Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
Electric heaters that are mounted on the wall are great for rooms with a modern aesthetic. They are simpler to use and are less expensive to operate than propane models.
No matter what their fuel type the patio heaters must be kept away from combustible objects and never left unattended while in use. For more information, refer to these patio heater safety guidelines.
How to Choose the Right Heater
A lot of Australians enjoy having fun and relaxing on their patios. The cold temperatures can however make it difficult to take advantage of these spaces. Patio heaters are efficient and provide targeted heating to increase the use of outdoor spaces throughout the entire year. Selecting the best type of patio heater is crucial for providing the best performance, safety, and style. When making a purchase you must consider a variety of factors, including the requirements for installation as well as the fuel source.
Some types of patio heaters, like wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted models, require professional installation and are permanently anchored in the desired location. Tabletop and freestanding heaters on contrary, provide more flexibility. For example portable electric patio heaters can be moved around different parts of your garden or yard as needed, and some models come with handles for easy maneuvering. For additional convenience, certain portable electric patio heaters are compatible with remote controls for simple operation.
When choosing a patio heater, think about the size of your space and how many people will be using it at once. You'll need a heater that has enough power to warm large areas. Also, you'll need to factor in the amount of time you'll be using the heater per day, since this will determine the power consumption and battery life of your unit.
Depending on the type of patio heater you pick it is also important to consider its fuel source. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and don't generate emissions, while natural gas patio heaters require that your home be plugged in to gas lines. Liquid propane heaters are easy to use and don't need any installation. They aren't the most cost-effective alternative because they must be refueled constantly.
If you have children at home and they may be touching the heater, you need to select a model that has built-in safety features. Find a heater that has an automatic shut-off in the event that it tilts more than an angle, and a flame sensor to prevent accidental sparks. You may also want to purchase a fire extinguisher to have on hand in case of emergencies.
Installation
A freestanding patio heater is an excellent option to extend your outdoor living space past the hottest months of the year. Electric and gas-powered models are available in different 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 can be able to handle when you are making a purchase.
There are many ways to install a patio heater. The most popular way is to use a ceiling-mounted heater. This option is perfect for patios with a covered area, since it doesn't take up any floor space, and also ensures an even distribution of heat.
This mounting option is available on all Bromic Electric heaters. A variety of ceiling mounting rods are offered in order to meet your desired aesthetic as well as to accommodate any height ceiling. If your space has a ceiling that is slanted and you want to add a wedge the pole can allow the heater to be positioned perpendicular to the floor, and still meet the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also mount your patio heater on the wall. You can do this using an array of electric heaters. A range of 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 6 feet above ground level and at a minimum of five feet from any structures that are above the heater.
Propane: These heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks that are easily refillable at most gas stations and convenience stores. They typically produce more heat than electric heaters, but might require a gas line to be installed in your space. They are available as freestanding units or positioned on a structure like a deck, fence or pergola.
Some free-standing models can be adjusted to heating settings, which are helpful if you're hosting guests who want a more or less intense level of warmth. Select patio electric heater with an arrestor that sparks. This will reduce the chance of fires that are caused by uncontrolled combustion.
Safety
While patio heaters add comfort and increase outdoor enjoyment, there are important safety tips to keep in mind. This includes keeping the heater at least three feet away from any materials that could ignite such as furniture or potted plants. Also, it's recommended to put a mat beneath the heater, particularly for decks made of wood.
The kind of heater you choose to use and the fuel source it is using will determine the precautions to take. For example propane gas patio heaters are generally capable of warming a larger area than electric models, but require regular refilling of the tanks and can create carbon monoxide build-up. It is also essential to choose one with features such as an anti-tilt switches and automatic shutoffs to reduce the risk of an accidental fire.
Aside from the types of heaters, the method they are put in place and used also determines their safety. While many patio heaters come with 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 installation options available for each Bromic product series to accommodate different ceiling heights. There are also a variety of longer mounting poles for hanging patio heaters to offer the best safety distance from ceilings, walls and fabrics such as tablecloths or awnings.
To stop them from falling over, freestanding heaters need to be anchored or weighted. Strong winds can cause heaters to blow over or shift even if they are off, posing danger of fire or causing injuries. If you live in a region where there is a lot of gusty weather think about using sandbags or bungee cords to secure your outdoor heaters.
It is recommended to keep a fire extinguisher close to your heater, regardless of fuel type. It is important to choose the right type of extinguisher that is appropriate for the fuel type of your heater (Class B for electric, Class C for gas or a multi-purpose one for both). And, of course do not leave a heater unattended during operation because accidents could happen.
Maintenance
Incorrect maintenance and use procedures are the main cause of patio heater problems. However, you can prevent many of these problems by following some basic maintenance and usage best practices. Use a non-abrasive soap to clean the heater as well as an air hose for ventilation holes.
Never use an extension cable in conjunction with the patio heating device. Plug the heater into an electrical outlet. The use of an extension cable could overload circuits, causing electrical fires. Keep the heater clear of flammable materials like curtains or wood.
If your propane patio heater is constantly shutting off, you could have gas leak. It is a good idea to have a professional inspect the gas line for obstructions or leaks at least every year.
Propane patio heaters should be stored in a cool, dry location free of rain and wind. In the course of storage, disconnect the propane tank (it must be empty for storage in the long term) and cover the tank with a protective cover. Likewise, the heater should be kept in a well-ventilated location or under an umbrella when not in use. This will help prevent corrosion and rust. It also helps prevent it from tipping over.