Side Effects of Room Heater: A Useful Guide

Are room heaters safe? Know the potential side effects and safety tips for using room heaters effectively.
Explore Water Heaters
3 min
24-Dec-2024
Room heaters are essential during chilly winters, providing much-needed warmth. However, their prolonged or improper use may lead to issues such as dry air, respiratory discomfort, and overheating risks. This guide highlights the potential side effects of room heaters and shares safety tips for enjoying warmth without compromising your health and comfort.

For those seeking a reliable and efficient room heater, explore various options on Bajaj Mall. Later head to any one of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India to discover a wide selection of room heaters. Choose the model that best fits your needs and take advantage of zero down payment offers, making your purchase more affordable by converting the cost into Easy EMIs.

How do room heaters work?

A room heater is a compact device designed to provide warmth by converting electrical energy into heat. The working mechanism depends on the type of heater. For instance, convection heaters use a heating element to warm the air, which circulates naturally or via a fan to spread warmth evenly across the room.

Infrared or radiant heaters, on the other hand, emit heat directly to objects and individuals in their range using infrared radiation, ensuring immediate warmth. Oil-filled heaters utilise electrically heated oil that retains warmth for longer periods, making them highly energy-efficient.

The thermostat in a room heater ensures that the temperature remains consistent by automatically turning the heater on and off based on the room's ambient temperature. This functionality makes them an effective solution for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures during cold seasons.

Types of room heaters

Room heaters, a vital category of home appliances, come in various types to cater to diverse heating needs. Here are the primary types:

  • Convection heaters: These heaters warm the air around them using a heating element. Fans are often incorporated to distribute heat evenly across the space.
  • Radiant heaters: Ideal for smaller spaces, these heaters use infrared technology to directly warm objects and people, offering instant heat.
  • Oil-filled heaters: These heaters are energy-efficient and retain warmth for extended periods. They use heated oil as a medium, making them safe and silent.
  • Ceramic heaters: Featuring ceramic plates as heating elements, these heaters provide fast, and consistent heating.
For efficient usage, always follow practical tips for using room heaters, such as keeping flammable items away and ensuring proper ventilation. These appliances are an essential addition to every household during winters.

The heating process

The heating process in room heaters relies on different mechanisms depending on the type of device. Here is how it works:

  • Convection heating: Air is warmed by a heating element and circulated using fans. This method is commonly found in the latest electronics, ensuring uniform room temperatures.
  • Radiant heating: Infrared radiation directly heats objects and people, bypassing the air. This provides quick warmth and is ideal for small spaces.
  • Oil-filled heating: Heat is transferred through oil circulating within the heater's fins. The heated oil emits warmth into the room, maintaining a cosy environment.
  • Ceramic heating: Ceramic plates absorb heat from an electric coil and radiate it outward efficiently, suitable for both small and medium spaces.
These technologies are often featured in modern heaters, blending comfort and innovation to meet diverse winter heating requirements.

Common side effects

While room heaters provide warmth during chilly winters, their prolonged use can lead to certain side effects that may impact health and comfort.

  • Dry air: Continuous use of a room heater reduces humidity, causing dry skin, irritation in the eyes, and respiratory discomfort.
  • Dehydration: Dry indoor air may lead to excessive water loss from the body, resulting in dehydration.
  • Allergies and irritation: Dust particles or allergens circulated by heaters, especially fan-based models, can trigger allergies or worsen respiratory conditions.
  • Carbon Monoxide risks: Some gas heaters may produce carbon monoxide if not adequately ventilated, leading to headaches or dizziness.
  • Fire hazards: Improper use or overheating of room heaters can increase fire risks, particularly with flammable materials nearby.
Understanding these side effects ensures safer and healthier usage of heaters, especially during long winter months.

Tips for safe room heater use

Using a room heater effectively and safely requires proper precautions to ensure both warmth and safety. Here are essential tips:

  • Maintain distance: Place the heater at least three feet away from furniture, curtains, or flammable materials to reduce fire hazards.
  • Ventilation is key: Use heaters in well-ventilated areas to prevent a buildup of carbon monoxide, especially with gas-powered models.
  • Set a timer: Avoid overheating or extended use by setting a timer or turning off the heater periodically.
  • Keep it stable: Ensure that the heater is placed on a stable surface to avoid accidental tipping.
  • Child safety: Keep heaters out of reach of children and pets to avoid burns or accidents.
For optimal safety, regularly clean and inspect your room heater and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Investing in reliable electronics with advanced safety features further minimises risks.

