Fan-driven portable heaters usually collect more dust than dirt or grease. Cleaning is a straightforward matter – after the unit is unplugged, of course. Never attempt to disassemble and clean the inside of a portable heater. Heaters operate at high voltage and handle a lot of electrical current. Are you absolutely certain you can put it back together the right way?

 

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Vacuum out dust from both grille surfaces using an upholstery attachment. Stubborn dust can be loosened with an old toothbrush and then vacuumed.

The metal case can be cleaned with a damp sponge or cloth. Remove fingerprints with a little bit of all-purpose household cleaner on the cloth. Dry the unit completely before returning it to service.

Portable electric radiators use oil as the heat-transfer medium, so it goes without saying these don’t need to be opened and cleaned. Unplug the heater and allow it to cool. The radiant fins have been finished in high-temperature enamel so a general-purpose household cleaner applied with a damp cloth should make quick work of dust, dirt and grime. Wipe with a second clean, damp cloth to remove detergent residue. Buff dry. Don’t use abrasive cleansers or pads, which can scratch the finish and complicate future cleanings.