Watch Out: What Patio Heat Lamp Electric Is Taking Over And What We Can Do About It
How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
There are many options available when it comes to heating your patio. Electric heaters are much more convenient than propane models, which require fuel refills. They can be heated in a matter of minutes by pressing a button or flicking the switch.
They also don't emit gasses that could be harmful to health. Some units are equipped with adjustable heating settings to accommodate different distances.
Heater Type
With the right patio heater, you will be able to comfortably relax in your outdoor living spaces into the night, and throughout the seasons. There are several types of patio heaters, including freestanding natural gas and propane models as in addition to wall- or ceiling-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice will depend on the size of the space, power sources and personal preference.
Most patio heaters use electricity, natural or liquid gas to generate heat. They emit heat via a combination convection heating and radiant heating. Best electric patio heaters uk of patio heaters is measured in watts, which can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) to give a comparative. Some models also have adjustable heat settings for greater flexibility.
Patio heat lamps include the use of a burner that is mounted on a pole, and an aperforated screen that reflects flames and sends heat downwards to warm objects, people and furniture. Some patio heat lamps come with reflective reflectors over the burner, which can be silvered in order to reduce the amount that heat is lost upwards.
The most common type of patio heater is a gas patio heater is usually found in outdoor seating areas at bars and restaurants since they produce a lot of heat quickly and spread it evenly across all directions, making them ideal for warming multiple tables. These heaters are portable and run from the propane tank or plugged into your natural gas line with the latter providing more convenience and lower installation costs, but also they require ongoing expenses for fuel.
Gas patio heaters are becoming more popular as more houses have natural gas lines. These heaters are easy to install, but they require a gas line that's properly installed and operating to be safe. There are portable natural gas heaters that come with extension hoses that assist in overcoming this limitation, but they can pose a tripping risk and a fire risk when not in use.
Safety
Electric patio heaters can be used safely in enclosed areas, since they allow heat to radiate upward and not outward. However, they're not intended to be used on an open roof. The heater should be set at least 18" from adjacent walls or 6" from the ceiling to prevent fire hazards.
The propane and gas patio heaters are only suitable for installation in enclosed areas with durable covers made for outdoor use. These covers are typically made from fire-resistant canvas and have the option of having a roof that is closed. These types of patio heaters pose safety concerns relating to the fumes and flames they create. They should be placed away from flammable items like chairs and curtains.
Follow the instructions and safety measures of the manufacturer before installing the patio heater or heat lamp. Choose a model that has been awarded UL and CSA safety certifications. Also, be sure to go through the owner's manual thoroughly. Be extra careful around children and pets and ensure that the heater is not near them when it's running. Some patio heaters that stand on their own like EUROM's have an automatic tipping safety that shuts the device off when it falls.
If your patio heater is connected to a natural-gas line, you should be sure to check the condition of the line regularly and have it tested by a qualified professional for leaks. If the line needs to be replaced, be sure to hire an authorized plumber. A professional is able to determine if the line is required to be run through an underground pipe or not. A professional will also be able to ensure that the patio heater is connected to an outlet that is GFCI-rated (ground fault circuit interrupter) to protect against electric shocks and fires.
Installation
The height of the patio heater will determine how much heat it radiates into the room. It is important that the heater be mounted at a safe distance from the surface like plastic that can deform, as well as wood, which can become too hot. The heater can be mounted on a wall, structure or any other surface with traditional mounting brackets. Some models have a soft start, which lowers the current peak in order to protect your circuits.