A patio heater is an excellent addition to any outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy your patio or deck even when the temperature drops. However, like any other electrical appliance, patio heaters are not immune to issues, and one common problem is a faulty tilt switch.
A tilt switch is a safety feature designed to turn off the patio heater if it is tilted or knocked over. This prevents accidents, such as fires or burns, and ensures the safe use of the heater. However, sometimes the tilt switch can become faulty and cause the heater to shut off unexpectedly, even in an upright position.
This blog post will guide you through fixing a patio heater tilt switch.
Step 1: Turn off the power supply
Before attempting any repairs on your patio heater, it is crucial to turn off the power supply. Unplug the patio heater from the electrical outlet, or turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the heater.
Step 2: Locate the tilt switch
The tilt switch is typically located at the base of the patio heater, near the pole. It is a small, rectangular box with wires connected to it.
Step 3: Test the tilt switch
You will need a multimeter to test if the tilt switch is faulty. Set the multimeter to the continuity mode and touch the probes to the two wires connected to the tilt switch. If the multimeter beeps, it means the switch is working correctly. If there is no beep, the tilt switch is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Step 4: Replace the tilt switch
To replace the tilt switch, disconnect the wires from the faulty switch and reconnect them to the new switch. Make sure to connect the wires correctly, as the switch will not work if connected incorrectly.
Step 5: Test the patio heater
After replacing the tilt switch, plug in the patio heater and turn it on to test if it works correctly. Tilt the heater to see if it turns off, then return it upright to ensure it turns back on.
How Do You Reset A Tilt Switch On A Patio Heater?
Resetting a tilt switch on a patio heater involves a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps:
Step 1: Turn off the power supply
As a safety precaution, turning off the power supply before resetting the tilt switch is essential. Unplug the patio heater from the electrical outlet, or turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the heater.
Step 2: Locate the tilt switch
The tilt switch is typically located at the base of the patio heater, near the pole. It is a small, rectangular box with wires connected to it.
Step 3: Check the position of the patio heater
Check to see if the patio heater is in an upright position. If it is not, return it to an upright position before proceeding with the next step.
Step 4: Reset the tilt switch
To reset the tilt switch, locate the reset button on the switch, typically on the side of the box. Hold the button for a few seconds until you hear a click.
Step 5: Test the patio heater
After resetting the tilt switch, plug in the patio heater and turn it on to test if it works correctly. Tilt the heater to see if it turns off, and then return it to an upright position to ensure it turns back on.
How Does An Anti-Tilt Switch Work On A Patio Heater?
An anti-tilt switch is a safety feature designed to automatically shut off a patio heater if it is tilted or knocked over. The switch is typically located at the base of the patio heater, near the pole.
The anti-tilt switch uses a small metal ball or pendulum inside the switch housing. When the patio heater is upright, the ball or pendulum rests on a contact that allows electrical current to flow through the switch and power the heater.
However, when the patio heater is tilted or knocked over, the ball or pendulum will move and break the contact, interrupting the flow of electrical current and causing the heater to shut off automatically.
The anti-tilt switch aims to prevent accidents, such as fires or burns, by ensuring that the patio heater is only operating when it is in an upright and stable position. This safety feature is crucial for outdoor spaces, where wind, pets, or children can knock over a patio heater.
Conclusion
A faulty tilt switch on a patio heater can be a safety hazard and needs to be fixed promptly. With these simple steps, you can easily fix a faulty tilt switch and ensure the safe use of your patio heater. Always prioritize safety and turn off the power supply before attempting any repairs.