When winter's chill sets in, space heaters become essential for warmth. But here's something most people don't realize - plugging your heater in the wrong way can put both your safety and device at risk.
You might think surge protectors can offer extra protection, but in reality, they can do more harm than good. In this post, we'll clean up the confusion and take a look at why surge protectors aren’t the answer—and how to safely power your heater this season.
Why You Shouldn't Plug a Space Heater Into a Surge Protector
A surge protector is designed to protect electronic devices from power surges caused by lightning strikes, outages, or high-power appliances by diverting excess energy away. However, plugging a space heater into a surge protector can create significant electrical hazards, as heaters draw a lot of power—typically between 1,500 to 2,500 watts. This high current can lead to:
Overheating the Surge Protector
Unlike devices like computers or TVs, heaters' constant high power draw can cause the protector to overheat, potentially leading to a fire.
Overloading the Circuit
Plugging multiple devices into the same protector can exceed its capacity, risking malfunction or even an electrical fire.
Resistance Heating
Additional connections and thinner wiring in surge protectors can create resistance, causing heat buildup and increasing the fire risk.
What You Should Do Instead
Plug Directly
Always plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet. Avoid using power strips or extension cords as well - they simply can't handle the heavy power draw of a heater. If you're still concerned about safety, consider a space heater that comes with Fortplug™ technology used in the DREO Solaris 718. This advanced system detects electrical surges or temperature fluctuations right at the plug and automatically shuts off the heater to prevent damage or overheating.
Clear Space Around The Heater
Give your heater plenty of space - at least three feet—on all sides. This allows air to circulate freely, preventing the unit from overheating and reducing fire risks from nearby furniture or fabrics.
Keep it on the Floor
Heaters should always be placed on a flat, stable surface. Never set them on soft surfaces like beds, couches, or carpets, as these can block air circulation and increase the risk of overheating or fire. If space is tight, a compact countertop or desktop heater, like the DREO Atom 316, is a great option.
Using Built-in Safety Features
Modern heaters come with essential safety features like tip-over protection, overheat sensors, and automatic shut-off functions. Be sure to take advantage of these features, which help prevent accidents and ensure your heater turns off if it detects any potential malfunction.
Essential Features to Look for in Your Next Space Heater
Now that you know how to use your space heater safely, let's take a look at the key features that will make your next heater even more efficient, convenient, and effective.
Thermostatic Control
First and foremost, you'll want a heater with thermostatic control. Many advanced DREO heater models feature a precise thermostat with a range from 41°F to 95°F, adjustable in 1°F increments. This allows you to set your desired temperature and forget about it. The heater will automatically adjust to maintain consistent warmth, ensuring comfort without overworking the unit or wasting energy.
Energy-efficient Models
Next, consider energy-efficient models that help reduce your utility bills. These heaters, like the DREO Solaris Slim H2, use advanced technology to heat your space effectively, maximizing warmth while minimizing energy consumption. They're not only cost-effective but also better for the environment, allowing you to stay warm without any guilt.
Timer
For added convenience, a timer is essential. This feature lets you program your heater to turn off automatically, so you don’t have to worry about it running when it’s not needed. It’s an easy way to save energy and ensure your heater is working only when you want it to.
Smart Control
Lastly, many modern heaters offer smart control options, such as the DREO Wall-mounted Space Heater WH517AS, allowing you to adjust settings remotely. Whether through the DREO app or voice commands, smart control makes it easy to manage your space's temperature from anywhere, giving you ultimate convenience and peace of mind.
Final Takeaway: Keep Warm, Keep Safe
Stay warm without the risk - avoid surge protectors and follow the right safety steps for your heater. By choosing the right model and using it properly, you'll enjoy the chilly season comfortably and securely.
