How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
When you're looking to heat your patio, you have many options. In contrast to propane heaters that require refills, electric heaters can deliver instant heat by simply flicking an switch or pressing the button.
They also don't emit gasses that might be harmful to health. Certain units come with adjustable heat settings to accommodate varying distances.
Heater Type
You can relax outside throughout the day and throughout the seasons with the proper patio heater. There are a variety of patio heaters, including freestanding natural gas and propane models, as also wall- or ceiling-mounted electric radiant heaters. The choice you make will depend on the size of your space, power sources available and personal preference.
Most patio heaters are powered by electricity or natural or liquid gas and emit heat in convection and radiant heating. Their heat output is measured in watts and then converted to British thermal units (BTUs) for comparison. Some models can be adjusted in temperature settings that give you more flexibility.
best electric patio heater uk Fireplaces And Stoves combine a burner mounted on a pole, and an open-pored screen that reflects flames and sends heat downwards to warm objects, people and furniture. Some come with a reflector atop the burner that can be silvered to cut down the amount of heat lost upwards.
Gas patio heaters are among the most popular patio heaters. They are able to heat multiple tables quickly and evenly. These heaters are portable and can run on propane tanks or be connected to your natural gas line. The latter is more convenient and has lower upfront costs, but requires fuel.
Gas patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular as more homes have natural gas lines. They're easy to install, but require a dedicated and functioning gas line in order to function in a safe manner. There are portable natural gas heaters that come with extension hoses that assist in overcoming this limitation, but they can be a risk of tripping and a fire risk when not in use.
Safety
Most electric patio heaters are safe to use in covered areas because they allow heat to radiate outward, instead of upwards towards material that is combustible, such as the roof. They are not intended to be used under a non-protected roof. The heater should be located at least 6" away from the ceiling or 18" away from the adjacent wall to prevent fire hazards.
Gas and propane patio heaters are only suitable for installation in enclosed areas with an enduring cover made for outdoor use. These types of covers are typically made from fire-retardant canvas and have a roof that can be closed. These types of patio heaters have safety concerns related to the fumes and flames they generate. They should be kept away from objects that ignite, such as chairs and curtains.
When installing an electric patio heat lamp or any other patio heater, always follow the manufacturer's directions and safety measures carefully. Select a heater that has received UL and CSA safety certifications. Also, be sure to read the owner's manual thoroughly. Be extra cautious when it comes to pets and children, and make sure the heater is not within their reach when it's running. Some free-standing patio heating devices, such as EUROM's, include a tipping safety feature that shuts off the device in the event of a fall.
If your patio heater runs on a natural gas line, it's important to check the condition of the line regularly and to be tested for leaks by a qualified professional. If the line requires to be replaced, make certain to get an authorized plumber. A professional will be in a position to determine if the line needs to be routed through an underground pipe or not. A professional can also ensure that the heater for your patio is connected into an outlet that is GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) certified to guard against electrical fires and shocks.
Installation
The height of the patio heater determines the amount of heat it emits into the space. The heater should be placed away from surfaces such as plastic and wood that could deform. The heater can be mounted on a wall, structure or any other surface with traditional mounting brackets. Certain models come with a soft start, which decreases the peak current in order to protect your circuits.