Can I put a portable heater in my car?

Putting a portable heater in your car during cold weather may seem like a good idea, but there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind. Here is a quick overview of the main concerns and best practices for safely using a portable car heater.

Potential Dangers of Portable Car Heaters

While portable heaters can provide comforting warmth in frigid temperatures, they also pose some risks, including:

• Fire hazard – Heaters that use open coils or flames are a fire risk, especially around upholstery and other flammable materials in a car interior.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning – Burning fuels inside a confined space can lead to dangerous CO buildup.
• Oxygen depletion – Heaters that burn fuel consume oxygen, which can be hazardous in an enclosed space.
• Gas leaks – Faulty or damaged portable propane/butane heaters may leak hazardous gas inside the vehicle.
• Burns – Hot surfaces of portable heaters can cause contact burns.

Safety Tips for Using Portable Car Heaters

If you do opt to use a portable car heater, follow these tips to reduce risks:

• Never leave a heater unattended or running overnight in your car.
• Crack open a window to ensure proper ventilation and prevent CO and oxygen depletion.
• Choose battery-powered or electric heaters instead of fuel-burning models.
• Make sure the heater sits securely and cannot tip over.
• Keep the heater away from fabrics, papers, luggage and other flammables.
• Regularly check for damage like frayed wires or leaks before using.
• Never let children or pets near the heater unsupervised.

Recommended Portable Car Heater Types

These heater types are safest for warming your car’s interior:

Electric Car Heaters

Electric heaters plug into your car’s 12V power outlet and heat interior air gently without a fan. Models with multiple heat settings and timers are ideal.

Chemical Warmers

Self-contained pouches that produce heat through a chemical reaction when exposed to air. Safe for hands or feet but may not heat a whole car.

Battery-Powered Heaters

Rechargeable battery-powered heaters provide direct heat and run for hours without wiring. Look for models with tip-over auto shut-off.

Heater Type	Pros	Cons
Electric	Safe enclosed heating element Adjustable heat settings Built-in timers on some models	Requires car’s 12V outlet No fan, so heat distribution limited
Chemical Warmers	Self-contained and portable Inexpensive Simple to use	Limited heat output Not reusable Potentially messy and irritating
Battery-Powered	Cordless convenience Directed heat and fan Long run times per charge	Bulkier than other options Recharging required

Other Tips for Warmth in Your Car

For maximum comfort and safety, also consider these tips:

• Use engine heat – Run the engine a few minutes to get heat flowing through the vents.
• Use seat warmers – Most modern cars have heated seats that warm occupants directly.
• Insulate the interior – Use sunshades, window films and seat covers to retain warmth.
• Pack extra blankets – Wool blankets don’t retain moisture and insulate even when wet.
• Wear warm clothes – The best insulation comes from proper cold weather attire.

Conclusion

Portable car heaters can be a useful way to warm your vehicle’s interior in cold weather. However, fuel-burning models pose serious safety risks due to fire, CO poisoning and oxygen depletion. Battery-powered or electric heaters are safer options if properly used. Never leave a heater unattended in your car. Combine with other tips like warm clothing and seat warmers for maximum comfort and safety in freezing temperatures.