Keep it Dry
Because moisture can damage most electric heaters, they should be kept away from areas where they can easily be harmed by water or dampness. If you want a way to take the chill out of a chilly bathroom or laundry room, choose a heater that is specifically designed for bathrooms with special safeguards for moist spaces. Avoid placing electric space heaters in locations where spills are likely to occur, such as near a sink in the kitchen.
Off the Wall
Once you choose the area that needs heat the most, make sure that the heater is placed a foot or two from the wall. If you need to warm a more confined space, like a hallway, several Lasko room heaters are designed to be placed at the wall, with intake and exhaust vents on the front of the unit. All electric heaters, however, should be positioned away from flammable materials like curtains.
Buffer Zones
Although portable heaters tend to be small and compact, they can’t be placed just anywhere – especially if you have small children or pets. When they’re turned on and working at full power, heat output areas can become very hot. To prevent injuries such as burns, heating devices should have a 3-foot buffer zone. They should also be kept out of the paths of your children or four-legged friends, so make sure that the room in which you use your heater has a clear entryway. A corner or end table may be your best bet.
