Though our winter is fairly mild and short compared to other parts of the world, we want to make our homes and businesses warm. Because we rely on the heat during the winter, homeowners look to try and save energy, so they often seek out the use of space heaters. Since they have quite a list of hazards, space heaters should only be used as a short-term heating solution. The reason space heaters should not be your primary source of central heating for your home is what we at Air Supply Heating & Air Conditioning would like to stress today.

How Far Away Should Flammable Items Be Kept from a Space Heater?

For 44% of home fires, space heaters are statistically responsible. A majority of those fires are started, since the space heater was placed too close to flammable materials. Curtains, bedding, clothes, carpets, blankets, and other materials can kindle a fire that a space heater sparked. If you are going to use a space heater, you should keep it at least three feet away from anything that could be considered flammable, which includes carpets. When you operate your space heater on any carpeting, you run the risk of starting a home fire. If your home does get this cold during the winter, practice extra diligence to make sure your family stays cozy and safe.

Can a Space Heater Overload a Circuit?

Much like a furnace or HVAC system, space heaters need a lot of power.
It is incredibly easy to overload your circuits by plugging a space heater directly into the wall, so using a surge protected power strip, or a three-prong extension cord is a bit safer. In the event a space heater was to overload a circuit, you could blow a fuse or cause an electrical fire.

Can Space Heaters Cause Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

The two types of space heaters are electric and fuel burning. While electric space heaters do not pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, the same can’t be said for their fuel-burning counterparts. Running fuel-burning space heater is a huge safety danger, particularly in an enclosed space. Without ventilation, anyone in this confined area could suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning. No matter what, always check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well. Despite the type of space heater you use, these alarms could be the difference between life and death.

What Happens if You Leave a Space Heater on Unattended or Overnight?

One of the most stressful sight to see for those who know better is an unattended space heater. Because as we all know, life happens, and you may need to leave the room for a spell and step away from your space heater. Between children and pets, these heat emitting appliances can be pushed, pulled, or knocked over far too easily. This is an extra, and often common way space heaters are dangerous. When we combine that with the threat of flammable materials, all that is seen is a tragic accident waiting to happen.

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It is safer and more energy efficient to rely on your central heating for your primary heating source. Call Air Supply Heating & Air Conditioning if you are in need of having your Las Vegas central heating system serviced.