Do you sometimes get through the Yuma winter hardly turning on the furnace and using space heaters instead? We’re lucky that our winters are downright warm at times. Of course, every now and then, there’s a chilly spill, so we have to be ready for them by keeping our furnace in good shape. But what about the space heater? Do you know how to get it ready for the heating season? Further, do you know how to use it safely?
Getting Space Heaters Ready for Winter
A space heater may run by electricity, propane, natural gas, and kerosene, with combustion types being either vented or unvented.
Heaters of all types are a lot safer than they used to be, with safety features such as:
- A longer safety cord for electric models
- Tip-over protection
- A smart sensor that shuts off the heater when it overheats
- Adjustable thermostat
You don’t have to do much to electric space heaters in the way of maintenance except to wipe the dust off with a damp sponge. Do not spray water or anything else on the heater. You can also use a can of compressed air to clear dust from the heater. For combustion heaters, use a can of compressed air to blow dust free. For heaters with fins, you can use a vacuum with a brush attachment. Obviously, always turn off and/or unplug heaters before cleaning.
Using a Space Heater Safely
Here are some tips for safe handling of a space heater, regardless of type:
- Never leave a space heater turned on when no one is home.
- Don’t place a space heater within 3 feet of something combustible (curtains, bedding, furniture, papers).
- Keep the space heater on the floor and on a flat surface.
- Avoid using the space heater on carpet.
- Do not plug the space heater into a power strip; plug it only into a wall outlet.
- Keep the space heater away from water.
- Keep the space heater where children cannot reach it.
For more on space heaters, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company of Yuma.
