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Love your alfresco entertaining zone? Then enjoy it year-round with the help of an outdoor heater or two! For regular use, think beyond solid fuel – gas and electric models offer reliability and instant, constant heat, with less cleaning and fewer emissions than wood-burning alternatives. Here’s our rundown.
Make your selection according to the area you wish to heat – is it out in the open or under cover? Bunnings national electrical buyer John Campbell explains, “Portable heaters offer flexibility and efficiency, especially in open areas, while fixed heaters might be more suitable for semi-enclosed spaces, due to their directional heat and stability.”
Bottled gas or plug-in electric portable versions come in many different styles and sizes, from the traditional ‘mushroom’ to sleek shapes ideal for a contemporary setting.
Fixed models can be plumbed into your home’s natural gas supply or hardwired, both needing the services of a licensed installer, but they’re great for a long-term option in a covered space you use regularly. They can be mounted high on the wall or from the ceiling for a neat, unobtrusive look, doing away with potential trip hazards and also helping to free up floor space – handy for small areas.
Outdoor heaters work by either directing warmth to objects they’re aimed at (radiant) or warming the air around them (convection).
Radiant heaters offer less heat loss, making them more energy-efficient, says John. To calculate your needs, start by measuring your space to determine the size of the area you want to warm, says the team at Arlec. Next, “Look for the heating capacity. The higher the British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating, the larger the area your unit can effectively heat.”
Safety features, such as tip-over switches, overheating protection and flame-failure devices, are very important. “Even in semi-enclosed spaces, it’s essential to consider the heater’s resistance to the elements,” adds the Arlec team. “Ensure it is suitable for the specific environment, especially if the area is subject to wind or moisture.” Good ventilation when using gas is essential, as are considerations for all heaters such as observing safe clearances, so always check the manufacturer’s safety instructions carefully.
Where you site your heater will affect its heat distribution. For wall-mounted heaters, the ideal height is often around 2.1 to 2.7 metres above the ground. “This allows the heat to spread evenly across the space,” says the Arlec team, who also advise ensuring that the heater is not obstructed by walls, tall furniture or other objects that could impede the flow of heat. “Reflective surfaces can help enhance the heat distribution,” says the team. “If possible, position the heater so that it directs heat toward reflective surfaces like walls or other structures that can bounce the heat back into the space.”
“Generally, electric heaters are considered to be more sustainable than gas due to their higher energy efficiency and lower emissions, even without solar power, as electricity generation continues to transition towards renewable sources,” says John Campbell.
“Consider outdoor heaters with smart thermostat features,” says the Arlec team. “These can automatically adjust the heat output based on the ambient temperature, preventing unnecessary energy consumption. Timers allow you to schedule when the heater operates, ensuring it’s only on when needed.”
Other tips include zone heating – using multiple heaters to heat areas that are actually being used, rather than the whole space – and choosing a model with motion sensors. “These can detect when people are present, activating the heater only when needed,” explains the Arlec team.
Retrofit outdoor bistro blinds for a cosiness boost. If you have a solid structure to hang them from, this can be a D.I.Y. fix, and you can have them cut to fit your space – ask at the Special Orders Desk. Typically made from heavy-duty PVC, bistro blinds provide insulation and protection from the elements while allowing airflow. Avoid using them in strong winds, roll up when not in use and keep away from heaters.
Check out the range of outdoor heaters, for a cosy patio year-round.
Photo Credit: Louise Roche, Peter Mack
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
