Selecting an Outdoor Heater For Your Patio Electric
When selecting an outdoor heater for your patio electric it is essential to consider several factors including style and functionality. Security should always be the top priority.
Freestanding and tabletop patio heaters can be set up by anyone, however wall-mounted heaters or those that are mounted on the ceiling require an electrician to ensure proper installation. Be sure to review the manufacturer's instructions for installation and maintenance.
Safety Features
Whether you're using a gas or electric patio heater your safety and your guests must be priority number one. It is crucial to leave enough space between the heater and any other objects like furniture or carpets. A minimum of 3 feet on all sides should be free of flammable objects to minimize the risk of fire. It's also important to monitor the heat emitted from the device, and to avoid placing anything near it. Heat radiation can cause serious burns when it comes in contact with objects. Unexpected heating movements could cause fire hazards.
Propane, natural gas and electric patio heaters are available in different shapes and sizes, and their power source can influence how they're utilized. For instance propane and natural gas heaters require adequate ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning as well as Nitric Oxide/nitrogen dioxide accumulation. It is for this reason that you should not use a gas heater indoors regardless of the fuel type it is using.
Electric patio heaters are a more secure alternative, as they typically have a sturdy base and an automatic shut-off if the unit falls over or no longer sits on the flat surface. The heater will also shut off when it becomes too hot. It is still recommended to keep children and pets away from the source of heat however, since even an appropriately designed patio heater could cause danger.
Certain models come with a built-in device that cuts off the gas supply if the flame is out. Bromic's infrared heaters are also designed to radiate heat directly onto objects and people instead of the surrounding air. This makes them an excellent option for areas that have high winds or ventilation issues.
Heat Output
Take into consideration the amount of heat that an outdoor heater can produce when shopping. This is usually expressed in BTUs and allows you to compare the power of various models. Larger areas require more BTUs to keep them warm, and the number will vary based on how rainy or windy the location is. Some patio heaters can be moved around, whereas others are hung on the ceiling or wall. Whatever the model it is essential to make sure that it's properly installed and that the cord is plugged into a GFCI outlet that is protected from shocks and short circuits.
If you don't want to purchase a new generator, a patio heater that is powered by propane is a good option. These heaters are powered by liquid propane, and can be filled from an external tank. They may have a higher temperature output than electric models, and they burn more fuel with time. They're nevertheless a good option for outdoor spaces that have natural gas lines, and they're easy to maintain and use.
Electric heaters are more versatile, and can be utilized for a variety of reasons. However, they are not as powerful as those powered by gas. They plug into existing electrical outlets, and offer various control options that include adjustable heat settings as well as an integrated timer. Certain models, like infrared heaters focus more on heating objects and people rather than the air, which makes them ideal for smaller and more enclosed areas.
The design of the heater you pick is also important to consider, especially if it will be in close proximity to pets or children. Choose freestanding electric patio heater with an element of safety to prevent injuries. Also, choose one that has solid foundation that doesn't easily tip over. Be aware that the radiant heat of these units could cause burns to anyone who comes in direct contact with it.
Certain outdoor heaters such as chimineas or wood-burning firepits can add a touch tradition to your space. They produce a lot of heat and create an attractive glow, but they're less effective at heating a space than other kinds. They also release pollutants into the atmosphere and should only be used in ventilated areas.
Controls
Increase the warmth of your outdoor space by installing a patio heater. These units produce radiant heat to keep you and your guests warm even after the sun has gone down. No matter if you prefer gas or electric models there are a myriad of options to choose from to meet your needs. However, before deciding on a particular model, there are some things to take into consideration.
The first thing to think about is safety. You should ensure that your heater for your patio has the correct controls to safeguard yourself and your family members, regardless of whether it is powered by electricity or gas. You must look for features like tip-over auto-shut-off in order to prevent a fire risk and overheating protection to keep the unit cool. Make sure the unit has a solid base and is solid. If the base is exposed, make sure it won't be an accident-prone area or be too close to walkways or furniture.
Another factor to consider is the amount of heat the unit produces which is measured in British thermal units, or BTUs. The greater the number the higher the heat it emits. The Westinghouse Infrared Electric Patio Heater is an example. It comes with a maximum of 50,000 BTUs per hour which is more than enough to heat up a small patio. If you're using a heater in a larger area it is possible to choose a model with greater capacity or a longer duration.
To make it easier, electric patio heaters plug into standard 120-volt outlets making them the most simple to use and install. They can also be used in areas where it might not be possible or safe to run gas lines for example, an outdoor dining area beneath an awning or in a garage. They may not produce as many heats as gas models, and could increase the cost of electricity.
Gas patio heaters can be connected to natural gas or propane line. This lets them warm large areas with relative ease. They can be operated by a remote control or on the basis of a timer and some are capable of automatically turning on and off at set times to conserve energy.
Accessories
If you love spending time outdoors with friends and family but discover that the weather cools down too quickly for a summertime outdoor gathering, a patio heater could prolong your summer entertaining months. A patio heater, unlike the space heater, which makes use of hot air to warm the air and heats objects or the people who are around the unit, makes use of infrared radiation to heat the space. This is a more efficient way to warm your outdoor space and more discreet design.
You can choose from natural gas or propane units depending on which power source and fuel works best for your outdoor space. Gas patio heaters provide higher output of heat and radiate more warmth over a greater area than electric models. However they require a natural gas source or a large propane storage tank. If you want a more portable heater, go for the portable propane patio heater. It can be controlled by remote controls and fuelled by an internal tank.
If you prefer, you can opt for an electric patio heater that uses a plug-in power supply to emit infrared heat. They are typically lighter and smaller, making them an ideal option for a balcony or patio with a limited space. A lot of them come with adjustable heating settings, so you can dial in the perfect amount of warmth for your space. If you are planning to use your patio heater in a place that is prone to wind you should consider a heater that is built to withstand strong winds.
A pellet patio heater can also be used to generate radiant heat using compressed wood. They are a green and sustainable alternative to propane heaters. However they require a continuous supply of gas or pellets and have a greater carbon footprint than electric heaters. You can also select an electric patio heater that is recessed that is built directly to the ceiling, removing the requirement for an open flame and keeping your deck's minimalist, sleek appearance.