It's Time To Forget Patio Heat Lamp Electric: 10 Reasons Why You Do Not Need It

How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric There are a variety of options when it comes to heating your patio. Electric heaters are much more convenient than propane models, which require refueling. They can be heated immediately by pressing a button, or flicking the switch. They don't release any gasses that could cause the risk of health hazards. Certain units come with adjustable heat settings to accommodate varying distances. Type of Heater You can relax in your outdoor living space throughout the day and all through the year by using the right patio heater. There are several types of patio heaters, including freestanding propane and natural gas models as also ceiling- or wall-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice is contingent on the size of your space, existing power sources and personal preference. The majority of patio heaters are powered by electricity or liquid gas, or natural, and emit heat via a combination of convection and radiant heating. Their output of heat is measured in watts and then converted to British thermal units (BTUs) for comparison. Some models have adjustable temperatures to allow more flexibility. electricpatio heater combine an electric burner on a pole and a perforated screen that reflects flames and sends heat downwards to warm objects, people and furniture. Some outdoor heat lamps have reflective reflectors over the burner and can be silvered to reduce the amount that heat is lost upwards. Gas patio heaters are among the most commonly used patio heaters. They are able to heat multiple tables quickly and evenly. These heaters are portable and be powered by a propane tank, or they can be plumbed in to your natural gas line. This is more convenient and has lower upfront costs, but requires fuel. A growing number of homes are outfitted with natural gas lines, making them the ideal solution for those who prefer using gas-powered patio heaters. They are easy to install, but do require a dedicated and functioning gas line to perform safely. There are portable natural gas heaters with extension hoses that can aid in overcoming this issue, but they can pose a tripping risk and a fire risk when not in use. Safety Electric patio heaters can be used safely in covered areas, as they allow heat to radiate upward and not outward. They are not designed to be used under a non-protected roof. The heater should be placed at a minimum of 6” away from the ceiling and 18” away from the adjacent wall to avoid fire hazards. The propane and gas patio heaters are generally only safe to install in enclosed areas that have an enduring cover designed for open-air use. These covers are usually made of fire-retardant fabric and have an open roof that can be closed. The safety concerns with these kinds of outdoor patio heaters is due to the fumes and flames they produce. They should be kept away from flammable items like chairs and curtains. Follow the instructions and safety measures of the manufacturer when installing the patio heater or heat lamp. Choose a system that has received UL and CSA safety certifications. Be sure to read the owner's manual thoroughly. Be extra cautious with pets and children and ensure that the heater is not near them when it's operating. Some free-standing patio heaters like EUROM have a built-in tipping protection that automatically shuts off the device in the event that it falls over. If your patio heater is connected to a natural-gas line, it is recommended to examine it regularly and test it by a qualified professional for leaks. If the line needs to be replaced, hire an expert plumber who is licensed. A professional will be able to determine if the line should be routed through an underground pipe or not. A professional can also make sure that the patio heater is plugged in to an outlet that is GFCI-rated (ground fault circuit interrupter) to guard against electric sparks and fires. Installation The size of a patio heater will determine the amount of heat it radiates into the space. It is essential that the heater is placed in a safe distance from the surface like plastic, which can deform and wood, which may get too hot. You can mount the heater on a structure, wall or any other surface using traditional mounting brackets. Certain models have a soft starter that reduces the peak current to ensure your circuits are protected.