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The Dangers of Portable Heaters

Portable Heater

When you’re looking to heat a single room in your home that just won’t get warm enough — maybe there’s a draft or your home lacks adequate insulation — there’s a quick fix: a portable heater. While these mobile appliances can be purchased at just about any home improvement store, portable heaters — if used without care — can pose a real danger to you and your family.

However, if you choose to use a portable heater, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

How to Avoid a Dangerous Situation With a Portable Heater

Keep Them Away From Kids

If you own a portable heater, you’ll know that many models typically emit a warm, glowing light to indicate that they’re on. And when that’s the case, children will be tempted to get closer to the glow and may want to touch it — which can result in severe burns.

To avoid this, make sure that your portable heater is in a room that your child doesn’t normally access alone. Another thing to keep in mind is that you’ll want to make sure that the unit is placed directly on the ground — not on top of a dresser or table. The reason being is that if your child were to bump into the piece of furniture that bears the heater, they could knock it onto the ground and create a very dangerous situation that no parent ever wants to encounter.

Proper Placement is Important

This goes without saying, but the placement of space heaters is critical. When you use a mobile heating element, it must be kept a few feet away from anything that is flammable — such as long, flowing curtains. And while it might seem okay to place it near a piece of furniture (such as your couch), that, too, can also create a potential fire hazard if it is exposed to blaring heat for an extended period.

Supervision is Key

It’s important to remember that portable heaters should only be used when you are present. Many times, homeowners may leave their portable heating units on while running errands. Even though that trip to pick up milk might only take a few minutes, that’s more than enough time for something to go wrong (your cat might knock it over or the unit may malfunction). Therefore, turn it off before you head out the door!

Are You Using a Portable Heater Because Your Home’s Central Unit Needs a Repair?

If you run into a problem with your home’s plumbing, heating, or cooling, and prefer to forgo the DIY route, our technicians are here to help! Visit our website to learn more about the services that we offer here at Pipe Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, Inc. or call (865) 583-3957 to speak with a representative directly.

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Locally Owned & Operated

We are proud to continue our decades-long tradition of serving our neighbors throughout the area.

Female Led

Our exceptional leadership focuses on customer service and reliable results for all your plumbing and HVAC needs.

Trusted Plumbing & HVAC Expertise

As active members of Nexstar Network, our team receives cutting-edge training in the latest industry practices.

Same-Day Service Guaranteed

Don’t wait until tomorrow. With our same-day service, we’ll be there when you need us.

Finest Products & Materials Available in the Industry

We deliver unmatched craftsmanship and products for solutions you can depend on for years to come.

Commitment to Community

As a proud member of the Knoxville community, we are invested in the comfort and well-being of our residential and commercial neighbors.