When winter temperatures drop across Counce, Pickwick, and the surrounding Hardin County area, many homeowners turn to space heaters to add warmth to chilly rooms. While space heaters can be helpful, they’re also one of the leading causes of winter house fires when used incorrectly.
If you rely on a space heater — whether in a bedroom, home office, or living area — following a few simple safety guidelines can help keep your home warm without putting your family or property at risk.
Below are essential space heater safety tips every homeowner should keep in mind this winter.
1. Always Plug Space Heaters Directly Into a Wall Outlet
One of the most important — and often overlooked — space heater safety rules is how the heater is powered.
Space heaters should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Never plug them into:
Power strips
Surge protectors
Extension cords
These devices aren’t designed to handle the high electrical load space heaters require and can easily overheat, increasing the risk of electrical fires.
If your space heater cord won’t reach a wall outlet safely, it’s best to reposition the heater — not add an extension cord.
2. Choose the Right Size Heater for the Space
Using the wrong size heater for a room can lead to overheating, wasted energy, and unnecessary wear on the unit.
When shopping for a space heater:
Choose a model designed for the size of the room you’re heating
Avoid oversized heaters in small spaces
Look for models with tip-over safety switches that automatically shut off if the heater is knocked over
This is especially important in homes with pets, children, or high foot traffic.
3. Keep Space Heaters Clear of Obstacles
Space heaters need space — and plenty of it.
Always place heaters:
At least 3 feet away from furniture, curtains, bedding, and rugs
Out of walkways and high-traffic areas
On a flat, stable surface
Never place a space heater on a bed, couch, or near anything that could block airflow or accidentally come into contact with the heating element.
4. Use Heaters With Built-In Thermostats
Space heaters with built-in thermostats offer better temperature control and improved safety.
A thermostat:
Prevents rooms from overheating
Helps reduce energy waste
Automatically shuts off the heater once the desired temperature is reached
Without a thermostat, heaters can run continuously, driving up energy costs and increasing the risk of overheating.
5. Avoid Using Space Heaters as a Long-Term Heating Solution
While space heaters can provide short-term comfort, they aren’t designed to replace a central heating system.
If you find yourself:
Relying on multiple space heaters
Struggling to heat certain rooms
Noticing rising winter energy bills
These may be signs that your main heating system isn’t performing efficiently anymore.
When Space Heaters Signal a Bigger Heating Problem
In many homes across Savannah, Pickwick, and Counce, frequent space heater use is a sign of:
Aging heating equipment
Uneven heat distribution
System inefficiency or airflow issues
Rather than continuing to rely on space heaters year after year, it may be time to have your heating system inspected by a professional.
Stay Safe — and Warm — This Winter
Space heaters can be helpful when used responsibly, but your home’s primary heating system should always be doing the heavy lifting.
If your home feels cold despite running the heat, or if you’re concerned about heating safety and efficiency, we’re here to help.
📞 Call Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning at 731-689-3651
📍 Proudly serving Counce, Pickwick, Savannah, and all of Hardin County
We’ll help make sure your home stays comfortable — and safe — all winter long.
