People use supplemental heat for a lot of different reasons: because they live in an area so warm they don’t have a central heat system; because it’s not cold enough to turn on the main heat source of the home; because it seems easier to turn on a space heater or start a cozy fire in the fireplace than turn on the furnace for the first time; etc.
But ease of use doesn’t mean that supplemental heat is always the safest way to heat your home.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters (portable space heaters as well as wood stoves) accounted for 1/3 of home heating fires and 4/5 of the deaths caused by home heating fires. Fireplaces accounted for 1/2 of home heating fires.
Part of the problem with these heat sources is that people assume they are convenient and don’t require much maintenance or oversight, but this simply isn’t true. When you use a fireplace or wood stove, you should:
- Have the flue appropriately cleaned before each heating season;
- Make sure the fireplace or stove is clean and free of buildup and debris; and
- Avoid using fuel additives.
When you use a portable or fixed space heater, make sure that:
- There is at least three feet between the heater and surrounding objects; and
- The space heater is never left unattended.
Of course, several safer alternatives to space heaters are a good furnace, heat pump, or ductless mini-split heater – all available from a certified heating contractor in your area. While the initial upfront cost is more than a space heater, you’ll certainly be paying for peace of mind!
