Paul Sanchez
Electric space heaters are a convenient way to keep warm during cold weather. However, they are a known cause of residential fires, which cost insurance companies every year in claims. This is because they are often used as a primary heating source, despite being intended for supplemental heat only. As a result, some insurance companies may not insure homes that use space heaters, while others may charge higher premiums. The impact of space heaters on insurance costs depends on the insurer and the type of heater. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial to minimizing risks and ensuring insurance eligibility.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Impact on insurance costs | Space heaters may increase insurance costs as they are a known cause of residential fires. |
| Insurance coverage | Some insurance companies may not cover space heaters due to the risk of fire. |
| Safety measures | Taking safety measures, such as installing smoke alarms and proper ventilation, can help prevent fires and save on insurance costs. |
| Alternative heating options | Other heating options, such as electric blankets and heated floor mats, may be safer and more cost-effective. |
| Insurance eligibility | The age and type of space heater, as well as local regulations, may impact insurance eligibility. |
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What You'll Learn
- Space heaters are a known cause of residential fires
- Home insurance companies may deny coverage if space heaters are used as the primary heating source
- Oil-based heating systems are a potential concern from a risk perspective
- Baseboard heaters are generally considered safe but older models may be a fire hazard
- Safety measures can help you avoid an insurance claim and save money
Space heaters are a known cause of residential fires
Space heaters fall into one of three categories: convection, radiant, or combination. Convection and combination heaters tend to warm the air in the space, while radiant heaters work differently by heating people and objects, not the air. While all heaters should be used with care, unvented combustion space heaters that use propane or kerosene are the most dangerous for indoor use. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these types of heaters are more likely to cause carbon monoxide poisoning, mould, and increase the home's level of nitrogen oxide.
The risk of fire from space heaters can be increased by certain behaviours and improper usage. For example, using space heaters to cook food, dry clothing, or warm linens is not recommended. It is important to always ensure functioning smoke alarms and that the cords are double and triple-checked. Leaving a space heater unattended can also increase the risk of fire.
Home insurance companies may deny coverage or charge higher rates for space heaters due to the increased risk of fire. Some insurance companies may not insure homeowners who use space heaters, while others may offer coverage at a higher premium. It is important for homeowners to disclose the use of space heaters to their insurance providers and follow safety precautions to mitigate the risk of fire.
To reduce the risk of fire associated with space heaters, it is recommended to follow safety guidelines such as maintaining proper clearances around the heater, regular cleaning and maintenance, and ensuring proper installation by a licensed contractor. Additionally, homeowners can consider alternative heating options that are deemed less risky by insurance providers, such as heat pumps, or traditional central heating systems powered by electricity or natural gas.
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Home insurance companies may deny coverage if space heaters are used as the primary heating source
The type of heating system used in a home can impact the cost of home insurance. Space heaters are a known cause of residential fires, and insurance companies pay out on claims every year as a result. Space heaters are not considered energy-efficient appliances, and even the more energy-efficient space heater variations will not be as efficient as your home's natural heating system.
Homeowners are not usually required to notify their insurance carrier when a space heater is in use, as they are typically small appliances that are not permanently installed. However, some home insurance companies may not insure you if you use space heaters, especially if they are your primary heating source. This is because the risk of fire is significantly greater than other heating methods.
If your heating system works fine, but you want to add a few inexpensive and safe options to add heat or just prevent heat loss, consider reducing drafts by weatherstripping or caulking around windows. You could also try bundling up in sweaters and blankets, using heating pads, electric blankets, mattress pads, or heated floor mats.
If you must use space heaters, always ensure you have functioning smoke alarms and that the cords are double and triple-checked. Never leave your space heater unattended. It is also important to follow proper installation guidelines and ensure that the units are well-maintained to avoid an increased fire risk.
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Oil-based heating systems are a potential concern from a risk perspective
The type of heat and where you live will impact the cost of home insurance. Oil and wood heating systems often have higher premiums because they tend to have more risks, increasing the likelihood and cost of a claim. Oil-based heating can lead to environmental hazards, so insurance providers charge more for homes with an oil tank. Insurance eligibility for oil tanks depends on the type of tank, its age, and its location on your property.
