Choosing The Right Patio Heater
When it comes to patio heaters, there are many different models and types that can use different fuel sources. One example of a patio heater is the radiant kind that tends to warm the people and not the air, resulting in a better experience. With all of these different varieties to choose from, it helps to know a few things first before making a purchasing decision.
1. Permanent Patio Heaters
Do you want your patio heater to be a permanent type of heater? For people that already have an existing gas grill, deciding to purchase a permanent patio heater is easy. Permanent natural gas heaters are easy to install if you have an existing natural gas grill. For people who don’t want to use a permanent patio heater, ones that use bottled propane or infrared electricity are an option.
2. Total Space You Need To Heat
You also have to figure out how much total space you’ll need to heat with the patio heater. The heater you choose should be powerful enough to provide heat where you need it most and efficiently warm the area of your choice. A general fact to remember is that you’re going to want to heat around a 20 foot circle around the heater. It’s best to do your research to find out what the heat range is of the unit, that way you’ll know if the purchase is right for you or not.
3. Safety Features
The next issue to consider is the safety factor. Will your guests be able to spend their time on the patio without fear of the unit malfunctioning? Tilted burners tilt safety switches, emergency cut off features, electronic start, and flame controls are all very safe options to have. Preferably, the patio heater you choose will have all of these installed. Every patio heater is going to burn the fuel hot, but you’ll have that with all patio heaters. The important thing is that protective measures are in place to keep you safe.
4. Fuel Type
Knowing what type of fuel your patio heater will use is an important buying factor as well. You should choose a heater that uses the most convenient and affordable fuel source for you. In some places, kerosene is really cheap, so a kerosene heater would be an option. In other places, it isn’t so cheap so this type of heater might not be such a good idea. Generally, you have the following options to choose from: Kerosene, butane, natural gas, and propane.
5. Heating Element
You also should be taking a look at the heating element to ensure that it will efficiently direct the heat to where you need it most. With an infrared heater, look for sturdy aluminum that will direct the heat down and out instead of up and away.
6. Looks
The look of your heater will be important to the visual appeal of your patio as well. Finding the most attractive heater for your hard earned money will ensure that people enjoy looking at it and enjoy being around it. Aside from functionality, this is the next factor to look at before making a purchase.
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