Head to your nearest partner store to explore and choose from an extensive range of room heaters. With Bajaj Finserv’s financing options, you can utilise a limit of up to Rs. 3 lakh to purchase your preferred geyser and repay the amount over flexible tenures ranging from 1 month to 60 months.

Explore room heaters on easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv

Bajaj Mall provides a seamless way to review room heaters' details, features, and specifications. Once you have selected the ideal model, visit the nearest Bajaj Finserv partner store to bring home the heater of your choice. You can take advantage of Bajaj Finserv's financing options, selecting a repayment plan that suits your needs and dividing the cost into Easy EMIs. With zero down payment on select products, upgrading your home’s heating system has never been more affordable.

Benefits of shopping with Bajaj Finserv's financing options

  • Affordable pricing: Bajaj Finserv partner stores ensure competitive rates, making your room heater purchase light on your budget.
  • Easy EMIs: Choose a repayment tenure that suits your financial plans and spread the cost of your room heater into easy monthly instalments.
  • Zero down payment: Skip the stress of an upfront payment, as many room heaters are eligible for a zero down payment option.
  • Wide availability: With an extensive range of products available across multiple partner stores, finding the right room heater is effortless.
  • Exciting offers: Benefit from cashback deals and exclusive offers for your room heater purchase.
  • Hassle-free delivery: Enjoy the convenience of free home delivery on select room heaters, making the shopping experience even more comfortable.

Bajaj Finserv App for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.

  • Explore and apply for co-branded credit cards online.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-approved limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements, and even get quick customer support—all on the app.
Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

Disclaimer

While care is taken to update the information, products, and services included in or available on our website and related platforms/websites, there may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the information. The material contained in this site, and on associated web pages, is for reference and general information purpose and the details mentioned in the respective product/service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency. Subscribers and users should seek professional advice before acting on the basis of the information contained herein. Please take an informed decision with respect to any product or service after going through the relevant product/service document and applicable terms and conditions. In case any inconsistencies observed, please click on reach us.

*Terms and conditions apply

Frequently asked questions

Which room heater is not harmful?
Infrared room heaters are generally considered less harmful as they use radiant heat to warm objects and people directly rather than drying out the air. They produce minimal noise, do not burn oxygen, and are energy-efficient. However, ensuring proper ventilation and maintaining a safe distance is essential for maximum safety while using any room heater.

Which heater is safe for health?
A safe heater option for health includes energy-efficient models like oil-filled radiators or ceramic heaters. They produce consistent, even heat without drying out the air. Look for models with safety features like overheat protection and auto shut-off to prevent accidents.

Is it OK to have a heater in your room?
Having a heater in your room can be beneficial, especially in cold climates, providing warmth and comfort. However, it is important to ensure safe usage, such as proper ventilation, avoiding overheating, and not leaving the heater unattended. Use energy-efficient models and follow safety guidelines to prevent risks like fire hazards or carbon monoxide buildup.

Which is better: a blower or a room heater?
Blowers are ideal for larger spaces, as they circulate air efficiently, providing faster warmth. Room heaters focus on direct heating, making them better for smaller, enclosed spaces. The choice depends on the size of the room and specific heating needs.

Is it OK to sleep with a room heater on?
Sleeping with a room heater on is generally safe, but prolonged use can lead to dryness, increased energy consumption, and elevated fire risks. It is essential to maintain a comfortable temperature, avoid overheating, and ensure proper ventilation to prevent any health risks like dehydration or respiratory issues.

Which room heater is not harmful?
Infrared room heaters are generally considered less harmful as they use radiant heat to warm objects and people directly rather than drying out the air. They produce minimal noise, do not burn oxygen, and are energy-efficient. However, ensuring proper ventilation and maintaining a safe distance is essential for maximum safety while using any room heater.

Show More Show Less