With the temperature continuing to dip, it’s important to keep your home warm and comfortable. One of the easiest solutions is to plug in a space heater in rooms you frequently occupy. However, since you’ll be dealing with a high-powered machine, the team at Gutridge Electric in Newark, OH, says there are some precautions you’ll need to take. Below, the knowledgeable electricians offer a few safety tips. 

An Electrician Shares 3 Ways to Properly Use Space Heaters

1. Give Ample Space

To start, avoid placing space heaters close to other objects or furniture. Mark out at least three feet of empty space in all directions for maximum safety. If clothes, blinds, or other items are too close to the machine, a fire could start. 

2. Keep Water Away

Another risk factor is positioning a space heater in an area near running water. If any moisture were to come into contact with the machine, it could cause an electrical outage. Additionally, if someone with wet hands were to touch the unit, they could suffer an electric jolt. 

3. Schedule Service

When you have a powerful heating mechanism like a space heater in your home, it’s necessary to ensure all supporting electrical systems are in order. Delicate or aging wires linked to a space heater can increase the chance of a fire or power outage. Hiring a professional electrician to inspect and secure the surrounding systems before winter fully sets in will provide peace of mind when utilizing the heating unit. 

If you need an electrician to ensure your home’s systems are ready for the demands of winter, turn to the team of experts at Gutridge Electric in Newark, OH. Offering everything from electrical wiring inspections to comprehensive repairs, these professionals will help to optimize your systems and ensure your property is safe. Give them a call today at (740) 349-7624 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about what they do.