How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
When you want to heat your patio, you’ve got numerous options. electric patio heater reviews heaters are more efficient than propane models, which require fueling. They can be heated immediately by pressing a button, or flicking a switch.
They also don’t release gasses that might be harmful to health. Some have adjustable settings for heat for different distances.
Type of Heater
With the appropriate patio heater, you can relax in your outdoor living spaces well into the night, and throughout the seasons. There are several types of heaters for patios, including freestanding natural gas and propane models, as also wall- or ceiling-mounted best electric heater patio radiant heaters. Your choice will be based on the dimensions of the space, power sources and personal preference.
Most patio heaters use electricity, natural or liquid gas to generate heat. They release heat through a combination convection heating and radiant heating. The output of patio heaters is measured in watts which can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) to provide a comparison. Some also have adjustable heat settings for greater flexibility.
A patio heat lamp incorporates an electric heater for outdoor patio burner on a pole with a perforated metal screen that reflect the flames and sends the heat downward to warm furniture, people and other objects. Some patio heat lamps come with a reflective reflector on top of the burner and can be silvered to reduce the amount that heat is lost upwards.
The most well-known type of patio heater that is a gas patio heater is usually found in outdoor seating areas at bars and restaurants since they generate a lot of heat quickly and spread it evenly in all directions — great for warming multiple tables. These patio heaters are portable and run on propane tanks or plumbed in to your natural gas line. This is more convenient and has lower initial costs, but requires fuel.
A increasing number of homes are equipped with natural gas lines, making these the ideal solution for those who prefer to use gas-powered patio heaters. They’re easy to set up, but require a specialized and functioning gas line to function safely. Portable natural gas heaters come with extension hoses to help overcome this limitation, but these can be a tripping danger and could create an additional fire hazard when not being used.
Safety
Most electric patio heater infrared patio electric heater heaters are safe to use in covered areas since they allow heat to radiate outward instead of upwards toward material that is combustible, such as the roof. However, they’re not designed for use under an open roof. The heater should be placed at least 18″ from the walls adjacent to it or 6″ from the ceiling to avoid fire hazards.
Gas and propane patio heaters can only be installed in enclosed areas that are fitted with durable covers specifically designed for outdoor use. These covers are typically made of fire-retardant canvas and have the option of having a roof that is closed. The safety concerns associated with these types of outdoor patio heaters is due to the flame and fumes they emit. They should be located away from objects that ignite like chairs and curtains.
When installing a patio heat lamp electric or any other type of patio heater, always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines carefully. Select a heater that has been awarded UL and CSA safety certifications and be sure to go through the owner’s instructions thoroughly. Be extra cautious when it comes to pets and children, and ensure that the heater isn’t in their reach while it’s operating. Some patio heaters that are freestanding, such as EUROM, come with a built-in tipping safety that shuts down the device if it falls over.
If your patio heater is connected to a natural gas line it is essential to inspect the condition of the line regularly and test it for leaks by an experienced professional. If the line needs to be replaced, make sure to hire an authorized plumber. A professional will be able to determine if the line is required to be routed through an underground pipe or not. In addition, a professional can also make sure the patio heater is plugged into an outlet that’s GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) rated to protect against electrical shocks and fires.
Installation
The size of the patio heater determines how much heat it radiates into the room. The heater should be positioned away from surfaces like wood and plastic that can deform. You can mount the heater on a structure, wall or any other surface with traditional mounting brackets. Some models feature soft starters, which reduces the peak current to protect your circuits.