Is It Safe to Use an Extension Cord Permanently for a Bedroom Space Heater?

Short answer

Why people ask this

People often want to run a space heater overnight in a bedroom where outlets are inconveniently placed. The cord feels temporary at first, then becomes a permanent setup behind the bed or nightstand. Bedrooms also have soft furnishings that can trap heat around cords and plugs. Many space heaters draw up to 1500W (about 12.5A), stressing undersized cords. Renters and those in older homes may lack dedicated outlets or modern circuits and look for a quick fix.

When it might be safe

There are no commonly accepted situations where this is considered safe.

When it is not safe

• Most space heaters explicitly warn: plug directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord or power strip.
• A 1500W heater can overheat light-duty cords and plug connections, especially when routed behind beds or under rugs in a bedroom.
• Voltage drop on long cords increases current draw at connections, raising heat at the plug and outlet faceplate near flammable bedding.
• Extension cords are not approved as permanent wiring under electrical codes; long-term bedroom use invites hidden damage and wear.
• Power strips and surge protectors are usually not rated for continuous high-load heating and can fail when left on overnight.

Possible risks

• Electrical fire from overheated cord, plug, or outlet hidden behind a headboard or nightstand.
• Melted receptacles or scorched plugs that go unnoticed until you smell plastic while you’re asleep.
• Tripping on cords during nighttime exits, or pinched cords under bed frames leading to insulation damage.
• Breaker trips that leave the room cold, prompting unsafe ad‑hoc heating or blanket layering near the heater.
• Potential insurance or code issues if a fire investigation finds a heater on an extension cord.

Safer alternatives

• Plug the heater directly into a properly grounded wall outlet with nothing else on that receptacle; avoid overnight, unattended use.
• Use a lower-watt, thermostatically controlled or oil-filled radiator-style heater placed away from bedding and curtains.
• Improve the bedroom’s baseline heat: seal drafts, add weatherstripping, or have an electrician install a dedicated circuit/outlet.
• Consider personal-warming options (heated mattress pad or blanket with auto-off) following manufacturer directions.
• Rearrange furniture so the heater’s factory cord reaches a wall outlet without extensions, keeping the unit 3+ feet from soft furnishings.

Bottom line

Don’t use an extension cord permanently for a bedroom space heater. High, continuous current and hidden cord runs make overheating and fire more likely. Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet, avoid overnight unattended use, and consider safer heating upgrades.

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