Unexpected harmful effects of heaters

A heater is a device that heats up the air by conducting heat to increase the temperature. This is the heating device that many families choose in the cold season.

Although very convenient, there are unexpected harmful effects of heaters on skin and health that everyone should know to consider using or adjusting them appropriately.

Unexpected harmful effects of heaters

To use heaters safely and effectively, you need to know clearly the harmful effects that heaters can cause.

Respiratory effects

One of the unexpected side effects of heaters is their negative impact on the respiratory system, such as dry nose, leading to nasal and sinus diseases. This is the result of turning on the heater too much.

Weakened immune system

Many types of bacteria survive longer in dry air, so heaters can create an environment where bacteria thrive.

The sudden temperature changes caused by room heaters can cause your body temperature to fluctuate, potentially weakening your immunity and making you sick.

That's why we tend to get sick and catch colds more often in winter, when the air in our homes is significantly drier.

Dry skin

Leaving the heater on all night can also dry out our skin, leading to irritation, flaking and itching. People who tend to keep the heater close to them are at the highest risk of dry skin.

Increased risk of allergies

Heaters can stir up dust and allergens in the air, increasing the risk of allergies and respiratory problems in people with particularly sensitive skin. This is one of the unexpected harmful effects of heaters that few people properly assess the extent of their impact.

Dehydration

Frequent close exposure to heat sources can cause dehydration due to increased sweating which leads to loss of moisture.

Reduced air quality

Heaters release carbon monoxide, a toxic compound. If your room is not properly ventilated, prolonged high temperatures can negatively affect indoor air quality.

This can have long-term health consequences, leading to respiratory problems like asthma, allergies, and several other illnesses.

Impact on infant health

Newborns are more sensitive to heated rooms because their skin dries out more quickly. Also, the mucus in their nose is where bacteria accumulates. When the mucus dries out, the immune system is weakened and they are more susceptible to infection. Our immune systems are strong enough to handle this, but newborns are not.

Impact on men's reproductive health

One of the unexpected side effects of heaters is their negative impact on men. Exposure to high temperatures for too long will impair men's physiological health, especially for users who have the habit of turning on the heater to sleep overnight.

May cause fire

Space heaters pose a fire hazard. There have been many accidents caused by space heaters. So make sure you do not cover the heat source of the space heater as it will catch fire immediately; do not place polyester clothing near the space heater.

Use the heater properly

The unexpected harmful effects of heaters mentioned above will only occur when you use the heater in an irregular manner. Just use the heater properly and you can rest assured.

• Adjust the heating temperature to moderate:Fan heaters/heaters can usually increase the maximum temperature to about 35 degrees Celsius, however, with a climate like Vietnam, it is only recommended to turn it on to 22-25 degrees Celsius. Do not place the fan heater too close to the user. Ideally, you should place the fan heater about 1.5 - 2 meters away from the seat or bed.
• Maintain moisture:You can use a humidifier, an air purifier with a humidifier, or simply place a bowl of water in the room to add the necessary humidity while using a heater. For young children, you can use additional moisturizer for them.
• Ensure good ventilation:Since the heater also functions as a fan to help circulate air, you just need to open a window or door slightly to let the air circulate.
• Do not use the heater continuously:It is best to let the heater rest for about 30 minutes every 3-4 hours before using it again.