Trendy restaurants and taverns are not the only places one may find an outdoor patio heater these days. Given their improved performance, safety, and affordability, homeowners are increasingly looking to patio heaters as a viable alternative for heating their patio, deck or porch.
Also called mushroom or umbrella heater, patio heaters radiate heat in circles ranging from 10′ to 20′ and increase outside temperatures by 10 to 25 degrees. Although not enough to transform the dead of winter into a balmy oasis, the difference is significant and will keep you outside longer enjoying the fresh air.
Basically, a patio heater consists of a burner (or other heating element) on top of a post that directs flames or heat against a perforated metal screen. Heat is radiated from the surface of the screen in a circular pattern. A reflector on top of the burner or heating element reflects heat that would otherwise be lost upwards.
Numerous combinations of shapes, sizes, and finishes are now available. Many people like the elegant table and floor lamp styles. Many others prefer the various square, round, bullet, and multi-sided contemporary shapes. Striking textures, colors and finishes, such as copper, chrome, stainless steel, and nickel, add to the variety and choice.
As long as you use common sense, you will find outdoor patio heaters very safe to operate. A variety of regulated safety features help make this so. Safety tilt switches that automatically turn off the fuel source should the unit tip over is a good example. Other emergency shut-off valves that control the fuel source whenever there is a problem also help make patio heaters safe. Still, the common sense factor cannot be overstated. All the safety features built into a patio heater will not help much if you fire it up close to where you store gasoline, paint or other flammable liquids. Likewise, the enjoyment of a patio heater may quickly be lost if a child is left unattended near-by.
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.
No matter what time of day or year, outdoor patio heaters are now a fashionable and effective way to bring family and friends together whenever there is a chill in the air. Their functionality, style and safety make them an ideal alternative for enhancing the backyard patio, deck or porch.
