Using them wisely and safely
Space heaters can be the perfect solution to take the winter chill out of the air. However, they are only meant for small spaces. Many people use portable space heaters to heat their entire homes, which can really take a toll on their energy bills.
If you’re using a space heater to compensate for problems in your home, like inadequate insulation, drafty windows and exterior doors, or an inefficient heating system, space heaters are not a practical solution. You’re better off tackling those problems at the root cause and only using space heaters in small spaces.
Electric space heaters can make your home cozy, but they come with risks. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 1,700 residential fires every year are associated with the use of space heaters, resulting in an average of 70 deaths and 160 injuries annually.
This winter, protect your home and family with these safety tips:
- Look for the safety certification logo. Make sure the portable heater you purchase has been safety-certified by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories.
- Commit to the 3-feet rule. Portable heaters should be positioned at least 3 feet from any combustible material, such as curtains, papers, clothes, and furniture.
- Place the space heater on a flat, stable surface. To reduce the risk that the heater could be knocked over, position it on the floor rather than on a table and keep it away from areas with high foot traffic.
- Keep children and pets away from your space heater. Never leave a child unattended in a room with a space heater.
- Look for safety shut-off features. Newer heaters are equipped with a smart sensor that automatically shuts off the heater when it overheats and a tip-over switch that does the same when the heater topples over.
From the December 2025 issue of Ohio Cooperative Living.