How to Clean a Fan Heater

how to clean a fan heater

Ensuring your electric heater is clean not only maintains its safety but also prevents any unpleasant odours. With our easy-to-follow guide, you can clean your fan heater using common household items.

Learn the simple steps to keep your fan heater free from dust, ensuring its safe and efficient operation. 

By incorporating regular cleaning into your maintenance routine, you'll not only extend the lifespan of your heater but also optimise its performance. Let's learn how to clean a fan heater!

Table of Contents

Cleaning Your Fan Heater: 8 Steps

cloth for cleaning a fan heater

Get the supplies you need, and let’s start cleaning. Gather up some:

  • Microfibre cleaning cloths
  • Some water
  • A cleaning detergent
  • A screwdriver
  • Your hoover
  • Compressed air (if you have it)
  • A clean paintbrush
  • 1. Turn off Your Fan Heater

    turning off a fan heater for cleaning

    Before you begin cleaning your fan heater, safety should be your top priority! 

    Make sure the fan heater is turned off and unplugged from the electrical outlet. This step is crucial to prevent any risk of electric shock or injury. 

    Allow the heater to cool down completely if it has been in use recently, as cleaning a hot heater can be dangerous and may damage the unit.

    2. Wipe Down the Surface

    Once your fan heater is completely cool, start by wiping down the exterior surface. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently remove any dust or dirt. 

    For stubborn spots, a mild detergent mixed with water can be used. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads as they can scratch and damage the surface. 

    Make sure to dry the surface thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth to prevent any moisture from entering the heater!

    3. Remove External Parts

    Carefully remove any detachable external parts of your fan heater. This may include the front grille or cover, and in some models, the fan blades or filters. 

    Refer to your heater’s user manual for specific instructions on which parts can be safely removed. 

    Detaching these parts will give you better access to the internal components, allowing for a more thorough cleaning. 

    Our tip: Keep all screws and small parts in a safe place like a bowl to avoid losing them!

    4. Get Rid of Internal Dust

    With the external parts removed, you can now address the internal dust build-up.

    Use a hoover with a brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris from the internal components, such as the fan blades and heating elements. 

    Be careful not to damage any of those delicate internal parts. For areas that are hard to reach with a hoover, a can of compressed air can be used to blow away dust. Hold the can upright and use short bursts to avoid moisture build-up. This step ensures that your fan heater operates efficiently and reduces the risk of overheating.  

    5. Paint the Dust Away From the Tricky Places

    For those hard-to-reach spots inside your fan heater, a small, clean paintbrush will be your best friend!

    Gently use the brush to dislodge and remove dust from tight corners, crevices, and intricate components. The soft bristles are effective at sweeping away dust without causing damage. 

    Be thorough and patient, making sure to reach all the tricky places where dust can accumulate. This detailed cleaning will help maintain your fan heater’s performance and longevity.

    6. Use a Damp Cloth to Finish the Internal Clean

    After removing the bulk of the dust, use a damp cloth to gently wipe down the internal components of your fan heater. Make sure that the cloth is only slightly damp to avoid any moisture entering the electrical parts.

    Carefully clean around the fan blades, heating elements, and other accessible areas. This will help to remove any remaining dust and grime. Once finished, use a dry cloth to wipe away any moisture, ensuring all components are completely dry before reassembling the heater.

    7. Reattach the External Parts

    Once all internal components are clean and dry, it’s time to reassemble your fan heater. 

    Carefully reattach the external parts you removed earlier, such as the front grille, cover, or filters. Refer to your heater’s user manual to ensure each part is correctly and securely attached. 

    Make sure all screws and fastenings are tightened properly to avoid any rattling or loose parts when the heater is in use! Reassembling your fan heater correctly ensures it operates safely and efficiently.  

    8. Get Heating!

    With your fan heater cleaned and reassembled, you’re ready to enjoy its warmth again. 

    Plug the heater back into the electrical outlet and turn it on. Make sure you listen for any unusual noises and check for any signs of malfunction. Regular cleaning not only keeps your heater running efficiently, but also extends its lifespan. 

    Enjoy a cosy and comfortable environment, knowing your fan heater is clean and in optimal condition!

    How to Clean a Fan Heater Without Taking it Apart

    cleaning a fan heater without taking it apart

    We understand you might not be comfortable taking your heater apart. There are ways to clean your fan heater without disassembling it. Now might be the time to order some compressed air, however!

    Before you begin cleaning, ensure the fan heater is turned off and unplugged from the electrical outlet.

    Use a soft, dry cloth or a duster to gently wipe down the exterior surfaces of the fan heater. Pay attention to areas where dust tends to accumulate, such as the grille and control knobs.

    Using a hoover with a brush attachment, carefully vacuum the vents and air intake areas of the fan heater. This helps remove any dust or debris trapped in the vents, ensuring optimal airflow.

    Use compressed air to blow out any remaining dust or debris from the vents. Hold the canister upright and use short bursts of air to avoid damaging the appliance.

    Finish by wiping down the exterior surfaces of the fan heater with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust or dirt. Ensure all surfaces are dry before plugging the appliance back in.

    Fan Heaters at Dreamland

    buy fan heaters at dreamland

    At Dreamland, we provide a range of quiet electric fan heaters to keep your rooms cosy! 

    Shop our full range of electric fan heaters, including our silent pure air fan heater, and our compact heater. These products are perfect all year round as they can also provide fresh air. If you’re looking to keep your place a bit warmer, why not take a look at our full range, including electric blankets, heatpads, mattress protectors and underblankets.

    FAQs

    How often do fan heaters need to be cleaned?

    Fan heaters ideally should be cleaned at least twice a year to maintain optimal performance and efficiency. However, the frequency of cleaning may vary depending on factors such as how often you use your heater. In general, it's a good practice to include fan heater cleaning as part of your seasonal home maintenance routine. Regular cleaning not only ensures the heater operates efficiently, but also reduces the risk of dust-related allergies and fire hazards.

    What happens if you don’t clean your heater?

    Neglecting to clean your heater regularly can lead to several potential issues, including:

    • Reduced efficiency
    • Increased energy consumption
    • Fire hazard
    • Poor indoor air quality
    • Shortened lifespan

    Overall, neglecting to clean your heater not only affects its performance and efficiency but also poses safety risks to your home and occupants. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure the safe and effective operation of your heater.

    How do you clean the vent on a heater?

    Before cleaning the vent, ensure the heater is turned off and unplugged. Use a hoover with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the vent. After vacuuming, use a damp cloth to wipe down the vent grille or cover. This helps remove any remaining dust or residue from the surface of the vent.

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