Space Heater Safety Tips for Homeowners

Nobody wants to pay for heat they’re not using. So you grab a space heater, plug it in, and warm up one room instead of running the whole system. Smart move, right? Not always. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that portable space heaters cause roughly 1,700 fires, 80 deaths, and 160 injuries every single year. The difference between staying warm and starting a fire often comes down to a few simple mistakes most homeowners don’t even realize they’re making. If you’re using space heaters because your system isn’t keeping up, or you’re waiting on heating repair in Lubbock, TX, these safety rules could save your home.

Why Space Heaters Start Fires

Most space heater fires happen because something flammable gets too close. Curtains, blankets, furniture, even stacks of paper can ignite if they’re within reach of the heating element. If your central system isn’t working right, furnace repair gets you back to safe and evenly distributed heating that doesn’t create fire hazards in every room. Keep your heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, and turn it off when you’re not around.

Electrical Hazards You Can’t Ignore

Space heaters pull serious wattage, and extension cords or power strips can’t handle that load safely. Plug your unit straight into a wall outlet every single time. If the plug feels loose or the outlet gets warm, stop using it immediately. Faulty wiring paired with a high-wattage heater is a recipe for disaster. Getting your central system back in working order through HVAC repair means you won’t need to push your electrical system to its limits with multiple high-draw devices.

Carbon Monoxide and Older Units

Fuel-burning space heaters can produce carbon monoxide, and that invisible gas can be deadly. Make sure you have working CO detectors on every floor. Never use older heaters from the ’90s that lack tip-over switches and overheat protection. An HVAC technician can assess whether your home needs better whole-house heating instead of gambling with portable units.

If You’re Relying on Heaters This Much

If you’re running multiple space heaters to stay warm, your central system probably isn’t doing its job. That’s when it’s time to talk to an HVAC contractor about upgrading or repairing your furnace so you’re not depending on devices that need constant supervision.

Your Heater Questions, Answered

Is it safe to sleep with a space heater on?

No. Unattended heaters are a leading fire cause. Turn it off before bed, every time.

Can I use an outdoor space heater inside?

Never. Outdoor heaters like propane models produce carbon monoxide and need ventilation. Using them indoors can be deadly.

Why does my heater smell like burning when I first turn it on?

Dust buildup burning off is normal at the start of the season. If it continues or smells like plastic, unplug it immediately.

Can I plug two space heaters into the same outlet?

Absolutely not. One heater per outlet, plugged directly into the wall. Doubling up will overload the circuit.

Stay Warm Without the Worry

We’ve been helping families stay comfortable and safe since 2012. As a family owned and operated company, we understand what it’s like to worry about keeping your home warm without breaking the bank or putting anyone at risk. Every member of our team is fully bonded and insured, and we run thorough background checks and drug tests on all employees.

When you’re ready to move past the limitations and hazards of space heaters, we’re here with free estimates and financing options that make upgrading affordable. All our installations come with 10-year manufacturer warranties, and in some cases, coverage extends up to 99 years.