Selecting an Outdoor Heater For Your Patio Electric
When you are choosing an outdoor heater for your patio electric, it is important to take into consideration a variety of factors, including design and functionality. However, safety should always be the main consideration.
Fireplaces And Stoves and freestanding patio heaters are able to be installed by anyone, however heaters mounted on walls or that are suspended from the ceiling require an electrician to ensure a proper installation. Be sure to follow the installation and maintenance instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
Safety Features
If you're using a gas or electric heater for your patio your safety and your guests must be priority number one. This means having enough clearance between the heater and other objects, including furniture and rugs. To minimize the risk of fire, flammable materials must be kept at least 3 feet away from the heater from all sides. It's also important to monitor the heat generated by the unit, and avoid placing anything near it. Heat radiation can cause burns if it comes in direct contact with objects, and unexpected heater movements can also result in fire hazards.
Electric propane, natural gas patio heaters come in many shapes and sizes. Their power source will affect how they are used. Propane and natural gas heaters, for example, require adequate ventilation to keep carbon monoxide from forming and nitrogen dioxide/nitrous oxide buildup. This is the reason you should never use any gas heating device indoors, regardless of the fuel type.
Electric patio heaters provide an alternative that is safer, since they are equipped with a stable base that automatically shuts off when the heater is tipped over or does not sit on the ground. The heater also shuts off if it gets too hot. Even a well-designed heater can be hazardous for pets and children.
For added peace of mind Certain models come with a built-in flame failure device that shuts off the gas supply in the event that the flame should blow out. Bromic's infrared heating units are also designed to radiate heat directly onto objects and people, rather than the air around them. This makes them a great option for areas that have windy conditions or ventilation issues.
Heat Output
Consider the amount of heat that an outdoor heater could generate when you are shopping. This number is often expressed in BTUs and allows you to compare the power of various models. Larger spaces require more BTUs to keep them warm, and the amount will vary based on how wet or windy a location is. Some patio heaters are portable, while others are fixed to the ceiling or wall. No matter what type it's important to make sure that it can be safely installed and that the cord is plugged into an GFCI outlet that prevents short circuits and shocks.
If you're not ready to purchase a new power source, a propane patio heater is a cost-effective choice. These heaters run on propane liquid and can be refilled with an external tank. They may have a higher temperature output than electric models and burn more fuel over time. However, they're a convenient option for outdoor spaces that have natural gas lines, and they're easy to maintain and use.
Electric models are more flexible and can be utilized in a variety of settings however they're not as powerful as gas-powered models. They plug into electrical outlets, and have various control options that include adjustable heat settings as well as an integrated timer. Certain models, like infrared heaters, concentrate more on heating objects and people rather than the air, which makes them ideal for smaller and less protected areas.
The design of the heater you pick should also be considered particularly if it will be in close proximity to pets or children. Choose a model that has a safety shutoff feature to prevent injuries, and select one that has a stable base that can't tip over easily. Be aware that the radiant heating generated by these units can cause burns to anyone who comes in contact with it in any way.
Some outdoor heaters like chimineas and firepits that burn wood can add a touch of the past to your living space. They produce a lot of heat and create an attractive glow, however they're not as effective in heating a space than other types. They also release pollutants into the air and should only be used in well-ventilated areas.
Controls
Extend the warmth of your outdoor space by adding a patio heater. These heaters provide radiant heat that will keep your guests and you warm even after the sun has set. There are a variety of options to meet your needs, whether you prefer electric or gas models. However, before you decide on one, there are some things to consider.
The first thing to think about is safety. Whether your patio heater is electric or gas-powered it is essential to ensure it has the right operating controls to safeguard yourself and others. Look for features like tip-over auto shutoff to stop a fire hazard and protection against overheating to stop the heater from becoming too hot. Also, make sure the unit is built to last and has a solid base. If the base is exposed, be sure it won't be an accident-prone area or get too close to walkways or furniture.
Another factor to consider is the amount of heat the unit generates, measured in British thermal units or BTUs. The higher the number, the more heat is released. The Westinghouse Infrared Electric Patio Heater has an output of 50,000 btu/hour. This is more than sufficient to heat the patio of a small size. If you're using a heater to heat an area that is large, you may want something that has more power and a longer life span.
Electric patio heaters are the simplest to install and use as they plug into standard 120 volt outlets. They can also be used in places where it isn't possible or safe to run a gas line for instance, like an outdoor dining area under an awning or in garages. They may not produce as many heats as gas models, and they can increase your electric bill.
Gas patio heaters, on other hand, can be connected to propane or natural gas line, which will enable them to heat a large space easily. Some are controlled via remote controls, and others by an alarm. Some even switch off and on automatically at set times to conserve energy.
Accessories
A patio heater will prolong the fun season by a few months if you love being outdoors with your family and friends, but find that it cools off too quickly. In contrast to a space heater which blows hot air across a heating coil to warm the air, a patio heater utilizes infrared light to heat objects and people in the vicinity of the unit. It is a cost-effective method of heating outdoor spaces and a less intrusive design.
You can choose between propane- or natural gas-powered units, depending on the power and fuel source that will work best for your outdoor space. Gas patio heaters offer higher heat output and can 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 prefer a more portable option consider an outdoor gas patio heater that can be fueled by an internal propane tank, and turned off and on with a remote control or scheduled to operate by a timer.
You can also select an electric patio heater which emits infrared heat through a plug-in source of power. These heaters are typically lighter and smaller which makes them a good option for a balcony or patio with a limited space. They usually come with adjustable heating settings, so you can select the right amount of heat to fit your space. If you intend to use your heater on your patio in a location that is windy, consider one that is built to withstand the force of high winds.
Another alternative is to choose a pellet patio heater that uses compressed wood as its fuel source to produce radiant heat. They are a green and eco-friendly alternative to propane heaters. However they require a constant supply of pellets or gas and have a bigger carbon footprint than electric counterparts. You can also opt for an electric patio heater that is recessed that mounts directly to the ceiling, removing the requirement for an open flame and keeping your deck's minimalist, sleek appearance.