12140 Wickchester Ln Suite #100, Houston, TX 77079

Tips for Safely Using Electric Space Heaters

A lot of people use electric space heaters to try and keep a lid on heating costs during cold winter months, especially in older homes that may or may not have efficient furnaces. Space heaters can be a convenient and cost-effective way to temporarily heat a room or a small space, but if used improperly, space heaters can cause nasty burns or worse, create a fire hazard. Here are a few tips for making sure your plan to cut energy costs is a safe one:

  • Make sure that any space heater you buy carries the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Most will, but if you’re looking to buy a space heater on the cheap, you’ll need to double-check this.
  • When shopping for a space heater, consider models that come with an automatic shut-off feature and guards for the heating elements. The shut-off feature will come in handy and activate if the space heater gets tipped over or when the room reaches a certain temperature. Heating element guards will help protect you, your kids and pets from burns.
  • Even if your space heater comes with heating element guards, don’t leave children or pets alone in a room with an operating space heater. Curious little fingers and stray tails can still get burned.
  • First thing you need to do when you unbox your space heater is read all the instructions and safety materials that come with it.
  • When you’re locating your space heater, make sure to keep it at least three feet from any surfaces or materials that can burn easily.
  • Make sure you place your space heater on a level, hard, non-flammable surface. Don’t ever place it on rugs or carpets.
  • Frequently check your space heater for frayed cords or broken filaments. Both of these situations are unsafe and can lead to fire hazards.
  • Try to avoid extension cords when setting up your space heater and try to keep the heater’s power supply cord away from high-traffic areas so that people don’t trip over the cord.

Sources

Illinois Department of Public Health, Weathering Winter.

Residents of MA, NJ, OH, PA, MI: Did you know that thanks to deregulation, consumers can often save money on their electric bill?
Translate »

WAIT!

Here’s a chance to get 200 points every month in Spark Energy Rewards*

Points can be used on local shopping deals, dining, daily deals, travel,
and even gift cards. Terms for the rewards can be found here.
Interested?

*Certain Terms and Conditions apply. This offer is available to first-time customers only. Customers must sign up for a fixed-rate energy plan. The plan may include a monthly service fee depending on the product. Use promo code which is showing above to qualify. Rate expires at the end of the term. Canceling or changing supply service prior to the end of the fixed-rate term may subject the customer to an early termination fee based on the product details. To be eligible to receive Spark Energy rewards, customers must enroll in a fixed term plan and maintain an active Spark Energy account in good standing (no past-due balance owed) for 45 days after the beginning of service. May not be redeemed for cash. This offer is subject to change or cancellation without notice prior to customer acceptance. This offer is nontransferable and cannot be combined with any other offers. This offer applies to services areas where Spark Energy LLC is active. The offer expires on 12/31/2021. See the Terms of Service and Electricity Facts Label (applicable only for TX) at www. SparkEnergy.com for more details.
© 2021 Spark Energy LLC. All Rights Reserved.