How an Electric Patio Heater Can Extend the Use of Your Outdoor Living Space
Electric heaters don't have to deal with power cords and propane tanks. They also be less expensive to run than gas-powered models.
The mushroom-style top of this sturdy model reflect the heat downwards and upwards to warm an area of 3.5 feet. Its multiple heat settings allow you to dial in just the right amount of warmth.
Power
A space outside such as a cozy garden patio or a cozy backyard nook can get chilly at night and when the seasons change. A patio heater keeps your space warm, so you can extend your time in the sun until late at night and in all seasons.
Patio heaters utilize electricity or gas to generate warmth for your patio, with the heat output measured in watts and BTUs. The higher the BTUs the more heat is generated. Electric models that can be adjusted in heating levels are also available for greater flexibility. These heaters are portable and do not require professional installation. Gas patio heaters are typically used in restaurants that have outdoor seating areas, particularly tower-style floor models that warm several tables at once. They are usually inexpensive to operate and offer plenty of heat throughout the entire area, making them a great option for large open spaces.
There are also gas and electric patio heaters that can be mounted to walls or ceilings. They are perfect for situations where the floor space is limited or you have very high ceilings that aren't accessible. These heaters are usually more expensive than portable models that can stand on their own however they can save money on professional installation. They're typically more efficient than other kinds of patio heaters, as they convert energy into heat more efficiently. They can provide heat for a long duration in comparison to gas models, which require constant fuel refills.
Heat Output
When you're eating meals with your friends on your patio or sipping a drink on the deck, or just relaxing in the garden, a free-standing electric heater can extend your outdoor dining and entertaining time. They use electric heat to warm objects and people, not air, making them a great choice for covered spaces that will reduce heat loss from the sun as it sets. A majority of the most popular models use infrared heat to give a soft radiant warmth.
The size and design of a patio heater determines the it produces heat. Smaller tabletop units typically generate 10,000 to 15,000 BTUs of heat, and larger floor models that resemble towers can produce as much as 40,000 BTUs. Look for the BTUs on the label of the model to determine the amount of heat produced.
The size of the space you're looking to heat is also important. Portable electric patio heaters are great for smaller spaces since they can be easily moved around to direct the warmth to the areas that require it. If you're using a gas or propane model in a larger outdoor area make sure you select an appliance that has enough BTUs for the area.
Propane and natural gas models are also available in wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted versions, ideal for rooms with limited floor space or high (or no) ceilings. Although they require professional installation, they provide the convenience of not having to fill up a propane tank and are generally less costly to run than electric models.
There are a lot of options when you shop for a new patio heater at Lowe's, with a wide variety of styles to fit any style. For the most convenient option, choose an electric heater that plugs into an outlet that is standard; these models are easy to move and can be installed on all kinds of furniture. If you're looking for a more permanent solution, you can opt for a propane or natural gas model that is plugged directly into your gas lines and connected to a fuel tank that weighs 20 pounds.
Safety
Patio heaters are an increasingly popular feature for outdoor entertaining areas, especially for those looking to make more use of their backyards. Like other outdoor heating elements they can be dangerous when not employed in a proper manner. Fortunately, there are many security measures you can follow to keep your family and guests safe while using your gas or electric patio heater.
Keep the heater at least 3 feet from anything that could ignite. This includes umbrellas, rugs furniture and gazeboes. Heat from the heater can melt combustibles and cause nearby materials to catch fire like curtains or fabric. Make sure you have adequate ventilation in the vicinity to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning that is a consequence of combustion.
Install an alarm for carbon monoxide near your heater so you are alerted to any harmful fumes. Use a patio heater outdoors in an area that is open and has plenty of natural airflow. Never put a heater on a patio inside or in an enclosed space, no matter the type of fuel you use.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure proper operation of your new patio heater, especially when it is time to light it. Some models come with built-in ignitor switches that ignite the burner for your convenience, while others require you to use a manual lighter. Use a lighter that has a long handle in order to reduce the chance of an accidental burn.
If your patio heater is on a stand, ensure it is on a stable base. This will decrease the chance of your patio heater falling or tipping over and causing damage to your house or injuries to you and your family. Particularly in areas with high winds, ensure that your standing patio heater is securely anchored or weighed down to prevent it from moving in windy conditions and causing a hazardous situation.
Regular maintenance and inspections are important to ensure the longevity of your patio heater. Check that the unit is in good working order and that there is no corrosion or other damage. Also, inspect the propane tank for leaks as a leaking cylinder can cause a fire risk.
Installation
Adding an overhead or freestanding patio heater is an excellent way to extend the use of your outdoor living space. With this type of heating, you can relax on your deck, patio or patio all night or during colder weather without worrying about moving propane tanks around. Electric heaters are also cheaper to run than natural gas models.
The option of flush-mounting or recessing a heater in the ceiling gives it a sleek, modern look that improves the look of your space. This mounting option, available for a few Bromic electric heaters, is ideal for areas where a suspended installation is unable to be installed due to an angled ceiling or vaulted ceiling. In order to install this method, a minimum cavity space in the ceiling is required, which varies by model.
This freestanding electric patio heater is simple to install on balconies, courtyards and garages, as well as open-air restaurants and so on. best electric heater patio can help save energy and money and its infrared technology can increase blood circulation and metabolism, making you feel warm and relaxed. The height of the heater can be adjusted, and it comes with double tip-over protection for your security.