As winter tightens its grip and energy bills continue to strain household budgets, experts are sounding the alarm about the potentially dangerous and expensive habit many Brits are adopting: relying heavily on portable electric heaters.
The Shocking Cost of Warmth
New analysis reveals that using a typical 2kW portable heater could cost households approximately £1 per hour at current energy prices. For families running these devices for extended periods, this could add hundreds of pounds to already stretched winter energy bills.
"Many people don't realise just how expensive portable heaters are to run," explains an energy efficiency expert. "They're one of the most costly ways to heat your home and can completely undermine any efforts to save money on energy bills."
Safety Concerns That Could Cost Lives
Beyond the financial impact, fire safety officials are highlighting the grave risks associated with improper portable heater use. Common dangerous practices include:
- Placing heaters too close to furniture, curtains or bedding
- Using extension leads not rated for high-wattage appliances
- Leaving heaters unattended overnight or when leaving rooms
- Using old or damaged heaters that may be faulty
Fire services across the UK report responding to numerous incidents each winter directly caused by portable heaters, some with tragic consequences.
Smarter Alternatives for Staying Warm
Energy advisors recommend several more efficient approaches to keeping warm without breaking the bank or risking safety:
- Layer up: Wearing multiple thin layers and thermal clothing is more effective than relying on heating alone
- Draught-proof your home: Simple measures like draught excluders and window insulation can make a significant difference
- Heat the person, not the space: Electric blankets and heated throws use far less energy than heating entire rooms
- Use your central heating strategically: Programming your main heating system efficiently is often cheaper than using multiple portable heaters
When You Must Use Portable Heaters
If portable heating is unavoidable, safety experts insist on these crucial precautions:
- Always place heaters on a flat, stable surface away from flammable materials
- Never leave them unattended or use while sleeping
- Ensure they have safety features like tip-over protection and overheating cut-off
- Plug directly into wall sockets rather than extension leads
- Keep children and pets well away from operating heaters
As the cost of living crisis continues to bite, making informed decisions about heating could mean the difference between manageable energy bills and financial hardship - while potentially saving lives in the process.
