How to Use Electric Heaters
Electric heaters (commonly called "space heaters") are typically used in areas that are insufficiently heated or as a substitute for high-cost central heating installations. Portable electric heaters are also inexpensive to buy, so maintaining them is considerably easier. These economical advantages make electric heaters a popular choice in many households. There are important safety tips to consider, but first you need to choose the heater that's best for you. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Choose the right heater for your space and heating needs. The capacities of space heaters range from 10,000 Btu to 40,000 Btu per hour. If the area you want to heat is small, you may want to choose one in the low range. Look for a general sizing table in the floor sample manual. Most space heaters work by convection, which means they follow the natural circulation of air in the room to heat it. Some space heaters are radiant, which means they emit heat outward from the source.
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Buy the latest model heater. This will ensure that all safety features are included and current. A quality space heater will have the Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) label attached. Keep in mind that less expensive usually means less efficient.
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Arrange the heater appropriately. Knowing where and how to arrange the heater can maximize benefit and keep costs low. If you plan to use a room for a few hours only, it's best to use a radiant heat space heater. That way, it can heat your immediate surroundings and you can avoid a higher bill by not heating the entire room. Always shut off heaters when you leave a room unattended. Some heaters are equipped with a timer and/or a "tip over switch" that will turn the heater off if it falls over.
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Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet and use a quality cord.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider the risks and always put safety first. Consumers should always be mindful of portable heating devices. Many residential fires are caused by space heaters, leading to injury or, in some cases, death.
