Homeowners are being advised on the do’s and don’ts when it comes to using outdoor patio heaters this winter.
Garden design experts from Pergolux UK have shared their top tips to ensure safety when using outdoor heaters in the garden.
As we approach spring, people will be looking to get back into their gardens and make the most of their outdoor space.
Patio heaters can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors even if it’s still a little chilly out.
They provide warmth and ambiance and can even be a great addition to outdoor structures like a pergola and covered patios.
But it is important to make sure that they are used safely and placed appropriately, as they can pose significant fire and electrical risks.
Garden design expert Sam Stevens from Pergolux UK says: “Outdoor heaters can be a great addition to the garden and can help you make year round use of your outdoor space.
“But it is important to follow all safety instructions as they can pose a fire risk if you aren’t careful.
“Some heaters like ours can be installed directly in the pergola, or on the wall of your house. But if you’re using a free-standing one then make sure it’s on a level surface.
“A regular clean will prevent build up of dust and debris as well, as this can cause heaters to overheat when they’re in use.
“And never move your heater whilst it’s on or just after it has been turned off. Wait for it to cool down otherwise you could cause yourself serious burns.”
Do’s and don’ts of using your patio heater:
Do
- Do follow all safety instructions and manuals carefully. Different manufacturers can have varying instructions, so it is important you follow them correctly.
- Do ensure that the socket you are using is weatherproof if you are plugging your heater into an outdoor socket that is going to be exposed to different weather conditions.
- Do make sure that the length of the cable is adequate so your heater can easily be placed in a suitable position, and that cables are kept tidy to avoid any trip hazards.
- Do place your heater on a level surface. Avoid placing it on grassy and uneven areas in your garden. If you live in an area where your heater could be exposed to wind, then make sure that it is weighted down or anchored as well to reduce the risk of it toppling over.
- Do keep your heater cleaned regularly. This will help to reduce the build up of any debris or dirt, which over time can cause your heater to overheat and become a fire hazard.
Don’t
- Don’t use your patio heater with a standard extension lead. Extension leads are not designed to handle the electrical current required to power a patio heater and can overheat and cause an electrical fire.
- Don’t cover your patio heater whilst it is in use. Wait until it has cooled down fully.
- Don’t place anything directly above or below your heater.Always refer to the manufacturers instructions to determine the safe distance the heater can be placed from other objects.
- Don’t use your heater if any of the wires or plug fixtures are damaged or worn out as this could pose a massive fire risk.
- Don’t move your patio heater whilst it is still on or whilst it is still cooling down. You can cause severe burns to yourself by doing so.
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