Where to Place a Space Heater

Place a space heater on a level, stable surface with at least 3 feet of clearance from curtains, bedding, furniture, and other combustible materials. Keep it out of walkways, away from water, and plugged directly into a wall outlet. Always follow the heater’s manual if it calls for more clearance or a different setup.

Choose a safe, useful spot

Set a portable heater on the floor unless the manufacturer specifically designed it for another location. Choose a hard, level surface where it cannot be knocked over, and leave its air intake and outlet unobstructed. A corner or tight space may restrict airflow and make the heater less effective.

For comfortable warmth, place it where heated air can reach the area you occupy without blowing directly into curtains, papers, or other loose items. Keep it far enough from people, pets, and furniture to prevent accidental contact. Don’t place it under a desk, behind a sofa, or where someone could trip over it.

Keep clearance from things that can burn

Maintain at least 3 feet between the heater and combustible materials, including curtains, bedding, upholstered furniture, rugs, clothing, and paper. The heater’s manual may specify a larger distance; use that distance if so. Never use a space heater to dry clothes or cover it with anything.

Keep the heater away from doors and busy routes through the room. A heater that can be bumped or tipped is a poor choice for that location, even if it has a tip-over switch.

Use a suitable outlet and keep it dry

Plug an electric space heater directly into a wall outlet. Don’t use an extension cord, power strip, or multi-outlet adapter unless the heater’s manufacturer explicitly permits it. Keep the cord where it won’t be pinched, covered, or walked on, and stop using the heater if the plug, outlet, or cord becomes hot or damaged.

Don’t put a heater where it can get wet or be splashed. Use one in a bathroom or other damp area only if the manufacturer says it is suitable for that location and the required electrical protection is in place. If you’re unsure, choose a dry room instead.

Adjust placement for the room

A heater can warm a sitting area more effectively when it has open space around it and isn’t blocked by furniture. If the room has a draft, don’t place the heater where air from a door or window blows directly into it; that can affect comfort and, on some models, thermostat operation. Keep the heater away from other heat sources and direct sunlight if it has a thermostat, since those can affect temperature sensing.

For wall-mounted or fuel-burning heaters, use only the locations, clearances, and ventilation specified by the manufacturer. Don’t adapt instructions for a portable electric heater to a different heater type.

Before turning it on

• Check the manual for required clearances and approved locations.
• Set the heater on a stable, level surface and leave its air openings clear.
• Confirm that curtains, furniture, bedding, and other combustible items are at least 3 feet away—or farther if the manual requires it.
• Plug it directly into a suitable wall outlet and keep the cord clear of traffic.
• Keep it dry and out of reach of children and pets.
• Turn it off when leaving the room or going to sleep, and don’t leave it unattended.