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Re-activateQ: A friend says space heaters are too risky. Can I use one safely to heat my home office?
A: Yes, but take some precautions. Start by shopping for a model with a safety-certification label from an independent testing organization, such as the UL mark from Underwriters Laboratories, the ETL label from Intertek, or CSA International certification. Buy a heater with a sensor that shuts off the heater if it overheats. All of the electric space heaters we recently tested have one, and some have a tip-over switch that turns off the unit if it's knocked over. We note this in our Ratings of natural convection, fan-forced convection, and radiant models (available to subscribers).
Portable space heaters cause an estimated 21,650 home fires and 1,512 fire-related injuries and deaths each year. Home heating fires are usually due to human error, according to the National Fire Protection Association, a nonprofit organization. That's why it's critical that the space heater is placed at least three feet away from combustibles, such as drapes and furniture, and that it's turned off when you leave the room or go to sleep. Also be sure to follow these safety tips, and use our free buying guide to help you find a space heater that works for your room.
—Kimberly Janeway
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