The most common electric baseboard heaters and wall mounted heaters tend to run at the hottest temperatures and are therefore less safe than the ceramic and radiant type heaters that run at cooler temperatures.
Are old electric wall heaters safe.
In the case of the heater that nearly caught fire it turned out that a cat liked to sleep in front of the heater.
Safety the national fire prevention administration nfpa 2016 report on home fires involving heating equipment found that in 2009 2013 there were 6 950 home fires caused by fixed electric heaters like wall and baseboard which were responsible for a tragic 430 injuries 50 deaths and 155 000 000 in damages.
A typical build in wall mounted electric heater.
When sourced from a reputable manufacturer a wall mounted heater is one of the safest options on the market.
Do not let electrical cords hang over or in front of heaters.
The major factors causing these fires included.
Electric heaters do not contain a flame or involve combustion.
A good example of such a safe and reliable wall mounted unit is the envi heater.
An older construction practice was to allow electric receptacles above baseboard heaters.
Curtains clothing furniture or bedding too close to these heaters 56 of fires.
This is no longer permitted and is unsafe.
Not properly maintaining or cleaning dust cat.
So although there are still safety concerns with an electric heater they are safe and simple to use.
It is important to inspect gas and oil heating systems for leaks to ensure safe operation.