Heatstrip · Installation
Heatstrip Plug-In vs Hardwired: Which Install You Actually Need
Heatstrip models up to 2400W come with a plug and can be installed DIY. Models at 3200W+ are hardwired-only and require a licensed electrician.
By Reed · Updated November 10, 2026
What you need
Plug vs hardwired by model
- THH1800A (Classic 1800W)
- PLUG. DIY install allowed. 7.5A current.
- THH2400A (Classic 2400W)
- PLUG. DIY install allowed. 10A current.
- THH3200A (Classic 3200W)
- HARDWIRED. Licensed electrician required. 13.5A current.
- THX2400 (Max 2400W)
- PLUG. DIY install allowed. 10A current.
- THX3600 (Max 3600W)
- HARDWIRED. Licensed electrician required. 15A current.
- Lead length
- 1000 mm (~39 inches) on all models
Step by step
Confirm which model you have
Model code is on the spec label or box. THH3200A and THX3600 are hardwired. All others are plug-in.
For plug-in models: verify your outlet
You need a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet within 1000 mm (39 inches) of the mounting point. If not present, have an electrician add one — $200-$400 typically.
For hardwired models: engage a licensed electrician
3200W draws 13.5A, 3600W draws 15A. Dedicated circuit per heater is standard — don't share circuits with other appliances. Licensed sign-off is a code + warranty requirement.
Check panel capacity before committing
Each hardwired Heatstrip + a dedicated circuit means a free breaker slot in your panel. Full panel = panel upgrade required ($400-$800 typical).
Common mistakes
- Buying 3200W/3600W and running an extension cord to a garage outlet. Hardwired units DON'T have a plug. You can't retrofit one safely. If you can't do hardwired, downsize to 2400W.
- Hanging a plug-in heater but not GFCI-protecting the outlet. Code violation + insurance risk. Outdoor GFCI is not optional; it's the baseline.
Hands-on tips
- Price the electrician BEFORE committing to the hardwired SKU. Sometimes buying two 2400W plug-in units costs less installed than one 3600W hardwired.
- For a covered patio: you can run the plug-in unit's cable to an outlet mounted on an adjacent wall. For a pergola with no walls: hardwired is usually the only option.
Questions people ask
Can I plug a Heatstrip into a standard 15A home outlet?
Yes for 1800W and 2400W models (they draw 7.5A and 10A respectively — within a 15A circuit's margin). A 3200W Heatstrip would exceed safe load even on a 15A plug-in outlet — hence the hardwired design.
What voltage do Heatstrip heaters run at?
Australian/UK models run at 220-240V. US distribution models are rated accordingly — confirm the spec label matches your supply before install.
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