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How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric

There are many options available when you want to heat your patio. Electric heaters are more convenient than propane models, which require refueling. They can be heated in a matter of minutes by pressing a button or flicking the switch.

They 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 outside throughout the day and throughout the year with the right patio heater. There are several types of patio heaters, such as freestanding propane and natural gas models, as well as ceiling or wall-mounted electric patio heater radiant heaters. Your choice is contingent on the dimensions of your area, the your power source and individual preferences.

Most patio heaters are powered by electricity or natural or liquid gas and produce heat through a combination of convection and radiant heating. The output of patio heaters is measured in watts which can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) to provide a comparison. Some models also have adjustable heat settings for greater flexibility.

Patio heat lamps incorporate a burner mounted on a pole and an open-pored screen that reflects flames and sends heat downwards to warm objects, people and furniture. Some come with an reflector on top of the burner, which can be plated with silver to decrease the amount of heat emitted upwards.

The most well-known kind of patio heater that is a gas patio heater is typically found in outdoor seating areas at bars and restaurants because they generate a lot of heat quickly and distribute it evenly in all directions -- great to heat tables. These patio heaters can be portable and run off the propane tank or plugged into your natural gas line, with the latter providing more convenience and lower upfront cost of installation, but they require ongoing expenses for fuel.

A increasing number of homes are fitted with natural gas lines, which makes them the perfect solution for those who prefer using a gas-powered small patio heater electric heater. They're easy to set up, but require a specialized and functioning gas line in order to function in a safe manner. There are portable natural gas heaters that come with extension hoses which can aid in overcoming this issue however they can also pose a tripping risk and a fire risk when not being used.

Safety

The majority of electric patio heaters are safe to use in covered areas due to their ability for heat to radiate outward instead of upwards towards combustible materials like the roof. They are not designed to be used on an unprotected roof. The heater should be placed at least 6" away from the ceiling and 18" away from the wall in order to avoid fire hazards.

Patio heaters made of propane and gas can only be used in enclosed areas that have durable covers specifically designed for outdoor use. These types of covers are usually made of fire-resistant canvas and have a roof that can be closed. The safety concerns with these types of outdoor patio heaters are related to the fumes and flames they release. They should be kept away from items that ignite like curtains and chairs.

When installing a patio heat lamp best electric patio heater uk or any kind of patio heater, make sure you adhere to the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines carefully. Be sure to choose one that has UL and CSA certifications. Also, read the owner's guide thoroughly. Make sure the heater is out of the reach of pets and children. Some free-standing patio heating devices like EUROM's come with an automatic tipping safety that shuts off the device when it falls.

If your patio heater is connected to a natural gas line, you should be sure to check the condition of the line regularly and be sure to have it tested by a certified professional for leaks. If the line is in need of replacement get it replaced by an experienced plumbing professional who is licensed. A professional will be able to determine if the line should be connected to 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 modern electric patio heater sparks and fires.

Installation

The height of the patio heater determines how much heat it radiates into the space. The heater should be positioned away from surfaces such as plastic and wood that may deform. You can mount the heater on a structure, wall or other surface using conventional mounting brackets. Certain models come with a soft start, which reduces peak current to safeguard your circuits.