Safety experts have released crucial advice concerning electric heaters, warning that one frequent error could significantly increase fire hazards. As freezing conditions grip Britain, numerous households will turn to affordable solutions to stay warm.
Portable electric heaters continue to be a popular option, providing swift heat to particular rooms within the property.
Nevertheless, as with any electrical equipment, appropriate safety measures must be observed. Professionals from Hawkesworth Appliance Testing Ltd have identified a common mistake involving electric heaters that presents considerable risks.
They said: “Don’t plug your heater into an extension lead. If you are using an electric heater, plug it straight into the wall socket.
“Plugging it into an extension lead can not only cause it to overheat, but the trailing cables can make it easier for people to knock the heater over.”
Additional caution has been advised by specialists at O’Brien Electrical Contractors in the US.
They explained: “Do not use an extension cord with a space heater. Operating a heater of any kind through the use of an extension cord or power strip is risky and can cause damage to your electrical system and home.”
They continued: “No matter how heavy duty or ‘powerful’ you believe an extension cord or power strip is, never plug a heater into it. The reason for this is due to the extension cord and power strips’ ability to handle the electric current.
“Space heaters and other portable heating elements require a larger load or draw of electrical current. This high electrical load is something that extension cords can not handle.
“The increased load will result in higher temperatures from the cord during operation, so much so, it can even melt the power strip or extension cord.
“These can also evolve into full-blown fire hazards, and electrical fires are one of the most dangerous types to occur in a home.”
This cautionary advice is backed by electrician Adam Nelson. Speaking to Homes and Gardens, he said: “A household appliance we feel is very important to plug directly into an outlet are space heaters.
“These appliances are natural fire risk as it is, and should always be plugged into direct outlets, again securing them to circuit breakers in your main panel to avoid overloads.”
