SPACE HEATERS

By Robin Shapiro

Space heaters usually include safety features which reduce the risk of fire. This does not mean that all of them are riskless. I’ve read that a study from a few years ago determined space heaters caused about 20,000 home fires/year and 6,000 emergency room visits per year at that time. Approximately one third of home fires were caused by space heaters. Some homeowners’ insurance companies frown on using them.

The summer season has mixed effects on the Rockaway real estate market. On the one hand, we are a beachfront community and the draw of the summer activities does bring people here for: beaches, swimming, cycling, running, surfing, organized teams for kids and adults (although the pandemic may crimp some of these this year; thankfully the “end” is in sight). On the other hand, some sellers are reluctant to sell during the summer because they enjoy the aforementioned activities and don’t want to give them up so fast!

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be functional.

• Look for a testing lab label – UL, ETL, or CSA, which verifies compliance with U.S. safety standards.

• Don’t leave it unattended while “on.”

• Use on a flat surface where children and pets can’t reach it.

It can be harder to sell real estate during the summer due to vacations by buyers and sellers alike. Summer activities can also occupy people instead of allowing them to focus on the home sale process.

Many people use space heaters due to extreme weather. A well know publication commented on their use:

• Higher electric bills can result.

• Fuel burning heaters are more dangerous than electric.

• Don’t use it in a child’s room, on top of furniture, near combustible materials such as paint cans, bedding or curtains.

The spring season has been generally good for our real estate market. There has been action across the board in all price categories with an emphasis on the range below $1 million (approx). Prices have firmed up within the framework of recent comparable sales and in some cases are creeping higher. Inventory levels remain very low. Call me, Love, Robin. 718-490-9463

• Keep air intake and exhaust clear.

• Don’t use in a damp area unless it’s designed for this.

• Don’t use if other devices in the same outlet can cause overheating.

Call me. Love, Robin