Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
Electric heaters that are mounted on the wall are ideal for spaces with a design-driven aesthetic. They are simpler to use and are less expensive to operate than propane heaters.
Whatever the fuel type the patio heaters must be kept at a safe distance from any combustible object and never left unattended while in use. Check out these tips for safety on patio heaters for more details.
How to Choose the Right Heater
Many Australians love having fun and relaxing on their patios. The cold temperatures can reduce the enjoyment of these areas. Patio heaters provide targeted, effective heating to extend outdoor use throughout the year. The selection of the correct patio heater is essential to ensuring optimal performance safety, style, and security. A variety of factors should be considered when purchasing a heater such as the installation requirements as well as mobility and fuel source.
Certain patio heaters require a professional installation. They are permanently fixed. Tabletop and freestanding heaters on contrary, provide more flexibility. For instance portable electric patio heaters can be moved to different areas of your yard or garden depending on the need, and some models come with handles for ease of movement. Some electric patio heaters that are portable come with remote controls to facilitate operation.
When choosing a patio heater, think about the size of the space and how many people will be using it at once. A large space requires more power than smaller ones, so you'll need to select one that has enough power for adequate heating. Similarly, you'll want to factor in the number of hours you plan to use the heater on average each day, since this will affect the power consumption and the life of your battery.
You'll need to select the fuel source for your patio heater based on its type. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and don't generate emissions, whereas natural gas patio heaters require your home be connected to gas lines. Liquid propane heaters are easy to use and don't require any installation. However, their need for constant fueling is the reason they aren't the most cost-effective choice.
Additionally, if you have children at home who may touch the heater, it's important to choose a heater with built-in safety features. Look for an electric heater that automatically shuts off if it tilts over a certain point and also an alarm for flames to avoid accidental sparks. You may also want to invest in an extinguisher in case of fire to have on hand in case of emergency situations.
Installation
A free-standing patio heater can be a great option to extend your outdoor living space past the hottest months of the year. Gas-powered and electrical models are available in a variety of designs. When purchasing an outdoor heater, you need to think about the amount of the heat your patio requires and the weight the heater can carry.
There are a few different ways to install a patio heater. The most popular way is with a ceiling-mounted heater. This option is perfect for patios that are covered, as it does not take up any floor space and provides an even distribution of heat.
freestanding electric patio heater mounting option is available for all of Bromic's Electric heaters and a variety of ceiling mounting poles are available to meet your specific style and to accommodate any ceiling height. If your space has an angled ceiling by putting a wedge on the pole will allow the heater to be positioned perpendicularly to the floor, while still complying with the minimum clearance requirements.
Wall mounting your patio heater is also a great option. This can be done with a variety of our Electric heaters as well as various mounting brackets are available for each model. The brackets of our Platinum and Tungsten Electric Heaters can be placed at an angle of 15 to 45 degrees, based on the model. They should be set six feet above the ground and at least five feet away from any structures above the heater.
Propane Heating: These heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks, which can be easily refilled at all gas stations and convenience stores. These heaters produce more heat than an electric heater however they will require an gas line be laid. These heaters can be freestanding or fixed to a structure, such as fence, deck or pergola.
Certain models have adjustable heat settings. This is useful when you're hosting guests and need a lower or higher level of warmth. Choose a propane patio heater with an ignition source. This will decrease the chance of fires that are caused by uncontrolled combustion.
Safety
While patio heaters can be a great way to relax and increase outdoor enjoyment, there are some important safety tips to remember. Keep the heater at least 3 feet from any flammable objects like furniture and potted plants. It is also recommended to put a mat of protection underneath the heater, specifically for wooden decks.
The kind of heater as well as its fuel source will determine the exact safety guidelines to be followed. Propane gas patio heaters, for example, can heat a larger space than electric models. However, they require regular refills of their tanks and can cause carbon monoxide to build up. It's also important to select one with features such as an anti-tilt switch and automatic shutoffs that minimize the risk of a fire.
In addition to the kinds of heaters, the method they are put in place and operated also determines their safety. Although many patio heaters have safety features built-in it is recommended to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure maximum performance and security. Bromic provides a variety of mounting options for heaters that are placed on the ceiling or wall. There are also longer mounting poles for hanging patio heaters that will give you the ideal secure distance from walls and ceilings as well as fabrics such tablecloths and awnings.
To stop them from falling over, freestanding heaters need to be anchored or weighted. Strong winds can cause heaters to tip over or shift when they are not, which can pose the risk of fire or causing injuries. If you live in a region that is prone to frequent storms you might want to consider using bungee cords or sandbags to anchor your patio heaters.
It is recommended that you keep a fire extinguisher close to your heater, regardless of fuel type. Make sure it's of the proper class for the fuel type of your heater (Class B for gas; Class C for electric; or a multi-purpose extinguisher that can be used for both). Don't let your heater run without supervision. Accidents can happen.
Maintenance
Incorrect maintenance and use procedures are the cause of many patio heater problems. However, you can prevent most of these problems by following some basic usage and maintenance best practices. Use a non-abrasive soap to clean the heater as well as an air hose to the vent holes.
Do not use an extension cable in conjunction with a patio heating device. Plug the heater into an electrical outlet. An extension cord can cause overloading of circuits and electrical fires. It is also recommended to keep the heater clear of flammable materials such as curtains and wood.
You could have an issue with your propane patio heater is always shutting down. It is a good idea to have a professional examine the gas line for clogs or leaks at least once per year.
Propane patio heaters must be stored in a cool, dry place free of rain and wind. During storage, remove the propane tank, and wrap it in a protective cover. Also, the heater should be stored in a ventilated area or placed under a protective umbrella when not in use. This will prevent rust and corrosion. It will also stop it from falling over.