How to Safely Use a Ventless Gas Heater
According to BendWeekly.com, there are more than 17 million ventless gas heating appliances in American households. They are used to provide supplemental heat, not as a main heat source. These heaters don't have a vent, chimney or flue. Because of this, all the heat they generate stays inside---none is lost to the outside. Ventless gas heaters are practically 100 percent energy efficient. Ventless gas heaters are considered to be very safe. However, because they emit carbon monoxide into the air, there are safety precautions that need to be followed. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Read and follow the instructions and warnings in the ventless gas heater owner's manual before you use this appliance. If you don't understand any of the information, call the manufacturer for clarification.
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Open a window a few inches in the room the ventless gas heater is in. Open a door to an adjoining room too. Ventless gas heaters are equipped with oxygen detection safety (ODS) sensors to help guard against carbon monoxide poisoning. However, ventless gas heaters should not be operated in a closed room.
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Remove candles, oil lamps, incense and the like from the room that the ventless gas heater is in to safely use it. Don't smoke tobacco in the room either, as it depletes the oxygen.
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Position the heater so it's clear of all combustible materials and flammable fluids to prevent fires. Curtains and furniture should be at least three feet away from the ventless gas heater. To prevent burns to people and pets, place it away from walking paths.
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Remove humidifiers from the room that the heater is in, so it can be used safely. When a ventless gas heater is operating, it puts water vapor into the air. Too much humidity in a room can encourage mold growth.
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Call a qualified technician to inspect your ventless gas heater every year of operation, so you can safely use it. Discontinue use and have it serviced any time it doesn't work properly.
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Shut a ventless gas heater off immediately, ventilate the room, and move to fresh air if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning. Signs include flu-like symptoms, dizziness and nausea.
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Tips & Warnings
The only times ventless gas heaters should be used as a main source of heat is during power outages. Never use ventless gas heaters in bathrooms, bedrooms or in recreational vehicles.
