Is it Safe to Use Electric Space Heaters in Old D.C. Homes?

During the coldest months of winter, many homeowners rely on space heaters to stay warm, but older homes in Washington, D.C., may not always be equipped to handle them safely. Space heaters account for a surprising number of home fires each year, and outdated electrical systems can increase the risks. Understanding proper use, potential hazards, and the importance of electrical inspections can help you make safer choices while keeping your older home warm and cozy.

How Common Are Fires Caused by Space Heaters?

Heating equipment is one of the top causes of home fires in the U.S. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, space heaters were involved in only 3% of heating-related fires in residential buildings, but they accounted for 41% of fatal heating fires between 2017-2019. The leading cause was placing heaters too close to flammable objects, like furniture, bedding, or curtains.

In older homes, outdated wiring and overloaded circuits may add another layer of risk. If a space heater pulls more electricity than the electrical system can handle, overheating and electrical fires become a possibility.

Do Electric Space Heaters Produce Carbon Monoxide?

Unlike fuel-burning space heaters, electric models do not produce carbon monoxide. However, homeowners using kerosene or propane space heaters must ensure proper ventilation. Without it, carbon monoxide buildup can occur, leading to dangerous or even fatal exposure, which is why you must ensure that your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are functioning properly at all times.

Are Space Heaters Safe for Homes with Kids or Pets?

If there are furry family members or small children in your household, you need to take extra precautions when you're using space heaters. Tiny hands and curious paws can easily get too close to a heater, increasing the chances of burns or accidents. Some risks include:

• Tipping hazards: A heater that gets knocked over can start a fire.
• Overheating cords: Pets chewing on power cords can damage insulation, creating shock and fire hazards.
• Burn injuries: Exposed heating elements can cause serious burns if touched.

Consider a space heater with built-in safety features such as a tip-over shutoff and cool-touch exteriors to reduce risks. Place the heater on a stable, non-flammable surface, and always supervise children and pets when it's in use.

How to Use a Space Heater Safely

Using a space heater responsibly is the best way to lower the risk of fires or electrical issues. For safer operation, follow these best practices:

• Maintain a three-foot clearance from furniture, curtains, and other flammable materials.
• Plug heaters directly into a wall outlet instead of using extension cords or power strips.
• Turn off heaters when you're leaving the room or going to sleep.
• Choose models with safety shut-off features that automatically turn off if the heater tips over or overheats.
• Make a habit of regularly inspecting power cords on your electric space heater for damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Placing heaters on unstable furniture, where they can fall over.
• Leaving heaters running overnight or when they're unattended.
• Using space heaters in bathrooms or other areas with moisture.
• Blocking the heater's airflow by placing it too close to other objects.

Is Your Home's Electrical System Safe?

Many homes in Washington, D.C., were built decades ago, and older wiring may not be equipped to handle the electrical load of modern space heaters. Signs of outdated or unsafe wiring include:

• Frequent breaker trips when plugging in appliances
• Flickering lights when using multiple devices
• Warm or discolored outlets
• Two-pronged outlets instead of grounded three-pronged ones

A Whole Home Electrical Safety Inspection is a great way to identify hidden dangers, like outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or missing safety features. These comprehensive inspections are especially important for older homes, where aging electrical components may pose a fire risk.

When Should You Schedule an Electrical Safety Inspection?

A professional inspection can provide peace of mind if your home has outdated wiring or your electrical system struggles to handle modern electrical demands. Wilcox Electric offers comprehensive home electrical safety inspections to help homeowners identify risks and upgrade their systems as needed.

A few simple steps can make all the difference in preventing electrical hazards. Contact us to schedule an electrical safety assessment to ensure your home is safe this winter and for years to come.