9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Gas Or Electric Patio Heater
Choosing a Gas Or Electric Patio Heater
Most patio heaters use electricity or propane for power. electric patio heater vs gas models are easier to use and less expensive to run than propane heaters.
If you intend to use the heater for a long period of time, it is important that you are close to an outlet and utilize extension cords that are rated for outdoor use. To avoid danger, it is important to check the power cord frequently for frayed areas.
How to Select the Right Heater
To ensure that the patio heater you choose will be able to warm your space effectively, you must consider its BTU (boiler rated total heat output) power. This number is determined by the square footage of your area which is why it is crucial to calculate before choosing the right model. If you are unsure what to do, you can follow an easy rule of thumb multiply your square footage by 20 to get an idea of the power output that you require.
Propane models typically have higher BTUs than electric models, so they may be an ideal choice for large, well-ventilated spaces. Gas heaters are also more expensive to operate than electric models. This is due to the cost of buying propane tanks and gas lines as well as the energy costs associated with fueling your heater.
You should ensure that any outdoor gas patio heater regulator heater you purchase for your home has thermocouples. This is an essential component of any gas-powered heating system, because it shuts off the flame in case it fails to ignite. It's a simple feature that can prevent dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning, as well as other hazards.
There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing an electric patio heater. You can pick wall-mounted options, bar-shaped heaters with stands, parasol heaters and tall freestanding designs. Some models are chic, while others are more practical and practical.
Electric patio heaters have an advantage because they don't produce emissions and can be used in small enclosed spaces, without the need to vent. Electric patio heaters are also less expensive and less trouble-prone to maintain than gas-powered ones, making them a great choice for homeowners who wish to minimize their impact on the environment. There are many models available in a variety of shades to match your decor, and can also be installed in ceilings to provide a more discrete installation.
Safety
Patio heaters are no different. They come with their own safety issues. They generate a lot of heat and should be kept away from flammable items like curtains carpets, furniture, and other decorations. Also they should be positioned over non-flammable surfaces such as concrete or tiles. Experts recommend an optimum clearance of three feet around the heater on all sides.
Gas patio heaters aren't to be used in or in any enclosed space. They produce toxic gases and carbon monoxide which can cause harm to the people who use them. Propane and natural gas patio heaters should also be used outdoors only when there's ample ventilation to keep the dangerous fumes from leaking into.
Electric patio heaters are the most secure of all outdoor heating options because they don't emit gasses. They can also be powered by constant electricity, which is a plus because it doesn't need refueling or replacement of cylinders or lines. However, the disadvantage is that the heaters only function for as long as power is available to them. Check with your local fire department or city building codes for more information about the rules and regulations applicable to your region when you intend to use heaters outside.
If you're going to go with propane, natural gas or an electric model, make certain to purchase a model that has a good warranty in case there are any issues. Both gas and electric models should be inspected by a professional before the start of each season. This will ensure that they're functioning properly and won't cause any safety issues in the future.
The price of propane and natural gas heaters for patios will increase in the event that the cylinder isn't changed on a regular basis. The convenience of being able put the new gas cylinder into place is worth the cost for many homeowners.
Installation
When you are arranging the installation of your new patio heater, it is important that you let professionals handle it. This is because both gas (propane or natural) and electric systems are massive, mounted systems that will need to be firmly secured. They also run at higher voltages and consequently, require a lot of care when it comes to their installation.
If you are using a gas patio heater, you should make sure that it is regularly vented. This will help prevent the build-up of carbon monoxide inside your home, which could cause death. It is also a good idea to only use propane approved tanks, and to have the propane tank refilled when needed. Gas patio heaters are usually more efficient than electric ones, but they also can be less portable since propane needs to be replenished regularly.
Installing electric models in a protected space will reduce heat loss. In addition, it will also help to protect the heater from inclement weather and other debris that could cause damage. In some cases, you may need to install an extension lead for outdoor use to your electric heater, but make certain that it is a heavy-duty model and that it is rated for outdoor use.
Gas and electric patio heaters are available in a variety of styles, including ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted and freestanding. They also come in a variety of finishes and colors that match your existing decor. Some of the most popular choices include polished stainless steel as well as oil rubbed bronze and matte black.
The Best gas patio heaters UK method to determine which heater is right for your needs is to rely on a variety of factors, such as the average heating area in your area and the cost of energy in that region. The most important thing to consider is safety. Be sure that the unit you purchase has a built-in flame sensor that will shut down the system if the flame goes out. Certain models come with guards that protect the burner, which could aid in reducing the risk of a fire and prevent accidents.
Maintenance
No matter which type of heater you pick, regular maintenance is essential to ensure their safe and efficient operation. This is especially true for outdoor heaters that run on gas, as they are more susceptible to issues than electrical heaters due to the fuel source.
Gasoline-powered heaters must be inspected regularly for carbon deposits on the pilot tube and orifices. These deposits could reduce the amount of heat produced, and can even cause a fire. The thermocouple and the regulator should also be inspected to ensure that they are in good condition. These components are to be replaced if they are needed or repaired by a professional.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters must be inspected for leaks in gas patio heater uk lines as well as other safety concerns at least every year. The inspection should be conducted by a gas professional who is licensed and includes looking for damage to the electrical wiring that can be damaged through exposure to the elements and curious animals.
Infrared electric patio heaters on the other hand, require less maintenance than gas-powered models. Radiant heating is used to warm objects and people instead of simply warming the air. This is why they are more efficient in warming patios. They don't also have the same environmental concerns as gas heaters which release carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere during operation.
If you're using a propane or natural-gas patio heater, keep an extinguisher nearby and remind your guests to be cautious when they are sitting too close. It's also important to clean regularly the dome of your patio heater and burner screen to remove dust and other debris from the gas ports. If you notice an accumulation of carbon that could slow the flame, you might have to replace the element or igniter.
Every time you change the gas bottle, ensure that the hose connection to the regulator is really secure. The Jubilee clip must be secure and there should not be detectable movement between the two parts. Regularly you must give the hose a "soap-test" to ensure that it isn't leaking.