaving a heater unattended, ensure the remote control (if equipped) is out of children’s reach and that the heater is switched off. Never use extension cords with electric space heaters, as they raise the risk of overheating and fire—always plug heaters directly into a wall outlet.
Keep heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable, such as papers, clothing, or furniture. Make sure you have a smoke alarm on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas. Space heaters can provide warmth and comfort, but when used improperly they pose a home hazard. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels and use common sense to stay warm and safe.