Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
Electric heaters that are mounted on the wall are great for spaces that have a distinctive aesthetic. They are more user-friendly and are less expensive to operate than propane heaters.
No matter what the type of fuel the patio heaters must be kept a safe distance from combustible objects and never left unattended while in use. Take a look at these safety tips for patio heaters for more information.
How to Select the Best Heater
Many Australians enjoy entertaining and sitting on their patios. The cold temperatures can cut short the enjoyment of these spaces. Patio heaters provide precise efficient heating that can extend outdoor use throughout the year. It is important to choose the right patio heater for optimal performance, safety and design. Several factors must be considered when purchasing a patio heater such as the installation requirements as well as mobility and fuel source.
Certain types of patio heaters, such as ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted models require professional installation and are permanently fixed in the spot. Tabletop and freestanding heaters provide more flexibility. For instance portable electric patio heaters can be moved around different parts of your yard or garden when needed, and certain models have handles for ease of movement. Some electric patio heaters that are portable have remote controls that facilitate operation.
When choosing a patio heater, think about the size of your space and how many people will use it at the same time. You'll require a heater with enough power to heat large areas. In modern electric patio heater , you should consider the number of hours you intend to use the heater per day, as this will determine the power consumption and battery life of your unit.
Depending on the type of patio heater you choose it is also important to consider its fuel source. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and do not emit any emissions. Natural gas patio heaters however, require that your home be plumbed with gas lines. Liquid propane heaters are easy to use and don't need any installation. They are the most expensive alternative because they must be refueled constantly.
If you have children in your home, it's essential to choose an electric heater that has safety features. Choose the heater that shuts off if it tilts over a certain point and an alarm for flames to avoid accidental ignition. It is also possible to purchase an extinguisher for fire to have in your house for emergency situations.
Installation
A free-standing patio heater can be a great way to extend your outdoor living space past the warmest months of the year. There are a few different types of patio heaters available, including gas-powered and electric models. When purchasing a patio heater, it is important to consider how much the heat your patio requires and how much weight the heater can carry.
There are many ways to install an outdoor heater. The most popular method is with a ceiling-mounted heater. This is a great option for patios with covered areas since it doesn't compromise floor space and ensures an even distribution of heat over the entire area.
This mounting option is available for all of Bromic's Electric heaters and a variety of ceiling mounting poles are available to match your style and to accommodate any ceiling height. If your room has a slanted ceiling by adding a wedge to the pole will allow the heater be placed perpendicular to the floor, and still be able to meet the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also place your patio heater on the wall. This can be done with a variety of our Electric heaters as well as a range of mounting brackets are available for each model. The brackets for our Platinum and Tungsten Electric heaters can be placed at a 15 to 45 degree angle varying by the specific model, 6 feet above the ground and at least 5 feet from structures that are above the heater.
Propane: These heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks which are easily refillable at most gas stations and convenience stores. They generally generate more heat than electric heaters, but might require a gas line to be installed in your home. These heaters are available as freestanding units or mounted on a structure, such as a fence, deck or pergola.
Certain models have adjustable temperature settings. This is useful if you are hosting guests and require a different level of warmth. Choose a propane patio heater that comes with a spark-arrestor. This reduces the possibility of fires triggered by uncontrolled combustion.
Safety
While patio heaters can be a great way to relax and enhance outdoor enjoyment, there are essential safety precautions to be aware of. Keep the heater at least 3 feet from any flammable objects like furniture and potted plants. It's also recommended to place a protective mat underneath the heater, specifically for wooden decks.
The kind of heater as well as its fuel source will determine the precise safety guidelines to be followed. Propane gas patio heaters for instance, can be more efficient in heating than electric models. However, they require frequent refilling of their tanks and can cause carbon monoxide to build up. Additionally, it is crucial to select a model that is UL or CSA certified and includes features like anti-tilt switch and automatic shutoffs to reduce the chance of fire.
The safety of heaters is also determined by the manner in which they are used and installed. While most patio heaters have built-in safety measures, it's best to follow the instructions of the manufacturer for optimum performance and safety. Bromic offers a range of mounting options for heaters that are mounted on the ceiling or wall. There are a variety of longer mounting poles for hanging patio heaters that provide the ideal safe distance from ceilings, walls and other fabrics like tablecloths and awnings.
To avoid them falling over, freestanding heaters need to be anchored or weighted. Even when the heaters are off, strong winds could cause them to shift or tip over, causing danger of fire or injury. If you live in an area where there is a lot of gusty weather think about using bungee cords or sandbags to secure your outdoor heaters.
No matter what type of fuel it is recommended to keep an extinguisher for fire in case of emergencies. It is crucial to select the appropriate class of extinguisher based on your heater's fuel (Class B for electric Class C for gas or a multipurpose for both). Don't let your heater run unattended. Accidents can happen.
Maintenance
Several patio heater problems occur because of improper usage and maintenance practices. However, you can avoid most of these issues by implementing the basic usage and maintenance best practices. Use a non-abrasive detergent to clean the heater and an air hose to the vent holes.
Do not use an extension cord with a patio heater. Instead connect the heater directly into a standard electrical outlet. An extension cable can cause electrical fires. Also, keep the heater from combustible materials such as curtains and wood.
You may have an issue if your propane patio heater is continuously shutting down. A professional should inspect the gas line at least yearly for clogs and leaks.
Propane patio heaters must be stored in a cool, dry space away from wind and rain. In the course of storage, disconnect the propane tank (it should be empty for long-term storage) and cover the tank in a cover. Likewise, the heater should be stored in a well-ventilated location or under an umbrella when not in use. This will help protect it from rust and corrosion. It will also prevent it from tipping over.