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There are many options available when it comes to heating up your patio. Electric heaters are more efficient than propane models that require fueling. They can be heated immediately by pressing a button or flicking a switch.
They don't emit gasses that could cause an health risk. Some units have adjustable heat settings to accommodate different distances.
Type of Heater
You can relax outside well into the evening and throughout the year by using the right patio heater. Patio heaters are available in a variety of varieties including freestanding propane models, natural gas models and wall- or ceiling mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice is contingent on the size of your area, the your power source and personal preference.
Most patio heaters are powered by electricity or liquid or natural gas and emit heat via convection as well as radiant heating. Their output of heat is measured in watts and then converted to British thermal units (BTUs) for comparison. Some also have adjustable heat settings to allow for greater flexibility.
Patio heat lamps combine an electric burner on a pole, and a perforated screen that reflects the flames and radiates heat downwards to warm objects, people and furniture. Some outdoor heat lamps have reflective reflectors that sit on top of the burner, which can be silvered to decrease the amount of heat is lost upwards.
The most popular type of patio heater is a gas patio heater is usually found in outdoor seating areas of bars and restaurants because they generate a lot of heat quickly and distribute it evenly across all directions -- great for warming multiple tables. They are portable and run on a propane tank or be connected to your natural gas line. This is more convenient and comes with lower upfront costs, but requires fuel.
A increasing number of homes are fitted with natural gas lines, making them the ideal solution for those who prefer to use a gas-powered patio heater. These heaters are easy to install, however they require a gas line that is properly installed and working to ensure safety. Natural gas heaters that are portable come with extension hoses to overcome this issue, however these can be a tripping danger and could create an additional fire hazard when not being used.
Safety
The majority of electric patio heaters are suitable for use in covered areas since they allow the heat to radiate outward instead of upwards toward combustible materials like the roof. They are not intended to be used under a non-protected roof. The heater must be placed at a minimum of 6" away from the ceiling and 18" away from the wall adjacent to avoid fire hazards.
The propane and gas patio heaters are usually suitable for use in enclosed areas and are protected by an enduring cover designed for open-air use. These covers are typically made from fire-resistant canvas and have an open roof that can be closed. The safety concerns associated with these kinds of outdoor patio heaters is due to the flame and fumes they emit. They should be kept away from items that ignite like curtains and chairs.
Follow the instructions and safety measures of the manufacturer before installing a patio heater or patio heat lamp. Select a heater that has received UL and CSA safety certifications and be sure to go through the owner's instructions thoroughly. Be sure that the heater is out of reach of children and pets. 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 uses a natural gas line it is important to examine the condition of the line periodically and to have it tested for leaks by a qualified professional. If the line needs to be replaced, be sure to employ a licensed plumber. A professional will be able to determine if the line needs to be run through an underground pipe or not. A professional can also ensure that the heater in the patio is connected to an outlet that is GFCI-rated (ground fault circuit interrupter) to safeguard against electric fires and shocks.
Installation
The size of the patio heater will determine the amount of heat it emits into the space. It is important to place the heater in an appropriate distance from any surfaces such as plastic, which can deform as well as wood, which can become too hot. Depending on the model of heater you may choose to place it on a wall or a structure using conventional mounting brackets. Some models have a soft start feature, which decreases the peak current in order to protect your circuits.