Installation & Location
Space heaters and gas logs should be installed in accordance with building codes and manufacturer instructions and specifications. Read all manufacturer instructions, warnings and warranties carefully. Only qualified, licensed service personnel should install and service space heater and gas logs.
If your current space heater does not have an oxygen depletion safety shut-off, you should replace it with a model that does have this safety feature, if possible. This feature automatically shuts off a space heater if oxygen levels become unsafe.
Space heaters installed on carpet, linoleum or tile may require installation of a metal plate or stoveboard underneath the unit. If so, the metal plate needs to meet manufacturer specifications for thickness and needs to extend the full width and depth of the heater.
Space heaters and gas logs must not be installed in the area where flammable liquids, gases or explosive materials are used or stored. Vapors from these materials may migrate and be ignited by the pilot or burner flame.
Space heaters and gas logs are HOT during operation. People, clothing, furniture and other combustible items should be kept away from space heaters and gas logs at all times. Also, any guard installed or recommended by the manufacturer should ALWAYS remain in place during operation.
Combustion Air Requirements
Operating space heaters and gas logs without sufficient fresh air can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure there is adequate fresh air for these appliances to safely operate and meet the manufacturer installation requirements.
Always follow the manufacturer specifications and never cover any openings or alter the space heater’s cabinet in any way. Contact a qualified heating contractor or service technician for recommendations on how to maintain sufficient fresh air to space heater and gas logs.
Maintenance, Cleaning and Service
Space heaters and gas logs should be inspected annually by a qualified service technician before they are used.
Even in the cleanest homes, air moving through space heaters and gas logs carries lint and dust, which can clog the air intakes for the pilot light if it builds up. Lint buildup at the burner intake can cause improper combustion of natural gas and produce carbon monoxide. If you notice lint buildup, contact a qualified heating contractor or service technician to clean the equipment.
When properly adjusted, a space heater should burn with a blue flame. If the flame is orange or yellow, stop using the space heater and contact a qualified heating contractor or service technician immediately.
The color of the burner flame for gas logs can vary depending on the brand, style and use of gas logs. That’s why it’s important to have gas logs checked regularly by a qualified heating contractor or service technician. Follow the manufacturer guidelines for the proper maintenance, cleaning and service of these appliances.