Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
For design-focused spaces that want to maintain an elegant, minimalist look, wall-mounted electric heaters are the best option. They are simple to use and less expensive to operate than propane models.
Patio heaters, no matter the fuel type used, should be kept clear from fire-prone items and should not be left unattended. For more details, read these patio heater safety guidelines.
How to Choose the Right Heater
Outdoor living spaces are popular among Australian homeowners, with many people using their patios as a relaxing retreat for entertaining and unwinding. Cool temperatures, however, can cut short the enjoyment of these spaces. Patio heaters provide targeted efficient heating that extends outdoor use throughout the year. It is essential to select the best patio heater to ensure the best performance, safety and design. When purchasing a heater you must take into consideration a number of factors, such as the installation requirements and fuel source.
Some types of patio heaters, such as wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted models, require professional installation and are permanently anchored in the spot. Tabletop and freestanding heaters offer more flexibility. Portable electric patio heaters, for instance can be moved around your yard or garden to suit your needs. Certain models come with handles that make it simple to move. To make things easier, a few portable electric patio heaters are compatible with remote controls for simple operation.
When choosing a patio heater, think about the size of your patio and how many people will be using it at the same time. You'll require a heater with enough power to heat a large area. Also, you'll need to consider the number of hours you intend to use the heater per day, as this will affect the power consumption and battery life of your unit.
Depending on the type of patio heater you pick you'll also have to consider its fuel source. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and don't produce emissions, whereas natural gas patio heaters require your home be connected to gas lines. Liquid propane heaters are simple to use and don't require any installation. They are the most expensive alternative because they must be constantly refueled.
If you have children in your home and they may be touching the heater, it's crucial to select a model that has built-in safety features. Find a heater that automatically shuts off if it tilts over a certain point and also a flame detector to prevent accidental ignition. It is also possible to invest in an extinguisher in case of fire to keep on hand for emergency situations.
Installation
A freestanding patio heater is an excellent option to extend your outdoor living space past the hottest months of the year. Gas-powered and electrical models are available in various designs. It is crucial to keep in mind the amount of heat you require for your patio and how much weight your freestanding heater can withstand when making a purchase.
There are many different ways to install your outdoor heater however the most popular is a ceiling mount. This option is perfect for patios that are covered since it doesn't compromise floor space and ensures an even distribution of heat throughout the area.
This mounting option is available on all Bromic Electric heaters. A range of ceiling mounting rods are offered in order to meet your desired aesthetic as well as to fit any ceiling height. If your home has an angled ceiling the wedge that you put on the pole will allow the heater to be positioned perpendicularly on the floor while still being able to meet the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also put your outdoor heater on the wall. You can do this using a wide range of electric heaters. A variety of mounting brackets is available for each model. The brackets we use for our Platinum and Tungsten Electric heaters can be positioned at a 15 to 45 degree angle, varying according to the model in question that is 6 feet above ground and at least 5 feet away from structures above the heater.
Propane: These heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks that are refilled easily at most gas stations as well as convenience stores. They produce more heat than an electric heater however they will require an gas line be laid. These heaters are available as free-standing units or mounted on a structure like a deck, fence or pergola.
patio electric heater come with adjustable heat settings. This is useful when you are hosting guests and you need a lower or higher degree of warmth. If you're choosing a free-standing propane patio heater, be certain to select one with an arrestor for sparks, as these are designed to reduce the risk of fires due to the uncontrolled combustion of explosive materials.
Safety
Patio heaters are an excellent way to extend your outdoor time and add comfort. However, they do present some safety issues. Keep the heater at least 3 feet from items that could ignite like potted plants and furniture. Also, it is recommended to place a protective mat beneath the heater, especially for wooden decks.
The kind of heater as well as its fuel source will determine the specific safety guidelines to be followed. For example, propane gas patio heaters are generally capable of warming a larger area than electric models, but require regular refilling of tanks and could cause carbon monoxide build-up. It is also crucial to select one with features such as an anti-tilt switches and automatic shutoffs that reduce the possibility of an accidental fire.
The safety of heaters is also determined by the manner in which they are installed and used. While some patio heaters have built-in safety features, it's best to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for optimum performance and security. Bromic offers a variety of mounting options for heaters installed on the ceiling or walls. There are also longer mounting poles available to hang patio heaters which provide the ideal distance between ceilings and walls as as fabrics such tablecloths and awnings.
To stop them from falling over, free-standing heaters have to be secured or weighted. Even when the heaters are off, strong winds may cause them to shift or tip over, causing danger of fire or injury. If you live in a place where there is a lot of gusty weather, consider using bungee cords or sandbags to secure your outdoor heaters.
It is recommended to keep a fire extinguisher in close proximity to your heater, irrespective of the fuel type. Make sure that it is of the appropriate class for the type of fuel your heater uses (Class B for gas Class C for electric, or a multipurpose extinguisher for both). And, of course, never leave a heater unattended during operation, as accidents can happen.
Maintenance
Many problems with patio heaters occur due to improper usage and maintenance practices. However, you can prevent many of these problems by following some basic maintenance and usage best practices. Use a non-abrasive soap clean the heater and an air hose to the ventilation holes.
Never use an extension cable for a patio heater. Instead, plug the heater directly into an electrical outlet. Using an extension cable can cause electrical fires. It is also recommended to keep the heater clear of flammable materials like curtains and wood.
If your propane patio heater is constantly shutting off, you could have gas leak. It is recommended to have a professional inspect the gas line for blockages or leaks at least once per year.
Propane patio heaters should be stored in a cool, dry location free of rain and wind. During storage, remove the propane tank, and wrap it in a cover that protects. When not in use, the heater should be placed in a ventilated space or under a protective canopy. This will help protect it from corrosion and rust. It will also keep it from falling over.