How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric

When you want to heat your patio, you have several options. In contrast to propane models that require refills electric patio heater lamp heaters can provide instant heat by simply flipping an switch or pressing the button.

They don't emit gasses which could pose an health risk. Some have adjustable settings for heat for varying distances.

Type of Heater

You can relax outside well into the evening and all through the year with the right patio heater. Patio heaters come in many varieties that include freestanding electric patio heater propane or natural gas models as well as ceiling or wall-mounted electric radiant heaters. Your choice depends on the size of your area, the existing power sources and personal preference.

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

Patio heat lamps combine a burner mounted on a pole and an open-pored screen that reflects flames and radiates heat downwards to warm people, objects and furniture. Some patio heat lamps come with a reflective reflector over the burner, which can be silvered in order to limit the amount of heat is lost upwards.

The most popular kind of patio heater, a gas patio heater patio electric, is often seen in outdoor seating areas at bars and restaurants because they generate a lot of heat quickly and spread it evenly in all directions, making them ideal for warming tables. They are portable and can run on a propane tank or be connected to your natural gas line. The latter is more convenient and has lower upfront costs, but requires fuel.

A growing number of homes are outfitted with natural gas lines, making these the ideal option for those who prefer a gas-powered patio heater. They are simple to install, however they require a gas line that is properly installed and operating to ensure safety. There are portable natural gas heaters with extension hoses that can assist in overcoming this limitation, but they can pose a tripping risk and also a fire hazard when not in use.

Safety

freestanding electric patio heater patio heaters can be used in covered areas, as they allow heat to radiate upward and not outwards. They are not intended to be used under a non-protected roof. The heater should be located at least 6" away from the ceiling and 18" away from the wall adjacent to prevent fire hazards.

Patio heaters made of propane and gas are only suitable for installation in enclosed areas that have durable covers specifically designed for outdoor use. These covers are usually made of fire-resistant canvas and have a roof that can be closed. These kinds of patio heaters have security concerns due to the fumes and flames they generate. They should be placed away from items that ignite like curtains and chairs.

When installing a patio heat lamp electric or any other patio heater, always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions and safety measures carefully. Make sure you select the one with UL and CSA certifications, and read the owner's manual thoroughly. Make sure the heater is out of reach of pets and children. Some free standing electric patio heaters-standing patio heaters like EUROM have a built-in tipping protection that shuts down the device if it falls over.

If your patio heater is connected to a natural gas line, you must be sure to check the condition of the line regularly and be sure to have it tested by a licensed professional to identify leaks. If the line is in need of replacement then you should hire a licensed plumbing professional. A professional is able to determine if the line should be routed through an underground pipe or not. A professional will also be able to ensure that the heater for your patio is connected to an outlet that is GFCI-rated (ground fault circuit interrupter) to protect against electric shocks and fires.

Installation

The size of the patio heater is positioned determines how much heat it will radiate into the area. It is crucial that the heater be mounted in an appropriate distance from any surfaces like plastic, which can deform as well as wood, which can become too hot. Depending on the heater model you can decide to place it on a wall or structure using standard mounting brackets. Some models have a soft start feature, which reduces peak current to safeguard your circuits.