How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
You have many options when it comes to heating up your patio. In contrast to propane heaters that require refills, electric heaters can deliver instant heat by simply flipping an switch or pressing the button.
They don't emit gases that could be a health hazard. Some units are equipped with adjustable heating settings to accommodate varying distances.
Type of Heater
You can relax in your outdoor living space throughout the day and all through the year by using the right patio heater. There are many kinds of patio heaters, such as freestanding propane and natural gas models, as in addition to wall- or ceiling-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice is contingent on the size of your patio, current power sources, and your individual preferences.
The majority of patio heaters utilize electricity, liquid or natural gas to generate heat. They emit heat via a combination convection heating and radiant heating. Their heat output is measured in watts and can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) for comparison. Some models also have adjustable heat settings to allow for greater flexibility.
Patio heat lamps combine an electric burner on a pole and a perforated screen that reflects flames and sends heat downwards to warm people, objects and furniture. Some patio heat lamps include reflective reflectors that sit over the burner, which can be silvered in order to decrease the amount of heat is lost upwards.
The most common type of patio heater that is a gas patio heater is usually found in outdoor seating areas at restaurants and bars as they generate a lot of heat quickly and distribute equally across all directions -- great to heat tables. These heaters are portable and be powered by a propane tank, or they can be plumbed in to your natural gas line. The latter is more convenient and has lower upfront costs, however it requires fuel.
A increasing number of homes are equipped with natural gas lines, making them the perfect solution for those who prefer to use a gas patio heater. They are simple to install, however they require a gas line that's properly installed and working to be secure. There are portable natural gas heaters with extension hoses which can aid in overcoming this issue however they can also pose a tripping risk and an additional fire danger when not being used.
Safety
The majority of electric patio heaters are safe to use in enclosed areas due to their ability for the heat to radiate outward instead of upward toward combustible materials like the roof. They are not designed to be used on an unprotected roof. The heater should be placed at least 6" away from the ceiling, or 18" away from the wall in order to prevent fire hazards.
Patio heaters made of propane and gas can only be used in enclosed areas that have durable covers specifically designed for outdoor use. These types of covers are usually made of fire-resistant canvas and come with an open roof that can be closed. The safety concerns with these kinds of outdoor patio heaters is due to the fumes and flames they release. They should be kept away from flammable items, such as curtains and chairs.
Follow the instructions and safety guidelines of the manufacturer when installing a patio heater or patio heat lamp. Choose a system that has UL and CSA safety certifications. Also, be sure to read the user's manual thoroughly. Make sure that the heater is out of reach of pets and children. Some free-standing patio heaters like EUROM have a built-in tipping safeguard that automatically shuts off the device if it falls over.
If your patio heater is connected to a natural gas line it is important to examine the condition of the line on a regular basis and be tested for leaks by an experienced professional. If the line needs to be replaced then you should hire an expert plumber who is licensed. A professional will be able to determine if the line is properly routed or should be routed through an underground pipe. Additionally, a professional can make sure the heater for your patio is connected into an outlet that is GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) certified to guard against electrical shocks and fires.
best electric patio heater uk of the patio heater is mounted affects the amount of heat it can radiate into the space. It is essential that the heater is placed at a safe distance from surfaces such as plastic that can deform, and also wood, which can get too hot. It is possible to mount the heater on a structure, wall or other surface using standard mounting brackets. Some models feature a soft starter that lowers the peak current to ensure your circuits are protected.