Time was when you would most likely find a patio Heater on the terrace of a trendy restaurant or bar. However, more and more of them are showing up on backyard decks, patios and porches. There are reasons for this.
Radiating Heat in a circular fashion and increasing the temperature of a 10' by 20' area by 10 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit is the primary function of an outdoor patio heater. Although this will not cause Spring flowers to bloom in the dead of winter, it is just enough to bring family and friends together outdoors no matter what the time of year.
Electric Patio Heat Lamps
The design of an outdoor patio heater is basically simple. A pillar or pole supports a gas or electric heating element that generates heat against a metal screen. In turn, the screen radiates the heat in a circular fashion toward a reflector positioned on top of the heater. The reflector redirects the heat outwardly and downwardly into the area where guests have gathered.
Buyers will enjoy the wide variety of patio heater shapes, sizes and finishes. Stainless steel, chrome, nickel, copper and aluminum are some of the strikingly beautiful finishes that are available. The table top and floor lamp styles demonstrate the most noticeable size variations. Add to the mix the various round, square, multi-sided, modern and traditional forms, as well as colors, and it is unlikely you will not be able to find the perfect look for your place.
In addition to functionality and style, patio heaters are easy to use and come with a wide range of safety features. Basic to these are automatic shut-off mechanisms to prevent CO2 poisoning, safety tilt switches to stop the fuel source should the unit tip over, and emergency cut-off valves so you can immediately kill the heat source in case of a problem. Along with common sense precautions, such as keeping it at least 3' away from combustible materials and 25' from gasoline and other flammable liquids and vapors, a patio heater is safe to use.
Three different fuel sources allow even more choice in meeting your preferences. Electric patio heaters must be plugged into grounded outlets, so they are not as portable as other types. However, they are easy and convenient to operate, as well as environmentally safe.
On the other hand, propane patio heaters are the choice for many people, because connecting them to a small propane tank allows them to position the heater in a greater number of places. Comparatively speaking, propane also is cost-effective, and burning propane does not hurt the environment.
If you already have the gas line installed on your patio or deck, or you do not mind having that done, then natural gas may be the best match for you. Natural gas also is cost-effective, odorless, and environmentally friendly. However, unlike propane, it does not require tank refills. Of course, similar to electric models, portability is limited.
Whatever patio heater size, style or fuel type works best for you, what you will enjoy most is the added dimension to your outdoor experience. You not only will enhance the look and ambiance of your patio, deck or porch, but, more importantly, the relationships of those that come together there.
Patio Heaters - What Good Are They?
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