Precautions to take when using space heaters

by Jan Kennemer 03/30/2025

Space heater safety tips  featured image

Space heaters are a convenient way to warm up and manage the temperature within your home. However, every year, thousands of space heaters are responsible for house fires. With this in mind, It’s important to exercise precaution when using these devices. 

How do I make my space heater safer?

Before purchasing a space heater, make sure it has been labeled and tested by a credible facility. These facilities test the product to make sure it follows safety guidelines. 

Place space heaters away from furniture and fabrics when in use to cut down on the possibility of the device starting a fire. Space heaters should only be used to warm a room. Don’t use them to heat food or dry clothing, and always the device and store away when not in use. 

Space heater safety features to consider

Many of the latest space heaters come with built-in features to make the device safer when in use. Consider these features when purchasing your next space heater: 

  • Some have a thermostat: This feature is helpful to monitor how hot the heater is getting. 
  • Automatic turn off: When the device warms up too much, it will turn off automatically to prevent overheating. 
  • A switch to turn off the device when overturned. 

Space heaters are an affordable way to keep your home warm no matter the season; however, it’s important to proceed with caution when using them. Don’t put them too close to other household objects, and make sure they’ve been tested for safety.

About the Author
Author

Jan Kennemer

Jan will show you how you can live close to Washington, DC – by public transit and/or highway – and still enjoy all the many amenities and friendliness of a quiet community. Jan is a life-long resident of Arlington, Va. So, she is very familiar with northern Virginia …Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria and close-in Fairfax. She knows where to find those little out-of the-way places where you will still get excellent value and a home that meets your needs. As a Realtor® for over 20 years, Jan has developed a customized system for marketing and selling properties which includes the latest technologies combined with tried and true practices. She has received special training in working with first time buyers, repeat buyers and seniors. She is a certified VHDA trainer and is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES©). Jan is also a certified e-Pro. She gets results you want – the best price in the shortest time. Jan is dedicated to helping clients satisfy their needs and wants while providing them with a strong investment for the future. She is readily available to provide explanations and information. She won’t push you into making an uncomfortable choice. Jan helps you to fully understand the transaction, so that you can always make an informed decision based on facts and figures.