Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
For spaces with a focus on design and want to maintain a sleek, minimalist appearance, wall-mounted electric heaters are the way to go. They are simple to use and are less costly to run than propane models.
No matter what the type of fuel regardless of the type of fuel, patio heaters should be kept away from flammable objects and should never be left unattended while in use. For more information, check out these patio heater safety guidelines.
Selecting the Right Heater
Many Australians enjoy entertaining and sitting on their patios. Cool temperatures, however, can reduce the enjoyment of these areas. Patio heaters offer effective, targeted heating that can extend the usage of outdoor areas throughout the year. Choosing the right type of patio heater is essential for ensuring optimal performance safety, style, and security. Several factors must be considered when purchasing a heater such as the installation requirements as well as mobility and fuel source.
Some types of patio heaters, like ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted models require professional installation and are permanently anchored in the spot. Tabletop and freestanding heaters on the other hand, offer more flexibility. Portable electric patio heaters, for instance can be moved around your yard or garden to suit your needs. Some models have handles that make it simple to move. Some electric patio heaters that are portable include remote controls to make operation easier.
When you are looking for a patio heater, think about the size of your space and how many people will be using it at the same time. A larger space will require more power than smaller ones, which is why you'll need to select the model that has enough wattage for adequate heating. You'll also want to take into consideration the amount of time per day that you plan to utilize the heater. This will impact the life of the battery and the power consumption of the unit.
You'll need to select the fuel source for your patio heater based on its type. Electric patio heaters use electricity and do not 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, don't require any installation and are easy to operate. However, their requirement to refill their tanks regularly is the reason they aren't the most cost-effective choice.
If you have children at home who may touch the heater, you need to choose a model with built-in safety features. Find the heater that shuts off if it tilts over a certain point, as well as an alarm for flames to avoid accidental sparks. You may also want to purchase a fire extinguisher to have on hand in case of emergencies.
Installation
A free-standing patio heater is a great way to extend the use of your outdoor space past the warmest months. Gas-powered and electrical models are available in a variety of styles. It is essential to consider the amount of heat you require for your patio and how much weight your free-standing heater can be able to handle when you are making a purchase.
There are a variety of ways to set up your outdoor heater, but the most popular is a ceiling-mounted. This option is perfect for patios that are covered since it doesn't sacrifice floor-space and ensures an even distribution of heat over the entire area.
This mounting option is available for all of Bromic's Electric heaters. A variety 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 slopes and you want to add a wedge the pole will allow the heater to be positioned perpendicular to the floor, and still comply with the minimum clearance requirements.
Wall mounting your patio heater is a great idea. This can be done by using one of our Electric heaters as well as various mounting brackets are available for each model. The brackets for our Platinum and Tungsten Electric Heaters can be placed at an angle of 15 to 45 degrees, based on the model. They should be placed six feet above the ground and at a minimum of five feet away from any structures above the heater.
Propane heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks, which can be easily filled at most gas stations and convenience stores. They produce more heating than an electric heater however, they do require a gas line be installed. These heaters can be free-standing, or they can be fixed to a structure, such as fence, deck or pergola.
Some free-standing models have adjustable heat settings, which is ideal for guests who want a more or less intense amount of warmth. Select a propane patio heater with an arrestor that sparks. This will reduce the possibility of fires triggered by uncontrolled combustion.
Safety
While patio heaters can be a great way to relax and enhance outdoor enjoyment, there are important safety tips to be aware of. Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from items that could ignite, such as potted plants and furniture. It's also recommended to place a protective mat under the heater, especially for wooden decks.
The type of heater you are using and the fuel source that it uses will determine what safety precautions to take. For instance propane gas patio heaters are typically able to warm a larger area than electric ones, but they require regular refills of the tanks, and may cause carbon monoxide accumulation. It's also important to select one with features such as an anti-tilt switch and automatic shutoffs that reduce the risk of the possibility of a fire.
In addition to the kinds of heaters, the way they are put in place and used also determines their safety. While patio heater electric free standing of patio heaters have safety features built in it is recommended to follow the guidelines of the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and security. If you're planning to put your heaters on the wall or ceiling there are a number of options for installation available for each Bromic product series to accommodate different ceiling heights. There are also a number of longer mounting poles for hanging patio heaters that will offer the best safety distance from ceilings, walls and other fabrics like tablescloths or awnings.
Freestanding heaters must be secured or weighted to prevent them from tipping over. Strong winds can cause heaters to overturn or shift even if they are not in use, creating a fire risk or causing injury. If you live in an area that is prone to frequent winds that are gusty, think about using sandbags or bungee cables as anchors for your heaters on patios.
No matter the fuel type it is recommended to keep an extinguisher for fire in case of emergency use. Be sure it's of the proper class for your heater's fuel type (Class B for gas Class C for electric, or a multi-purpose extinguisher that can be used for both). Also do not leave a heater unattended during operation because accidents could happen.
Maintenance
Incorrect maintenance and usage practices are the cause of many patio heater problems. However, you can prevent many of these issues by implementing the basic usage and maintenance best practices. Use a non-abrasive detergent to clean the heater as well as 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. The use of an extension cable could overload circuits, leading to electrical fires. Also, keep the heater clear of flammable materials such as curtains and wood.
There could be an issue with your propane patio heater is always shutting down. A professional should check the gas line at least annually for leaks and clogs.
Propane patio heaters should be stored in a cool, dry location free of rain and wind. During storage, disconnect the propane tank and cover it in a cover that protects. When not in use, the heater should be placed in a well ventilated area or under a protective canopy. This will help prevent corrosion and rust. This will also keep it from falling over.