The popular, convenient, and cost-effective devices warm up your home, but can electric heaters make you sick? It depends on what type you’re using.
Electric space heaters emit ozone and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause health problems if not used properly.
In this article, we’ll answer all your burning questions about the dangers of improper use, and how you can avoid them.
Are Space Heaters Bad For Your Health?
Space heaters can be bad for your health if used incorrectly.
If not properly ventilated, they can cause excessive carbon monoxide buildup in a room, which can lead to breathing problems and even death.
Additionally, space heaters that are too close to furniture or other flammable items can be a fire hazard. Furthermore, they can become very hot and cause burns if touched.
It is important to follow all safety instructions when using a space heater and keep it away from flammable items.
How do electric heaters affect air quality?
Dry Skin
Dry skin is a common consequence of electric heaters affecting air quality.
The dry air created by the devices can cause the natural moisture in the air to be depleted, leaving the skin dry and itchy. This can be especially irritating for those with sensitive skin, as the air can cause cracking and flaking of the skin.
To reduce these effects, it is important to keep the indoor humidity level between 30-50% and to use a humidifier to help maintain moisture levels.
Additionally, avoiding long hot showers and using mild cleansers and moisturizers can help protect and hydrate the skin.
Headaches
Electric heaters can cause headaches in a variety of ways.
Firstly, the device itself emits electromagnetic radiation, which can be harmful to those exposed to it. Secondly, electric heaters draw a lot of electricity, which can cause fluctuations in power and create a humming sound that can be annoying and even painful to those suffering from migraines or other types of headaches.
Lastly, when electric heaters are used in enclosed spaces, they can cause poor air quality due to the buildup of dust and other particles, which can lead to respiratory problems and headaches.
Dry Eyes
Electric heaters, while an efficient and cost-effective way to heat a room, can be very drying to the air, which can cause dry eyes.
This occurs when the tear ducts are not able to produce enough tears to keep the eyes moist. Symptoms can include redness, burning, itching, blurred vision, and a feeling of something in the eye.
To prevent this from happening, it is important to use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Additionally, prioritize drinking plenty of water and taking breaks from using the computer or other activities that require long periods of focus on a screen.
Sinus Congestion
Electric heaters can also cause sinus congestion.
The air that is blown out of the heater can dry out the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, leading to sinus irritation and inflammation.
Additionally, they can stir up dust particles, which can get caught in the nasal passages and irritate the sinuses even further.
It is essential to use an air filter to minimize dust and allergens in the air. Additionally, using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air, reducing the effects of dryness caused by the device.
Asthma And Allergies
Electric heaters are a common source of air-borne allergens and asthma triggers.
Dust, pet dander, mold, and other particles can easily become airborne when heated by electric heaters. This can cause allergies to flare up, as well as increase the risk of asthma attacks for those who suffer from them.
The use of a filter on these heaters can help reduce the number of airborne particles released into the air, although regular cleaning and maintenance are still recommended to ensure the device is free of dust and debris.
Additionally, make sure to keep the area around the heater clean to help minimize the risk of allergens.
Tips To Use A Space Heater Correctly
Space heaters can be a great way to provide supplemental heat in your home. It is important to use them correctly to ensure your and your family’s safety.
Here are some tips to follow when using a space heater: always read the instruction manual before using one, place the heater away from any flammable materials such as curtains or furniture, never leave a space heater unattended, use the appropriate wattage for the size of the room, and always turn off the space heater when you are finished using it.
It is also mandatory to make sure that the heater is kept away from water, children, and pets.
Following these tips will help to ensure that your device is used safely and efficiently.
Why Does My Space Heater Make Me Feel Sick?
Space heaters can cause health issues if they are not used correctly.
A poorly maintained heater can produce high levels of indoor air pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide.
These pollutants can cause a variety of health problems, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and respiratory illnesses.
Additionally, the heat from the electric device can cause dry air that irritates eyes, noses, and throats. In some cases, it can even trigger asthma symptoms, as we’ve previously explained.
It is important to ensure that your heater is properly maintained and ventilated to reduce the risk of these issues.
Can You Get Carbon Monoxide Poisoning From An Electric Space Heater?
No, you cannot get carbon monoxide poisoning from an electric space heater. They do not produce the chemical, but rather just heat.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is most commonly caused by burning fuel such as wood, propane, and natural gas. Therefore, the only way to get poisoned from an electric heater is if there is another source of fuel burning nearby and the carbon monoxide is entering the room from outside.
To prevent this from happening, always make sure your device is in a well-ventilated area and never use it near any combustible fuel.
What Are The Side Effects Of A Space Heater?
Space heaters can provide a great source of supplemental warmth in a room, but they can also have some side effects if used improperly.
The most common one is the risk of fires due to the high temperatures and the inability to detect a malfunctioning heater. Another one is the burning of oxygen, which can be hazardous to those with respiratory issues.
Additionally, space heaters can contribute to increased humidity levels, resulting in mold and mildew growth. So, It is important to use them safely and follow all instructions for proper operation to reduce the risks of these side effects.
Conclusion
Electric heaters can be a great way to keep your home warm and comfortable, but improper use can lead to health risks.
With the information provided in this article, you now have the tools to make sure you stay safe and healthy while using electric heaters.
So, always read the instruction manual before using it, place the heater away from any flammable materials such as curtains or furniture, never leave it unattended, use the appropriate wattage for the size of the room, and always turn off the space heater when you are finished using it.
