Dangers of using Electrical space heaters

Using a space heater on a 15-amp circuit is dangerous because high-wattage heaters draw close to the 12.5-amp limit, leaving no capacity for other devices and risking circuit overload, leading to overheating wires, tripped breakers, or fires, especially if the circuit already has other devices or has old wiring; safety requires plugging it directly into a dedicated outlet, avoiding extension cords, and using lower wattage models when sharing circuits is necessary.

Dangers Explained

· Overloading the Circuit: A typical 1500-watt space heater draws about 12.5 amps (1500W / 120V). Electrical codes recommend continuous loads be kept to 80% of the breaker's capacity (12 amps for a 15-amp circuit). A single space heater uses almost all of this, leaving no room for lights, TVs, or other electronics on the same circuit, which can overload it.

· Overheating Wires: Continuous high loads cause wires and connections to heat up. This can happen even if the breaker doesn't trip immediately, especially with old wiring, leading to insulation melting, damaged outlets, or fires.

· Extension Cords & Power Strips: Never use extension cords or power strips with space heaters, as they can't handle the high current, causing cords to overheat and catch fire.

Safety Measures:

· Dedicated Circuit: The safest solution is a dedicated circuit for the heater, especially for 1500W models.

· Lower Wattage: Use smaller heaters (e.g., 750W) on lower settings if on a shared circuit.

· Direct Outlet: Plug directly into the wall, never a power strip or extension cord.

· Monitor: Check the plug/outlet for warmth; if it feels hot, unplug the heater.

· Placement: Keep heaters away from flammable materials and maintain a 3-foot "safety zone".