When the temperatures drop outside, it can be tempting to bring your space heater to campus. However, there are some important safety restrictions you must consider prior to bringing a space heater to UNT. 

Before purchasing a space heater, contact UNT Facilities at 940-565-2700 to verify the following details:

• Your area cannot already be made more comfortable with adjustments to the HVAC system
• The electrical system in your building will support space heater use

Requirements

Upon verifying those details, if you still wish to bring a space heater to campus, the space heater must meet the following requirements:

• Operate on no more than 250 watts of power
• Be electric
• Be equipped with a tip-over, cut-off protection device 
• Have the seal of an independent testing laboratory
• Not exceed the circuitry limits, as evaluated by UNT Facilities
• Be inspected and approved by the Emergency Management & Safety Services Fire & Life Safety Office (940-565-2109)

Use

When using a space heater, always adhere to these safety recommendations:

• Plug the space heater into the wall, NOT into an extension cord
• Run the heater away from combustible materials, included desks and chairs
• Keep the heater on a solid, flat surface, away from foot traffic
• Keep heaters away from exits, so as to not impede egress
• Turn off and unplug the space heater when you leave the room

Read the full space heater guidance here.