They are one of the most popular additions to any outdoor space, be it a patio, decking or pergola.
And in winter especially, a patio heater is a brilliant way to keep warm in your garden even when the weather is still cold, turning a seating area into a cosy space.
But garden experts are warning that patio heaters can be dangerous if you don’t power them correctly, even leading to fires.
Given that patio heaters are often sat on wooden decking, or next to wood furniture, pergolas or fences, a fire caused by your patio heater could be extremely bad news.
Experts at Pergolux UK have said that if you use an electric patio heater with a standard extension lead, it could overheat and catch fire.
This is because extension leads are not designed to withstand the kind of electrical current patio heaters need, which could lead to overheating.
Similarly, you need to check over all the wiring on your patio heater, especially as they are left outside for weeks on end exposed to the elements, as any damage to the wiring or plug fixtures ‘could pose a massive fire risk’.
They said: “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 manufacturer’s 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.”
Garden design expert Sam Stevens from Pergolux UK adds: “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.”
This advice is backed up by Electrical Safety First, which also urges households to check to make sure the electrical outlet they use outside is weather-proof too.
Outdoor plugs should have a splashproof/water resistance rating to ensure they’re safe to carry current even in wet and rainy conditions. Failing to do so could lead to electrical fires too.
They said: “If you are plugging your patio heater into an outside socket exposed to various weather conditions, ensure that you have a splashproof/weatherproof socket.
“Ensure that there is an adequate length of cable so that the heater can reach an adequately positioned socket-outlet and if its outside ensure that it is adequately IP rated. Do not use your patio heater with an extension lead.
“Any socket you plan to use to plug in a patio heater should have RCD (residual current device) Protection. An RCD is a life-saving device that protects against dangerous electric shock and reduces the risk of electrical fires. If you don’t have RCD protection in your fuse box for your sockets, consider using an RCD plug to protect you and your property from serious appliance faults.”
