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. But, safety must always be the main consideration.
Tabletop and freestanding patio heaters are relatively simple to install, while wall or ceiling-mounted heaters require an electrician licensed to ensure an effective installation. Be sure to review the manufacturer's instructions for installation and maintenance.
Safety Features
Safety is always the first priority, no matter if you use gas or an electric patio heater. It is crucial to leave enough space between the heater and any other objects like furniture or rug. To reduce the risk of a fire, flammable items should be kept at least 3 feet away from the heater on all sides. Additionally, it's crucial to be aware of the heat emitted by the unit 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, electric and propane patio heaters are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. their power source will influence the way they're utilized. For instance, natural gas and propane heaters require adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and Nitric Oxide/nitrogen dioxide buildup. This is the reason you should not use any gas heater indoors regardless of the fuel type.
Electric patio heaters offer the most safety, since they come with an extremely stable base that shuts off when the heater is tipped over or does not rest on an even surface. This is in addition to other security features like overheating protection, which will turn the heater off when it gets too hot to touch. Even a well-designed heater could be dangerous for children and pets.
To provide additional peace of mind Some models have an inbuilt flame failure device that stops the gas supply in the event that the flame should go out. Bromic's infrared heating devices are also designed to emit the heat directly onto objects and people rather than the surrounding air. This makes them an excellent choice for areas with high winds or ventilation issues.
Heat Output
When looking for a outdoor heater, consider how much heat it can generate. This number is often expressed in BTUs and allows you to evaluate the power of different models. Larger spaces require more BTUs to keep them warm, and the amount can also vary depending on how wet or windy a location is. Some patio heaters can be moved around, whereas others are hung on the ceiling or wall. Regardless of the type it's important to make sure that it's safely installed and that the cord is plugged into a GFCI outlet to avoid shocks and short circuits.
If you're not yet ready to purchase a new power source, the propane patio heater is a good option. They are powered by liquid propane, and can be refilled from an external tank. They typically have a greater energy output than electric models, and they might burn more fuel over time. However, they're a great choice for outdoor spaces with natural gas lines, and they're simple to operate and maintain.
Electric models are more flexible and can be used in a variety of settings, but they're not as powerful as gas-powered models. They plug into existing electrical outlets, and offer various control options including adjustable heat settings as well as an integrated timer. Certain models, such as infrared heaters, focus more on warming people and objects than the air. They are perfect for smaller and enclosed spaces.
waterproof electric patio heaters of the heater you pick must be considered particularly if it is going to be in close proximity to pets or children. Choose a model that has a safety shutoff feature to avoid injuries, and pick one with an extremely stable base that doesn't slide off easily. Be aware that the radiant heat generated by these units can cause burns to anyone who comes into close contact with it.
Some outdoor heaters, such as chimineas or wood-burning firepits can bring a touch of the past to your living space. They tend to generate a lot of heat and create an attractive glow, however they're less effective at heating a space 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 provide radiant heat to keep your guests and you warm even after the sun has gone down. No matter if you prefer electric or gas models, there are a myriad of options to choose from to suit your needs. Before you make a decision, there are a few things to consider.
Safety is the first thing you need to take into consideration. No matter if your patio heater powered by electricity or gas, you need to ensure that it has the correct control mechanisms to safeguard yourself and others. Look for features such as tip-over auto shut-off to prevent an accident that could cause fire, and protection against overheating to prevent the heater from getting too hot. Make sure that the unit has a sturdy base and is stable. If the base is visible, ensure that it doesn't create a trip hazard or get too close to furniture.
Another thing to consider is the amount of heat the unit produces that is measured in British thermal units, or BTUs. The higher the number the more heat is emitted. 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 heating the entire area it is possible that you need a heater that has more power and a longer lifespan.
For convenience electric patio heaters plug into standard 120-volt outlets making them the most simple to install and use. They are suitable for use in areas where a gas line might not be safe or feasible to run, like a dining area outdoors under an awning or in a garage. They might not generate as many heats as gas models, and they could increase the cost of electricity.
Gas patio heaters can be connected to either a propane or natural gas line. This lets them provide heat to large areas easily. Some are controlled by remote controls, and others by a timer. Some are even able to turn on and off automatically at set times to conserve energy.
Accessories
A patio heater can prolong the fun season by a few months if you love being outdoors with your family and friends, but you find that it cools down too quickly. Contrary to a space heater that blasts hot air over an electric heating coil to warm the air the patio heater uses infrared energy to warm objects and those within the vicinity of the unit. The result is a more efficient way to warm your outdoor space and an aesthetic that is less intrusive.
You can pick between natural gas or propane models based on the power source and fuel works best for your outdoor space. A gas patio heater offers a higher heat output than electric models and can provide more radiant warmth over a larger area, but it will require access to natural gas lines or an extensive propane tank. If you want an easier to transport heater, go for an outdoor propane heater that is portable. It can be controlled by remote controls and is fueled by an internal tank.
If you prefer, you can choose to use an electric patio heater that utilizes an electric power source to emit infrared heat. These units are typically lighter and more compact, making them a convenient option for a smaller patio or balcony. They usually have adjustable temperature settings, so you can select the ideal level of warmth that is suitable for your space. Consider a patio heater that can stand up to high winds when you intend to utilize it in a very windy location.
Another alternative is to opt for a pellet patio heater that makes use of compressed wood as its fuel source to produce radiant heat. These models are a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to propane heaters however they will require a constant supply of pellets or propane gas and have a greater 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 maintains the sleek, minimal appearance of your deck.