Key Takeaways
Bromic electric heaters are hardwired and need a controller. You can pick a simple on/off switch or a dimmer for variable heat.
- On/off control runs a heating zone at full output or turns it off.
- A dimmer lets you dial heat output up or down.
- Both Smart-Heat controllers work with Bromic Platinum Electric and Tungsten Electric heaters.
- Pick the channel count by your number of heating zones.
- On/off controllers start at $370. Dimmer controllers start at $785.
How Bromic Smart-Heat control options differ
The choice comes down to how much adjustment you want once the heaters are installed. On/off gives you full output or nothing. A dimmer lets you set the heat anywhere in between.
On/off control: full output or off
The Bromic Smart-Heat On/Off Controller switches each heating zone on or off. There is no dimming. It is the simplest way to run your Bromic heaters.
Dimmer control: variable heat output
The Bromic Smart-Heat Dimmer Controller gives your electric Bromic heaters variable output. You can run a gentle background warmth early in the evening and turn it up as it cools. The dimmer is for electric heaters only.
Which heaters they work with
Both controllers work with the Bromic Platinum Electric and Tungsten Electric patio heaters. Each controller uses a wireless wall remote with a range of up to 100 ft. Your electrician installs the controller alongside the heaters.
Controller prices and channels
Each channel controls one heating zone. You can put any number of heaters on a zone, as long as the total stays within that channel's capacity.
| Channels (capacity) | On/Off Controller | Dimmer Controller |
|---|---|---|
| 1 channel (6kW) | $370 | $785 |
| 2 channels (12kW) | $567 | $1,233 |
| 5 channels (30kW) | $2,106 | $4,202 |
To choose, count your heating zones first, then pick the channel count. For example, two heaters on one wall can share a single channel.
Start with the heater
The listed electric heaters range from 2,000 to 6,000 W and from $798 to $2,936. All of them are hardwired for 220–240V.
| Heater model | Power | Listed price | Stated coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tungsten | 2,000 W | $798 | 65 sq ft |
| Tungsten | 6,000 W | $1,161 | 160 sq ft |
| Platinum black | 2,300 W | $1,527 | 65 sq ft |
| Platinum black | 4,500 W | $2,761 | 143 sq ft |
If you are still choosing a heater, our electric patio heater buying guide covers wattage, voltage, mounting height and clearances.
When on/off control is the better fit
On/off suits zones with a clear purpose and steady heat needs. For example, you heat the dining area when guests arrive and switch it off when they leave. If full output feels right whenever the zone is on, you do not need a dimmer.
When a dimmer makes sense
A dimmer helps when the same space feels different from one evening to the next. Mild nights, changing weather or people moving between areas all call for different heat levels. A lower setting gives you less heat, but do not assume energy use drops by the same percentage.
Plan your zones
Group heaters by how you use the space, such as dining and lounging. Ask yourself a few questions:
- Which areas do you use at the same time?
- Does each area need a different amount of heat?
- Who will run the controls during a typical evening?
Your answers set the number of zones, and that sets the channel count. Share the plan and your heater models with your electrician before the install.
Conclusion
Choose on/off for simple full-output heat at the lower price. Choose the dimmer if you will regularly want something between full output and off. Count your zones, pick the channel count, and your electrician installs it alongside the heater.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bromic electric heaters come with a controller?
No. The hardwired Bromic heaters need a separate Smart-Heat controller, either on/off or dimmer.
Which heaters work with the Smart-Heat controllers?
Both the On/Off and the Dimmer Controller work with Bromic Platinum Electric and Tungsten Electric heaters.
How many channels do I need?
One channel per heating zone. Several heaters can share a channel as long as they stay within its capacity.
Does dimming save energy in the same proportion?
Do not assume a proportional relationship. A lower setting reduces heat output, but actual energy use depends on your setup.
Is the dimmer always the better choice?
No. If full-output heat meets your needs, the on/off controller is simpler and costs less.