Do Not Make This Blunder On Your Patio Heat Lamp Electric
How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
You have many options when you want to heat your patio. Unlike propane models that require refills, electric heaters can deliver instant heat by simply flicking an switch or pressing a button.
These units also don't emit gasses that might be harmful to health. 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. Patio heaters come in many different styles that include freestanding propane or natural gas models, as well as ceiling or wall mounted electric radiant heaters. The choice you make will depend on the dimensions of your area, the your power source and personal preference.
Most patio heaters are powered by electricity or liquid gas, or natural, and emit heat via convection and radiant heating. The heat output of patio heaters is measured in watts, which can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs), for comparison. Some models have adjustable temperatures to allow more flexibility.
Patio heat lamps combine an electric burner on a pole, and an open-pored screen that reflects flames and sends heat downwards to warm people, objects and furniture. Some come with a reflector above the burner that can be silvered to cut down the amount of heat emitted upwards.
The most popular type of patio heater, a gas patio heater is typically found in outdoor areas of bars and restaurants since they generate lots of heat quickly and spread it evenly across all directions -- great for warming multiple tables. These patio heaters can be portable and run off propane tanks or plumbed into your natural gas line, which is greater convenience and lower initial cost of installation, but needing ongoing costs for fuel.
Gas patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular as more homes have natural gas lines. They're simple to install, but require a dedicated and properly functioning gas line to function in a safe manner. Natural gas heaters that are portable come with extension hoses that can help overcome this limitation, but these can be a tripping hazard and may pose an additional fire risk when not in use.
Safety
The majority of electric patio heaters are safe to use in covered areas since they allow heat to radiate outward instead of upwards toward material that is combustible, such as the roof. They are not intended to be used under a non-protected roof. The heater must be located at least 6" away from the ceiling, or 18" away from the wall adjacent to avoid fire hazards.
Gas and propane patio heaters are usually suitable for use in enclosed areas that have the proper cover made for outdoor use. These types of covers are usually made of fire-retardant canvas and have the option of having a roof that is closed. These types of patio heaters pose safety concerns relating to the flames and fumes they create. They should be kept away from objects that ignite like chairs and curtains.
Follow the safety and instructions measures of the manufacturer when installing the patio heater or heat lamp. Choose electric outdoor heaters for patio that has UL and CSA safety certifications. Be sure to read the user's instruction manual thoroughly. Be extra careful when it comes to pets and children, and make sure the heater is not within their reach when it's in operation. Some free-standing patio heaters, such as EUROM, come with a built-in tipping safety that automatically shuts off the device if it falls over.
If your patio heater runs on natural gas lines it is essential to inspect the condition of the line on a regular basis and be tested for leaks by an experienced professional. If the line requires to be replaced, be sure to hire a licensed plumber. A professional can determine if the line is properly routed or should be routed through an underground pipe. Additionally, a professional 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 the height at which a patio heater is mounted affects the amount of heat it can radiate into the space. The heater should be positioned away from surfaces such as plastic and wood that may deform. It is possible to mount the heater on a structure, wall or any other surface with standard mounting brackets. Certain models come with a soft start, which decreases the peak current to safeguard your circuits.