Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
For design-focused spaces that want to preserve an elegant, minimalist look electric heaters for walls are the best option. They are easy to use and less costly to operate than propane models.
Patio heaters, no matter the type of fuel used should be kept clear from combustible items and never left unattended. Take a look at these patio heater safety tips for more details.
How to Select the Right Heater
Outdoor living spaces are a favorite among Australian homeowners, with a lot of homeowners using their patios as a place to unwind, relax and unwinding. Cool temperatures, however, can cut short the enjoyment of these areas. Patio heaters offer targeted efficient heating that can extend outdoor use throughout the all-year. It is important to choose the right patio heater for maximum performance, safety and style. When you are making a purchase you must take into consideration a number of factors, such as the requirements for installation as well as the fuel source.
Some patio heaters require a professional installation. They are permanently fixed. Tabletop and freestanding heaters provide more flexibility. Portable electric patio heaters, for instance, can be moved around your yard or garden to meet your requirements. Certain models come with handles that make it simple to move. Some portable electric patio heaters come with remote controls to make operation easier.
When selecting a patio heater, you should consider the size of the area and how many people will use it at once. A larger space will require more power than smaller ones, which is why you'll need to choose one that has enough power to provide adequate heating. Similarly, you'll want to take into account the amount of time you'll be using the heater per day, as this will determine the power consumption and the battery life of your device.
You'll need to choose 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 require that your home be plumbed with gas lines. Liquid propane patio heaters on the other hand do not require any installation and are easy to operate. They aren't the most cost-effective alternative because they must be recharged regularly.
If you have children at your home, it's essential to choose an electric heater that has safety features. Choose infrared patio heater electric that automatically shuts off when it is tilted beyond a certain amount, as well as an alarm for flames to avoid accidental ignition. It is also possible to purchase an extinguisher for fire to keep on hand for emergencies.
Installation
A freestanding patio heater is the ideal way to extend your outdoor living space past the warmest months of the year. Gas-powered and electrical models are available in a variety of designs. It is important to keep in mind the amount of heat you require for your patio and how much weight your freestanding heater is able to stand up to when purchasing.
There are many different ways to set up your outdoor heater however the most popular is a ceiling mount. This option is perfect for patios with a covered area, since it doesn't take up any floor space and ensures a uniform distribution of heat.
This mounting option is available on all Bromic Electric heaters. A variety of ceiling mounting rods are offered to satisfy 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 mounted perpendicularly to the floor, while still complying with the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also mount your patio heater on the wall. This can be done using a range 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, depending on the model. They should be positioned six feet above the ground and at least five feet from any structures that are above the heater.
Propane: These heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks that are refilled easily at all gas stations and convenience shops. They typically generate more heat than electric heaters, however they may require a gas line to be installed in your area. They are available as free-standing units or mounted on a structure, such as a fence, deck or pergola.
Certain freestanding models come with adjustable heat settings, which is useful if you're hosting guests who need a higher or less intense level of warmth. If you're opting for a freestanding propane patio heater, make sure to select a model with an arrestor for sparks, as these are designed to reduce the chance of fires due to the uncontrolled combustion of material that is flammable.
Safety
While patio heaters provide comfort and enhance outdoor enjoyment, there are some important safety measures to remember. Keep the heater at least 3 feet from any flammable objects like furniture and potted plants. It is also recommended to put an appropriate mat under the heater, particularly for wooden decks.
The kind of heater you choose to use and the fuel source it uses will determine the safety precautions you should take. For example propane gas patio heaters are typically capable of warming a larger area than electric ones, but they require regular refills of the tanks and could cause carbon monoxide accumulating. In addition, it's crucial to select a model that is UL or CSA certified and has features like anti-tilt switches and automatic shutoffs to reduce the chance of a fire.
The security of heaters is determined by the manner in which they are used and set up. While a lot of patio heaters have safety features built-in, it is best to follow the guidelines of the manufacturer to ensure maximum performance and safety. If you're planning to put your heaters on the ceiling or wall, there are a variety of mounting options 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 give you the perfect distance from ceilings, walls and even fabrics like tablecloths and awnings.
Free-standing heaters should be anchored or weighted to prevent them from falling over. Strong winds can cause heaters to blow over or shift even if they are not in use, creating the risk of fire or causing injury. If you live in an area which is susceptible to frequent gusty winds, consider using sandbags or bungee cables as anchors for your heaters on patios.
It is recommended to keep a fire-extinguisher near your heater, irrespective of the fuel type. It is crucial to select the correct class of extinguisher according to the fuel used by your heater (Class B for electric Class C for gas or a multipurpose for both). Of course, never leave a heater unattended when it is in use because accidents could happen.
Maintenance
Several patio heater problems occur due to improper use and maintenance procedures. However, you can avoid many of these issues by implementing the basic usage and maintenance best practices. Use a non-abrasive soap clean the heater as well as an air hose for the ventilation holes.
Never use an extension cord with the patio heater. Instead, plug the heater directly into an electrical outlet. The use of an extension cable could cause electrical fires. Also, keep the heater clear of flammable items like curtains and wood.
If your propane patio heater keeps shutting off, you may have gas leak. A professional should check the gas line at least once a yearly for clogs and leaks.
Propane patio heaters need to be stored in a dry, cool location free of rain and wind. When storing, remove the propane tank (it should be empty for storage in the long term) and cover the tank with a protective cover. When not in use, the heater should be kept in a well ventilated area or under a canopy. This will prevent rust and corrosion. It will also keep it from falling over.