Selecting an Outdoor Heater For Your Patio Electric
When choosing an outdoor heater for your electric patio it is essential to think about a range of factors, including design and functionality. However, safety should always be the main consideration.
Freestanding and tabletop patio heaters are relatively easy to install, but ceiling or wall-mounted heaters require an electrician licensed to ensure proper installation. Be sure to check the manufacturer's installation and maintenance guidelines.
Safety Features
Safety is always the number one priority, no matter if you use gas or an electric patio heater. This means you must have enough space between the heater and other objects including furniture and rug. To reduce the risk of fire, flammable objects should be kept at a minimum of 3 feet away from the heater on all sides. Additionally, it's crucial to keep an eye on the heat released by the device and avoid placing anything close to it. Heat radiation can cause serious burns when it comes into contact with objects. Unexpected movements of the heater can also cause 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 instance require adequate ventilation in order to keep carbon monoxide from forming and nitrogen dioxide/nitrous Oxide buildup. This is the reason that you should never use a gas heater indoors, no matter what fuel type it is using.
Electric patio heaters are a more secure alternative, since they usually come with a sturdy base and an automatic shut-off if the unit falls over or stops sitting on a flat surface. The heater will also shut off when it becomes too hot. It's still best to keep pets and children away from the heat source however, since even a well-designed patio heater may pose a hazard.
Some models include an inbuilt device that shuts off the gas supply if the flame ceases to burn. Bromic's infrared heating units are also designed to release the heat directly onto objects and people, rather than the air around them. This makes them an ideal choice for areas with high winds or ventilation issues.
Heat Output
Take into consideration the amount of heat that an outdoor heater could generate when you are shopping. This number is typically expressed in BTUs which can help you compare the power of different models. The number of BTUs required to heat larger spaces will vary, as will the wind and rain. Some patio heaters can be moved around, whereas others are mounted on the ceiling or wall. It is crucial to ensure that it is installed in a safe manner and that the cord is plugged into a GFCI socket that is protected from short circuits or shocks.
If you're not yet ready to purchase a new power source, a propane patio heater is a good option. These heaters are powered by liquid propane, and can be filled from an external tank. They generally have a higher energy output than electric models, and they could use more fuel over the course of time. However, they're a great option for outdoor areas with natural gas lines, and they're simple to operate and maintain.
Electric heaters are more versatile and can be employed for a variety uses. However they aren't as powerful as those powered by gas. They can be plugged into electrical outlets already in use and offer flexible control options, like adjustable heat settings and an integrated timer. Some models, like infrared heaters concentrate more on warming people and objects rather than the air. They are great for smaller and enclosed spaces.
The design of the heater you pick should also be considered, especially if it will be near children or pets. Choose a model that has a safety shutoff to prevent injuries, and pick one with an extremely stable base that doesn't tip over easily. Be aware that the radiant heat of these units could cause burns to anyone who comes in direct contact with it.
Some kinds of outdoor heaters, like wood-burning fire pits or chimineas, can be a more traditional option that can add an element of style to your home. They can be very attractive and produce a lot heat, but they are not as efficient than other kinds of heaters. They release pollutants into the air and should only be used only in areas that are well ventilated.
Controls
Add a patio heater to your outdoor space to enhance the warmth. These units provide radiant heat that will keep your guests and you warm even after the sun has gone down. There are a variety of options to suit your needs regardless of whether you prefer electric or gas models. However, before deciding on one, there are some things to take into consideration.
The first thing to consider is security. You should ensure that your heater for your patio is equipped with the appropriate controls to safeguard you and others, regardless of whether it is powered by gas or electricity. Be sure to look for features such as tip-over auto shut-off to avoid an accident that could cause fire, and protection against overheating to stop the unit from getting too hot. It is also important to ensure that the unit is strong and has a stable base. If the base is exposed, be sure it's not an accident hazard for tripping or be too close to walkways or furniture.
The British thermal unit (BTU) is an indication of the amount of heat produced by the unit. The higher the number the more heat is released. The Westinghouse Infrared Electric Patio Heater for instance, has a maximum of 50,000 BTUs per hour that's more than enough to warm the patio of a small size. If you're using a heater to heat a large space you might want something with more power and a longer lifespan.
For ease of use, electric patio heaters can be connected to standard 120-volt outlets, making them the easiest to install and use. They can also be used in locations that aren't possible or safe to run a gas line for instance, like an outdoor dining space under an awning or in garages. However, they won't produce the same amount of heat as gas models and could increase your electrical bill.
Gas patio heaters can be connected to natural gas or propane line. This allows them to provide heat to large areas easily. They can be operated by a remote control or on the basis of a timer, and some are even capable of automatically turning off and on at predetermined times to conserve energy.
Accessories
If you love spending time outside with family and friends, but feel that the weather cools too quickly for a summertime outdoor gathering, a patio heater can extend your entertaining season for months. Contrary to a space heater that blows hot air through the heating coil to warm the air, a patio heater uses infrared light to heat objects and people near the unit. This is a more efficient way to heat outdoor spaces and has a less intrusive design.
You can pick between natural gas or propane units depending on which fuel and power source is best for you outdoor space. Gas patio heaters offer higher output of heat and radiate more warmth over a greater area than electric models. However, more info here require a natural gas source or a large propane storage tank. If you'd prefer an option that is more portable opt for a portable gas patio heater that can be fueled by an internal propane tank, and can be turned off and on using the remote control or programmed to run on a timer.
You can also choose to use an electric patio heater that uses a plug-in power supply to emit infrared heat. They are typically lighter and smaller and are a great choice for a balcony or patio with a limited space. These heaters typically come with adjustable heating settings, which means you can select the ideal amount of heat to fit your space. If you are planning to use your patio heater in a windy location you should consider a heater that is built to withstand strong winds.
A pellet patio heater may also be used to generate radiant heat by compressing wood. These models are an eco-friendly and environmentally 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 opt for a recessed electric heater that is recessed into the ceiling. This eliminates the requirement for open flames, and maintains the sleek, minimal appearance of your deck.
