Electric Baseboard Heater Safety Tips: The Dos and Don’ts
Electric baseboard heaters are generally a very safe heating source option. With that said, there are still precautions and preventative measures to take to ensure the safety of you and your family, and the safety of your home when one is in operation.
Electric Baseboard Heater Safety Tips
If a baseboard heater is not properly installed with the proper sized wiring and voltage, you can put you and your family at risk for electrical fire hazards. A licensed electrician knows the rules for installing electric baseboard heaters. With this said, an electrician will know certain safety precautions like not installing the baseboard heater below electrical outlets, among other things.
Do clean the baseboard heater at least every 3-6 months.
Occasional cleaning of the inside and outside with a vacuum will remove any dirt and dust that could block airflow, and cause the baseboard heater to overheat. Not to mention that with periodical cleanings, the more efficient your electric baseboard heater will run.
Do supervise small children around electric baseboard heaters.
Electric baseboard heater safety tip for parents and grandparents, or anyone having company over with small children: always use supervision around electric baseboard heaters! Tiny fingers and toys/small objects are notorious for making their way into the openings of the unit, which can cause fire hazards and other safety hazards. Because electric baseboard heaters are hot to the touch, never allow children near them!
Don’t block the airflow.
Make sure that there is nothing obstructing the front of the heater. Since electric baseboard heaters use the convection method to heat up a room, nothing should be placed in front so that the cool air can go into the unit and come out as warm air for heating, allowing for the unit to properly function. This includes all furniture, which should be placed at least 6 inches away from the heater.
Don’t put anything on or near the baseboard heater.
While nothing should be blocking the air flow, nothing should be in front of the heater that could pose a fire hazard as well. For example, all curtains, furniture, electrical cords, and other flammable materials like blankets, paper, etc. should not be placed on or around the baseboard heater. Because electric baseboard heaters use the convection method for heating the room, the unit gets very hot.
Call KB Electric LLC For Installation!
Need a licensed electrician in the Southeastern, PA area to install an electric baseboard heater for your home or office? Call KB Electric LLC today! (267) 467-3178
