gas, kerosene and electric heaters safety

Safety is a top consideration when buying and running a kerosene, a gas or even an electric heater. Space heaters are a cause of many fires and burn injuries, including some deaths.

Independent lab labeling, sealed combustion (in the case of gas and propane heaters) and thermostats are important elements for safety. Location, sizing and ventilation (kerosene heaters) are also very important.

Kerosene heaters and ventless gas heaters can be attractive alternatives to other heating systems but they involve major health and safety concerns when improperly operated. So, pay special attention to them, and do never underestimate the manufacturer's operating/ installation instructions and some basic safe-use practices.

Qualified heaters

Prefer qualified and certified heaters. An Underwriter's Laboratory seal, guaranteeing that the heater has passed safety requirements is important.

Thermostats

Choose a thermostatically-controlled heater, to avoid overheating and burns and other problems associated with it.

Sizing

Pay attention to the size issue. A too large heater can be a cause of overheating and energy loss.

Location

Maintain a safe clearance between your electric heater and your furniture and drapes. Be careful to keep children and pets away from space heaters, and locate them away from foot traffic; a level surface is also important.

Safety & Ventless Heaters

Be particularly aware with ventless natural gas, propane and kerosene heaters. Electric heaters to not require ventilation, but things are rather different with combustion ones. When operating a kerosene heater do not forget to ventilate the room, opening a window or a door. Unvented kerosene heaters offer a good heating capacity, but are particularly unsafe.

Even if they aren't banned in your state (unvented kerosene heaters have been banned in some states…) and many people use them, the fact is that they pollute the indoor air and introduce unwanted combustion pollutants, particulates, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide and CO into the home. Special cares should be taken when installing and buying these heaters.

Sealed combustion heaters

If you intend to buy a gas heater, select a model with sealed combustion (100% outdoor air). Sealed combustion heaters operate more efficiently and safely than unsealed heaters, do not cause back-drafts and isn't a source of indoor air pollution. They are more expensive but they deserve the price difference.

See: Gas space heaters: vented and ventless

Gas and Kerosene heaters safety

Do not underestimate regular professional inspection of gas/combustion heaters. Even if you use vented heaters, let the unit be inspected regularly. The venting system can block, rust, corrode or have other problems, which may introduce unwanted CO or other combustion elements into home.

Problems with the adjustment of the heater to the type of gas and the altitude should also be considered, when installing a combustion heater.

Pay attention to some safety features and practices, namely when using kerosene heaters:

- Prefer a modern unit with an automatic starter (to eliminate the need for matches);
- Prefer a unit with a fuel gauge to prevent over-fueling.
- Prefer a unit with a cut-off device and a low center of gravity, to minimize tipping over accidents.
- Prefer grille front-protection units to prevent burns.
- Place the heater on a sufficiently large and fireproof surface;
- Do not burn gasoline or other fuels instead of K1 kerosene. Use only first-quality K1 kerosene. Other types of kerosene will release more pollutants and are dangerous.
- Always store kerosene in a proper container, marked as such (typically blue).
- Fill the kerosene heater outdoors, after it has cooled down.
- Do not operate the kerosene heater is vacant rooms.
- Ventilate the room while running the heater.

Electric space heaters

Electric space heaters are very safe units, and do not pose the problems of kerosene heaters or unvented gas heaters. But they still can be a cause of painful burns and dangerous fires. Take some basic cares. If possible, plug the heater directly into the wall outlet; if not, use a heavy-duty cord of at least 14-gauge wire. Also prefer electric heaters with overheat safety cut-off and similar options. Follow general safety guidelines.

For a good safety guide for ventless heaters, see: MasterDistributors Guide for ventless heaters