How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric

There are a variety of options when it comes to heating up your patio. Electric heaters are more efficient than propane models that require fueling. They can be heated in a matter of minutes by pressing a button or flipping a switch.

They don't release any gasses that could cause the risk of health hazards. Some units have adjustable heat settings to accommodate varying distances.

Heater Type

With the right patio heater electric free standing heater, you can relax in your outdoor living spaces well into the night, and throughout the seasons. There are many kinds of heaters for patios, including freestanding propane and natural gas models as well as wall- or ceiling-mounted electric radiant heaters. The choice you make will depend on the size of your space, power sources available and personal preference.

The majority of patio heaters use electricity, liquid or natural gas to generate heat. They release heat through a combination convection heating and radiant heating. Their heat output is measured in watts, and can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) to compare. Some also have adjustable heat settings for greater flexibility.

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

The most popular type of patio heater is a gas patio heater is usually found in outdoor seating areas of bars and restaurants because they produce a lot of heat quickly and spread it evenly in all directions, making them ideal for warming tables. These heaters are portable and can be powered by a propane tank or be plumbed in to your natural gas line. This is more convenient and has lower initial costs, but requires fuel.

A growing number of homes are outfitted with natural gas lines, which makes them the ideal solution for those who prefer to use a gas-powered patio heater. They are easy to install, but they require a gas line that's properly installed and functioning to be safe. There are portable natural gas heaters that come with extension hoses that can help overcome this restriction however they could create a tripping hazard and also a fire hazard when not in use.

Safety

The majority of electric patio heater indoors patio heaters are safe to use in covered areas due to their ability for heat to radiate outward instead of upwards towards material that is combustible, such as the roof. However, they're not designed for use under an open roof; the heater must be installed at least 18" from adjacent walls or 6" from the ceiling to prevent fire hazards.

The propane and gas patio heaters are typically suitable for use in enclosed areas and are protected by an enduring cover specifically designed for use in open air. These covers are usually made of fire-resistant canvas and come with the option of having a roof that is closed. These types of patio heaters are prone to security concerns due to the flames and fumes they generate. They should be placed away from objects that can ignite, such as curtains and chairs.

When installing a patio heat lamp electric or any kind of patio heater, always follow the manufacturer's directions and safety guidelines carefully. Be sure to select a system with UL and CSA certifications. Also, read the owner's manual thoroughly. Be sure that the heater is not within reach of pets and children. Some infrared patio heater electric heaters that are freestanding like EUROM have a built-in tipping protection that shuts down the heater if it is tipped over.

If your patio heater runs on a natural gas line it is important to examine the condition of the line on a regular basis and to test it for leaks by a certified professional. If the line needs to be replaced, make certain to get an authorized plumber. A professional can determine if the line has been properly routed or should be routed through an underground pipe. A professional can also make sure that the heater in the patio is plugged in to an outlet that is GFCI-rated (ground fault circuit interruptioner) to guard against electric fires and shocks.

Installation

The size of the patio heater is positioned determines how much heat it will radiate into the area. The heater should be placed away from surfaces like plastic and wood that could deform. Depending on the model of the heater, you can choose to mount it on a wall or a structure using standard mounting brackets. Certain models come with a soft start, which reduces peak current to protect your circuits.