Space heaters can be a great supplement to the conventional heating in your home, but they can also be dangerous if not used correctly. Every year, space heaters are responsible for more than 25,000 housefires which cause an estimated 100 deaths and $400 million in property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association. It’s no surprise that many homeowners in Omaha are opting to upgrade their home heating systems altogether, considering the risks associated with fire heaters. Although space heaters come with risks if used irresponsibly, there are some safety tips that you can follow in this article to minimize those risks.
1. Use Certified and Tested Heaters
When purchasing a space heater, look for a label from an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). It ensures that the product has been tested and meets certain safety standards. Most importantly, follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the space heater and do not deter from them.
2. Place Heater on a Level Surface
You might be tempted to place your space heater on top of a table or dresser to get the heat closer, but this is a fire hazard. Space heaters belong on the floor where they will receive proper ventilation and can’t fall.
3. Keep Away from Flammable Objects
Make sure to keep your space heater at least three feet away from anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, furniture, and clothing. Ideally, the space heater should be in a clear spot where nothing can touch it.
4. Never Leave Unattended
Never leave your space heater on when you’re not in the room, and turn it off before bed. If you have small children or pets, keep an eye on them when the space heater is in use to ensure they don’t accidentally touch it or knock it over.
5. Keep Away From Water
Space heaters, like most electric appliances, don’t belong anywhere near water. Don’t use your space heater in the bathroom, near a sink, or in any other area where it could fall into or be exposed to water. Steer clear of wet floors or carpets as well, as this poses a fire hazard.
6. Service Your Heater Regularly
Make sure to clean your space heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Get it serviced by a professional if it starts making strange noises or doesn’t seem to be working properly.
If you’re not comfortable using a space heater in your home, or if you’re tired of dealing with the hassle and expense of heating your home every winter, upgrading to a new home heating system is a great option. Xtreme Heating & Cooling LLC specializes in home heating and cooling in Omaha, NE, and our team of experts would be happy to help you find the perfect system for your home.
Alternatives to Space Heaters
Due to the inherent risk of using space heaters, you are better off upgrading the heating system in your home. You can use a few alternatives to space heaters that are much safer. They include:
1. Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are a mechanical-compression cycle refrigeration system that can be used for heating and cooling your home. They work by transferring heat from one place to another, which makes them much more efficient than space heaters. Geothermal heat pumps are the most efficient type of heat pump, as they use the ground or water to heat and cool your home.
2. Flat Panel Heaters
Flat panel heaters are radiant heaters that use infrared technology to generate heat. They are very efficient and can be mounted on the wall or ceiling, which makes them a great space-saving option. Flat panel heaters are also safe to touch, making them a good choice if you have small children or pets in your home.
3. Furnace
Furnaces are one of the most common types of home heating systems. They work by circulating hot air through a system of ducts, and they can be used with various fuel sources, including natural gas, propane, oil, and electricity. Furnaces are efficient and can keep your home warm even on the coldest days.
4. Boiler
Boilers are similar to furnaces but work by circulating hot water through pipes instead of hot air. Boilers use various fuel sources, including natural gas, propane, oil, and electricity. They are very efficient and can provide even heat throughout your home.
Contact Us
Upgrading your home heating system is a great way to improve your home’s safety, efficiency, and comfort. If you’re interested in learning more about home heating in Omaha, Xtreme Heating & Cooling LLC can help. We specialize in commercial and residential heating, cooling, and construction services. Visit our website or contact us today to schedule a consultation.
