10 Big Mistakes People Make When Using an Electric Space Heater
When you think about an electric space heater, it’s easy to focus on the benefits without thinking about the risks. However, just like other electrical appliances, there are certain concerns that should be addressed.
Here are some of the most common mistakes people make when using an electric space heater.
1) Using a Heater without Proper Ventilation When Ovens Are in Use
Most modern homes have central heating systems with ducts running through them which distribute heat evenly throughout your home. If you use an oil-filled radiator or any other type of heater without proper ventilation while your oven is in use, the air passing through the vent may become excessively hot and cause damage to both your space heater and surrounding walls. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, oven vents are generally rated for a maximum of 5400 watts. If you have other heaters in other rooms that are running at the same time, it may be too much for your heater’s fan to handle.
2) Placing Heaters near Unstable Surfaces
An electric space heater placed on an unstable surface can tip over or fall during use because it is too heavy. This not only puts children and pets in danger, but it could also cause damage to surrounding floors and walls if there isn’t proper insulation between them.
3) Not Using Heater Properly
Electric space heaters are devices that produce heat through convection or radiation. As with all electrical appliances, it is important not to block the airflow or ventilation slots while in use. If these are blocked, it may lead to overheating and a fire hazard. Also, never touch an electric heater with wet hands or when standing on a wet floor.
4) Using Heaters That Are Not Designed for the Room Size
The heating capacity of an electric space heater is measured in watts, just like other appliances. However, unlike room air conditioners, it’s not as straightforward to determine which heater will be most effective for your room size. There are many factors that can affect how well a heater performs including its wattage rating, design, materials used and whether it has safety features built-in. For example, convection heaters don’t have heating elements to get hot, but they work by moving air across metal fins that absorb heat from an electric resistance wire.
According to Energy Star, Convection heaters are designed for larger rooms and will not provide as much heat in a small space. On the other hand, a radiant heater warms objects, people and the surrounding air with electrically-charged elements which create infrared radiation. A convection heater is more efficient than a radiant model when it comes to heating up specific target areas such as your body or feet. While both types of electric space heaters can be effective at reducing your heating bill, choosing the right type for your room size may affect how quickly you feel its effects.
5) Not Using Heater Properly
According to Energy Star, electric space heaters are design. To produce instant heat should be left on continuously. Until the area has been properly warmed up. Heaters that provide continuous slow heating can be use overnight. Or when you’re away from home for extended periods.
6) Using an Extension Cord
Using an extension cord with your electric heater increases the risk of overheating. And fire hazards because you are essentially increasing its workload. If it becomes overloaded, the insulation around the wires may melt. Which could potentially cause a short circuit leading. To damage to your appliance or outlet as well as starting a fire. To avoid this, always make sure your heater is plug
directly into an electrical socket.
7) Buying Cheap Heaters from Unreliable Vendors
There are many less expensive space heaters for sale at local stores and through online retailers. If you don’t mind waiting a few weeks to save a few dollars. The wait might be worth it in the end luffy. Rather than buying one from an unreliable vendor who sells faulty products or models. That has been done by government agencies.
8) Not Using the Proper Settings
According to Energy Star, electric space heaters have preset thermostat dials. That can help control how much heat is being release0 into a room. Keep in mind however that these settings may not adequately compensate for hearing loss when use in drafty or cold areas. In addition, some models have safety features such as overheating sensors that automatically shut off the device. When overheating becomes a problem. Such features are useful in preventing your heater from being. Damage or cause a fire if it is not in use correctly.
9) Not Turning off Heater when you’re Out of the House
When you’re away from home, especially when you’re sleeping. It’s best to be safe rather than sorry by always turning off your space heater before leaving. This will help prevent objects around the heaters from catching fire in case they are accidentally left on when unattended.
10) Cleaning Electric Space Heaters Improperly
If electric space heaters have been in use for many years. It’s likely that there’s dirt and dust accumulated inside them. Which can potentially cause their heating elements to burn out faster. If the grills are removable, taking the unit outside for cleaning or consulting. An owner’s manual can help you learn how to do it properly. Failure to clean your heater this way could result in catching fire and also poses health risks. By releasing more carbon monoxide than normal which is dangerous even in small amounts.
Conclusion:
This report presents some of the most common reasons why space heaters fail. And what you can do to avoid such problems. While these devices can be very useful in keeping your house warm during cold weather. It is important that you understand how they work and use them correctly. If you want to ensure their long-term functionality and overall safety at all times.