How to Choose a Patio Heat Lamp Electric

When you want to heat your patio, there are several options. electric patio heater hanging heaters are more efficient than propane models, which require fuel refills. They can be heated instantly by pressing a button or flipping the switch.

They don't emit gasses which could pose a health hazard. Some have adjustable settings for heat for different distances.

Type of Heater

With the appropriate patio heater, you can relax in your outdoor living spaces well into the night and across the seasons. Patio heaters come in many different types including freestanding propane models, natural gas models and ceiling or wall mounted electric radiant heaters. The choice you make will depend on the dimensions of your patio, existing power sources and personal preference.

The majority of patio heaters are powered by electricity or liquid or natural gas and emit heat in convection and radiant heating. Their output of heat is measured in watts, and can be converted to British thermal units (BTUs) for comparison. Certain models come with adjustable temperature settings that give you more flexibility.

A patio heat lamp is an electric burner on a pole with a perforated metal screen that reflect the flames and sends the heat downwards to warm people, furniture and other objects. Some patio heat lamps include reflective reflectors on top of the burner and can be silvered in order to limit the amount of heat is lost upwards.

The most common kind of patio heater is a gas patio heater is typically found in outdoor heater for patio electric seating areas of bars and restaurants since they generate lots of heat quickly and distribute it evenly in all directions, making them ideal for warming multiple tables. They can be portable and run from a propane tank or plumbed into your natural gas line, with the latter providing greater convenience and lower initial installation costs, but also requiring an ongoing cost of fuel.

A growing number of homes are equipped with natural gas lines, which makes them the ideal option for those who prefer to use a gas patio electric heater heater. They are easy to install, but they require a gas line that's properly installed and operating to ensure safety. Portable natural gas heaters are available with extension hoses to help overcome this limitation, but these can be a tripping risk and can create an additional fire risk when not being used.

Safety

Electric patio heaters can be used safely in enclosed areas, since they allow heat to radiate upward and not outward. They are not designed for use under an unprotected roof. The heater must be placed at a minimum of 6" away from the ceiling, or 18" away from the wall adjacent to avoid fire hazards.

The propane and gas patio heaters are typically safe to be installed in enclosed areas and are protected by the proper cover made for outdoor use. These covers are usually made of fire-resistant canvas and come with a roof that can be closed. These types of patio heaters have safety concerns relating to the fumes and flames they produce. They should be located away from flammable objects, such as chairs and curtains.

When installing a patio heat lamp electric or any kind of patio heater, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines carefully. Be sure to select a system with UL and CSA certifications, and read the owner's manual thoroughly. Be sure that the heater is not within reach of children and pets. Some free-standing patio heating devices like EUROM's have an automatic tipping safety that shuts down the device when it falls.

If your patio heater is connected to natural gas lines it is essential to inspect the condition of the line periodically and be tested for leaks by an experienced professional. If the line is in need of replacement, hire an expert plumber who is licensed. A professional will be able to determine if the line should be connected to an underground pipe or not. In addition, a professional can make sure the heater in the patio is plugged into an outlet that is GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) certified to guard against electrical shocks and fires.

Installation

The size of the patio heater is positioned determines how much heat it will radiate into the space. The heater should be mounted away from surfaces like plastic and wood that may deform. The heater can be mounted on a structure, wall or any other surface with traditional mounting brackets. Some models have a soft start, which decreases the peak current in order to protect your circuits.