How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric
You have many options when you want to heat your patio. In contrast to propane heaters that require refills, electric heaters can deliver instant heat by simply flipping the switch or pressing a button.
These units also don't emit gases that could pose a health risk. Certain units come with adjustable heat settings to accommodate different distances.
Heater Type
You can enjoy your outdoor living space well into the evening and throughout the year with the proper patio heater. There are freestanding electric patio heater of patio heaters, such as freestanding propane and natural gas models, as well as wall- or ceiling-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice will be based on the size of the area, the power sources available, and your personal preferences.
The majority of patio heaters are powered by electricity or natural or liquid gas and produce heat through convection and radiant heating. Their heat output is measured in watts and then converted to British thermal units (BTUs) for comparison. Some models have adjustable temperature settings that give you more flexibility.
free standing electric patio heaters combines an electric burner on a pole with a perforated screen that is reflective of the flames and radiates the heat downward to warm people, furniture and other objects. Some outdoor heat lamps have reflective reflectors that sit over the burner, which can be silvered to reduce the amount that heat is lost upwards.
The most popular kind of patio heater, a gas patio heater is typically found in outdoor seating areas at restaurants and bars as they generate a lot of heat quickly and spread it evenly across all directions. They are great for warming tables. These heaters are portable and run off a propane tank or plumbed into your natural gas line with the latter offering more convenience and lower cost of installation, but they require ongoing expenses for fuel.
Gas patio heaters are becoming increasingly popular as more homes are equipped with natural gas lines. They're easy to set up, but require a specialized and functioning gas line in order to operate in a safe manner. Portable natural gas heaters come with extension hoses that can help overcome this limitation, but they can pose a tripping danger and could create an additional fire risk when not in use.
Safety
Electric patio heaters can be used in covered areas, as they allow heat to radiate upwards and not outward. However, they're not intended to be used under an open roof. The heater should be placed at least 18" from adjacent walls or 6" from the ceiling to avoid fire hazards.
Patio heaters made of propane and gas can only be used in enclosed areas that are fitted with durable covers specifically designed for outdoor use. These covers are usually made of fire-resistant fabric and come with a roof that can be closed. The safety concerns with these types of outdoor patio heaters are due to the fumes and flames they emit. They should be placed away from objects that can ignite like chairs and curtains.
Follow the safety and instructions guidelines of the manufacturer when installing a patio heater or patio heat lamp. Make sure you select a system with UL and CSA certifications. Also, read the owner's guide thoroughly. Be extra careful when it comes to pets and children, and ensure that the heater is not within their reach when it's operating. Some free-standing patio heating devices, such as EUROM's, have an automatic tipping safety 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 test it for leaks by a qualified professional. If the line has to be replaced, make sure to hire a licensed plumber. A professional can determine if the line is properly routed or should be run through an underground pipe. Additionally, a professional can also ensure that the heater for your patio is connected 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 placed affects the amount of heat it will radiate into the space. It is crucial to place the heater in a safe distance from the surface like plastic, which can deform and wood, which can become too hot. Depending on the model of the heater, you can choose to mount it on a wall or a structure using traditional mounting brackets. Some models have a soft start feature, which decreases the peak current to protect your circuits.