Selecting an Outdoor Heater For Your Patio Electric
When choosing an electric patio heater you must take into account a number of aspects. These include design and function. Safety is always a priority.
Freestanding and tabletop heaters for patios are fairly simple to install, while ceiling or wall-mounted heaters require an electrician licensed to ensure proper installation. Be sure to follow the installation and maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Safety Features
Safety is always the number one priority, whether you use gas or an electric patio heater. It is crucial to leave enough space between the heater and any objects, such as furniture or rug. To minimize the risk of fire, flammable materials must be kept at least 3 feet away from the heater on all sides. It is also important to be aware of the heat released by the appliance and avoid placing anything too close to it. Heat radiation can cause burns if it comes in direct contact with objects and sudden heater movements could also result in fire dangers.
Propane, natural gas and electric patio heaters come in various sizes and shapes. their power source can affect how they're employed. Propane and natural gas heaters for instance, require adequate ventilation in order to keep carbon monoxide from forming and nitrogen dioxide/nitrous Oxide buildup. It is for this reason that you should not make use of a gas heater inside, no matter what fuel type it uses.
Electric patio heaters offer a safer option, as they have an erect base that automatically shuts off when the unit is tipped over or is not placed on a flat surface. This is in addition to other security features like overheating protection that shuts the heater off when it is too hot to touch. It's still best to keep children and pets away from the heat source however, since even a well-designed patio heater can cause danger.
Certain models come with a built-in device that cuts off the gas supply in the event that the flame goes out. Bromic's infrared heaters are also designed to radiate the heat directly onto people and objects, rather than the surrounding air. This makes them a great option for areas that have windy conditions or ventilation issues.
Heat Output
Think about the amount of heat that an outdoor heater could generate when shopping. This is usually stated in BTUs, and it helps to compare the performance of different models. Larger rooms require more BTUs to keep them warm, and the numbers will vary based on how windy or rainy the location is. Certain patio heaters can be placed on the ceiling or walls and others are portable. No matter what type it is essential to ensure that it is securely installed and that the cord is plugged into a GFCI outlet that prevents short circuits and shocks.
If you're not yet ready to purchase an entirely new source of power, an outdoor heater made of propane is a good option. They are powered by liquid propane and can be filled with propane from an external tank. They typically have a higher energy output than electric models, and could use more fuel over the course of time. However, they're a convenient option for outdoor areas with natural gas lines, and they're easy to use and maintain.
Electric models are more adaptable and can be used in a variety settings However, they're not as powerful as gas-powered units. They plug into electrical outlets, and offer a variety of control options including adjustable heat settings as well as an integrated timer. Some models, like infrared heaters focus more on warming people and objects, rather than the air. They are ideal for smaller rooms that are enclosed.
The design of the heater you pick is also important to consider particularly if it will be near children or pets. Select a heater that has an safety feature to avoid injury. Also, pick one with solid bases that don't easily tip over. Be aware that radiant heating generated by these units can cause burns to anyone who comes into direct contact with it.
Certain types of outdoor heaters, like wood-burning fire pits and chimineas, can be a more traditional option that adds an element of style to your home. They can be attractive and produce a lot heat, however they are less effective than other types of heaters. They also release pollutants into the air and should only be used in ventilated areas.
Controls
Install a patio heater in your outdoor space to extend the warmth. These units provide radiant heat to keep you and your guests warm even after the sun has gone down. If you're looking for electric or gas models, there are plenty of options to meet your needs. However, before deciding on a model there are a few things to think about.
Safety is the first thing you need to think about. No matter if your patio heater gas- or electricity-powered you must ensure it has the right operating controls to safeguard yourself and others. Look for features such as tip-over auto shut-off to prevent the risk of fire and protection against overheating to prevent the heater from getting too hot. Also, make sure the unit is built to last and has a stable base. If the base is exposed, make sure it's not an accident-prone area or be too close to walkways or furniture.
Another factor to consider is the amount of heat that the unit produces, measured in British thermal units, or BTUs. The greater the number, the more heat it releases. The Westinghouse Infrared Electric Patio Heater, for example, has a maximum power of 50,000 BTUs per hour that's more than enough to heat the patio of a small size. If you're heating the entire area, you may want something that has more power and a longer lifespan.
Electric patio heaters are simple to set up and use since they plug into regular 120 volt outlets. They can also be used in places where it might not be feasible or safe to install gas lines for example, an outdoor dining area beneath an awning or in garages. However, they may not produce as much heat as gas models and could increase your electrical bill.
Gas patio heaters, on the other on the other hand they can be connected to propane or natural gas line, which allows them to heat a large area easily. Some are controlled with remote controls, while others operate on the basis of a timer. Some can even switch off and on automatically at specific times to conserve energy.
Accessories
If you love spending time outdoors with family and friends, but feel that the weather cools down too quickly for a summertime outdoor gathering, a patio heater could prolong your party season for months. A patio heater, in contrast to a space heater which uses hot air to warm the air and also heats objects or people in the vicinity of the unit, uses infrared radiation for heating the space. This is a more efficient method to warm your outdoor space and a much less intrusive design.
electric heater for outdoor patio can select between natural gas or propane units based on the fuel and power source works best for your outdoor space. Gas patio heaters have a higher output of heat and radiate more warmth over a greater area than electric models. However they require a natural gas supply or an extensive propane storage tank. If you'd prefer a more portable option opt 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 run by the use of a timer.
Alternatively, you can opt for an electric patio heater that makes use of an electric power source to generate infrared heat. These heaters are usually lighter and more compact which makes them a good choice for a smaller patio or balcony. These models often have adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to select the right level of warmth that is suitable for your space. Think about an outdoor heater that can stand up to high winds should you decide to use it in a windy region.
A pellet patio heater can also be used to create radiant heat using compressed wood. These heaters are a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to propane heaters however, they require a constant supply of pellets or propane gas and have a bigger carbon footprint than their electric counterparts. You can also select an electric heater that mounts into the ceiling. This eliminates the requirement for open flames, and keeps the sleek, minimalist appearance of your deck.