14 Feb 2013

Keeping Warm and Avoiding Danger

AC BreaksAtlanta, Georgia – As temperatures hit freezing levels, homeowners search for ways to stay warm and save money. Using space heaters to heat the most used portions of your home is one effective way, but homeowners should be careful to follow all safety precautions when using portable space heaters.

Space heaters, whether electric, gas or propane are an effective way to heat small spaces or to heat only portions of a large home. The National Fire Protection Agency estimates that in 2010 heating equipment was involved in over 57,000 structure fires, and space heaters were the cause of approximately 32 percent of those fires.

 

“With proper safety precautions, homeowners don’t need to fear the use of space heaters,” says Phil Montgomery, Atlanta Air Conditioning and Heating services provider, who has provided furnace installation for more than 40 years. “There are many different kinds on the market, so it’s important for homeowners to first research which type will be best for their use.”

Understanding the types of space heaters

While propane and kerosene heaters give off the most heat, they also have open flames and release dangerous carbon monoxide. They should never be used indoors, except during a power outage. If you must use one, be sure it is placed in the middle of a well-ventilated room, away from any potential fire hazards. Be sure you have a battery operated and working carbon monoxide detector and smoke alarm.

There are several types of space heaters that are good for indoor use.

Ceramic heaters use ceramic plates to circulate warm air. They provide quick and focused heat by directing the warmth to where it is most needed. It provides a lot of heat while staying cool to the touch, making it a great option for homes with children or pets.

Oil heaters work by heating special oil held inside. The oil is never actually burned, meaning it doesn’t need to be replaced. This type of heater is quiet, economical and seldom needs repair. They are great for small spaces or for only heating one person. The oil is concealed, meaning it can’t leak or start a fire.

Micathermic heaters provide safe and instant heat using radiant or convection heating. They have excellent mechanical and electrical strength and high temperature stability. This type of heater does not overheat easily and heats up twice as fast as conventional space heaters. They don’t recirculate dust or other airborne particles, which makes them great for homeowners with asthma or allergies.

Radiant heaters are spot heaters. They provide warmth similar to the sun’s rays and don’t use much energy. They heat objects rather than the air. They are best used to heat objects or people in small rooms.

Safety precautions prevent fires

“When using any form of heating element, it’s important to avoid danger,” says Montgomery, whose Atlanta heating and air conditioning business provides 24 hour service. “A few simple tips can save you from a potential fire.”

• Buy a heater with an automatic shut off.

• Be sure the heating element is encased and no coils are exposed.

• If using an older heater, check the plug to be sure it is not frayed and no wires are exposed.

• Keep plenty of empty space around the heater, three feet is recommended.

• Do not leave heaters on while no one is home or while sleeping.

• Always make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order, and keep extra batteries on hand to replace when needed.

With a few proper safety precautions and a little research, homeowners can find the right space heater to heat their home, while staying safe and saving money at the same time.

© 2013 Sinai Marketing and Atlanta Heating and Air Conditioning. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Sinai Marketing and Atlanta Heating and Air Conditioning are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Leave a Reply