With winter nearly upon us, it can be tempting to hibernate inside, but with Bunnings' range of stylish and practical outdoor heaters you can continue to enjoy your outdoor area year-round.

Bunnings National Leisure Buyer, Cameron Rist, provides his top tips on choosing an outdoor heater and making the most of your outdoor area this winter:

- Do your research. Different sizes and styles of heaters are suited to different outdoor environments. Head into your nearest Bunnings to talk to an expert team member about which model is right for your outdoor space.

- Just because summer's over doesn't mean outdoor entertaining has to stop. On top of your new heater, update the outdoor area with innovative accessories such as a pizza oven, barbecue or outdoor lighting.

- Invite a group of friends over and enjoy the outdoors this winter. Outdoor heaters are a great entertaining accessory, keeping guests warm and comfortable while they wine and dine during the cooler months.

- To keep the heat in, Bunnings has a wide range of clear bistro style blinds that are easy to D.I.Y. install. These blinds will keep the weather out without disturbing your view.

- Always remember to switch off heaters when not in use. This will save energy bill costs and limit the amount of power or gas being used.

- Before reigniting the outdoor heater, check the gas cylinder supply. Bunnings offer a Gas Swap service where customers can drop off their empty nine kilogram cylinder and pickup a replacement full bottle. Bunnings also offer a gas delivery service, visit www.bunnings.com.au/services or call 1300 GAS SWAP (1300 427 792) for further information.

For more information on Bunnings' range of outdoor heaters and accessories, please visit www.bunnings.com.au.

1 - Large Tibor Chapala Chimenea (3170115) - Add a touch of Mexico to the home with this authentic, hand-made Chapala. The 106 centimetre high design will add a great ambience to any outdoor area and comes complete with a sturdy stand allowing it to be repositioned with ease.

2 - Chimenea Cast Iron Chapala (3180140) - This full cast iron construction provides more than just warmth. The versatile Chapala also comes complete with a barbecue and conversion grill so you can cook up delicious treats for guests while staying warm throughout the night.

3 - Brazier Fire Pit (3170312) - The Brazier fire pit is perfect for outdoor entertaining across the cooler months and can be used as an outdoor heater or barbecue. Complete with mesh for resisting sparks, the 58 centimetre high steel construction is made from high temperature resistant powder coating for added durability.

4 - Rustic Fire Pit (3170607) - Bring a touch of the countryside to your home with this homely fire pit,
perfect for creating an outback experience on cool winter nights. The 20 centimetre high solid construction is made from rusted steel and is ideal for small balconies or larger outdoor settings.

5 - Outdoor Gas Heater (3170505) - Whether it's for celebrations, barbecues, family gatherings or nights relaxing in the backyard, this outdoor gas heater is ideal for winter and will warm any area of up to 17 square metres. The easy-to-transport construction comes complete with a safety 'tip over' switch, wheels for easy transportation and a large heat reflector.

6 - Jumbuck Silver Powder Coated Gas Heater (3170611) - Standing at 126 centimetres tall, this gas heater is a stylish addition to outdoor entertaining. Warming up to 12 square metres, the powder coated steel construction comes with a safety guard, wheels and easy one step ignition.

7 - Fire Pit Steel Jumbuck (3170324) - If it's a traditional heater you're looking for, you can't go past this classic fire pit. The 'old English' design has a steel frame construction and powder coated steel mesh screen for added protection from sparks, ensuring the whole family can enjoy the warming flames.

8 - Bistro Blinds (1280018) - This weather-resistant, clear bistro blind is perfect for the cooler months as it traps heat into your outdoor area and protects outdoor furniture from rain, hail and wind. For sizes and installation details, visit your nearest Bunnings and talk to one of our helpful team members.

9 - Heater Acc Cover (3170673) - The best way to protect outdoor furniture from mother nature this winter is with a heavy duty cover. This UV, water, rot and mildew resistant cover comes with an elastic draw string and toggle for easy application and removal.

For more information on Bunnings' range of outdoor heaters and accessories, please visit www.bunnings.com.au.

- Ends -

For further information, please contact:

Emily Andrews at Professional Public Relations

Ph: (03) 8643 1627

Email: emily.andrews@ppr.com.au