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 refueling. They can be heated instantly by pressing a button, or flicking the switch.
They don't emit gasses that could cause a health hazard. Some have adjustable settings for heat for varying distances.
Type of Heater
With the proper patio heater, you will be able to comfortably enjoy your outdoor living spaces into the night and throughout the seasons. There are many kinds of patio heaters, such as freestanding natural gas and propane models, as also ceiling- or wall-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice will be based on the dimensions of the area, the power sources and personal preference.
Most patio heaters are powered by electricity or natural or liquid gas and produce heat through convection as well as radiant heating. electric patio outdoor heater of patio heaters is measured in watts, which can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) to provide a comparison. Some models have adjustable heating settings for greater flexibility.
Patio heat lamps include a burner mounted on a pole, and an aperforated screen that reflects the flames and radiates heat downwards to warm people, objects and furniture. Some have an reflector on top of the burner that can be silvered to reduce the amount of heat lost upwards.
The most well-known kind of patio heater, a gas patio heater, is often seen in outdoor seating areas at bars and restaurants since they generate a lot of heat quickly and distribute it evenly in all directions. They are great to heat tables. These patio heaters can be portable and run off a propane tank or plumbed into your natural gas line which is greater convenience and lower initial installation costs but requiring an ongoing cost of fuel.
Gas patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular as more houses have natural gas lines. They're easy to install, but require a specialized and functioning gas line to perform safely. Portable natural gas heaters are available with extension hoses that can help overcome this issue, however they can pose a tripping hazard and may pose an additional fire risk when not in use.
Safety
Most electric patio heaters are safe to use in covered areas because they allow the heat to radiate outward instead of upwards toward material that is combustible, such as the roof. However, they're not meant to be used on an open roof. The heater must be installed at least 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 an enduring cover made for outdoor use. The covers are typically made of fire-resistant fabrics and have an open roof that can be closed. These kinds of patio heaters have safety concerns relating to the fumes and flames they produce. They should be located away from flammable objects, such as chairs and curtains.
When installing a patio heat lamp electric or any kind of patio heater, make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines carefully. Choose a model that has received UL and CSA safety certifications. Also, be sure to read the user's manual thoroughly. Make sure the heater is out of the reach of pets and children. Some patio heaters that are freestanding, such as EUROM, have a built-in tipping safeguard that automatically shuts off the heater if it is tipped over.
If your patio heater is connected to a natural gas line, you should check its condition periodically and have it tested by a qualified professional for leaks. If the line has to be replaced, make sure to hire an authorized plumber. A professional will be in a position to determine if the line should be run through an underground pipe or not. A professional will also be able to ensure that the heater for your patio is connected to an outlet that is GFCI-rated (ground fault circuit interrupter) to safeguard against electric shocks and fires.
Installation
The the height at which a patio heater is placed affects how much heat it will radiate into the area. The heater should be mounted away from surfaces such as plastic and wood that may deform. You can mount the heater on a wall, structure or any other surface with standard mounting brackets. Some models feature a soft starter, which reduces the maximum current to safeguard your circuits.