Winter Heaters: Are You Using Them Wrong?

There is a nip in the air, the sun sets earlier, because winter is here. We do so much to protect ourselves from the cold. The woollens are aired, and so are the blankets. Heaters are cleaned and ready to roll. However, there is a catch: heaters need to be used safely to prevent any accidents from happening and to protect our health.

Impact of Room Heaters

Dryness: Room Heaters reduce the humidity in the air, leading to dryness of the throat, skin and eyes. The risk of respiratory irritation is heightened, elevating conditions like asthma, allergies and nasal congestion.
Respiratory Issues: People with respiratory issues like asthma or bronchitis face elevated bouts of coughing, shortness of breath and multiple infections due to irritation of the airways.
Sensitivity: The dust mites and allergens present in the air tend to get disturbed by the use of room heaters. They circulate in the air, irritating us and causing respiratory issues and allergies because the warm air from the heaters keeps them suspended in the air for longer durations.
Poisoning: Heaters release carbon monoxide ( a colourless, odourless gas) that is dangerous and harmful to health, leading to poisoning, especially when used in poorly ventilated areas. The symptoms of carbon monoxide are headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion, weakness, leading to unconsciousness and even death.
Fire Hazard: Using heaters with faulty wiring, improper mindless use, or keeping them in proximity to flammable objects, causes overheating and fire hazards. This can damage lives and property, hence it should be used carefully.
Placement: Room heaters, if placed, on areas like carpet, stool or table, are more prone to tilt over and fall, overheat or cause burns or fires. Placing them in humid places causes them to come in contact with water, leading to shocks and short-circuits.
Unguarded Use: The use of room heaters without supervision can prove fatal, as they may overheat, explode or cause carbon monoxide poisoning (if the room is poorly ventilated).
Faulty Wiring: Room heaters, if plugged into an extension cord or power strip, cause overheating or fire hazards. The cords, if frayed, or the sockets, if damaged, can also cause fire hazards and short circuits.
No Covers: Covering room heaters with any clothing, blankets, or any other objects is a big no-no, as this is an open invitation to a fire hazard.

Correct Way to Use Heaters:

Heaters give us the much-needed warmth in these cold wintery months. Let us see how to use them :

Vents: Heaters with vents are always to be used.
Placement: Heaters should be placed on the bare ground/floor, in a properly ventilated room, and away from flammable items like clothing, paper, etc.
Sockets: Heaters should be plugged into the wall sockets only.
Distance: Heaters should be kept at a safe distance, as the temperatures are very high when in close proximity to them. Maintain a distance of 2 to 3 feet from the heater.
Reach: Ensure the heaters are out of reach of children and pets.
Duration: Avoid prolonged use of the heaters. Keeping a bucket of water in the room maintains the level of humidity in the room. Never keep the heater on overnight or without direct supervision.
Plugging: Plug in the heater before use and unplug it after use. Never keep it plugged in when not in use.
Purpose: Heaters should be used for heating the room only and not for any other purpose, like drying/warming your clothes or food!
H2O: Heaters should be placed such that they do not come in contact with water/liquids.
Maintenance: Keep the heater clean and check for damage/defects periodically. Replace the heater if it is impaired in any way.
Brand: Purchase room heaters that are certified and approved by the ISI/quality standards. Choose the correct heater that fits your budget and home, keeping in mind the advantages and disadvantages.

Types of heaters

Oil-filled heaters: These are ideal for an enclosed room as they do not burn oxygen and prevent breathing issues.
Grill-covered room heaters: These are ideal for households with small children and/or pets.
Fan heater: These are used for small rooms, but are noisy.
Quartz heaters: These are ideal for heating and have an open design, which is unsafe for children/pet households.