Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
Electric heaters hung on the wall are perfect for spaces that have a distinctive aesthetic. They are easy to use and are less costly to run than propane models.
Regardless of the type of fuel, patio heaters should be kept a safe distance from combustible objects and never left unattended during use. For more information, check out these safety guidelines for patio heaters.
How to Choose the Right Heater
Outdoor living spaces are very popular with Australian homeowners, with a large number of homeowners using their patios as a relaxing retreat for entertaining and unwinding. The cold temperatures can, however, make it difficult to enjoy these spaces. Patio heaters provide precise efficient heating that can extend outdoor use throughout the entire year. Selecting the best type of patio heater is essential to ensuring optimal performance as well as safety and style. When making a purchase you must consider a variety of factors, including the installation requirements and fuel source.
Some patio heaters require a professional installation. They are fixed permanently. Tabletop and freestanding heaters offer more flexibility. For instance, portable electric patio heaters can be moved to different areas of your garden or yard when needed, and certain models come with handles for ease of movement. Certain electric patio heaters portable come with remote controls to facilitate operation.
When choosing a patio heater, you should take into consideration the size of your space and how many people are going to use it at one time. A large space requires more power than a smaller one, so you'll need to choose a model with enough wattage for adequate heating. Also, you'll need to consider the number of hours you intend to use the heater in a typical day, since this will determine the power consumption and the battery life of your device.
You'll have to select the fuel source for your patio heater based on its model. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and do not produce emissions, while natural gas patio heaters require your home be plugged in to gas lines. Liquid propane patio heaters on the other hand do not require any installation and are simple to operate. However, their requirement for constant refueling makes them the least economical option.
If there are children at home, who might touch the heater, it's crucial to select a model that has built-in safety features. Find a heater that has an automatic shut-off when it is tilted beyond the specified angle, and a fire sensor to prevent accidental ignition. You may want to purchase an extinguisher in case of emergency.
Installation
A freestanding patio heater can be a great option to make use of your outdoor space after the hottest months. Electric and gas-powered models are available in different styles. When you are looking to purchase a patio heater, it is important to consider how much the heat your patio requires and the weight the heater can carry.
There are many different ways to install your heater on your patio The most well-known is a ceiling mount. This option is perfect for patios that are covered since it doesn't impede floor space and ensures an even distribution of heat across the entire area.
This mounting option is available for all of Bromic's Electric heaters and a range of ceiling mounting poles are available to suit your desired aesthetic and to accommodate any ceiling height. If your home has a ceiling that is angled, adding a wedge onto the pole will permit the heater to be placed perpendicularly to the floor, while still complying with the minimum clearance requirements.
Wall mounting your heater on the wall is also a great option. It is possible to do this by using one of our Electric heaters as well as various mounting brackets are available for each model. The brackets for our Platinum and Tungsten Electric heaters can be positioned at a 15 to 45 degree angle, which varies according to the specific model, 6 feet above the ground and at least 5 feet away from structures that are above the heater.
Propane: These heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks, which are refilled easily at all gas stations and convenience shops. They generally generate more heat than electric heaters, but might require a gas line to be installed in your home. These heaters can be freestanding or fixed to a structure, such as a deck, fence or pergola.
Some free-standing models have adjustable temperature settings, which can be helpful if you're hosting guests who need a higher or less intense degree of warmth. Choose a propane patio heater that comes with a spark-arrestor. This reduces the risk of fires caused by uncontrolled combustion.
Safety
Patio heaters can be an excellent way to extend your outdoor time and add comfort. However, they can also pose some safety concerns. Keep the heater at least 3 feet from items that could ignite like furniture and potted plants. Also, it's recommended to use a protective mat underneath the heater, particularly for decks made of wood.
The kind of heater you are using and the fuel source it is using will determine what safety precautions you should take. Propane gas patio heaters, for instance, can heat a larger space than electric models. However, they require frequent refilling of their tanks and can cause carbon monoxide to build up. It is also essential to choose a heater that is UL or CSA certified and has features like anti-tilt switch and automatic shutoffs to reduce the chance of a fire.
The safety of heaters is also determined by the way they are installed and used. Although many patio heaters have safety features it is recommended to follow the instructions of the manufacturer for optimal performance and safety. Bromic offers a range of mounting options for heaters that are mounted on the ceiling or wall. There are also a number of mounting poles that are longer for hanging patio heaters that will offer the best safety distance from walls, ceilings and fabrics such as tablecloths and awnings.
To avoid them falling over, free-standing heaters have to be secured or weighted. Strong winds can cause heaters to overturn or shift even if they are not, which can pose a fire risk or causing injuries. If you live in a region which is susceptible to frequent gusty winds, consider using bungee cables or sandbags as anchors for your patio heaters.
Whatever the type of fuel it is recommended to have an extinguisher in your home for emergencies. Make sure it's of the correct class for your heater's fuel type (Class B for gas; Class C for electric; or a multi-purpose extinguisher to suit both). Also do not leave a heater unattended during operation since accidents could occur.
Maintenance
Incorrect maintenance and use procedures can be the reason for a variety of patio heater problems. However, you can avoid most of these problems by following the basic usage and maintenance best practices. Make sure to clean the heater regularly using a non-abrasive detergent and use an air hose to clean the ventilation holes.
Do not use an extension cable to connect a patio heating device. Instead you should plug the heater directly into a standard electrical outlet. An extension cord can overload circuits and cause electrical fires. Also, keep donyer power electric patio heater of flammable items like curtains and wood.
If your propane patio heater is constantly shutting off, you may have a gas leak. It is recommended to have a professional examine the gas line for blockages or leaks at least every year.
Propane patio heaters should be stored in a cool, dry place away from rain and wind. When storage is complete, disconnect the propane tank and wrap it in a cover that protects. When not in use the heater should be placed in a well-ventilated area or under a canopy that is protected. This will prevent corrosion and rust. This will also prevent it from falling over.