Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
Electric heaters hung on the wall are ideal for rooms with a modern aesthetic. They are simple to operate and are less costly to run than propane models.
Patio heaters, no matter the type of fuel used must be kept away from fire-prone items and should not be left unattended. For more information, check out these safety guidelines for patio heaters.
How to Choose the Right Heater
Outdoor living spaces are popular among Australian homeowners, with many homeowners using their patios as an ideal place to relax, entertain and unwinding. The cold temperatures can cut short the enjoyment of these spaces. Patio heaters provide precise, effective heating to extend outdoor use throughout the all-year. It is essential to select the correct patio heater for the best performance, safety and design. When making a purchase you must take into consideration a number of aspects, including the installation requirements and fuel source.
Certain patio heaters require professional installation. They are fixed permanently. Tabletop and freestanding heaters, on contrary, provide more flexibility. For instance, portable electric patio heaters can be moved to different areas of your garden or yard as needed, and some models have handles for easy movement. For additional convenience, certain portable electric patio heaters are compatible with remote controls that allow for simple operation.
When choosing a patio heater, take into consideration the size of your area and how many people will use it at one time. You'll need a heater with enough power to warm large areas. Also, you'll need to factor in the number of hours you intend to use the heater in a typical day, as this will affect the power consumption and the battery life of your device.
You'll need to select the fuel source for your patio heater based on its type. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and do not produce emissions, whereas natural gas patio heaters require that your home be plumbed for gas lines. Liquid propane patio heaters however do not require installation and are easy to operate. However, their need to refill their tanks regularly makes them the least economical choice.
If there are children at home who may touch the heater, you need to choose a model with built-in safety features. Look for a heater that automatically shuts off if it tilts over a certain point and a flame detector to stop accidental sparks. You might want to invest in a fire extinguisher for emergencies.
Installation
A free-standing patio heater can be a great option to extend your outdoor living space beyond the hottest times of the year. There are many kinds of patio heaters to choose from that include electric and gas-powered models. It is crucial to consider the amount of heat you need for your patio and the weight your freestanding heater can be able to handle when you are making a purchase.
There are a few different ways to install a patio heater. The most popular method is to use a ceiling-mounted heater. This option is perfect for patios with covered areas since it doesn't impede floor space and ensures an even distribution of heat over the entire area.
Learn Alot more mounting option is available for all Bromic's Electric heater series and a variety of poles for ceiling mounting are available to suit your desired aesthetic and to fit any ceiling height. If your space has a ceiling that is inclined, adding a wedge onto the pole will allow the heater to be placed perpendicularly to the floor, while still being able to meet the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also place your patio heater on the wall. You can do this using the wide selection of electric heaters. A assortment of mounting brackets are available for each model. The brackets that we offer for our Platinum and Tungsten Electric heaters can be placed at a 15 or 45 degree angle, which varies according to the specific model, 6 feet above the ground and at least 5 feet from structures above the heater.
Propane: These heaters use 20-pound propane tanks that are easily refillable at most gas stations and convenience stores. Learn Alot more generate more heat than electric heaters, however they might require the use of a gas line installed in your area. They can be freestanding, or they can be mounted to a structure like fence, deck, pergola or gazebo.
Some models come with adjustable temperature settings. This is helpful if you're hosting guests and they need a lower or higher temperature. Choose a propane patio heater that has a spark-arrestor. This will reduce the chance of fires that are caused by uncontrolled combustion.
Safety
Patio heaters can be a great way to extend your outdoor enjoyment and add comfort. However, they can also create safety issues. This includes keeping the heater at least three feet away from any combustible materials like potted plants or furniture. Also, it's recommended to place a protective mat beneath the heater, particularly for wooden decks.
The kind of heater and the fuel source will determine the exact safety guidelines to adhere to. Propane gas patio heaters for instance, can provide more heat than electric models. However, they require frequent refilling of their tanks, and could cause carbon monoxide to build up. In addition, it's essential to choose a heater that is UL or CSA certified and has features like anti-tilt switches and automatic shutoffs that reduce the risk of fire.
Aside from the types of heaters, how they are put in place and used also determines their safety. While many patio heaters come with safety features built in it is recommended to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and security. If you're looking to install your heaters on the ceiling or wall there are a number of options for installation available for each Bromic product line to accommodate different ceiling heights. There are a variety of poles with longer lengths for hanging patio heaters to give you the perfect distance from ceilings, walls and other fabrics like tablecloths and awnings.
Freestanding heaters must be secured or weighted down to prevent them from tipping over. Strong winds can cause heaters to overturn or shift when they are off, posing a fire risk or injury. If you live in an area which is susceptible to frequent and thumping winds, think about using sandbags or bungee cable as anchors for your patio heaters.
It is recommended that you keep a fire extinguisher close to your heater, regardless of the fuel type. It is essential to select the appropriate class of extinguisher according to your heater's fuel (Class B for electric Class C for gas or a multipurpose for both). Of course do not leave a heater unattended while in operation, as accidents can happen.
Maintenance
Incorrect maintenance and use procedures are the cause of many issues with patio heaters. You can avoid a lot of these problems by following these simple maintenance and usage guidelines. Use a non-abrasive soap clean the heater as well as an air hose to the ventilation holes.
Never use an extension cable with an outdoor heating device. Instead, plug the heater directly into a standard electrical outlet. An extension cable can cause electrical fires. You should also keep the heater clear of flammable materials like curtains and wood.
You could have an issue if your propane patio heater is constantly shutting down. It is recommended to have a professional examine the gas line for blockages or leaks at least once a year.
Propane patio heaters need to be stored in a cool, dry place 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 must be placed in a well ventilated area or under a protective canopy. This will protect it from rust and corrosion. This will also keep it from falling over.