How to Control an Electric Space Heater

As the name implies, electric space heaters are meant to heat enclosed spaces rather than large areas or more than one room. They do this by forcing room temperature air past hot nichrome wires or ceramic heating elements. Nearly all electric space heaters have an output of 1500 watts, though some also have a lower heat setting. The room temperature is controlled by how long the heater runs, which is regulated by a thermostat.

Things You'll Need

• Electric space heater

Instructions

1. Adjust the heater to the highest heat output setting and turn the fan speed to high.

2. If the thermostat is graduated in degrees, set it to the desired room temperature. If not, perform steps 3 and 4.

3. 

   Adjust the thermostat to its highest setting and run the electric space heater until the room reaches a comfortable temperature.

4. Turn the thermostat down slowly until the heating element turns off. The fan may continue to run momentarily.

5. Readjust the fan speed to the desired setting. The highest setting is most efficient at disbursing heat but may not be the most comfortable.

Tips & Warnings

• If the room has a ceiling fan, use it to help uniformly distribute the heat. Use the reverse setting instead of the forward setting if the fan is equipped with one. Use the space heater's low output setting if the heater is cycling on and off frequently.

• Place the space heater at least one foot away from walls or windows. Don't overload the circuit. Most circuits can only handle one space heater. Read and follow the space heater manufacturer's directions.

Resources

• Consumer Product Safety Commission Space Heater Guide