Selecting an Outdoor Heater For Your Patio Electric
When selecting an electric patio heater you should consider several factors. These include design and utility. Safety should always be an important consideration.
Tabletop and freestanding patio heaters are relatively simple to install, while ceiling or wall-mounted heaters require an electrician licensed to ensure an effective installation. Make sure you follow the installation and maintenance procedures supplied by the manufacturer.
Safety Features
Whether you're using a gas or electric heater for your patio, the safety of yourself and your guests should always be priority number one. This means that you should have enough space between the heater and any other objects, including furniture and rug. A minimum of 3 feet on all sides should be kept clear of flammable objects to minimize the danger of fire. Additionally, it's crucial to keep an eye on the heat that's being emitted by the appliance and avoid placing anything close to it. The heat radiation can cause serious burns if it comes in contact with objects. Unexpected heating movements could cause fire hazards.
Electric, propane, and natural gas patio heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Their power source will affect how they are used. Propane and natural gas heaters, for example require adequate ventilation in order to prevent carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide/nitrous oxide accumulation. This is why you should not use any gas heating device indoors, regardless of the fuel type.
Electric patio heaters are a more secure alternative, as they generally have a sturdy base and an automatic shut-off in the event that the unit is tipped over or stops sitting on a flat surface. This is in addition to other security features, such as overheating protection, which will turn the heater off when it gets too hot to touch. Even a well-designed heating system can be dangerous for children and pets.
For added peace of mind, some models feature a built-in flame failure device that stops the gas supply in the event that the flame should go out. Bromic's infrared heating units are also designed to radiate heat directly to objects and people rather than the air around them. This makes them an excellent choice for areas with windy conditions or ventilation issues.
Heat Output
Consider the amount of heat an outdoor heater produces when you shop. This number is usually indicated in BTUs and can help you evaluate the power of different models. The BTUs needed to heat larger areas will differ, as will the amount of rain and wind. Certain patio heaters can be mounted on the ceiling or walls, while others are portable. It is essential to ensure that it is installed in a safe manner and that the cord is connected in a GFCI socket that prevents short circuits or shocks.
If you're not ready purchase an entirely new source of power, an outdoor heater made of propane is a great option. These heaters are powered by liquid propane and can be filled with propane from an external tank. They might have a higher energy output than electric models, and they burn more fuel over time. However, they're a convenient choice for outdoor spaces with natural gas lines, and they're easy to use and maintain.
Electric heaters are more flexible and can be utilized for a variety of reasons. However they aren't as powerful as units powered by gas. They can be plugged into existing electrical outlets and have a range of control options, such as adjustable heat settings as well as a built-in timer. Certain models, like infrared heaters, focus on warming people and objects than the air. They are ideal for smaller rooms that are enclosed.
You should also think about the design of your heater, especially in the event that you plan to use it near animals or children. Select a heater that has a safety feature to prevent injury. Also, choose one that has solid bases that don't easily tip over. Be aware that the radiant heating of these units could cause burns to anyone who comes in direct contact with it.
Some outdoor heaters like chimineas or wood-burning firepits can add a touch of the past to your living space. They generate 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 ventilated areas.
Controls
Include a heater for your patio to your outdoor space to increase the warmth. These units produce radiant heat that will keep your guests and you warm even after the sun has gone down. No matter if you prefer gas or electric models there are a variety of options to suit your needs. Before you choose you'll need to consider some things to think about.
The first thing to think about is security. You must ensure that your heater for your patio has the right controls to safeguard you and others, regardless of whether it's powered by gas or electricity. You should look for features such as tip-over auto-shutoff to reduce a fire risk and overheating protection to keep the heater cool. Make sure the unit has a solid base and is solid. If the base is visible, make sure that it isn't a trip hazard or get too close to furniture.
The British thermal unit (BTU) is a measure of the amount energy that the unit generates. The higher the number the more heat it emits. The Westinghouse Infrared Electric Patio Heater has a maximum BTU output of 50,000 BTU per hour. This is more than sufficient to heat a small patio. If you're using a heater to heat an area that is large, you may want something with more power and longer life span.
Electric patio heaters are the easiest to install and use as they plug into regular 120 volt outlets. 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. However, they may not generate as much heat as gas models and could increase your electric bill.
Gas patio heaters, on other hand they can be connected to a natural gas or propane line, allowing them to heat a large area without difficulty. They can be controlled by a remote control or on an alarm, and some are even capable of automatically turning on and off at preset times to save energy.
Accessories
A patio heater can prolong the season of entertainment by months if you like spending time outdoors with family and friends, but discover that it cools off too quickly. A patio heater, in contrast to the space heater, which makes use of hot air to warm the air and then heats objects or the people who are around the unit, makes use of infrared radiation for heating the space. This is a more efficient method to heat outdoor areas and also a more aesthetically pleasing design.
fireplacesandstoves can pick between natural gas or propane-powered models, based on the power source and fuel source that works best for your outdoor space. Gas patio heaters provide higher output of heat and radiate more warmth over a larger area than electric models. However, they require a natural gas supply or an enormous propane storage tank. If you are looking for an easier to transport heater, choose an outdoor propane heater that is portable. It can be controlled via remote controls and is fueled by an internal tank.
Alternatively, you can opt for an electric patio heater that uses the power of a plug-in source to produce infrared heat. These heaters are usually smaller and lighter and are a great option for a smaller patio or balcony. A lot models have adjustable heating settings, so you can adjust the perfect amount of heat for your space. If you are planning to use your heater on your patio in a place that is prone to wind look for one that has been built to withstand strong winds.
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 more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to propane heaters, but they will require a steady supply of pellets or propane gas and have a greater carbon footprint than electric counterparts. You can also select a recessed electric heater that can be hung from the ceiling. This will eliminate the requirement for open flames, and preserves the sleek, minimal appearance of your deck.