During the long, cold months of winter, it is often necessary for those that may not have a great heating system or those looking for a little extra heat to use a space heater. While space heaters are a great source of heat in specific areas, they can also be very dangerous and without the right safety tips and maintenance, a space heater can be the cause of a fire in your home. Knowing a few safety tips when it comes to your space heater can truly make a difference in your overall safety and in how efficient your space heater is this season.

Placement

The first and often most important tip that you have regarding a space heater is to consider the location of the heater very carefully. Heaters can heat efficiently but they need to be placed in the right area. For those that have a space heater, you want to make sure you keep them away from curtains, blankets, sofas, and other upholstered surfaces, and away from areas where children might touch them.

You want to make sure that the heater is placed near the center of the room and that there is nothing within three or four feet of the heater that may touch it. This is going to keep the heater from catching anything on fire and allow it to heat the room as evenly as possible. It is also important to note that these heaters can tip over easily. You should take the time to make sure that the heater is on solid footing and that it is not going to tip over.

Maintenance

Another thing to consider is that your heater is going to need regular maintenance. This means cleaning filters, cleaning the heating coils, and making sure that if there is any damage at all, the heater is not used or that it is repaired before it is used. You want to make sure that the heater is fully serviced on a regular schedule and that it is not going to experience any issues.

If you have a space heater, take the time to service it properly. A well-serviced heater is going to work efficiently and is also going to be safe to use. A good heating system can mean the difference between a winter that is warm and comfortable and one that is cold and miserable.

When having your furnace or larger heating system worked on, you may need a space heater to keep your home comfortable and livable. If you have a furnace that needs work, contact Farnen & Dermer today to make the most of your heating system this winter.