What's New
Stay Warm and Safe with Proper Use of Space Heaters and Generators
Stay Warm and Safe with Proper Use of Space Heaters and Generators
Falling Iowa temperatures and rising heating costs have many looking at ways to lower home-heating bills and preparing for winter storms. The Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives and Safe Electricity urge extreme caution for those planning to use electric space heaters and back-up generators this season.
SPACE HEATERS
Approximately one-third of all house fires nationwide occur during the cold home-heating season of December, January and February. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the major cause of these winter fires can be attributed to faulty and improper use and maintenance of supplemental heating equipment, such as space heaters.
"Portable heaters can help take the chill from areas of your home, but are very dangerous if used improperly," says Molly Hall, director of Safe Electricity. "Stay warm and safe, and give space heaters space - at least 3 feet from anything that can burn, including little fingers!"
Some cities have banned the use of many types of portable space heaters. Before purchasing or using any type of space heater, check with your local fire department to find out if it is legal in your community.
Safe Electricity offers the following precautions when using electric space heaters.
GENERATORS
Many rely on backup electric generators for emergency power when the electricity goes out.
Consult and discuss your purchase options with a reliable vendor, your electric supplier and contractors. A qualified vendor or electric professional will know existing safety codes and the utility�s safety requirements, and can help you select the best equipment for your needs and situation
Properly connecting the generator into the system is the next critical step for safe and effective use. A qualified electrician should be consulted to ensure that proper installation and electrical grounding requirements, circuit overload protections and local codes are met.
Safe Electricity offers the following tips for the safe operation and use of portable generators.
For more information contact Ann Foster, Ph: 515-727-8945 or afoster@iowarec.org.
Falling Iowa temperatures and rising heating costs have many looking at ways to lower home-heating bills and preparing for winter storms. The Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives and Safe Electricity urge extreme caution for those planning to use electric space heaters and back-up generators this season.
SPACE HEATERS
Approximately one-third of all house fires nationwide occur during the cold home-heating season of December, January and February. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the major cause of these winter fires can be attributed to faulty and improper use and maintenance of supplemental heating equipment, such as space heaters.
"Portable heaters can help take the chill from areas of your home, but are very dangerous if used improperly," says Molly Hall, director of Safe Electricity. "Stay warm and safe, and give space heaters space - at least 3 feet from anything that can burn, including little fingers!"
Some cities have banned the use of many types of portable space heaters. Before purchasing or using any type of space heater, check with your local fire department to find out if it is legal in your community.
Safe Electricity offers the following precautions when using electric space heaters.
- Purchase only space heaters that have been safety tested and rated. Make sure the unit is equipped with automatic shut-off features and heating element guards. Read and follow all of the manufacturer's instructions for operation and care.
- Before use, check to make sure the heater is in good condition and have all problems professionally repaired.
- Place heater out of high-traffic areas and on a level, hard, non-flammable floor surface-- NOT on carpets, furniture or countertops.
- Remember to keep space heaters at least three feet from all flammable items such as draperies, blankets and sofas.
- Do not overload circuits. Do not use extension cords or multiple plugs with a space heater, and make sure the unit is not plugged into same circuit as other electric appliances.
- Never leave space heaters unattended. Turn off your space heater and unplug it before leaving the room or going to bed.
GENERATORS
Many rely on backup electric generators for emergency power when the electricity goes out.
Consult and discuss your purchase options with a reliable vendor, your electric supplier and contractors. A qualified vendor or electric professional will know existing safety codes and the utility�s safety requirements, and can help you select the best equipment for your needs and situation
Properly connecting the generator into the system is the next critical step for safe and effective use. A qualified electrician should be consulted to ensure that proper installation and electrical grounding requirements, circuit overload protections and local codes are met.
Safe Electricity offers the following tips for the safe operation and use of portable generators.
- Read and follow all manufacturer operating instructions.
- Make sure the generator is properly grounded.
- Never plug a portable electric generator into a wall outlet or connect directly to a home's wiring. This can energize utility power lines and injure you or others working nearby. Electrical back feed also can damage the generator and home electrical equipment.
- Do not overload the generator and plug in more appliances than the generator is rated to handle.
- Use only safety-tested, shop-type electrical cords designed and rated for heavier, outdoor use to connect appliances. Many generators are equipped with twist-lock connects to reduce the chance of accidental disconnections due to vibrations.
- Always keep the generator outside in a dry, protected area, away from windows or air intakes where deadly exhaust fumes can enter living spaces. Equip homes with carbon monoxide (CO) alarms with battery backup.
- Turn off generator and allow to cool before refueling.
- Before shutting down a generator, turn off and unplug all appliances and equipment being powered by the generator.
For more information contact Ann Foster, Ph: 515-727-8945 or afoster@iowarec.org.
See all of "What's New"