Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
Electric heaters hung on the wall are ideal for rooms with a modern aesthetic. They are simpler to use and are less expensive to operate than propane heaters.
Patio heaters, regardless of the type of fuel used should always be kept away from fire-prone items and should not be left unattended. For more information, check out these patio heater safety guidelines.
How to Select the Best Heater
Outdoor living spaces are a favorite with Australian homeowners, with a large number of people using their patios as a relaxing retreat for entertaining and unwinding. The cool temperatures can however make it difficult to take advantage of these spaces. Patio heaters provide efficient, targeted heating that can extend the usage of outdoor areas throughout the all-year. The selection of the correct patio heater is essential for ensuring optimal performance safety, style, and security. When you are making a purchase, you should consider several aspects, including the installation requirements and fuel source.
Certain patio heaters require professional installation. They are permanently fixed. Freestanding and tabletop heaters, on the other hand, offer 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 have handles for ease of movement. Some electric patio heaters that are portable have remote controls that facilitate operation.
When selecting a patio heater, take into consideration the size of the area and the number of people who are going to use it at the same time. You'll need a heater with enough power to warm a large area. It is also important to consider the number of hours per day that you plan to utilize the heater. This will affect the battery life and power consumption of the unit.
Depending on the type of patio heater you select it is also important to consider the fuel source. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and don't generate emissions, while natural gas patio heaters require your home be plumbed for gas lines. Liquid propane heaters are easy to use and don't require any installation. They are the least cost-effective option because they need to be refueled constantly.
Additionally, if you have children in your home who may touch the heater, you need to select a model that has 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 may also want to purchase an extinguisher in case of fire to keep on hand for emergency situations.
Installation
A free-standing patio heating unit can be an excellent way to extend the use of your outdoor space after the most pleasant seasons. Gas-powered and electrical models are available in various designs. It is important to keep in mind the amount of heat you will need for your patio as well as the weight your freestanding heater is able to withstand when making a purchase.
There are a variety of ways to set up your outdoor heater however the most popular is a ceiling-mounted. This option is ideal for covered patios, as it doesn't take up any floor space, and also ensures an even distribution of heat.
This mounting option is available for all of Bromic's Electric heater series and a range of poles for ceiling mounting are offered to meet your specific style and to fit any ceiling height. If your home has a ceiling that is inclined the wedge that you put on the pole will allow the heater to be placed perpendicularly to the floor, while still complying with the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also mount your patio heater on the wall. You can do this with 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 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 heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks, which can be easily refilled at all gas stations and convenience stores. They typically produce more heat than electric heaters, however they might require a gas line to be installed in your area. These heaters can be freestanding, or they can be fixed to a structure, such as a deck, fence, pergola or gazebo.
Certain models have adjustable heat settings. This is helpful if you are hosting guests and you require a different temperature. Choose a propane patio heater that has an arrestor that sparks. This will decrease the chance of fires that are caused by uncontrolled combustion.
Safety
While patio heaters provide comfort and extend outdoor enjoyment, there are some important safety tips to remember. This includes keeping the heater at least three feet away from any materials that could ignite like potted plants or furniture. Also, it's recommended to place a protective mat under the heater, especially for wooden decks.
The type of heater and its fuel source will determine the specific safety guidelines to follow. Propane gas patio heaters for instance, can be used to be more efficient in heating than electric models. However, they require frequent refills of their tanks and can cause carbon monoxide to build up. In addition, it's essential to choose a heater that is UL or CSA certified and includes features like anti-tilt switches and automatic shutoffs to reduce the chance of fire.
The safety of heaters is also determined by the way they are used and installed. While many patio heaters come with safety features built-in, it is best to follow the instructions of the manufacturer for optimal performance and safety. Bromic provides a variety of mounting options for heaters installed on the ceiling or wall. There are also longer mounting poles available for hanging patio heaters, that will give you the ideal safe distance from walls and ceilings as well as fabrics such tablecloths and awnings.
To avoid them falling over, free-standing heaters have to be secured or weighted. Even when electric patio heater amazon are off, strong winds may cause them to move or blow over, creating danger of fire or injury. If you live in a region which is susceptible to frequent winds that are gusty, think about using sandbags or bungee cable as anchors for your patio heaters.
No matter the fuel type, it's recommended to keep an extinguisher in your home for in case of emergency. 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). Don't leave your heater running unattended. Accidents can occur.
Maintenance
Incorrect maintenance and usage practices are the main cause of problems with patio heaters. You can avoid a lot of these issues by following some simple maintenance and usage guidelines. Use a non-abrasive detergent to clean the heater and an air hose for the vent holes.
Do not use an extension cord with the patio heater. Instead connect the heater directly into an electrical outlet. The extension cord could overload circuits and cause electrical fires. Keep the heater away from combustibles such as curtains or wood.
You may have an issue with 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 should be stored in a cool, dry location away from wind and rain. When storing, remove the propane tank (it needs to be empty for storage in the long term) and cover the tank in a protective cover. Likewise, the heater should be kept in a well-ventilated location or placed under a protective umbrella when not in use. This will shield it from rust and corrosion. It will also prevent it from tipping over.