Outdoor Living: Time for Backyard Renovations

Nowadays, homeowners are valuing their backyard spaces much more due to the numerous COVID restrictions. Subsequently, backyard renovations are becoming much more common. Even so, harsh climatic conditions can hinder you from making the most out of your outdoor living space. Well, unless you have a reliable heat source in your backyard.

Unquestionably, almost every individual wanted to create a little escapade outside their house due to the COVID travel restrictions reinforced. Several homeowners opted to camp with their loved ones in their backyards. On the other hand, some created a mini staycation by the poolside. And as summer was coming to an end, there was a high demand for outdoor heaters. However, reports say that Dimplex began getting high demand quite earlier. Like any other product, the increased demand for outdoor heaters has led to increased supply.

Jim Bottrell, vice president of business development, states, “At first, it was essential to evaluate the effects of the global pandemic – COVID-19. Thus, we came up with a business strategy that would prevent a drop in our sales and revenues. But to our surprise, we received a lot more demand for our products; and this was unexpected. Unfortunately, our supply could not match up to our demand.” “We suppose that the high demand indisputably comes from homeowners who are fed up with being locked in their homes due to COVID guidelines. I mean, who does not want a mini vacation with their family in their outdoor living space?”

A collection of outdoor living products

Typically, outdoor heaters feature a wide range of backyard products that serve as a heat and warmth source. Some examples include grills or firepits. Such features focus on providing both excellent functionality and aesthetics. Therefore, they can get used in the evening or at night to create a warm and cozy atmosphere in your backyard. Jim Bottrell states that outdoor heaters’ demand creates an opportunity for manufacturers, retailers, and dealers to offer a full package solution. He says, “Majority of homeowners would get lured into buying a product that offers everything they want.”

Jim Bottrell continues to say, “Outdoor kitchens are ideal for offering warmth. However, if there are strong winds, an outdoor kitchen won’t do much for you. And this is where outdoor heaters come in handy. You can install them nearby the lounging areas of your backyard. You can always count on them to provide the required warmth.” Besides, outdoor heaters do not demand much functional space.

“Additionally, it all narrows down to your requirements,” Bottrell says. Let’s say you have an area that is partially enclosed; it is risky to run propane. Moreover, running cables is more straightforward than running gas lines. All in all, it all relies on what you want at the end of the day.”

At Dimplex, several models can get wired at 120V or 240V. Even so, you would instead go for a 240V infrared model.

Contrary to common belief, outdoor heater installation is simple. Nonetheless, conducting a DIY project can be dangerous since there are electrical wires involved. So, it would be best to hire a certified and licensed electrician.

Infrared technology advantage

Over the years, infrared technology has become popular among most individuals. Bottrell says, “One of the main advantages of infrared models is that they heat the objects and not the outdoor living space. So, even when it is windy, the heat will remain, and you’ll be kept warm throughout.” Moreover, infrared technology offers high flexibility; it can get used for both outdoor and indoor spaces.

Bottrell proceeds to say, “You cannot compare and infrared heater with a conventional heater. Conventional heaters provide warmth to the space; thus, immediately you open the door, all the heat escapes. Consequently, they are not as efficient in retaining warmth for a long period. On the other hand, infrared heaters focus on heating the objects and people in the room. So, whenever, you open a door or window, there is no chance of heat escaping. Thus, infrared models retain the heat in a room for long periods.”

The comforting prospect

The COVID 19 pandemic has undoubtedly led to an increase in demand for outdoor heaters. In turn, 2020 posed a challenge to increase match up with this demand. Bottrell is, however, happy about the increased popularity of outdoor heaters. The company is set to introduce a new model that incorporates mounted natural gas heaters and freestanding outdoor heaters.

Bottrell says, “One of our company’s primary objectives is to become fuel-agnostic. Also, we aim to offer different models that cater to a wide range of our consumer’s requirements, from electric systems to water vapor systems.

“The number of a hot tub and pool sales are incredibly mind-blogging. Finally, we get to see something positive out of these products. All in all, there has been a significant rise in the demand and sales for outdoor living products.”