Use space heaters safely and efficiently

December 1, 2020

There are plenty of cold days and nights ahead. Space heaters can help you fend off the chill, but it’s vital that you take proper precautions when using them. 

  • Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can catch fire, such as drapes, bed linens and furniture. 
  • Make sure your space heater meets the latest safety standards and carries the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) label. 
  • If buying a new space heater, get one with a tip-over safety switch, which automatically shuts off the device if the unit is tipped over. 
  • Never leave a space heater unattended. ALWAYS turn it off and unplug it before you leave the house or go to bed. 
  • Children and pets should always be kept away from space heaters. 
  • Do NOT use a space heater to warm or dry towels, bed linens or clothing. 
  • Do NOT use a space heater near water or anywhere else it could get wet. 
  • Do NOT use an extension cord. Always plug space heaters directly into an outlet. 
  • Stop using your space heater if the cord or plug gets hot. Space heaters draw quite a bit of electricity during use, meaning cords or plugs may feel warm to the touch, but they should never feel hot. 

We recommend limiting the amount of time you use your space heater. It can significantly increase your energy usage if it’s used for long periods of time. 

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates there are more than 20,000 residential fires every year associated with the use of space heaters. So, remember, it’s safety first when using space heaters. 

Visit lge-ku.com/safety/electric for more tips.