How to Choose a patio heat lamp
electric patio heater outdoor (
information from Telegra)
When it comes to heating your
patio heater electric infrared, you have numerous options. In contrast to propane models that require refills electric heaters can provide instant heat by simply flicking the switch or pressing the button.
These units don't emit any gasses which could pose the risk of health hazards. Some offer adjustable heat settings for varying distances.
Heater Type
You can relax in your outdoor living space all through the evening and throughout the year with the proper patio heater. There are many kinds of heaters for patios, including freestanding natural gas and propane models as well as ceiling- or wall-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice will be based on the size of the area, the power sources available and personal preference.
The majority of patio heaters use electricity, natural or liquid gas to generate heat. They emit heat via convection heating in combination with radiant heating. The heat output is measured in watts and then converted to British thermal units (BTUs) for comparison. Some models also have adjustable heat settings for greater flexibility.
Patio heat lamps include a burner mounted on a pole with an open-pored screen that reflects the flames and radiates heat downwards to warm objects, people and furniture. Some outdoor heat lamps have a reflective reflector over the burner, which can be silvered to decrease the amount of heat is lost upwards.
The most popular kind of patio heater is a gas patio heater is typically found in outdoor areas of restaurants and bars as they generate lots of heat quickly and spread equally across all directions -- great for warming tables. They are portable and can run on a propane tank, or they can be plumbed in to your natural gas line. This is more convenient and comes with lower upfront costs, however it requires fuel.
Gas patio heaters are becoming more popular as more homes are equipped with natural gas lines. They are easy to install, but do require a specialized and functioning gas line in order to function in a safe manner. There are portable natural gas heaters with extension hoses that can aid in overcoming this issue however they can also create a tripping hazard and a fire risk when not being used.
Safety
modern electric patio heater patio heaters can be used in enclosed areas since they permit heat to radiate upwards and not outward. They are not designed for use under an unprotected roof. The heater should be located at least 6" away from the ceiling and 18" away from the adjacent wall to prevent fire hazards.
Gas and propane patio heaters can only be installed in enclosed areas that are fitted with an enduring cover specifically designed for outdoor use. They are usually constructed of fire-retardant fabric and have a roof which can be closed. The safety concerns associated with these types of outdoor patio heaters are related to the fumes and flames they release. They should be placed away from items that ignite, such as chairs and curtains.
When installing a patio heat lamp
modern electric patio heater or any other type of patio heater, always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions and safety measures carefully. Choose a model that has UL and CSA safety certifications and be sure to read the user's instruction manual thoroughly. Be extra cautious with pets and children and make sure the heater isn't within their reach when it's running. Some patio heaters that are freestanding such as EUROM's have an automatic tipping safety that shuts off the device in the event of a fall.
If your patio heater is connected to a natural-gas line, you should check its condition periodically and be sure to have it tested by a licensed professional to identify leaks. If the line requires to be replaced, be sure to employ a licensed plumber. A professional will be in a position to determine if the line is required to be run through an underground pipe or not. A professional can also make sure that the heater for your patio is connected to an outlet that is GFCI-rated (ground fault circuit interruptioner) to guard against electric shocks and fires.
Installation
The size of the patio heater is placed affects the amount of heat it can radiate into the area. The heater should be mounted away from any surfaces such as plastic and wood that could deform. Depending on the model of the heater you can decide to place it on a wall or a structure using standard mounting brackets. Some models feature soft starters that lowers the peak current to safeguard your circuits.
