7 Simple Tricks To Making A Statement With Your Patio Heat Lamp Electric
How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
When you want to heat your patio, you have several options. In contrast to propane heaters that require refills electric heaters can provide instant heat by flicking a switch or pressing a button.
These units don't emit any gases that could be a health hazard. Some offer adjustable heat settings for different distances.
Type of Heater
You can relax in your outdoor living space well into the evening and all through the year with the proper patio heater. 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 depend on the size of your space, power sources and personal preference.
The majority of patio heaters are powered by electricity or natural or liquid gas and emit heat via a combination of convection and radiant heating. Their output of heat is measured in watts, and can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) for comparison. Some models also have adjustable heat settings for greater flexibility.
A patio heat lamp is the burner on top of a pole with a perforated screen that is reflective of the flames and radiates the heat downwards to warm people, furniture and other objects. Some come with a reflector atop the burner, which can be plated with silver to decrease the amount of heat emitted upwards.
The most well-known kind of patio heater, a gas patio heater, is often seen in outdoor seating areas of bars and restaurants since they produce a lot of heat quickly and spread equally across all directions -- great for warming tables. These patio heaters can be portable and run from the propane tank or plugged into your natural gas line, with the latter providing more convenience and lower upfront cost of installation, but requiring an ongoing cost of fuel.
A increasing number of homes are equipped with natural gas lines, making them the perfect solution for those who prefer a gas patio heater. They're easy to install, but do require a dedicated and functioning gas line in order to perform in a safe manner. Natural gas heaters that are portable are available with extension hoses to help overcome this issue, however they could be a trip hazard and may pose an additional fire risk when not being used.
Safety
Electric patio heaters are safe to use in enclosed areas, since they allow heat to radiate upwards and not outwards. They are not intended to be used under a non-protected roof. The heater must be placed at least 6" away from the ceiling and 18" away from the wall in order to avoid fire hazards.
Gas and propane patio heaters are generally only safe to install in enclosed areas with a durable cover that is made for outdoor use. These covers are usually made of fire-resistant canvas and come with the option of having a roof that is closed. The safety concerns with these types of outdoor patio heaters are related to the flame and fumes they release. They should be kept away from objects that ignite, such as chairs and curtains.
Follow electric patio heater reviews Fireplaces And Stoves and safety measures of the manufacturer when installing a patio heater or patio heat lamp. Choose a model that has been awarded UL and CSA safety certifications. Be sure to read the owner's manual thoroughly. Be especially careful with pets and children and ensure that the heater isn't in their reach while it's in operation. Some patio heaters that stand on their own such as EUROM's include a tipping safety feature that shuts the device off in the event of a fall.
If your patio heater is connected to a natural gas line it is important to examine the condition of the line periodically and have it tested for leaks by a certified professional. If the line is in need of replacement, hire an experienced plumbing professional who is licensed. A professional can determine if the line is properly routed or should be routed through an underground pipe. A professional can make sure the patio heater is plugged into an outlet that's GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) rated to protect against electrical fires and shocks.
Installation
The height of the patio heater will determine the amount of heat it emits into the space. The heater should be placed away from surfaces like wood and plastic that can deform. It is possible to mount the heater on a structure, wall or other surface using traditional mounting brackets. Certain models come with a soft start feature, which lowers the current peak to safeguard your circuits.