Space Heaters: Safety Tips and Electrical Considerations for Your Home

As winter brings colder temperatures, space heaters become a go-to solution for homeowners looking to add a little extra warmth to their homes. While they can be an efficient and convenient source of heat, improper use of space heaters can lead to fire hazards and electrical issues. Bowman Electric is here to provide essential tips to help you safely and effectively use your space heater this winter.

1. Choose the Right Heater for Your Space

Not all space heaters are created equal. When selecting a heater, consider the size of the area you need to heat and the heater’s capacity. A model with a thermostat and safety certifications like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek) ensures you’re using a unit that meets safety standards.

2. Avoid Overloading Circuits

Space heaters can draw significant power, often between 1,000 and 1,500 watts. Plugging one into an overloaded circuit or an extension cord can cause tripped breakers or even an electrical fire. Always plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet, and avoid running other high-energy devices on the same circuit.

3. Inspect Your Electrical System

Older homes may not have wiring equipped to handle the additional load of modern space heaters. Flickering lights, tripped breakers, or warm outlets could indicate an issue with your electrical system. If you notice these signs, it’s time to call a professional electrician, like Bowman Electric, to evaluate your wiring and circuit breaker panel.

4. Position Your Heater Safely

Proper placement is critical for safe operation. Follow the 3-foot rule, keeping the heater at least three feet away from flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, or furniture. Avoid placing the heater in high-traffic areas where it might be knocked over.

5. Never Leave a Space Heater Unattended

Always turn off your space heater when leaving a room or going to bed. Modern models often include automatic shut-off features if tipped over or if they overheat, but you should still never rely solely on these safeguards.

6. Upgrade to GFCI-Protected Outlets

Using a space heater in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms or basements, requires extra precautions. Outlets in these areas should be equipped with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection to reduce the risk of electrical shock. Bowman Electric can install GFCI outlets or inspect your existing ones for peace of mind.

7. Invest in Energy Efficiency

Space heaters are great for supplemental heating, but relying on them exclusively can be expensive. To reduce energy costs, consider upgrading your home’s insulation, sealing drafts, or installing a programmable thermostat. Bowman Electric can also help you explore energy-efficient heating solutions like smart thermostats or zone heating systems.

8. Schedule an Electrical Inspection

If you use space heaters regularly, your home’s electrical system may need an inspection to ensure it can handle the added demand. Bowman Electric offers thorough evaluations to identify potential hazards and recommend upgrades, like dedicated circuits, to keep your home safe and efficient.

Stay Warm, Stay Safe

Space heaters can be a valuable addition to your home’s heating system when used responsibly. By following these safety tips and addressing any electrical concerns, you can stay warm this winter without compromising your home’s safety.

If you have questions about your electrical system or need an inspection, contact Bowman Electric today. Let us help you stay comfortable and secure all season long.

The Importance of Electrical Safety Inspections at the Start of a New Year

As we flip the calendar to a fresh new year, many homeowners focus on resolutions, decluttering, and organizing their lives. However, one critical area that often gets overlooked is the electrical safety of your home. Electrical systems power everything from your daily appliances to your home office setup, making their safety and reliability essential. At Bowman Electric, we encourage homeowners to prioritize an electrical safety inspection at the beginning of each year. Here’s why:

1. Identify Potential Hazards Before They Escalate

Electrical issues can often go unnoticed until they cause significant problems, such as fires, shocks, or power outages. Annual safety inspections help identify hidden hazards, including:

• Worn-out wiring

• Loose connections

• Overloaded circuits

• Improperly installed components

Addressing these issues early can save you from costly repairs and dangerous situations down the line.

2. Prepare for Winter’s Electrical Demands

Winter often brings increased electrical usage. Heaters, electric blankets, holiday lights, and home office equipment place added strain on your electrical system. An inspection ensures your panel, circuits, and outlets are ready to handle the load, reducing the risk of tripped breakers or overheating.

3. Enhance Energy Efficiency

An electrical inspection can identify outdated or inefficient systems that may be driving up your energy bills. Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient solutions not only cuts costs but also reduces your carbon footprint. For instance, replacing old lighting with LED fixtures or upgrading appliances can make a noticeable difference.

