Space heaters are portable and handy to heat rooms when there isn’t enough heating from the traditional means. Often, such heaters are used in manufactured homes.
Many people ask about these space heaters. Are space heaters dangerous, especially if you leave it on all night?
An electric heater can eat electricity, and your bill can skyrocket. Besides this, you can find out all you need about using a space heater, and if they are safe to leave on all night.
Reasons Not to Use a Space Heater all Night?
You may need your space heater for home heating, and at night come this time of year, you may feel the cold. (Find the DIY Garden Ideas On A Budget)
However, as many advances as there are. Even if a space heater is designed to stay on for extended periods, there are reasons not to.
Here are three key reasons you should know about using your portable heating equipment overnight.
1. Space heaters Can Cause Home Fires
The primary reason not to leave your space heater on all night is the risk of home fires.
More than half of space heater fires begin when the heater falls over, or it begins to overheat another object in the room.
Old space heater designs lack safety features and can malfunction, overheat, and lead to a wiring fire.
It is best to warm your bedroom with your space heater 2-3 hours before sleep. Warmth in the room is enough to last the night. It is a good idea to make sure you unplug the heater to be safe rather than have a fire hazard in your room. (Read Mower Won’t Stay Running What to Do)
2. Space Heaters Can Emit Carbon Monoxide
Many people make sure they don’t have electric heaters that can cause fires. However, there are some things out of your control.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can hit anyone because you can’t see it, and it can strike while you are asleep. You can’t smell it, so there is no signal, and you will slip into unconsciousness. Keep an eye on all heaters, even if they are oil-filled.
Symptoms include shortness of breath, headaches, nauseous, vomiting, and blurred vision. You should always make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide sensors have good batteries and are in working condition. (Learn How To Hang Plant From Ceiling)
3. Dry Skin
When outside in the winter, you can get dry skin from the cold. However, inside, you can find an oil-filled space heater that can also dry your skin. The additional warm heat strips your skin of moisture.
Besides this, you may be one of many who feel this heat drying their throat. A humidifier can help, yet these lead to other issues such as mold. (Read Light Bulbs Types)
Can Any heaters Be Left On?
You can leave a modern oil filled space heater running and unsupervised for extended periods, yet not overnight for safety reasons.
However, they do come with safety features to spot unsafe operating temperatures, such as overheating. Another feature is the tip-over protection, so if it falls, it will shut off. (Find the Best Outdoor Pizza Ovens)
Any heater left on should be more than three feet from any beds, curtains, blankets, or furniture.
Electric Heater Safety Tips
Here are a few tips to help reduce space heater dangerous situations.
- Never use heaters you suspect are damaged. Before using, inspect the heater, power cord, and plug for signs of damage.
- Never leave heaters operating unattended or while sleeping.
- Ensure combustible materials are at least 3 feet from the front, sides, and rear of the heater. It should also not be standing on the carpet.
- Ensure the heater plug fits the wall outlet. If it doesn’t, don’t use that wall outlet to power your heater.
- While in use, check frequently and determine if the heater plug, cord, wall outlet, or faceplate is hot. If either the plug, outlet, or faceplate is hot, turn off the oil heater and seek professional assistance.
- Never power the oil heater with an extension cord or power strip.
- Be sure your heater is placed on stable, level surfaces and won’t be easily knocked over.
- Never run an oil heater cord under a rug or carpeting. It can lead to damage and is a fire hazard.
- To avoid electrical shocks, keep electric heaters away from water for safety. Also, never touch an electric heater when wet.
