Are Space Heaters Safe? Smart Tips for Using Indoor Heaters This Winter

By the Mercury Team

As winter approaches, many of us turn to space heaters for an extra bit of warmth. While they can make a chilly room feel cozy, it’s important to remember that these convenient appliances come with risks. When used improperly, an indoor space heater can become a serious fire hazard.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about space heater safety. We’ll cover the potential dangers, how to choose the right model, and the essential steps for safe operation and maintenance. By following these tips, you can enjoy the warmth of your heater without compromising your family’s safety.

Why Space Heater Safety Matters

Heating equipment is a leading cause of U.S. home fires, with portable space heaters a major contributor. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports heating equipment was involved in an average of 38,881 home fires per year (2019–2023)—12% of all reported home fires—resulting annually in about 432 civilian deaths, 1,352 civilian injuries, and $1.1 billion in property damage.

These figures underscore why space-heater safety matters. Fire prevention is your best defense, but accidents still happen. Having a comprehensive Mercury homeowners policy helps you recover and rebuild after a fire-related loss.

Understanding the Risks of Space Heaters

While modern space heaters are designed with safety in mind, user error and mechanical failures can still lead to dangerous situations. Understanding what makes them a risk is the first step toward using them safely.

Are Space Heaters Dangerous?

The question “Are space heaters dangerous?” is common, and the answer is nuanced. The appliance itself isn’t inherently dangerous, but how it’s used determines its safety. The most common causes of heater-related fires include:

• Overheating: If a heater’s vents are blocked or it runs for too long in an enclosed space, it can overheat and ignite nearby materials.
• Faulty Wiring: Old or damaged internal wiring can short-circuit, creating sparks that can easily start a fire.
• Proximity to Combustibles: Placing a heater too close to flammable items like furniture, bedding, curtains, or clothing is the leading cause of space heater fires.
• Improper Power Source: Plugging a space heater into an extension cord or power strip can overload the circuit, causing the cord to overheat and catch fire.

Types of Indoor Space Heaters

Not all space heaters are created equal. Choosing a model with built-in safety features can significantly reduce risks.

• Ceramic Heaters: These are popular for their efficiency. They use a ceramic heating element that heats up quickly and a fan to distribute the warm air.
  • Pros: Heat up fast, compact, and often have cool-touch exteriors.
  • Cons: The fan can be noisy, and it can dry out the air.
• Infrared Heaters: Instead of heating the air, infrared heaters warm objects and people directly in their path, similar to how the sun feels.
  • Pros: Quiet operation, energy-efficient, and provides instant, targeted warmth.
  • Cons: Less effective at heating an entire room.
• Oil-Filled Heaters: These heaters warm oil sealed within their fins, which then radiates heat into the room.
  • Pros: Silent, provide consistent heat even after being turned off, and don’t dry out the air.
  • Cons: Take longer to heat up and are often heavier and bulkier.

When shopping for an indoor space heater, prioritize models with an automatic shutoff feature, which turns the unit off if it overheats, and tip-over protection, which deactivates it if knocked over.

How to Use a Space Heater Safely Indoors

Following a few simple rules can make all the difference. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safe space heater operation.

Step 1: Choose the Right Heater for Your Home

Your safety starts with selecting a certified and properly sized heater.

• Look for Certification: Only purchase heaters that have been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek). This label ensures the heater meets stringent safety standards.
• Match Wattage to Room Size: A general rule is to use 10 watts of heating power for every square foot of space. A standard 1,500-watt heater is typically sufficient for a 150-square-foot room.

Step 2: Set It Up Safely

Proper placement is crucial for preventing fires.

• Maintain a 3-Foot Rule: Keep the heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including curtains, furniture, bedding, paper, and clothing.
• Use a Stable, Flat Surface: Always place the heater on a flat, solid, and non-flammable surface. Never put it on carpets, rugs, or unstable furniture where it could tip over.
• Plug Directly into a Wall Outlet: Never use an extension cord or power strip with a space heater. These devices draw a lot of power and can easily overload a cord, leading to a fire.

Step 3: Use with Care

Once your heater is set up, operate it with caution.

• Turn It Off When You Leave: Always turn off your space heater when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Keep Children and Pets Away: Create a “kid-free” and “pet-free” zone around the heater to prevent accidental burns or tip-overs.
• Avoid Wet Areas: Never use a standard space heater in bathrooms, laundry rooms, or other damp areas unless it is specifically rated for use in moist environments.

Step 4: Maintain and Inspect Regularly

Regular maintenance ensures your heater operates safely and efficiently.

• Clean Vents and Filters: Dust and debris can block airflow and cause overheating. Clean the vents and any filters at least once a month during the heating season.
• Inspect Cords: Before each use, check the cord and plug for any signs of fraying, cracking, or damage. If you find any, replace the heater immediately.
• Store Properly: During warmer months, store the heater in a clean, dry place, keeping the cord loosely coiled.

Bonus: Energy-Saving and Eco-Friendly Heating Tips

Using a space heater smartly keeps you safe and can also save money and energy.

• Use a Programmable Thermostat: Set your central heating to a lower temperature and use the space heater to warm only the room you’re in.
• Seal Drafts: Block cold air from entering by sealing gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk. This helps retain the heat your space heater generates.
• Combine with Insulation: Good insulation in your walls and attic is one of the most effective ways to keep your home warm and reduce your reliance on supplemental heating.

What to Do If a Space Heater Causes Damage

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. Knowing how to respond is vital.

Responding to Fire or Electrical Damage

If a fire starts, your immediate priority is safety.

• Evacuate everyone from the home immediately and call 911 from a safe location. Do not try to fight the fire unless it is extremely small and you are trained to use a fire extinguisher.
• If you suspect electrical damage but there is no fire, disconnect the power source if it’s safe to do so.
• Once you are safe, contact Mercury’s 24/7 Claims Hotline at (800) 503-3724 to report the damage.

How Homeowners Insurance Can Help

A standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers fire and smoke damage resulting from a covered loss, such as an accidental space heater fire. After filing a claim, be sure to document all damages with photos and videos and keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary living expenses. A Mercury agent can guide you through the process to ensure you get the support you need.

“Space heaters can spark devastating fires. Keep them at least three feet from anything flammable, never leave them unattended, and plug them directly into a wall outlet,” explains Bonnie Lee, VP, Homeowner Claims. “We urge customers to follow these precautions and confirm their homeowners policy provides adequate coverage to recover from a heater-related loss.”

Final Thoughts: Heat Smart, Stay Protected

So, are space heaters safe? Yes, when used correctly. By choosing a certified model, placing it carefully, and following responsible operating habits, you can enjoy a warm and comfortable home this winter. Regular maintenance and having a clear understanding of the risks are key components of home fire prevention.

At Mercury, we believe in being smart about insurance and proactive about safety. By taking these steps, you’re not just warming your home, you’re protecting it.

Contact us today for a fast, free quote!