How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
When it comes to heating your patio, there are many options. Electric heaters are more convenient than propane models that require fuel refills. They can be heated immediately by pressing a button or flipping a switch.
These units don't emit any gasses which could pose a health hazard. Some units are equipped with adjustable heating settings to allow for different distances.
Type of Heater
With the appropriate patio heater, you will be able to comfortably relax in your outdoor living spaces into the night and throughout the seasons. There are a variety of patio heaters, including freestanding propane and natural gas models, as in addition to ceiling- or wall-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice will be based on the dimensions of the area, the power sources available, and your personal preferences.
The majority of patio heaters are powered by electricity or liquid gas, or natural, and emit heat via a combination of convection and radiant heating. The heat output of patio heaters is measured in watts, which can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) to provide a comparison. Some models have adjustable temperature settings that give you more flexibility.
A patio heat lamp combines an electric burner on a pole with a perforated screen that is reflective of the flames and radiates the heat downwards to warm furniture, people and other objects. Some patio heat lamps include reflective reflectors on top of the burner and can be silvered in order to decrease the amount of heat is lost upwards.
Gas patio heaters are among the most common heaters for patios. They are able to heat multiple tables quickly and evenly. They can be portable and run from propane tanks or plumbed into your natural gas line, with the latter providing more convenience and lower upfront cost of installation, but they require ongoing expenses for fuel.
Gas patio heaters are becoming more popular as more houses have natural gas lines. They're simple to install, but require a dedicated and properly functioning gas line to operate in a safe manner. Portable natural gas heaters come with extension hoses to help overcome this issue, however they could be a trip risk and can create an additional fire risk when not in use.
Safety
Most electric patio heaters are safe to use in covered areas due to their ability for the heat to radiate outward instead of upward toward combustible materials like the roof. However, they're not meant to be used under an open roof. The heater should be placed at minimum 18" from adjacent walls or 6" from the ceiling to prevent fire hazards.
Patio heaters made of propane and gas can only be installed in enclosed areas that are fitted with an enduring cover made for outdoor use. best electric patio heaters of covers are typically made of fire-resistant canvas and have an open roof that can be closed. The safety concerns associated with these kinds of outdoor patio heaters are related to the fumes and flames they produce. They should be located away from any objects that could ignite, such as curtains and chairs.
When installing an electric patio heat lamp or any kind of patio heater, be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines carefully. Choose a model that has UL and CSA safety certifications and be sure to go through the owner's manual thoroughly. Make sure 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 in the event that it falls over.
If your patio heater is connected to a natural gas line it is essential to inspect the condition of the line periodically and to test it for leaks by an experienced professional. If the line requires to be replaced, be sure to hire a licensed plumber. A professional will be able to determine whether the line is properly routed or if it should be run through an underground pipe. A professional will also be able to ensure that the patio heater is plugged in to an outlet that is GFCI-rated (ground fault circuit interrupter) to protect against electric fires and shocks.
Installation
The size of the patio heater is positioned determines the amount of heat it can radiate into the space. It is essential to place the heater in a safe distance from surfaces such as plastic that can deform, and wood, which can get too hot. It is possible to mount the heater on a structure, wall or any other surface using conventional mounting brackets. Some models feature soft starters that lowers the current at the highest level to ensure your circuits are protected.