File:Selfmade adapter from Soviet to Schuko plug.jpg

English: A self-made adapter, which makes it possible to connect powerful European-standard home appliences to old Soviet outlets. During winter, these adapters are the main reason for fires in Estonia and other formerly Soviet countries (when homeowners connect rather powerful heaters to them).

Note that during the Soviet era, domestic fan-based heaters were not commonplace, and dwellings were kept warm with central heating or gas-based heating, woodfire chimneys, woodfire stoves, fireplaces, and potbelly stoves (aka burzhuykas, from буржуйка, pl. буржуйки).

To complement these in homes, there were two types of electrical heating: Oil radiators (oil heaters), which were less powerful than fan-based heaters (typically up to 1500W max), and radial space heaters that resembled saucers, similar to the one shown in File:Radial Heizstrahler.jpg. Usually, these heaters would require much less power (actual or continual) to maintain a warm room than any widely available fan heater nowadays.

The Estonian Safety Board has recommended for people not to use very powerful heaters, and to keep their homes' electrical systems up to date; the recommendation also applies to wiring. Special care and attention to electrical equipment is advised for residents of wooden homes.