How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
There are many options available when you want to heat your patio. In contrast to propane models that require refills electric heaters can provide instant heat by flicking a switch or pressing the button.
These units don't emit any gasses that could cause a health hazard. Some units are equipped with adjustable heating settings to accommodate varying distances.
Type of Heater
With the proper patio heater, you will be able to comfortably enjoy your outdoor living spaces well into the night and throughout the seasons. There are many kinds of patio heaters, including freestanding natural gas and propane models, as well as ceiling or wall-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice will depend on the size of the space, the power sources available, and your personal preferences.
Most patio heaters are powered by electricity or natural or liquid gas and produce heat through convection as well as 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 is a burner on top of a pole with a perforated screen that reflect the flames and sends the heat downwards to warm furniture, people and other objects. Some have a reflector above the burner that can be silvered to reduce the amount of heat that is lost upwards.
Gas patio heaters are the most commonly used patio heaters. They are able to heat multiple tables quickly and evenly. These heaters are portable and can be powered by a propane tank or connected to your natural gas line. This is more convenient and has lower initial costs, but requires fuel.
A increasing number of homes are outfitted with natural gas lines, making them the perfect solution for those who prefer to use gas-powered patio heaters. They are easy to set up, but do require a dedicated and functioning gas line to operate safely. There are portable natural gas heaters that come with extension hoses which can help overcome this restriction, but they can be a risk of tripping and an additional fire danger when not in use.
Safety
Most electric patio heaters are suitable for use in covered areas because they allow heat to radiate outward, instead of upwards toward things that ignite, like the roof. However, they're not designed to be used under an open roof; the heater should be set at least 18" from adjacent walls or 6" from the ceiling to avoid fire hazards.
Patio heaters made of propane and gas are only suitable for installation in enclosed areas that have durable covers made for outdoor use. These covers are typically made of fire-resistant canvas and come with an open roof that can be closed. These types of patio heaters pose security concerns due to the fumes and flames they generate. They should be placed away from objects that can ignite, such as curtains and chairs.
Follow the safety and instructions guidelines of the manufacturer when installing the patio heater or heat lamp. Select a heater that has UL and CSA safety certifications and be sure to read the owner's manual thoroughly. Be sure that the heater is not within the reach of pets and children. Some patio heaters that stand on their own, such as EUROM's, include a tipping safety feature that shuts off the device in the event of a fall.
If your patio heater runs on a natural gas line, it's important to check the condition of the line on a regular basis and to have it tested for leaks by a certified professional. If the line needs to be replaced get it replaced by an experienced plumbing professional who is licensed. A professional is able to determine if the line needs to be run through an underground pipe or not. Additionally, outdoor heater for patio electric can also make sure the heater in the patio is plugged into an outlet that's GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) designed to guard against electrical fires and shocks.
Installation
The size of the patio heater is positioned determines the amount of heat it can radiate into the area. It is crucial that the heater is placed in a safe distance from the surface like plastic which can deform as well as wood, which can get too hot. You can mount the heater on a wall, structure or any other surface using standard mounting brackets. Some models have a soft start feature, which decreases the peak current to safeguard your circuits.