Guidelines for Electric Space Heaters

The first phase of the TCNJ’s Energy Conservation Program is to garner support from the campus community by creating greater awareness, and identifying simple ways in which the campus can contribute.  Minimizing the use of space heaters was identified as a key component to the energy conservation initiative.  Space heaters are a very costly means of heating, therefore, we should optimize their utilization by using them as a temporary solution, pending the repair or adjustment of a building’s main heating system.

In addition to the cost of operation, space heaters can also represent potential fire hazards.   Therefore, we should also be mindful of the safety guidelines related to space heater use.   

Safety Guidelines for Space Heaters:

• No liquid fueled space heaters (e.g., kerosene heaters) are to be used in any College building.
• Heaters must meet the following characteristics:
  • Have UL approval 
  • Have heating elements that are protected from contact 
  • Be tilt-proof (when tipped over the heater turns off) 
  • Have adjustable heating controls 
• Three feet of clearance is required around all space heaters.  NOTHING may be placed on, over, above, or around a space heater. 
• Space heaters are only be used while under direct supervision.
• When not in use, the space heater shall be unplugged from the wall electric outlet.
• Extension cords are not to be used with space heaters. 
• Space heaters may not be tipped over or positioned in any way other than intended.
• The user should inspect the space heater daily for cord cracks, hot spots, or signs of wear. Any deficiencies shall be reported to the Office of Facilities Operations, extension 2353.
• For additional information on safe space heater usage, please contact the Office of Occupational Safety and Environmental Services at extension 2881.

What If I Already Have a Space Heater?

Electric space heaters should be used in areas where a space temperature of 68 degrees is unattainable:

• Privately owned space heaters should be taken home by the owners.
• All College-owned space heaters that are currently in buildings on campus should be unplugged and placed in storage in each department/work area. If no space exists in the department or work area, please alert Facilities, who will store the device.
• If you believe your space heater does not meet the aforementioned Safety Guidelines for Space Heaters, it should be removed from use completely. 

Are You Cold?

In efforts to conserve energy The College is asking that temperatures be maintained at 68 degrees.  

Please confirm the following before seeking additional assistance:

• Area rugs or carpet are not pushed under baseboard heating strips 
• Furniture is at least six inches away from any baseboard heat unit
• Windows and doors are closed
• If located within your area, please confirm that the thermostat is set at 68 degrees

If you are still cold and you believe your office is colder than 68 degrees, please contact your department unit head or director (or his/her representative).  In a residence hall, residents should contact the ORCD Senior Staff member on duty.  If required, they will place a call for a heating Work Order to the Office of Facilities Operations at extension 2353.  The Office of Facilities Operations will respond and follow their procedures for performing a temperature evaluation.  If possible, Facilities Operations will attempt to adjust the temperature using the building’s heating system.

If it is determined that the temperature cannot be maintained using the building heating system, The College may, on a case by case basis, approve temporary use of space heaters.  

The use of space heaters in academic, administrative, and athletic buildings will also require prior approval of the department’s unit head or director.  The use of space heaters in residential buildings will also require prior approval by the Senior Staff member on duty.  The department unit head or director (or his/her representative) and residence hall Senior Staff members on duty are responsible for compliance with the space heater guidelines in their respective areas of responsibility. 

When no longer required all space heaters in academic, administrative, and athletic buildings shall be returned to the unit head or director (or his/her representative).  When no longer required, all space heaters in residential buildings shall be returned to Senior Staff member on duty.

Are You Too Warm?

Sometimes adjustments are needed to a building’s heating system.  If you believe your office is too warm, please contact the Office of Facilities Operations at extension 2353. In a residence hall, residents should contact the ORCD Senior Staff member on duty.  If required, they will place a call for a heating Work Order to the Office of Facilities Operations at extension 2353. 

In efforts to conserve energy, please remember:

• Heating and cooling systems should not be used simultaneously. 
• Opening windows and doors is a waste of energy.  The heating system will continue to operate and try to maintain the thermostat set point temperature.