A space heater is self-contained air heating appliance that is either convection or radiant type, used to heat a small area or space. It is not intended to be connected to a duct. It is extremely useful in cold weather.

Space heaters are either run by natural gas or propane, or by electricity. While electric heaters are cheaper and safer, they are more expensive to operate because electricity per unit of heat energy produced is costlier than using propane or gas.

The following are the risks involved and the precautions to be taken when buying a space heater:

• Buy a heater that has been tested and certified by a legitimate laboratory. Read and follow the owner’s manual to operate the heater safely.

• The heating element, or even the hot surface area of the heater, can cause fires and burns. Avoid close proximity to the appliance. For households with children and pets, get a heater that has a guard around the heating element or the flame area. Keep flammable liquids and materials away from the heater.

• Do not hide cords or wires under rugs or carpets. Always check for defective or loose wiring. Never operate a faulty heater.

• Properly ventilate fuel-burning space heaters to prevent nitrogen dioxide or carbon monoxide emission and poisoning. Set the heater on non-flammable, level surfaces instead of placing it on top of rugs or carpets.

• To save more energy and lessen the pollutants, get a heater that is designed for the size for the area you want to heat.

• Turn off the space heater and store it away if you plan to leave the area or go to sleep. Fuel-fired heater could produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide or cause a fire.

Here are additional information for specific space heaters:

Kerosene space heaters:

• Make sure to use only 1-K kerosene. Never use gasoline because it can cause a fire.
• When fuel warms, it expands, so it is unnecessary and dangerous to fill the fuel tank to the brim.
• Do not touch, move, or refuel the tank while the heater is operating or hot.

Gas space heaters:

• Gas space heaters emit carbon monoxide and other combustion products. For safety reasons, make sure the heater is equipped with oxygen depletion sensor (ODS), which can shut off the heater when it detects reduced oxygen and heightened carbon monoxide levels in the room.
• Have a professional install and inspect the gas heater and venting system.
• Do not light the heater if you smell gas. Switch off all controls and ventilate the area. Call a gas service person to see to the matter.

A space heater can be the savior come winter and cold nights, but if not properly maintained and operated, it can turn into a nightmare. It can cause fires, burns, and combustion products poisoning. To ensure that you and your family will stay safe while enjoying the warmth a heater can bring, acquaint yourselves with the instructions for proper handling of the equipment.