Jeanie Wong asked:

Although heaters can account for a number of home heating fires, the heaters now being manufactured are relatively safe. Nonetheless, precaution must be taken when operating any type of heating device.

Generally, oil heaters are considered safer than regular electric convection or radiant heaters because they have lower surface temperatures and require less consideration of air flow through/over the heater itself. These heaters create warmth by warming heat-conserving oil inside the heater. The oil is then circulated throughout the coils of the radiator to evenly distribute heat throughout the room. However, these types of heaters are only suitable for small, personal spaces ranging from 40 square feet for an under-desk style unit to 150 square feet. Another added benefit of a small desk-type unit is that these are extremely energy efficient and do not blow fuses even when hooked up to the same power grid as the computer that sits on top of the desk they are placed under.

Once again, it should be noted that although the high intensity of the output of space heaters may make them more susceptible to fires, most portable electric space heaters now being manufactured include many performance requirements in order to enhance user safety.

Nonetheless, portable space heaters have received a bad reputation recently. Although these types of heaters may present a fire hazard when tipped over, almost all portable electric heaters now being produced boast safety features such as safety switches that will automatically turn off the heater until it is turned upright, overheat protection functions, and indicator lights which help you know when the heater is plugged in or turned on. As well, modern space heaters are also subjected to rigorous laboratory testing and must pass certain safety standards.

However, when using any electric heater, caution must be exercised in order to reduce the risk of fire. Follow these tips to ensure safe heater operation:

1. Use the heater on the floor for stability - never place a heater on furniture since it may fall and could result in a fire hazard, and never leave a heater unattended.

2. Do not hide cords under rugs or carpets, as placing anything on top of the cord could cause a fire by overheating.

3. Be sure the plug fits properly into an outlet since a loose plug can overheat. Have a worn-out plug or outlet replaced if necessary.

4. Keep the heater away from debris and paints, solvents, and other flammable liquids.

5. Ensure proper working order of your heater by replacing missing controls or guards at once, and never operate a defective heater.

By being smart about your heater, you can safely keep your area warm and comfortable during the cooler months.

	Lasko 754200 Ceramic Heater with Adjustable Thermostat List Price: $29.99 Sale Price: $18.40 Used From: $19.79

	Impress 1500-watt Space Heater with a Quiet Fan and Adjustable Thermostat List Price: $34.99 Sale Price: $16.99

	Optimus H-5210 Infrared Quartz Radiant Heater List Price: $29.99 Sale Price: $19.99 Used From: $19.00

It can be difficult to figure out how close to a wall or other furniture you should put your space heater. Placing your space heater in the middle of the room doesn’t make sense because 1) it will look bad, and 2) you will always be bumping into it.

So, where is it safe to put a space heater?

The answer is that it depends on the exact heater you have, and that you need to read the documentation specific to your heater. There should be “safety” labels and pictures on the box of the heater when you buy it, in the user manual, and even on the heater itself.

The user manual is the best place to look, because it should give you exact guidelines for how far it needs to be from wall. Keeping it away from curtains, furniture, and bedding is also a good idea.

You should also be careful about leaving it running when you are not home. I’ve seen heaters with a safety feature where they automatically shut themselves off if they get knocked over and over heat. I would definitely buy one with that feature.

The room is small, so I don't want to put it in the middle of the room where it can be bumped into. Can it be used next to a wall as long as there are no curtains furniture or bedding next to it?

Could a space heater near your feet be causing a rash? Lots of people who keep a space heater under their desk find that their legs get itchy and develop red bumps.  They can be in one place, or all over the legs and feet.

This is probably heat rash, which is caused by excessive heat on or near the skin.  Heat rash will generally go away on it's own, as long as you move the heater away from you.  If it doesn't, you should check with your doctor.

There's some other great information on heat rash at the Mayo Clinic

Allie P asked:

We have a space heater that we haven't used in three years and we are getting ready for winter. We are just wondering if we need to throw out the old oil and replace it before prices on heating oil go up this winter.