Selecting an Outdoor Heater For Your Patio Electric
When you are choosing an outdoor heater for your electric patio it is crucial to consider several factors including design and functionality. Safety should always be the top priority.
Freestanding and tabletop patio heaters are able to be installed by anyone, but wall-mounted heaters or those that are suspended from the ceiling require an electrician to ensure proper installation. Check the installation and maintenance instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
Safety Features
Whether you're using a gas or electric patio heater 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. A minimum of 3 feet on all sides should be kept clear of flammable objects to minimize the danger of fire. It is also important to keep an eye on the heat released by the unit and avoid placing anything close to it. Heat radiation can cause serious burns when it comes into contact with objects. Unexpected heating movements could also cause fire hazards.
Electric, propane, and natural gas patio heaters are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Their power source can affect the way they are used. For instance, propane and natural gas heaters require adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and Nitric Oxide/nitrogen dioxide buildup. This is why you should never use any gas heating device inside, regardless of the fuel type.
Electric patio heaters are a more secure alternative, since they usually feature a stable base and an automatic shut-off if the unit is tipped over or is no longer on the flat surface. This is in addition to other safety features like protection against overheating that will shut the heater off when it becomes too hot to touch. Even a well-designed heater can be dangerous for pets and children.
For added peace of mind Certain models come with an inbuilt flame failure device that shuts off the gas supply in the event that the flame should go out. Bromic's infrared heating devices are also designed to release the heat directly onto objects and people, rather than the surrounding air. This makes them an excellent choice for areas with windy conditions or ventilation issues.
Heat Output
Consider the amount of heat an outdoor heater can produce when you shop. This number is typically expressed in BTUs which can help you evaluate the effectiveness of different models. Larger areas require more BTUs to keep them warm, and the numbers will also differ based on how wet or windy a location is. Some patio heaters can be installed on the ceiling or wall and others are portable. No matter what type it is essential to ensure that it is safely installed and that the cord is plugged into a GFCI outlet to avoid short circuits and shocks.
If you're not ready to purchase a new power source, the propane patio heater is a great option. These heaters operate on propane liquid, and can be filled from an external tank. They may have a higher temperature output than electric models, and they burn more fuel with time. They're nevertheless a good choice for outdoor spaces with natural gas lines, and are easy to use and maintain.
Electric models are more versatile and can be used in a variety of settings however they're not as powerful as gas-powered units. They can be plugged into existing electrical outlets and provide a variety of control options, such as adjustable heat settings and a built-in timer. Certain models, such as infrared heaters, focus more on warming people and objects than the air. They are perfect for smaller rooms that are enclosed.
You should also consider the design of your heater, especially if you plan to use it in close proximity to animals or children. Look for a model with a safety shutoff feature to prevent injuries. Also, pick one with an erect base that won't be easily tipped over. Be aware that the radiant heating of these units could cause burns to anyone who comes in contact with it in any way.
Certain outdoor heaters such as chimineas and wood-burning firepits can add a touch traditional to your home. They can produce a lot of heat and create an attractive glow, but they're less effective at heating up an area than other types. They also release pollutants into the air and should only be used in well-ventilated areas.
Controls
Install a patio heater in your outdoor space to extend 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 meet your requirements regardless of whether you prefer electric or gas models. Before you choose the right one, there are a few things to consider.
The first thing to think about is safety. You need to make sure that your patio heater is equipped with the appropriate controls to safeguard you and others, regardless of whether it is powered by electricity or gas. Look for features such as tip-over auto shutoff to stop the risk of fire and protection against overheating to prevent the heater from becoming too hot. Make sure that the unit has a sturdy base and is solid. If the base is exposed, be sure it's not an accident hazard for tripping or be too close to walkways or furniture.
electric patio heater hanging to take into consideration is how much 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 has an output of 50,000 per hour. This is more than sufficient to heat a small patio. If you're planning to use a heater in a larger space it is possible to choose a model with greater power or a longer lifespan.
For ease of use, electric patio heaters plug into standard 120-volt outlets which makes them the simplest to use and install. They can be used in areas where gas lines might not be safe or feasible to run, for instance a dining area outside under an awning, or in garages. However, they won't produce the same amount of heat as gas models, and may increase the cost of electricity.
Gas patio heaters, on other on the other hand are able to be connected to propane or natural gas line, allowing them to heat a large area without difficulty. Some are controlled by remote control, others on an alarm. Some even switch off and on automatically at set 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 an outdoor hangout, a patio heater can prolong your summer entertaining months. In contrast to a space heater which blasts hot air over the heating coil to warm the air, a patio heater uses infrared energy to warm objects and those within the vicinity of the unit. This is a more efficient method to heat your outdoor space, and an aesthetic that is less intrusive.
You can pick between propane- or natural gas-powered models, based on the power source and fuel source that works best for your outdoor space. A gas patio heater offers a higher heat output than an electric one and can provide more radiant warmth for a larger space, but it will require access to natural gas lines or an enormous propane tank. If you're looking for a more portable heater, consider a portable propane patio heater. It can be controlled via remote controls and is fueled by an internal tank.
You can also choose to use an electric patio heater that utilizes a plug-in power supply to generate infrared heat. These heaters are usually lighter and more compact, making them a convenient choice for a smaller patio or balcony. These models often come with adjustable heating settings, so you can select the ideal amount of heat to fit your space. You should consider an outdoor heater that can stand up to high winds should you decide to use it in a chilly location.
Another alternative is to opt for a pellet patio heater that utilizes compressed wood as its fuel source to generate radiant heat. They are a green and sustainable alternative to propane heaters. However they require a continuous supply of pellets or gas and have a greater carbon footprint than electric heaters. You can also select an electric heater that is recessed into the ceiling. This will eliminate the requirement for open flames, and maintains the sleek, minimal appearance of your deck.
