Choosing a Gas Or Electric Patio Heater
The majority of patio heaters are powered by electricity or propane. Electric models are easier to use and cheaper to run than propane heaters.
If you plan to use the heater for a long time it is essential that you're near an outlet and that you use extension cords with outdoor ratings. Also regular inspections of your power cord for frayed areas are necessary to avoid dangers.
How to Select the Right Heater
It is important to be aware of the BTU power (boiler-rated total heat output), to ensure that your patio heater will heat your space effectively. This number is determined by the square footage of your area and is therefore important to know this before selecting a model. If you're unsure of what to do, use an easy rule of thumb to multiply your square footage by 20 to get an idea of the amount of heat that you need.
Propane models generally have higher BTUs than electric options, so they may be the best choice for areas with a lot of ventilation. Gas heaters are also more expensive to run than their electric counterparts. This is due to the high price of gas pipes and propane tanks, as well as the expense of fuel.
If Best gas patio heaters UK planning to purchase an outdoor gas heater for your home, be sure to check that the unit features a thermocouple safety device. It is a vital element of any gas-powered heating system since it will shut off the flame in the event that it is not able to ignite. This simple feature can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, among other dangers.
You'll be spoilt with choice when it comes to choosing an electric patio heater. You can pick from wall-mounted heaters, bar-shaped heaters which come with stands or tall freestanding models. Some models are elegant while others are more practical and utilitarian.
An advantage of electric patio heaters is that they don't produce emissions and can be employed in small, enclosed areas without the need for special venting. They are also less maintenance-intensive and less expensive to operate than gas-powered models making them a good choice for homeowners who want to lower their impact on the environment. In addition, many models are available in a variety of colors to complement your decor. They also can be recessed into the ceiling to create a more subtle installation.
Safety
Patio heaters are no different. They also have their own safety concerns. For one, they produce a lot of heat, so they need to be kept away from flammable materials such as furniture, curtains carpets, decorations and carpets. Also they should be placed over non-flammable surfaces such as concrete or tiles. Experts recommend an optimum clearance of three feet around the heater on all sides.
Because they release carbon monoxide and other toxic gases gas patio heaters must not be used indoors or in any partially enclosed space where the emissions can build up and poison the people who live there. Propane or natural gas patio heaters are best used outdoors, with ample ventilation. This prevents dangerous fumes from entering.
Electric patio heaters are safest of all outdoor heating options because they do not emit emissions. Electric patio heaters can be powered by a constant source of electricity. This is beneficial since it doesn't require refilling or replacing cylinders or pipes. The heaters can only be used for as long as electricity is available. Consult Best gas patio heaters UK or the city's building codes for more information about the rules and warnings applicable to your region in the event that you plan to use heaters outdoors.
If you decide to go with a natural-gas, propane, or electric model, make sure that it comes with a decent guarantee in case of any issues. Both electric and gas models should be professionally inspected before the start of each season. This will ensure that they're functioning properly and won't cause any safety issues in the future.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters that require an cylinder will have to be replaced on a regular basis which increases the cost of these heaters. However, the ease of being able to simply put a new cylinder in place is well worth the additional expense for many homeowners.
Installation
It is essential to let professionals install your new patio heater. Gas (propane natural gas) and electric systems require a large mounted system that must be firmly fixed. They also run at higher voltages and as such, they require a lot of attention to their installation.
It is essential to ensure that a gas patio heater is vented properly. This will prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide within your home, which can be fatal. More suggestions is also a good idea to only use propane approved tanks, and to have the propane tank filled as needed. Gas patio heaters are generally more efficient than electric heaters, but they also can be less portable as propane needs to be replenished regularly.
For electric models, it's best to install the unit in a protected area as this will minimize heat loss. It will also protect the heater from weather conditions and debris that could cause damage. It is possible to use an extension cable that is outdoor for your electric heater in certain cases. Make sure it is an extremely durable model that is rated for outdoor use.
Electric and gas patio heaters are available in various designs, including freestanding units, wall-mounted models, and ceiling-mounted ones. They also come in a variety of finishes and colors to match your existing decor. Some of the more popular options are brushed stainless steel and oil rubbed bronze and matte black.
The best method to determine which heater is suitable for your needs will depend on a variety of factors, such as the average heating area in your region and the cost of energy in the region. The most important thing to consider is security. Make sure the appliance you buy has a built-in flame sensor, which shuts off the system in the event that the flame goes out. Some models also have safety guards around the burner to prevent accidents and decrease the risk of a fire.
Maintenance
Whatever type of heater you select it is important to maintain them regularly to ensure safe and efficient operation. This is especially true for patio heaters that use gas as they are more likely to have problems than their electrical counterparts due to the fuel source.
Be sure to check for carbon deposits in the orifices for the pilot tube of gasoline-powered heaters. These deposits can reduce the amount of heat produced, and can even cause fire. Additionally, the thermocouple and regulator must be examined to ensure they are in good condition. The components should be replaced if necessary, or repaired by a professional.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters must be inspected for leaks in gas lines and other safety issues at least once per year. The inspection should be carried out by an accredited professional. It also involves checking the electrical wiring for damage, which could be caused by exposure to weather conditions and curious animals.
Infrared electric patio heaters, on the other hand, require less maintenance than gas-powered models. They make use of radiant heating to warm objects and people instead of simply warming the air around them and that's the reason they are more efficient at warming patios. They also don't have the same environmental concerns as gas heaters which release greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide into the air during operation.
If you're using propane or natural-gas for your patio heater, be sure to keep an extinguisher near it and remind your guests to be vigilant when they sit too close. It's also important to clean regularly the patio heater's dome and burner screen to remove dust and other debris from the individual gas ports. If you find that the flame is being stifled by a buildup of carbon, it might be required to replace your element or igniter.
Every time you change the gas bottle, make sure that the hose connection to the regulator is really secure. The jubilee clip should be tight and there should be no detectable movement between the two components. It is also recommended to perform the "soap test" every so often to ensure it's not leaky.