How long can space heaters be left on without risking a fire?

Space heaters can be very useful for heating single, small areas. They can also be used to cater for spaces not reached by your central heating. They have several advantages like portability, cost-effectiveness, and affordability among others that make them a wise investment for homeowners. However, fire risk is a major concern when choosing these heaters. But, do space heaters catch fire or are unsafe to use? Read on to learn more.

The thing about heaters is that no single type is safer than the other. The risk of fire often varies depending on the specific heater, the manufacturer and the model. The way you use space heaters can determine how safe it will be in your home. For instance, if you plug it onto light-duty extension cords, then you risk causing a fire if the heater is left on for a longer time until it overheats. Rather, plug your space heaters on a heavy-duty extension cord or directly into a wall outlet.

Here are other operational tips to ensure your space heaters safety:

• Always keep your heater away from flammable materials, like curtains, beddings, and furniture. They should be a safe distance apart, say about 3 feet and more.
• Place your heaters on hard, flat, non-flammable surfaces.
• Turn your heater off when the last adult leaves the room. It is not safe to leave space heaters unattended.

Do Space Heaters Turn Off Automatically?

Nowadays, space heaters come with safety features that significantly reduce the risk of fires. These features include:

• Tip-over sensors that detect when the heater is no longer upright.
• Thermal shut-off that detects if the heating element overheats.
• Airflow sensors that detect blockage on the heater exhaust.

All these sensors will automatically shut off the heater if any of the dangerous situations are detected. It has allowed people to use space heaters for longer periods of time without worrying about their safety. Having smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed can also help put your mind at ease when using these heaters.

Space heaters can be very useful yet risky at the same time. To keep your spaces warm during the cold, make sure you invest in the safest space heater and use it properly.