Space Heater Safety 101 - A-Abel Family of Companies

When the Ohio temperatures dip in January, it’s tempting to plug in a space heater to take the chill off a drafty home office or a cold basement. While space heaters are great for supplemental warmth, they are also one of the leading causes of home fires and electrical system strain.

At A-Abel, we want you to stay cozy and safe. Before you click that “on” switch, here is everything you need to know about space heater safety.

Power strip

The 3-Foot Rule: Space heaters need room to breathe. Always maintain at least three feet of empty space around the heater in every direction. This includes:
- Curtains and drapes
- Bedding and pillows
- Area rugs
- Furniture
- Paper or books
- Pro Tip: Never place a space heater on top of furniture or a rug. Keep it on a flat, level, non-flammable floor surface.
Plug Directly Into The Wall: This is the most common mistake homeowners make. Space heaters draw a massive amount of electricity. Never use an extension cord or a power strip. Extension cords are not designed to handle he high current that a space heater requires. They can quickly overheat, melt, and start a fire. Always plug your heater directly into a wall outlet that can handle the load.
Check for the “Safety Switch”: If you are buying a new heater for 2026, ensure it has an automatic shut-off feature. This includes:
- Tip-Over Protection: The heater turns off immediately if it’s knocked over by a pet or child.
- Overheat Protection: The unit shuts down if the internal components reach a dangerous temperature.
Never Leave it Unattended: A space heater should never be left running in an empty room or while you are sleeping. If you are leaving the room, even for a few minutes, turn it off and unplug it. If you need heat while you sleep, it is much safer to rely on your central furnace or an extra blanket.
Inspect the Cord: Before plugging in a heater that’s been in storage, check the cord for fraying, cracks, or “burnt” smells. If the cord feels hot to the touch while the heater is running, turn it off immediately. This is sign that the heater is pulling too much power of the wiring is damaged.

Is Your Electrical Panel Struggling?

If your circuit breaker trips every time you turn on your space heater, your home is trying to tell you something. Most modern space heaters use 1,500 watts, which can easily overwhelm an older electrical circuit – especially if you have lights or a computer running on the same line.

When to Call A-Abel

If your breakers trip frequently
If your lights flicker when the heater kicks on
If your wall outlets feel warm or look discolored

A Better Solution for Cold Rooms

If you have a room that is consistently freezing, a space heater is only a temporary (and expensive) band-aid. A-Abel can help you look into permanent solutions like ductwork adjustments, zoning systems, or mini-split installations that provide safe, efficient heat without the fire risk. Another option is permanently installed wall heater on it’s own dedicated circuit to ensure safe operation and keep that one cool room cozy all winter long. Call our team or schedule your appointment online.

Space Heater

FAQ’s:

Can I use a heavy-duty power strip or extension cord for my space heater?
- No. Even “heavy-duty” cords can overheat when used with a space heater. Space heaters are high-draw appliances that pull a lot of amperage. Plugging them into anything other than a permanent wall outlet creates a significant fire risk.
Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping when I turn on my heater?
- Most space heaters use about 1,500 watts of power. On a standard 15-amp circuit, that heater is using up almost the entire capacity of that circuit. If you have a lamp, a TV, or a computer running on that same line, the breaker will trip to prevent the wires in your wall from melting.
Will using a space heater save me money on my heating bill?
- Only if you are “zone heating” – meaning you turn your central furnace way down and only heat the one room you are in. However, electricity is generally more expensive than natural gas. If you find yourself using space heaters in every room, it is much more cost-effective to have A-Abel repair or tune up your central heating system.