Space Heater Electrical Safety — Stay Cozy Without Risk

When temperatures drop, space heaters become a quick fix for cold bedrooms, offices, and garages. But while they’re great for adding extra warmth, they also draw a high amount of electrical current, and improper use can easily overload circuits or start a fire.

Many homeowners don’t realize that most power strips and extension cords aren’t built to handle the constant demand of a space heater. It only takes minutes for an overloaded cord to overheat — and by the time you notice the smell of melting plastic, damage has already begun.

Space heaters should be plugged only into wall outlets — never into extension cords, surge protectors, or power strips. Those cords and devices can overheat under heavy loads, creating a hidden fire risk behind your furniture.If you don’t have an outlet where you need one, we can install one safely and correctly so you can stay warm and worry-free all winter.

🔥 The Right Way to Use a Space Heater

To keep your home and family safe, always follow these simple but critical safety steps:

• Plug directly into a wall outlet. Avoid cords, adapters, and multi-plug connectors.

• Keep a 3-foot safety zone around the heater — away from curtains, bedding, or furniture.

• Set it on a level, nonflammable surface like tile or hardwood, never on carpet or countertops.

• Inspect the cord and plug before each use. Replace any heater with frayed or discolored wiring.

• Turn off and unplug the heater when leaving the room or going to sleep.

• Check the label. Look for UL or ETL safety certification to ensure it meets fire safety standards.

Even small space heaters can pull 1,500 watts or more, roughly the same as a hair dryer running nonstop. If you’re using multiple devices on the same circuit — lights, chargers, TVs — that extra load can push your system past its limits.

⚙️ When to Call a Licensed Electrician

If your space heater causes lights to flicker, outlets to feel warm, or breakers to trip, those are warning signs your circuit is overloaded. Don’t ignore them — your wiring could be under stress every time you plug that heater in!

At Bowman Electric, we can:

✅ Add dedicated outlets or circuits designed for space heaters or other high-demand devices.

✅ Inspect your electrical panel to ensure it’s distributing power safely.

✅ Upgrade old or damaged wiring so your home can handle today’s modern power needs.

These small upgrades not only keep your home safer — they also prevent nuisance trips and extend the life of your electrical system.