The Best Space Heaters

Yes, but also definitely no.

Space heaters are much safer than they used to be. Modern space heaters are heavily regulated, especially regarding exposed heating elements and automatic shut-off switches to prevent overheating. But all heating devices require caution, and so do all devices that pull a lot of energy over long periods.

The vast majority of residential heating fires start with actual fire—specifically in fireplaces and fuel burners. But space heaters accounted for more than a thousand fires in the US each year from 2017 to 2019, according to the US Fire Administration. Though this accounted for just 3 percent of heating fires overall, these led to more than 40 percent of fatalities, in part because portable heaters tend to be placed precisely where people are and because the resulting fires are far more likely to be unconfined.

So treat your space heater with the caution and wild skepticism that it deserves. Here are some quite simple safety tips, courtesy of the fine federal experts at the USFA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Don’t leave a space heater unattended. “Unattended” includes sleeping, y’all! If you insist on using one in your bedroom at night, get a device with a timed shut-off and use it, so it doesn’t run all night while you sleep. (Or, might we suggest a wonderful down comforter instead? So warmmmm.)

Plug your heater directly into the outlet. This is a big one. Do not, basically ever, use extension cords or power strips with space heaters. The added cord length builds up electrical load and can lead to shorts, overheating, and fires. If you must use a longer cord, consult an expert to ensure you get the proper gauge and rating.

Don’t plug another appliance into the same outlet or circuit as the space heater. Maybe the worst that happens is you trip the circuit breaker. But that’s not fun, either.

Place a space heater only on the floor, on a level surface. There’s no particular need to leave a space heater on a table or chair that might be unstable. Heat rises and travels around the room through convection.

Keep your heater at least 3 feet from flammable objects. This includes bedding, drapes, furniture, the dress you were going to wear, stray socks or stockings, your food delivery bag, and that great book you’ve been reading.

Don’t leave a portable heater running in a room with a baby, nor with a person who has mobility issues. The risk isn’t just fire but hyperthermia.

Keep space heaters away from water and even general dankness. Bathrooms are famously dangerous places for high-wattage electrical devices. But also: You know that damp basement? The one that’s kinda cold and has puddles sometimes? Not a good place for a space heater.

Read the manual. Manufacturers have all kinds of good advice.