It's that time of year again when the weather starts to cool down, and you think about firing up your patio heater. But before you do, you should keep a few things in mind to ensure you're using your patio heater safely. Here are some tips for safe patio heater use:

Purchase a quality patio heater

This is probably the most important tip. A quality patio heater will have features like an automatic shut-off if it tips over and durable construction that can withstand the elements. Units such as the firestick outdoor gas heater are high-quality heaters that provide fantastic heat and will last for many years with proper maintenance and care. Cheaper units may save you money upfront, but they typically have poorer energy efficiency and build quality, which may cost you more in the future.

Read your manual

Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before using your natural gas patio heater for the first time. This will help you understand how the heater works and what safety precautions you need to take. Your manual is also a valuable resource for learning how to disassemble your home patio heater for storage or moving. If a professional is installing your unit for you, ask as many questions as possible, and ask where he gets his information from so you can refer back to it at any time.

Check for clearance

This may be an obvious point but always remember to keep the patio heater away from flammable materials such as furniture, curtains, or clothing. If possible, position the heater in an open area away from walls or other objects. Disasters can happen anytime, so you must remain aware and proactive about minimising the risk around you.

Use it on a level surface

Patio heater safety should always be a priority. Making sure your patio heater is stable, and on a level surface will help prevent it from tipping over. Be especially careful when using the patio heater on a deck or balcony where there may be an uneven surface. If you're going "off-road" with a portable heater, refer to the manual to ensure it's suitable for other types of terrains like dirt. Anything too loose, like sand, is generally a bad idea.

Don't leave it unattended

This should go without saying, but never leave your patio heater unattended while in use. If you have to leave the area for any reason, make sure to turn off the heater first. You can never predict when an accident could happen, so it's best to mitigate the chances as much as possible.

Always supervise children and pets

This is another important safety precaution to keep in mind. While all our patio heaters are child-safe, children and pets should never be left alone near a patio heater. Not only could they accidentally knock the heater over, but they could also get burned by the heat.

With these tips in mind, you can safely enjoy the warm embrace of your patio heater all season long! Remember to use common sense and be vigilant, and you and your family will stay safe and cozy all winter.

If you need more tips or have any questions about patio heater safety, feel free to contact us! We're always happy to help.