How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp
electric patio heater indoorsWhen you're looking to heat your patio, you have several options. Electric heaters are more efficient than propane models which require refueling. They can be heated instantly by pressing a button or flicking a switch.
These units 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 well into the evening and throughout the seasons with the right patio heater. There are many kinds of patio heaters, including freestanding natural gas and propane models, as in addition to ceiling or wall-mounted
Electric patio heaters UK radiant heaters. Your choice will be based on the size of your area, the power sources available and personal preference.
The majority of patio heaters utilize electricity, natural or liquid gas to generate heat. They emit heat through a combination convection heating and radiant heating. Their heat output is measured in watts and then converted to British thermal units (BTUs) to compare. Some models also have adjustable heat settings for greater flexibility.
Patio heat lamps include a burner mounted on a pole, and an aperforated screen that reflects flames and radiates heat downwards to warm objects, people and furniture. Some come with a reflector above the burner that can be silvered to cut down the amount of heat lost upwards.
Gas patio heaters are the most popular heaters for patios. They can heat multiple tables quickly and evenly. These heaters are portable and can be powered by a propane tank or be plumbed in to your natural gas line. This is more convenient and has lower upfront costs, however it requires fuel.
Gas patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular as more homes are equipped with natural gas lines. They're easy to set up, but require a dedicated and properly functioning gas line in order to function safely. Portable natural gas heaters are available with extension hoses that can help overcome this issue, however these can be a tripping risk and can create an additional fire hazard when not in use.
Safety
Most
small electric patio heater patio heaters are safe to use in enclosed areas because they allow the heat to radiate outward instead of upwards toward combustible materials like the roof. However, they're not meant to be used under an open roof; the heater should be set at minimum 18" from adjacent walls or 6" from the ceiling to prevent fire hazards.
The propane and gas patio heaters are generally only safe to install in enclosed areas that have a durable cover that is specifically designed for use in open air. The covers are typically made of fire-resistant fabric and come with a roof that can be closed. These kinds of patio heaters are prone to safety concerns relating to the flames and fumes they generate. They should be placed away from objects that can ignite, such as chairs and curtains.
When installing a
patio heat lamp electric or any kind of
infrared patio heater electric heater, always follow the manufacturer's directions and safety precautions carefully. Choose a system that has been awarded UL and CSA safety certifications and be sure to read the user's instruction manual thoroughly. Make sure the heater is not within reach of pets and children. Some free-standing patio heating devices such as EUROM's come with an automatic tipping safety that shuts down the device in the event of a fall.
If your patio heater is connected to a natural-gas line, you should be sure to check the condition of the line regularly and be sure to have it tested by a licensed professional to identify leaks. If the line needs to be replaced get it replaced by a licensed plumbing professional. A professional will be in a position to determine if the line needs to be routed through an underground pipe or not. Additionally, a professional can also ensure that the patio heater is plugged into an outlet that is GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) designed to guard against electrical shocks and fires.
Installation
The the height at which a patio heater is placed affects the amount of heat it will radiate into the space. The heater should be positioned away from surfaces such as plastic and wood that may deform. Depending on the model of the heater you may choose to place it on a wall or structure using traditional mounting brackets. Some models have soft start, which reduces peak current in order to protect your circuits.