Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
Electric heaters mounted on the wall are ideal for spaces that have a distinctive aesthetic. They are easier to use and cheaper to operate than propane heaters.
No matter what fuel type regardless of the type of fuel, patio heaters should be kept away from combustible objects and never left unattended while in use. Check out these safety tips for patio heaters for more information.
Selecting the Right Heater
Outdoor living spaces are popular among Australian homeowners, with a large number of people using their patios as an ideal place to relax, entertain and unwinding. The cold temperatures can however make it difficult to make the most of these spaces. Patio heaters offer effective, targeted heating to increase the usage of outdoor areas throughout the entire year. Selecting the best type of patio heater is crucial for making sure you get the best performance, safety, and style. When making a purchase you must consider a variety of aspects, including 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 you are looking for a patio heater, take into consideration the size of your space and how many people will use it at one time. You'll require a heater with enough power to heat a large area. You'll also want to take into consideration the amount of time each day you'll need to use the heater. This will affect the battery life and power consumption of the unit.
Depending on the kind of patio heater you choose, you'll also need to consider the fuel source. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and don't produce 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. However, their need for constant fueling makes them the least economical option.
In addition, if there are children at home, who might touch the heater, you need to select a model that has built-in safety features. Look for a heater with an automatic shut-off when it is tilted beyond the specified angle, and a flame sensor to stop accidental ignition. You may want to purchase a fire extinguisher for emergencies.
Installation
A freestanding patio heater is an excellent way to extend your outdoor living space past the hottest times of the year. Electric and gas-powered models are available in various designs. It is crucial to keep in mind the amount of heat you will need for your patio and how much weight your freestanding heater can withstand when making a purchase.
There are several ways to install an outdoor heater. The most popular way is to use a ceiling mounted heater. This is the best option for covered patios as it doesn't compromise floor space and provides a consistent distribution of heat across the entire area.
This mounting option is available for all Bromic's Electric heater series and a variety of ceiling mounting poles are available to meet your specific style and to fit any ceiling height. If your home has a ceiling that slopes by adding a wedge to the pole will allow the heater be placed perpendicular to the floor, and still meet the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also place your heater on the wall. It is possible to do this with an array of electric heaters. A assortment of mounting brackets are available for each model. The brackets for our Platinum and Tungsten Electric heaters can be placed at a 15 or 45 degree angle, which varies according to the specific model at a height of 6 feet above the ground and at least 5 feet away from structures that are above the heater.
Propane Heating: These heaters are powered by 20-pound propane tanks, which are refilled easily at all gas stations and convenience shops. They generally produce more heat than electric heaters, but may require an gas line to be installed in your area. These heaters can be purchased as free-standing units or mounted on a structure such as a fence, deck or pergola.
Some free-standing models can be adjusted to temperature settings, which can be helpful if you're hosting guests who want a more or less intense degree of warmth. If you're considering a free-standing propane patio heater, make sure to choose one with a spark arrestor, as they are designed to decrease the chance of fires due to uncontrolled combustion of explosive materials.
Safety
Patio heaters are a great way to extend your outdoor enjoyment and add comfort. However, they also pose some safety concerns. For instance, keep the heater at least three feet away from any combustible material such as furniture or potted plants. Also, it's recommended to place a protective mat underneath the heater, particularly for decks made of wood.
The kind of heater and the fuel source will determine the exact safety guidelines to be followed. 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 essential to choose a model with features like the anti-tilt switch as well as automatic shutoffs that minimize the possibility of a fire.
Apart from the different types of heaters, the method they are installed and operated also determines their safety. While many patio heaters come with built-in safety features, it's best to follow the instructions of the manufacturer for optimum performance and security. If you want to mount 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 longer mounting poles available to hang patio heaters which provide the ideal safe distance from walls and ceilings as well as fabrics such tablecloths and awnings.
To avoid them falling over, free-standing heaters need to be weighted or anchored. Even when the heaters are turned off, strong winds could cause them to shift or roll over, causing an injury or fire risk. If you live in a place where there is a lot of gusty weather think about using bungee cords or sandbags to anchor your patio heaters.
electric patio heater free standing is recommended to keep a fire-extinguisher near your heater, regardless of fuel type. It is essential to select the correct class of extinguisher based on the fuel used by your heater (Class B for electric, Class C for gas, or a multi-purpose for both). Of course don't leave your heater unattended while in operation, as accidents can happen.
Maintenance
A variety of issues with patio heaters arise due to improper usage and maintenance procedures. You can avoid a lot of these problems by following a few simple guidelines for usage and maintenance. Use a non-abrasive soap clean the heater as well as an air hose for vent holes.
Never use an extension cable for the patio heater. Instead you should plug the heater directly into a standard electrical outlet. Using an extension cord can over-charge circuits and create electrical fires. Keep the heater away from combustibles such as curtains or wood.
If your propane patio heater is constantly shutting off, you could have gas leak. A professional should examine the gas line at least once a year for leaks and clogs.
Propane patio heaters need to be stored in a dry, cool location away from wind and rain. When storing, remove the propane tank (it needs to be empty for storage in the long term) and wrap the tank in a protective cover. The heater should be kept in a well-ventilated area or placed under a protective umbrella when not in use. This will help prevent rust and corrosion. It also helps to prevent it from tipping over.