Propane heaters keep you warm on the coldest winter days. But are they safe? The short answer is yes, but only if you use them properly.
Safety Features
When you’re looking for an indoor propane heater, make sure it has the proper safety features for indoor use. Indoor propane heaters should have:
- Automatic shut-off: This feature turns the heater off if it overheats or the pilot light goes out.
- Oxygen depletion sensors: These sensors monitor the air in the room to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and will turn the heater off if the oxygen levels drop too low.
- Tip-over sensor: The heater will turn off if it tips or moves when it’s operating to prevent accidents and fire hazards.
Placement
Proper placement is essential for using your propane heater safely. Place the heater on an even surface at least three feet away from combustible materials like your curtains or furniture. You should also plug the heater into the wall outlet and not a power strip or extension cord. The added electrical load on the extension cord or power strip can cause them to overheat and be a potential fire hazard.
Ventilation
In addition to placement, consider whether the room you plan to use your propane heater in has enough ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide from building up. Keep at least one window open and avoid fans or air conditioners that can blow the carbon monoxide back into the space.
Indoor Propane Heater Safety Tips
Additional safety tips for indoor propane heater use include:
- Never place anything on top of your indoor heater.
- Do not move the heater while it’s on. If you need to move it, turn it off and wait for it to cool before moving it.
- Never leave a propane heater unattended, and turn it off whenever you leave a room.
- Never use a propane heater to dry clothes.
- Do not spray air fresheners, deodorants or hair spray near an indoor space heater.
- Never sleep in a room with a propane heater, as this can put you at a higher risk for carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards.
Learn More About Propane Heater Safety With Foster Fuels
If you’re still unsure about the safety of propane heaters indoors, the experts at Foster Fuels are here to help. We’re a leading provider of residential fuel services, and we look forward to offering our exceptional services to your home in Virginia and beyond. Contact us today to learn more or to request propane refill service.