4. Ensure Compliance with Current Electrical Codes

Building codes evolve over time to enhance safety. If your home is older, it’s likely your electrical system doesn’t meet today’s standards. During an inspection, a licensed electrician can recommend updates such as installing GFCI outlets in wet areas or adding surge protection to safeguard your electronics.

5. Protect Your Family’s Safety

Faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires. Regular electrical inspections provide peace of mind by ensuring your home is a safe environment for your family. This is especially important if you’ve recently added new electrical devices or if you’ve noticed signs of trouble like flickering lights or frequently tripped breakers.

6. Maintain Home Insurance Compliance

Many insurance policies require proof of regular home maintenance, including electrical safety inspections. Ensuring your system is up to date can prevent claims from being denied in the event of an electrical-related incident.

What to Expect During an Electrical Safety Inspection

A professional electrical safety inspection involves a thorough examination of your home’s electrical system, including:

• Inspection of outlets, switches, and panels

• Testing of circuit breakers and fuses

• Evaluation of wiring and connections

• Verification of GFCI and AFCI protection

• Recommendations for upgrades or repairs

Start the Year Safely with Bowman Electric

Make electrical safety a priority for your household in the new year. At Bowman Electric, our licensed electricians are committed to keeping your home safe, efficient, and up to code. Schedule your annual electrical safety inspection today and gain peace of mind knowing your home is in expert hands.

Contact Bowman Electric to book your electrical safety inspection and start the new year with confidence!

Don’t Leave Santa in the Dark: Why Backup Generators Are a Holiday Lifesaver

The holiday season is the most magical time of year, filled with sparkling lights, festive feasts, and cherished traditions. But nothing puts a damper on holiday cheer faster than a power outage caused by a winter storm. Without electricity, the lights dim, the house chills, and all those delicious holiday meals are left half-cooked. To keep the festivities glowing, a backup generator is the ultimate holiday lifesaver.

Winter Storms and Power Outages: A Recipe for Holiday Disruption

In Montana, winter storms are no stranger to heavy snow, ice, and high winds that can knock out power for hours—or even days. Just as you’re gathering with loved ones, a sudden outage can leave your home in the dark and cold. Beyond the inconvenience, outages can lead to frozen pipes, spoiled food, and unsafe conditions for your family.

Why a Backup Generator is Your Holiday Hero

A backup generator automatically kicks in when the power goes out, providing electricity to the essentials that keep your home safe, comfortable, and festive. Here’s how a generator saves the holidays:

1. Keep the Lights On: No need to worry about Santa missing your house! A generator ensures your holiday lights, tree, and decorations shine bright through the storm.

2. Stay Warm and Cozy: Heating systems rely on electricity to keep your home comfortable. A generator powers your furnace or space heaters so your family can stay warm when the temperatures drop.

3. Save Your Holiday Feast: Whether it’s a turkey roasting in the oven or pies baking to perfection, a backup generator keeps your kitchen running so you don’t have to settle for sandwiches by candlelight.

4. Power Essential Devices: From medical equipment to Wi-Fi routers and phone chargers, a generator ensures you can stay connected and safe during an outage.

5. Avoid Frozen Pipes and Costly Damage: By keeping your heating system on, a generator helps prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting—a common winter problem that can lead to expensive repairs.

Choosing the Right Backup Generator

Generators come in different sizes and types to meet your home’s needs. For full-home coverage, a standby generator is the best choice. It’s permanently installed, runs on natural gas or propane, and starts automatically when power is lost. Bowman Electric can help you determine the right size and setup to keep your home running smoothly through the winter storms.

Peace of Mind for the Holidays

Investing in a backup generator is more than just a safety measure—it’s peace of mind. You can enjoy the holidays without worrying about disruptions, knowing that your family, home, and traditions are protected no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

Don’t Wait Until the Lights Go Out

Don’t leave Santa—or your family—in the dark this holiday season. Contact Bowman Electric today to discuss installing a backup generator. From selecting the right model to expert installation, we’ll ensure your holidays are bright, warm, and worry-free.

Bowman Electric: Keeping Your Holidays Powered and Bright.