The Bromic Tungsten Gas heater delivers 40,000 BTUs of heat for spaces up to 200 sq ft, featuring smart wireless control and versatile mounting options. pnwliving praised its performance and design, though noted the complexity of installation and the requirement for both gas and electric connections. The unit's heat deflectors tend to discolor quickly from heat exposure, and assembly can be labor-intensive requiring professional help. This heater is ideal for large covered patios or outdoor living spaces where reliable, directional heat is needed.
Full review
Directional heat performance
The Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat gas heaters utilize a directional heat technology designed to focus warmth in a specific area rather than dispersing it omnidirectionally. This approach reduces heat waste in open-sided structures and enhances efficiency. The 500 series model produces 43,000 BTUs and covers up to 215 square feet when properly mounted with heat deflectors. Users report that this focused heating creates a comfortable microclimate in their outdoor spaces, particularly in covered patios where ambient temperature can drop significantly during cooler months. The system's ability to direct heat toward designated seating areas makes it ideal for entertaining and extended outdoor use.
In practical testing, the directional heat feature proves effective when the heaters are positioned correctly with heat deflectors installed. The 500 series unit is rated for 215 square feet, which aligns with user experiences in medium to large covered patios. One reviewer noted that the heaters work exceptionally well in a 225 square foot space, requiring three units for adequate coverage. The heat deflectors, while necessary for proper clearance from combustible materials, do require careful installation to ensure optimal performance and safety. The technology allows for mounting closer to eaves or ceilings, which maximizes space utilization while maintaining safety standards.
Installation complexity and requirements
Installation of the Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat gas heaters requires significant planning and professional assistance due to their weight and mounting requirements. The units are heavy, and when combined with ceiling mount arms and heat deflectors, the total weight necessitates structural reinforcement in many cases. One reviewer noted that they had to reinforce their wood ceiling to safely support the heaters, highlighting the importance of pre-installation structural assessment. The ceiling mount arms come in various heights, allowing for customization to fit specific ceiling configurations but also adding bulk to the overall appearance.
The installation process involves running both gas and electrical connections to each heater, which adds to the complexity and cost. Users must ensure adequate gas capacity and potentially upgrade their gas meter to accommodate new appliances. A gas audit is recommended to determine if additional infrastructure work is required. The electrical component requires standard 110V/2A outlets, which must be accessible for each unit. One reviewer mentioned spending considerable time trying to program the wireless remote, which ultimately proved unsuccessful, indicating that setup can be challenging even for experienced users.
Mounting options and design flexibility
The Bromic Tungsten series offers multiple mounting options including ceiling, wall, and recessed installations, providing flexibility for various outdoor spaces. The 500 series model supports ceiling mounting with adjustable pole options ranging from 9.69 inches to 41.18 inches in height, allowing users to customize the installation to their specific ceiling heights and clearance requirements. Wall mounting is also supported, offering an alternative for spaces where ceiling installation is not feasible or desired. The recessed mounting option provides a flush fit that minimizes visual impact while maximizing heat distribution.
The design of the heaters features a matte black finish that complements modern outdoor aesthetics. The sleek and stylish appearance makes the units suitable for luxury residential patios and commercial applications. The compact form factor allows for discreet installation without dominating the visual space, particularly when ceiling-mounted with appropriate poles. The inclusion of brackets and mounting hardware simplifies the installation process, though professional assistance is often recommended for complex installations involving multiple units or structural modifications.
Control and smart integration
The Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat gas heaters support both on/off control and dimmer control through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling precise heat adjustment via the Bromic Heating App. This smart integration allows users to customize comfort settings and create different heating scenes for various occasions. The dimmer controllers can adjust heat output down to 1% increments, providing fine-tuned control over the heating experience. The system supports up to 50 heaters per channel, making it scalable for larger installations. However, the lack of a physical remote control is a notable limitation, as users must rely entirely on smartphone app functionality for operation.
While the smart features provide convenience and flexibility, some users have encountered difficulties with remote programming. One reviewer reported spending considerable time attempting to configure the wireless remote without success, ultimately leaving it unused as a decorative object. The app-based control system requires a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection, which may not be available in all outdoor environments. Despite these challenges, the smart integration remains a significant advantage for users who value automated control and can navigate the app interface effectively.
Durability and weather resistance
The Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat gas heaters are rated IP55 for weatherproofing, indicating protection against dust and water ingress. This rating ensures reliable performance in outdoor environments, including exposure to rain and humidity. The matte black stainless steel construction provides durability and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for long-term outdoor use. The units are designed for permanent outdoor installation, with features that maintain functionality even under challenging weather conditions.
The heat deflectors, while necessary for safety clearance, are prone to discoloration over time due to exposure to heat and exhaust. One reviewer noted that the deflectors gradually change from shiny silver to a darker, more matte finish, which may affect the aesthetic appeal. However, the overall construction remains robust, with no reported issues with structural integrity or performance degradation. The wind resistance capability of up to 8mph allows for reliable operation in moderate wind conditions, though extreme weather may require additional protective measures.
Performance in residential settings
In residential applications, the Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat gas heaters provide excellent performance for year-round outdoor use, particularly in covered patios where ambient temperatures can drop significantly. The 500 series model, with its 43,000 BTU output, effectively heats spaces up to 215 square feet, making it suitable for medium to large covered areas. Users have reported that the heaters maintain consistent performance throughout the year, providing reliable warmth during cooler months without requiring frequent refueling or maintenance.
The system's performance is particularly notable in spaces where traditional heating methods are impractical or undesirable. One reviewer noted that the heaters replaced the need for portable propane heaters, eliminating the hassle of refilling tanks and lighting awkward portable units. The quick heat-up time and consistent output make the units ideal for entertaining and extended outdoor activities. The ability to control multiple units through a single app interface enhances convenience for larger spaces, allowing users to adjust heating levels based on occupancy and weather conditions.
Strengths
- +Produces 40,000 BTUs of heat for large coverage area of 200 sq ft
- +Compatible with smart wireless technology for convenient control
- +Matte black stainless steel construction for durable, attractive appearance
- +Directional heat output with optional heat shield for mounting near eaves or ceilings
- +Wall and ceiling mounting options provide flexible installation
Watch-outs
- −Requires both gas and electric power connections
- −Assembly and installation can be time-consuming and heavy
- −Heat deflectors discolor quickly from heat exposure
How it compares
The Bromic Tungsten Gas excels with its smart wireless technology and versatile mounting options, features not found in the AZ or Member's Mark models, though it requires both gas and electric connections unlike the simpler propane-only units like the Pamapic or Amazon Basics. It's more complex to install than the Mainstays or Enders Polo 2.0 but offers superior directional heat control.
Rating sources
“I believe the Bromic Platinum is the best outdoor heater on the market right now when you consider both looks and performance.”
Our 4.0 score is the average of the 1 scored review above; 4 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
