How an Electric Patio Heater Can Extend the Use of Your Outdoor Living Space

Electric heaters do away with the need to deal with power cords and propane tanks. They also cost less to operate than gas-powered models.

The mushroom-style top of this sturdy model reflects the heat downwards and upwards to warm an area of 3.5 feet. The different heat settings let you to select the perfect amount of warmth.

Power

When the seasons change, it can be chilly to enjoy an outdoor space like a garden patio, a cozy backyard nook or a relaxing garden. A patio heater can keep your space warm and allow you to take advantage of the outdoors in all seasons and well into the evening.

Patio heaters utilize gas or electricity to create heat for your patio and the heat output measured in watts and BTUs. The greater the BTUs the more heat they produce. There are also electric models that offer adjustable heating levels to allow for greater flexibility. These heaters are usually portable and don't require a professional installation. Gas patio heaters are often seen in restaurants with outdoor heaters for patio electric seating areas, especially floor models in the tower style that warm multiple tables at once. They are often inexpensive to run and provide lots of heating throughout the entire direction. This makes them an excellent option for large, open spaces.

There are also electric and gas patio heaters that mount to ceilings or walls. These are great when you don't have lots of area for flooring or if the ceilings are extremely high and difficult to reach. They're usually more expensive than freestanding models with a portable design but they'll help you save the cost of professional installation. They're typically more efficient than other kinds of patio heaters, as they convert energy into heat more efficiently. They can provide heat for a longer duration unlike gas models that require constant refills.

Heat Output

A free-standing electric heating unit can extend the outdoor dining and entertaining season whether you're enjoying dinner with friends in your backyard patio, drinking on the deck, or relaxing in the yard. These heaters use electric heat to warm objects and people rather than the air, which makes them an ideal choice for covered spaces which can reduce heat loss from the sun's setting. Many of the most popular models make use of infrared technology to deliver gentle, radiant warmth that is easily directed as needed.

The size and design of the patio heater determines how much heat it generates. Smaller tabletop units typically generate 10,000 to 15,000 BTUs of heat while tower-style floor models could produce up to 40000 BTUs. Look for BTUs on the label of the model to determine the heat output.

The size of the area you want to heat is also important. Portable Best electric patio heaters uk small patio heater electric heaters are ideal for smaller spaces as they can be easily moved around to direct the warmth to the areas that require it. If you're using a propane or propane model in a larger outdoor area make sure you select a heater with adequate BTUs to fit the space.

Models that operate on natural gas or propane can also be wall-mounted, or put on the ceiling. This is ideal for homes that have limited floor space or high ceilings. They require professional installation but offer the convenience of never having to refill propane tanks and are usually less expensive to run than Electric patio Heater Free standing models.

You'll find plenty of options when looking for a new patio heater at Lowe's and they offer a wide selection of styles that will fit any decor. For the most practical option, opt for an electric model that plugs into an outlet that is standard; these models are easy to move around and can be installed on all types of furniture for outdoor use. If you want a more permanent option, you can choose a propane or natural gas model that plugs directly into your existing gas lines and connected to a fuel tank of 20 pounds.

Safety

Patio heaters are a popular addition to outdoor spaces for entertainment particularly for those who want to make more use of their backyards. Like many outdoor heating elements, they are a risk if not utilized in a safe manner. Fortunately, there are many safety measures that you can implement to ensure your family and guests safe while using your gas or electric patio heater.

Keep the heater at a minimum of 3 feet from anything that is combustible. This includes umbrellas, rugs, furniture and gazebos. The heat from the heater could melt combustibles, and can even cause fire to nearby materials, such as curtains or fabrics. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning (a by-product of combustion) ensure that the area is well ventilated.

Consider installing an carbon monoxide detector close to your heater to warn you of any harmful fumes. Be sure to install the heater in an outdoor space with lots of natural airflow. Never put a heater on a patio inside or in any other enclosed space, regardless of the kind of fuel used.

Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the proper operation of your new patio heater, especially when it is time to light it. Some models have built-in ignitor buttons that ignite the burner automatically and others require the use of a manual lighter to light the flame. Make sure you choose a lighter with a long handle to minimize the risk of a burn that is accidental.

If your patio heater has an attached stand, ensure that it is placed on a sturdy base. This reduces the chance of tipping or falling over, which can cause damage to your home, or injuries to your family members and friends. Especially in areas prone to high winds, ensure that your standing patio heater is anchored or weighted down to prevent it from shifting in windy conditions, and potentially causing a dangerous situation.

Regular maintenance and inspections are important to prolong the life of your patio heater. Check that the unit is in good working order and that there are no scratches or rust. Also, inspect the propane tank for leaks as a leaking cylinder can cause fire hazards.

Installation

Adding an overhead or freestanding patio heater is a great method to increase the use of your outdoor living space. With this kind of heating, you can take advantage of your deck or patio all night or during cold weather without having to worry about moving a propane tank around. Electric heaters are also cheaper to operate than natural gas models.

This mounting option is available for some Bromic electric heaters. It offers a sleek and modern look to your space. Available for some Bromic waterproof electric patio heaters heaters, this type of mounting is perfect for rooms that are unable to accommodate an installation suspended due to a vaulted or angled ceiling. For this installation method, a minimum cavity space within the ceiling is required, which varies by model.

This freestanding electric patio heater is simple to install on balconies, courtyards and garages, as well as open-air restaurants, etc. It can help save energy and money and its infrared technology will improve blood circulation and metabolism, making you feel warm and comfortable. The temperature of the heater can be adjustable, and it also comes with double tip-over protection for your security.