Choosing a Gas Or Electric Patio Heater

Most patio heaters use electricity or propane to power them. Electric heaters are more simple to operate and less expensive than propane heaters.

However you must be close to an electrical outlet, and you should use extension cords that are rated for outdoor use when the heater is utilized for long periods. To prevent the risk of injury, it is crucial to examine the power cord on a regular basis for frayed areas.

How to Select the Best Heater

To ensure that the patio heater you choose will be able to warm your space effectively, you must consider its BTU (boiler rating total heat output) power. This number is determined by the square footage of your area, so it is important to determine this before deciding on a model. If you are unsure what to do, you can follow a simple rule of thumb multiply your square footage by 20 to get an idea of the heat output that you need.

Propane models have greater BTUs when compared to electric models, so they are an ideal choice for large, well ventilated areas. Gas heaters are also more expensive to operate than electric models. This is due to the cost of buying propane tanks and gas lines and the energy costs for fueling your heater.

You'll want to make sure that any gas heater for outdoor use you purchase for your home has thermocouples. This is an essential element of any gas-powered heating system since it will shut off the flame in the event that it fails to ignite. This simple feature can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, among other hazards.

When it comes to selecting an electric patio heater for your home, you'll be spoiled by the variety of models available. You can pick from wall-mounted heaters, bar-shaped heaters that come with their own stands or tall freestanding models. Some models look elegant, while others are more functional and practical.

An advantage of electric patio heaters is that they do not produce emissions and can be employed in small enclosed spaces without the need for special venting. Electric patio heaters are also less expensive and less trouble-prone to maintain than Gas patio heaters UK-powered ones, which makes them an excellent alternative for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental impact. Additionally there are many models available in various shades to match your decor and can be recessed into the ceiling for a more discreet installation.

Safety

As with any heat source, patio heaters have some safety issues to consider. They generate plenty of heat, which means they need to be kept away from any flammable items such as furniture, curtains, carpets and decorations. They also must be placed over non-flammable surfaces like concrete or tile. For maximum security, experts recommend at least three feet of space around the entire heater.

Gas patio heaters aren't to be used in or in enclosed spaces. They produce harmful gasses and carbon monoxide which could cause poisoning to the occupants. Propane and natural gas patio heaters should also be used outdoors only when there's plenty of ventilation to prevent the harmful fumes from getting into.

The advantage of electric patio heaters is that they don't emit any fumes. This makes them the most secure option of the four kinds of outdoor heating. They can also be powered with an uninterrupted source of electricity, which is convenient because it doesn't need refueling or replacing cylinders or lines. The heaters can only be used as long as power is available. Contact your local fire department or city building codes to find out more about the rules and warnings that are applicable to your area if you plan to use heaters outside.

If you opt for a natural-gas, propane, or electric model, be sure that it comes with a solid guarantee in case of any problems. Electric and gas models should be professionally inspected before the start of every season. This will ensure that they're functioning properly and won't cause any safety issues over time.

Propane and natural gas patio heaters that use an cylinder will have to be replaced frequently which increases the cost of these systems. But the convenience of being able to simply pop a new cylinder into place is well worth the extra expense for many homeowners.

Installation

It is essential to allow professionals to install your new patio heater. Gas (propane natural gas) and electric systems both require a huge installed system that has to be fixed with a firm grip. They also require more attention to installation because they run on higher voltages.

Always make sure that your calor gas patio heater patio heater is vented correctly. This will prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide inside your home, which can be fatal. It is recommended to only use approved tanks and have your propane tank topped off when required. Gas patio heaters are typically more efficient than electric ones however, they may be less portable as the propane tank will have to be replenished frequently.

Installing electric heaters in a protected space will help reduce heat loss. It will also protect the heater from inclement weather and other debris that could cause damage. It is possible to use an extension cable for outdoor use with your electric heater in certain instances. Be sure to select an extremely durable model that is suitable for outdoor usage.

Electric and gas patio heaters are available in many styles, including ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted and freestanding. They are available in a variety of finishes and colors that will complement your decor. Some of the most sought-after options are brushed stainless steel and oil rubbed bronze and matte black.

The best method to decide which heater is the best for your requirements will depend on many aspects, including the typical heating area in your area, as well as the price of energy in that region. The most important factor is safety. Make sure the unit you purchase has an built-in flame sensor which will shut the system off if the flame goes away. Some models also have safety guards around the burner to help avoid accidents and lower the risk of a fire.

Maintenance

Whatever type of heater you pick it is vital to maintain it properly to ensure safe and effective operation. This is particularly applicable to patio heaters that use gas because they are more likely to have issues than electrical heaters because of the fuel source.

The heaters that are powered by gasoline should be inspected regularly for carbon deposits on the pilot tube and orifices. These can inhibit combustion, leading to a decrease in heat output and could pose a fire hazard. In addition the thermocouple as well as the regulator need to be examined to ensure that they are in good working condition. The components are to be replaced if they are needed or repaired by an expert.

At least once a year propane and natural gas patio heaters need to be inspected for leaks and other security issues. The inspection should be conducted by an authorized professional. It also includes checking the electrical wiring for damage, which could be caused by exposure to weather conditions and curious animals.

Infrared patio heaters are much less expensive to maintain than gas-powered ones. Radiant heating is used to warm people and objects, rather than just heating the air. This is why they are more efficient in heating patios. They don't also have the same environmental problems as gas heaters, which release carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases in the atmosphere when they are operating.

If you're using propane or natural gas patio heater, be sure to keep a fire extinguisher in the vicinity and remind guests to be cautious when sitting too close. Cleaning regularly the dome and burner screen of your heater is important to remove dust and other debris. If you notice a build-up of carbon, which could inhibit the flame, you might need to replace the element or igniter.

Every time you change the gas patio heater outdoor bottle, check that the hose connection to the regulator is really secure. The jubilee clip needs to be secure and there should not be discernable movement between the two components. You should also perform the "soap test" every so often to ensure that it is not leaky.