Champions of electric heaters, La Hacienda are on a mission to get garden retailers (and their customers!) to see electric heaters in a new light. Having recently shared insight into the multiple efficiencies of electric heating, the outdoor heating experts are now outlining the key differences between electric and traditional heating sources, as well as showcasing its full offering ahead of summer 2023.

Fact 1: Electric heat is targeted heat

Many consumers will group electric and gas heaters into the same category as they offer similar heater styles, but when it comes to heating the person the two could not be more different! It is this difference that is seeing so many consumers switch to electric solutions and is something that shopfloor staff should be aware of when helping consumers make purchasing decisions.

Electric heating uses infrared to provide controlled and targeted heat. The process of heating via infrared is the same as that from the sun, using wavelengths that are most efficiently absorbed by our bodies. The heat travels in a straight line from the source allowing it to be aimed directly at the target object without heating the air between. This also means that weather has minimal impact, reducing heat loss and maximising warm, cosy evenings.

By comparison, gas heaters use convection, which only heats the air around them. This means users have to stand within the ‘heat zone’ to feel the benefits, though a gust of wind and the heat can be lost. This combination of convention and weather impact makes gas heaters a far more temperamental outdoor heating solution.

Fact 2: There’s more than one type of heating element

Electric heating can be broken down into three sub-categories, each relating to the different heating elements on offer. Each element offers different heat intensities, which means electric heaters can be tailored for different applications. But not only this, but the use of different heating elements also enables brands such as La Hacienda to create a more defined product hierarchy within the same range, with quartz representing entry-level products and halogen heaters dominating the top end of the offering.

Fact 3: IP ratings should be an important part of the buying decision

We’re probably all familiar with seeing IP ratings on product packaging but do most of us really know what it means, or why it should be an important part of the purchasing process? Worry not as La Hacienda is here to explain all.

What is an IP rating?

Ingress Protection (IP) is a rating system used to determine the level of protection a product has against external factors that can cause damage, such as dust and water. 

What do the numbers mean?

The first number indicates the level of protection against solid objects, whilst the second indicates the level of protection against liquid ingress.

Why does the IP rating matter?

Recognising the meaning of the IP rating means that consumers can make better buying decisions for their personal requirements. Whether it’s protection for little fingers or knowing that the occasional time the heater is left uncovered or in the elements that they will not succumb to dust or water damage, an IP rating offers confidence in the longevity of their purchase.

Light up your outdoor heating sales with La Hacienda’s updated electric heating range

Offering solutions for all garden sizes and consumer needs, La Hacienda proudly offers five unique electric heater collections for the 2023 season: standing, tabletop, hanging, parasol and portable – made up of 18 SKUs with RRPs ranging from £89.99 - £249.99.

Hero products include the Heatmaster polar parasol heater, table-top and freestanding heaters in silver and copper.

The ranges consist of a combination of quartz, carbon fibre and halogen heating elements, which offer differing heat and lighting intensity, and are fully supported by new point of sale displays, available for delivery into store now. These half pallet FSDUs – delivered flat pack – clearly outlines the feature of benefits of electric heating and can stock up to eight products. New lifestyle imagery and updated digital assets have also been made available to retailers, to help them educate and inspire consumers via social media and in-store.

Find out more

To find out how you can start stocking La Hacienda’s 2023 electric heating offering, please visit www.lahacienda.co.uk. The 2023 product catalogue can also be viewed by visiting https://lahacienda.co.uk/catalogue/

Further details about AMES UK can be found at https://ames-uk.com/