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Space Heaters
Space heaters come in many different sizes and types. Some are portable; others are permanently installed. Some are powered by electricity; others by liquid petroleum gas, propane, kerosene, or other fuel. But whatever the design, they all have one purpose-to heat a chilly room.A space heater is not designed to dry clothes, heat food, warm your bed, or thaw frozen pipes. Yet each year many people are injured or killed and much property is damaged or destroyed because of these and other improper uses.
When using a space heater in your home, be sure to follow all safety precautions to prevent fire, scorching, and indoor air pollutants.
General tips
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using or installing the space heater.
- Place the heater where it cannot be knocked over, at least 1 meter (3 feet) from furniture and flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, rugs and newspapers. Remember: space heaters need SPACE.
- Never leave the heater unattended. Turn the heater down or off before going to sleep. Turn it off when leaving the house.
- Carefully supervise young children when they are in the same room as the heater. Make sure that children and adults know they could be burned if they touch some parts of the heater and their clothing could ignite if it gets too close to the heat source.
- Install a smoke detector in the room with the space heater.
- Never hang wet mittens, snow suits, or laundry on or above the heater to dry. The dampness can cause a shock hazard and the clothing can catch fire when it gets hot.
- Keep the unit clean by dusting or vacuuming it regularly. Lint and dust can make the heater less efficient and can increase the risk of fire or explosion. When cleaning the unit and surrounding area, always turn the unit off first. Never use solvents or other flammable cleaners near a space heater that is turned on.
- Keep gasoline and other flammable liquids and vapors far away from the space heater.
Portable electric space heaters
In addition to the general tips above, follow these tips for portable electric space heaters:
- Look for the CSA mark. This shows that the heater complies with recognized safety standards.
- If possible, choose a model with a tip-over switch that will automatically turn the unit off if it tips over.
- Make sure your unit has an element guard in place to prevent fingers or flammable objects from touching the hot elements.
- Check the electrical cord for worn insulation and splices, and check the plug for loose or exposed parts. If the cord is damaged, replace the entire unit or have the cord replaced by a qualified repair person.
- Keep all electrical cords away from the heat. Never drape a cord over the hot surface of the space heater.
- Do not use an electric space heater in a bathroom unless the manufacturer's instructions specifically say it is okay to do so. The high humidity could create a shock hazard.
Fuel-burning space heaters
In addition to the general tips for space heaters, follow these tips for fuel-burning space heaters:
- When selecting a gas-fired space heater, look for the CSA Blue Star (in the U.S.) or Blue Flame (in Canada). (See the marks.)
- Install a carbon monoxide detector in the room with the space heater.
- Only use the heater in a well-ventilated area. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
Kerosene space heaters
In addition to the general tips and the tips for fuel-burning space heaters (above), follow these tips for kerosene space heaters:
- Check the flame to ensure that it is burning efficiently. It should be a bright blue color. If the flame is yellow or orange, shut off the space heater immediately and have it checked by a qualified repair person.
- ALWAYS use the type of fuel recommended by the manufacturer. NEVER substitute gasoline or another fuel.
- Before refueling a kerosene heater, always turn off the heater and wait for it to cool down.
- Before buying or using a kerosene heater, check with your local municipal office or fire department to see if this type of heater is permitted in your community.
Natural gas and propane space heaters
In addition to the general tips and the tips for fuel-burning space heaters (above), follow these tips for natural gas and propane space heaters:
- Use a qualified service person to install and repair the unit.
- Have the unit inspected by a qualified service person at least annually.
- Keep the control compartments, burners and air passageways clean.
- Only use the heater in a well-ventilated area. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
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