Underground and external oil tanks are constantly exposed to harsh elements, which cause them to rust and rot. Oil-fired boilers require frequent maintenance as heating oil is inherently unstable. Continuous maintenance is the only way to prevent sludge from clogging up critical components. This usually means an annual visit or two for the sole purpose of replacing all filter elements, pump strainers, and burner nozzles to ensure your system works during the heating season.
Heat pumps are an efficient form of electric heat that uses less energy and are deemed by insurance providers to be less risky than oil and wood heating.
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Baseboard heaters are generally considered safe but older models may be a fire hazard
Electric space heaters may increase insurance costs as they are a known cause of residential fires, and they are not considered energy-efficient appliances. Homeowners insurance typically covers damage caused by space heaters, but claims will likely be denied if the space heater is the primary heating source. The type of heating equipment used in a home can impact insurance eligibility and rates. Heat pumps, for example, are deemed less risky than oil and wood heating by insurance providers. Oil-based heating systems are viewed as a potential concern due to the risk of costly oil leaks.
Baseboard heaters are generally considered safe, but older models may be a fire hazard. They are typically electric and placed on the lower part of the wall. While they do not affect oxygen levels or emit harmful gases, they can pose a fire risk if flammable objects are placed too close to them. It is important to maintain a safe distance between baseboard heaters and curtains, furniture, and other flammable items. Additionally, children should be kept away from baseboard heaters to prevent burns and accidents involving foreign objects placed inside the heater.
Baseboard heaters can be left on overnight, but it is essential to ensure that no objects or flammable materials are nearby. While they do not affect oxygen levels, some people have reported discomfort and difficulty breathing when sleeping in a room with the heater on. It is recommended to consult a local agent familiar with the underwriting requirements of carriers in the area to obtain appropriate insurance coverage for homes with baseboard heaters.
To ensure safety and avoid insurance claims, it is crucial to follow safety measures when using any heating device. This includes maintaining a safe distance between heaters and flammable objects, keeping children away from heaters, and regularly vacuuming heaters to remove dust and debris. Proper maintenance and safety precautions can help prevent fires and reduce the risk of insurance claims.
While baseboard heaters may be considered safe with proper precautions, older models or improper usage can increase the risk of fire hazards. It is important to follow safety guidelines and maintain heaters to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of occupants.
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Safety measures can help you avoid an insurance claim and save money
Electric space heaters are a known cause of residential fires and cost insurance companies every year in claims. Therefore, taking safety measures can help you avoid an insurance claim and save money.
Firstly, it is important to note that space heaters should only be used to provide supplemental heat and should never be used to cook food, dry clothing, or warm linens. They are not considered energy-efficient appliances, and even with safety precautions, not every home insurance company will insure you if you use them.
If you must use a space heater, always ensure you have functioning smoke alarms and that the cords are double and triple-checked. Never leave the heater unattended, and keep it on a level floor. Do not put the heater on top of furniture, as it could fall, dislodge, or break. Supervise pets and children, as any contact with the equipment can cause burns, and toying with the cord can result in sparks and flames.
Additionally, keep the heater accessible, and ensure no combustibles are placed within three feet of the unit. The heater must have thermostatic controls and automatic safety controls, such as a shut-off feature when the unit is tipped. The heater should be plugged directly into the outlet, and a three-pronged plug is recommended.
By following these safety measures, you can help prevent fires and save money on insurance claims.
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Frequently asked questions
The use of electric space heaters may increase insurance premiums as they are a known cause of residential fires. While not all insurance companies will increase premiums, some may deny coverage altogether.
It is important to ensure that you have functioning smoke alarms and that the cords are double and triple-checked. It is also recommended to never leave the heater unattended.
Some alternatives to electric space heaters include heating pads, electric blankets, mattress pads, and heated floor mats. If you are looking for a whole-room heating solution, installing radiant heat flooring is a great option, although it may be costly.
