Homeowners relying on portable electric heaters to stay warm this winter are being urged to reconsider, as new guidance highlights a dual threat of soaring energy costs and significant fire hazards.
The High Cost of Portable Heat
In a stark warning issued for the colder months, Citizens Advice has advised that using portable heaters for extended periods is often a costly mistake. The charity states that these devices typically cost far more to run than central heating systems or storage heaters.
Their official guidance is clear: "Try not to use portable heaters for long periods of time. They usually cost a lot more to run than turning on your central heating." The advice strongly recommends repairing or replacing a faulty boiler, noting it is "much more expensive to use portable heaters on their own."
A Significant Fire Danger
Beyond the financial impact, a critical safety warning accompanies the use of these popular appliances. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) reports that electric heaters cause over 160 fires in the capital every year.
Alarmingly, the fire service notes that "fires involving heaters seem to have a particularly high fatality rate," with a third of all fatal electrical fires involving heaters. Their safety plea is direct: "Don't take risks with old heaters – if it's electrical and getting older, get it tested by a qualified electrician or buy a new one."
For those who do use portable heaters, essential safety steps must be followed:
- Keep heaters at least one metre away from bedding, curtains, and furniture.
- Ensure the heater is in good working order.
- Always sit at least one metre away to prevent clothing or chairs igniting if a fire starts.
Safer Alternatives and Home Improvements
The guidance extends to other electrical heating methods like electric blankets. The LFB warns to unplug blankets before getting into bed unless they have a thermostat for safe overnight use. They also advise against using them with hot water bottles or emollient creams, and recommend replacing them at least every ten years.
For a longer-term solution, Citizens Advice suggests improving your home's energy efficiency to retain heat better. This can include:
- Improving your home's insulation.
- Installing a more efficient heating system, such as a heat pump.
These "energy efficiency home improvements" reduce the overall energy needed to keep a property warm, offering a safer and more cost-effective strategy for winter heating.
