Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
For spaces with a focus on design and want to keep the minimalist, sleek look electric heaters for walls are the way to go. They are more user-friendly and cheaper to operate than propane heaters.
Patio heaters, no matter the type of fuel used must be kept away from combustible items and never left unattended. Check out these patio heater safety tips for more information.
How to Select the Best Heater
Outdoor living spaces are a favorite among Australian homeowners, with a lot 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 targeted efficient heating that can extend outdoor use throughout the all-year. Choosing the right type of patio heater is essential to making sure you get the best performance, safety, and style. When making a purchase you must take into consideration a number of aspects, including the requirements for installation and fuel source.
Some patio heaters require a professional installation. They are permanently fixed. Tabletop and freestanding heaters offer more flexibility. Portable electric patio heaters, for instance can be moved around your garden or yard to meet your requirements. Some models have handles that make it simple to move. Some portable electric patio heaters come with remote controls to make operation easier.
When selecting electric patio space heater , you should consider the size of your space and the number of people who will use it at the same time. You'll require a heater with enough power to adequately heat an extensive area. Similarly, you'll want to take into account the number of hours you intend to use the heater in a typical day, since this will determine the power consumption and the life of your battery.
You'll need to select the fuel source for your patio heater based on the type of. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and don't emit any emissions. Natural gas patio heaters however, require that your home be connected to gas lines. Liquid propane patio heaters on the other hand do not require installation and are easy to operate. However, their need to refill their tanks regularly makes them the least cost-effective alternative.
If you have children in your home, it's crucial to choose the right heater that comes with safety features. Find the heater that shuts off when it is tilted beyond a certain amount and a flame detector to prevent accidental ignition. You might also want to invest in a fire extinguisher to have in your house for emergencies.
Installation
A freestanding patio heater can be a great option to extend the use of your outdoor space after the hottest months. Electric and gas-powered models are available in a variety of designs. When buying an outdoor heater, it is crucial to consider the amount of heat your patio needs and the 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 a covered area, since it does not take up any floor space and provides 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 suit your desired aesthetic and to accommodate any ceiling height. If your room has a ceiling that is inclined by putting a wedge on the pole will permit the heater to be positioned perpendicularly on the floor while still meeting the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also mount your heater on the wall. You can do this with the wide selection of electric heaters. A assortment of mounting brackets are 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 by the specific model at a height of 6 feet above the ground and at least 5 feet from structures over the heater.
Propane heaters are powered by propane 20-pound tanks, which can be easily filled at most gas stations and convenience stores. These heaters generate more heat than electric heaters, but they may require a gas line be installed. These heaters are available as freestanding units or positioned on a structure like a fence, deck or pergola.
Certain models have adjustable heat settings. This is useful if you are hosting guests and want a higher or lower level of warmth. If you're opting for a freestanding propane patio heater, be certain to select one that has a spark arrestor, as these are designed to minimize the possibility of fires resulting to the uncontrolled combustion of flammable materials.
Safety
Patio heaters are ideal for extending your outdoor enjoyment and add comfort. However, they do present some safety issues. Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from any flammable objects, such as potted plants and furniture. It's also recommended to place a protective mat under the heater, especially for decks made of wood.
The kind of heater and the fuel source will determine the specific safety guidelines to adhere to. For instance, propane gas patio heaters are generally capable of warming a larger area than electric models, however they require regular refilling of the tanks, and may cause carbon monoxide accumulation. It is also crucial to select a model that is UL or CSA certified and comes with features like anti-tilt switch and automatic shutoffs that reduce the chance of a fire.
The safety of heaters is dependent on the way they are installed and used. Although many patio heaters have safety features built-in, it is best to follow the directions of the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and security. If you're looking to install your heaters on the wall or ceiling there are a number of options for installation available for each Bromic product line to accommodate different ceiling heights. There are also longer mounting poles to hang patio heaters which provide the ideal distance between walls and ceilings as well in fabrics such as tablecloths and awnings.
Freestanding heaters must be secured or weighted to prevent them from falling over. Strong winds can cause heaters to tip over or shift even when they are not in use, creating a fire risk or causing injury. If you live in a place that is prone to frequent storms, consider using sandbags or bungee cords to anchor your patio heaters.
It is recommended that you keep a fire extinguisher close to your heater, regardless of fuel type. It is crucial to select the appropriate class of extinguisher according to the fuel used by your heater (Class B for electric, Class C for gas, or a multipurpose for both). Never leave a heater running unattended. Accidents could happen.
Maintenance
Incorrect maintenance and usage procedures are the cause of many issues with patio heaters. However, you can avoid the majority of these issues by implementing some basic maintenance and usage best practices. Use a non-abrasive soap clean the heater as well as an air hose for the ventilation holes.
Never use an extension cable for the patio heater. Connect the heater to an electrical outlet. The use of an extension cable could overload circuits, causing electrical fires. Keep the heater away from combustibles like curtains or wood.
If your propane patio heater is constantly shutting off, you may have gas leak. It is a good idea to have a professional inspect the gas line for obstructions or leaks at least once a year.
Propane patio heaters should be stored in a cool, dry location free of rain and wind. During storage, you should remove the propane tank (it must be empty for storage in the long term) and cover the tank in a cover. Likewise, the heater should be stored in a well-ventilated area or under an umbrella when not in use. This will prevent corrosion and rust. It will also keep it from falling over.