Will Patio Heater Electric Always Rule The World?
Choosing a Patio Heater Electric
For spaces with a focus on design and want to maintain a sleek, minimalist appearance, electric heaters for walls are the best option. They are simple to operate and less expensive to operate than propane models.
Regardless of fuel type regardless of the type of fuel, patio heaters should be kept away from flammable objects and should never be left unattended while in use. Take a look at these tips for safety on patio heaters for more details.
How to Select the Best Heater
Outdoor living spaces are a favorite among Australian homeowners, with many homeowners using their patios as a place to unwind, relax and unwinding. The cool temperatures can however make it difficult to take advantage of these spaces. Patio heaters provide efficient, targeted heating to increase the usage of outdoor areas throughout the year. It is important to choose the correct patio heater for maximum performance, safety, and style. When you are making a purchase you must consider a variety of aspects, including the installation requirements and fuel source.
Certain patio heaters require a professional installation. They are permanently fixed. Tabletop and freestanding heaters provide more flexibility. For electricpatio heater can be moved to different parts of your garden or yard as needed, and some models have handles for easy maneuvering. For additional convenience, certain portable electric patio heaters work with remote controls to make for easy operation.
When you are looking for a patio heater, take into consideration the size of your area and how many people will be using it at any given time. A large space requires more power than smaller ones, so you'll need to choose the model that has enough wattage for adequate heating. Similarly, you'll want to factor in the number of hours you intend to use the heater in a typical day, since this will determine the power consumption and battery life of your unit.
Depending on the type of patio heater you choose you'll also have to consider the fuel source. Electric patio heaters are powered by electricity and don't generate emissions, whereas natural gas patio heaters require your home be plugged in to gas lines. Liquid propane heaters are easy to use and don't require any installation. They are the most expensive alternative because they must be constantly refueled.
Additionally, if there are children at home, who might touch the heater, it's crucial to choose a model with built-in safety features. Choose a heater that has an automatic shut-off if it tilts beyond a certain angle, and a fire sensor to avoid accidental sparks. You may want to purchase an extinguisher in case of emergency.
Installation
A free-standing patio heating unit can be a great option to extend the use of your outdoor space beyond the most pleasant seasons. Electric and gas-powered models are available in different styles. It is essential to keep in mind the amount of heat you need for your patio and the weight your freestanding heater can stand up to when purchasing.
There are several ways to install an outdoor heater. The most popular method is with a ceiling-mounted heater. This is the best option for patios with covered areas since it doesn't sacrifice floor-space and ensures a uniform distribution of heat across the entire area.
This mounting option is available for all Bromic's Electric heater series and a range of ceiling mounting poles are available to meet your specific style and to accommodate any ceiling height. If your space has an angled ceiling, adding a wedge onto the pole will permit the heater to be positioned perpendicularly to the floor while still being able to meet the minimum clearance requirements.
You can also put your patio heater on the wall. You can do this with a wide range 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 between 15 and 45 degrees, depending on the model. They should be positioned at least 6 feet above the ground and at a minimum of five feet from any structures above the heater.
Propane: These heaters use 20-pound propane tanks which are easily refillable at most gas stations and convenience stores. They typically produce more heat than electric heaters, however they may require an gas line to be installed in your area. These heaters can be purchased as freestanding units or positioned on a structure like a fence, deck or pergola.
Certain freestanding models come with adjustable heating settings, which are useful if you're hosting guests who require a greater or less intense amount of warmth. If you're opting for a freestanding propane patio heater, be certain to select a model with a spark arrestor, as they are designed to decrease the chance of fires due to the uncontrolled combustion of flammable materials.
Safety
Patio heaters can be ideal for extending your outdoor time and add comfort. However, they can also create safety issues. Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from combustible items, such as potted plants and furniture. It is also recommended to put a mat of protection under the heater, especially for wooden decks.
The kind of heater and the fuel source will determine the specific safety guidelines to be followed. For instance, propane gas patio heaters are generally capable of warming a greater area than electric models, however they require regular refilling of tanks and could cause carbon monoxide accumulation. Additionally, it is crucial to select a model that is UL or CSA certified and includes features like anti-tilt switch and automatic shutoffs that reduce the risk of 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 safety features, it is best to follow the directions of the manufacturer to ensure maximum performance and security. If you want to mount your heaters on the ceiling or wall there are a range of options for installation available for each Bromic product line to fit different ceiling heights. There are also longer mounting poles available for hanging patio heaters which will provide the perfect distance between ceilings and walls as well in fabrics such as tablecloths and awnings.
Freestanding heaters must be secured or weighted to prevent them from falling over. Even when the heaters are off, strong winds may cause them to move or roll over, causing a fire hazard or injury. If you live in a region that is prone to frequent gusty winds, consider using sandbags or bungee cables as anchors for your heaters on patios.
Whatever the type of fuel it is recommended to have an extinguisher in your home for emergencies. It is important to choose the right type of extinguisher that is appropriate for your heater's fuel (Class B for electric, Class C for gas or a multi-purpose one for both). Also do not leave a heater unattended during operation because accidents could happen.
Maintenance
Several patio heater problems occur due to improper use and maintenance procedures. However, you can avoid the majority of these issues by following some basic usage and maintenance best practices. Wash the heater regularly with an unabrasive detergent. You can also use an air hose to clear the ventilation holes.
Do not use an extension cable with an outdoor heating device. Instead, plug the heater directly into an electrical outlet. The use of an extension cable could overload circuits, causing electrical fires. Also, keep the heater away from combustible materials such as curtains and wood.
You could have an issue with your propane patio heater is constantly shutting down. It is a good idea to have a professional inspect the gas line for obstructions or leaks at least once per year.
Propane patio heaters must be stored in a cool, dry location away from rain and wind. When storing, disconnect the propane tank (it needs to be empty for long-term storage) and wrap the tank in a cover. The heater should be stored in a ventilated area or under an umbrella when not in use. This will prevent corrosion and rust. This will also keep it from falling over.