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. But, safety must always be the main consideration.
Tabletop and freestanding patio heaters are able to be installed by anyone, but wall-mounted heaters or heaters that are suspended from the ceiling require an electrician to ensure a proper installation. Check the installation and maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Safety Features
No matter if you're using a propane or electric heater for your patio your safety and your guests should always be the top priority. It is crucial to leave enough space between the heater and any other items such as furniture or rug. A minimum of 3 feet on each side should be free of flammable objects to minimize the danger of fire. In addition, it is crucial to keep an eye on the heat emitted by the appliance and avoid placing anything close to it. Heat radiation can cause serious burns if it comes into contact with objects. Unexpected movements of the heater can also lead to fire hazards.
Propane, natural gas and electric patio heater s come in different sizes and shapes, and their power source will affect the way they're utilized. For instance, natural gas and propane heaters require adequate ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning as well as Nitric Oxide/nitrogen dioxide buildup. This is the reason why you should never use any gas heating device indoors, regardless of the fuel type.
Electric patio heaters are a more secure alternative, since they usually have a sturdy base and an automatic shut-off in the event that the unit falls over or no longer sits on an even surface. The heater also shuts off when it gets too hot. It is still recommended to keep children and pets away from the heat source However, even a well-designed patio heater may be a danger to your family.
To provide additional peace of mind, some models feature an integrated flame failure device that shuts off the gas supply should the flame go out. In addition the majority of Bromic's infrared heaters are made to direct the heat to objects and people instead of the surrounding air making them a good option for areas that be prone to windy conditions or have ventilation issues.
Heat Output
Consider the amount of heat an outdoor heater could generate when you shop. This figure is usually expressed in BTUs and lets you evaluate the power of different models. The BTUs required to heat larger areas will differ, as will the amount of rain and wind. Certain patio heaters can be installed on the ceiling or walls and others are portable. Whatever the model it's important to ensure that it is safely installed and that the cord is connected into a GFCI outlet to avoid shocks and short circuits.
If you're not yet ready to invest in an entirely new source of power, a propane patio heater is a good option. They are powered by liquid propane and can be filled from an external tank. They typically have a greater temperature output than electric models, and may burn more fuel over time. They are a good choice for outdoor areas with natural gas lines. They are also simple to use and maintain.
Electric heaters are more versatile and can be employed for a variety uses. However they aren't as powerful as heaters powered by gas. These heaters can be connected to existing electrical outlets, and offer a variety of control options including adjustable heat settings as well as an integrated timer. Certain models, like infrared heaters focus on warming people and objects, rather than the air. They are perfect for smaller rooms that are enclosed.
The design of the heater you pick should also be considered particularly if it will be in close proximity to pets or children. Look for a model with a safety shutoff feature to prevent injuries. Also, pick one with a stable base that can't be easily tipped over. Be aware that the radiant heating generated by these units can cause burns to anyone who comes in close contact with it.
Certain outdoor heaters such as chimineas and wood-burning firepits can bring a touch of the past to your living space. They produce a lot of heat and provide an attractive glow, however they're less effective at heating up an area than other types. They also release pollutants into the atmosphere and should only be used in well-ventilated areas.
Controls
Increase the warmth of your outdoor space by adding an outdoor heater. These units produce radiant heat that will keep you and your guests warm even after the sun has set. If you're looking for gas or electric models there are a myriad of options to meet your needs. However, before you decide on a model, there are some things to take into consideration.
Safety is the first thing you should take into consideration. Whether your patio heater is electric or gas-powered you must ensure that it has the correct control mechanisms to safeguard yourself and others. You should look for features like tip-over auto-shut-off to avoid an incident of fire or overheating protection in order to keep the unit cool. You should also make sure the unit is strong and has a solid base. If the base is visible, ensure that it doesn't create a trip hazard and can't get too close to furniture.
Another factor to consider is how much heat the unit produces which is measured in British thermal units or BTUs. The higher the number the more heat it emits. The Westinghouse Infrared Electric Patio Heater, for example, has a maximum of 50,000 BTUs per hour which is enough to warm up a small patio. If you're planning to use a heater in a larger space it is possible to choose a model with more capacity or a longer duration.
For ease of use, electric patio heaters plug into 120-volt outlets of standard, making them the easiest to install and use. They are suitable for use in areas where a gas line might not be safe or possible to run, for instance a dining area outdoors under an awning, or in garages. They may not produce as many heats as gas models, and they can raise your electric bill.
Gas patio heaters can be connected to natural gas or propane line. This lets them provide heat to large areas with relative ease. They can be operated by a remote control or an alarm and some are capable of automatically turning on and off at set times to conserve energy.
Accessories
If you love spending time outside with family and friends but find that the weather cools too quickly for a summertime outdoor hangout, a patio heater can 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 people in the vicinity of the unit, utilizes infrared radiation to heat the space. It is a cost-effective method to heat outdoor areas and has a less intrusive design.
You can select between natural gas or propane-powered models, based on the power source and fuel source that is most suitable 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 supply or a large propane storage tank. If you'd prefer a more portable option, look for an outdoor gas patio heater that can be powered by an internal propane tank and switched on and off with the remote control or programmed to operate by the use of a timer.
Alternatively, you can choose to use an electric patio heater that makes use of the power of a plug-in source to produce infrared heat. They are generally smaller and lighter and are a great choice for a smaller patio or balcony. They usually come with adjustable heating settings, which means you can select the right amount of warmth to suit your space. Think about a patio heater that is able to stand up to high winds when you intend to utilize it in a very windy region.
A pellet patio heater can be used to create radiant heat using compressed wood. These models are a more environmentally sustainable and sustainable alternative to propane heaters however they will require a constant supply pellets or propane gas and have a larger carbon footprint than electric counterparts. You can also opt for a recessed electric heater that can be hung from the ceiling. This will eliminate the requirement for open flames and keeps the sleek, minimalist appearance of your deck.
