Electric Space Heaters

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There are two types of electric space heater – radiative and convective. Radiative electric heaters are either filled with liquid or have a shiny metal reflector that radiates heat into the room. Convective heaters have a fan that blows out heat. As a general rule radiative heaters work best in large rooms; convective units in smaller, clearly defined areas. Always unplug an electric heater before maintaining or repairing it. If it is wired directly, remove the fuse or flip off the circuit breaker that controls it. Clean an electric heater regularly. Vacuum it and wipe it with a damp rag especially if you have not used it for a while. Heated dust can can cause a nasty odor and may even be a fire hazard.

If an electric heater doesn’t heat or cuts on and off sporadically, unplug it and carefully examine the plug and the power cord. If the cord’s insulation is burned, cracked or worn – even if it just has a small nick – replace it. No heat or erratic heating may also signal a faulty on-off switch or thermostat. If the control panel is easily opened you can replace eitherr of these parts or the power cord as on any other small appliance. The switch is usually held by a slide clip that you pry off with a screwdriver or by spring clips that you squeeze together to push the switch through the panel. The thermostat is usually held by a nut that you unscrew after pulling off the knob.

To order a replacement part, call the manufacture’s tollpfree 800 number. Look for you heater’s model number on a metal plate on the heater before you call so you’re sure to get a matching part. Otherwise, take the heater to a service center recommended by the manufacture.