Choosing a gas or electric patio heater; my sources,

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

If you are planning to use the heater for a prolonged period, it is important that you are close to an outlet and utilize extension cords with outdoor ratings. Also, regular inspections of the power cord for damaged areas are necessary to avoid hazards.

Selecting the Right Heater

You should be aware of the BTU power (boiler-rated total heat output), to ensure that your patio heater is able to effectively heat your area. This number is determined by the area you have, so it is important to know this before selecting a model. If you're not sure what to do, apply the following simple rule of thumb to 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 options and are therefore the best choice for large, well-ventilated spaces. Gas heaters are also more expensive to operate than their electric counterparts. This is due to the high price of propane tanks and gas pipes and the cost of fuel.

If you're looking to purchase an outdoor gas heater for your home, be sure to ensure that the heater comes with a thermocouple safety device. This is a crucial element of any gas-powered heating system, since it will shut off the flame in case it is not able to ignite. It's a basic feature that could prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning as well as other hazards.

There are plenty of options when it comes to selecting an electric patio heater. You can pick wall-mounted heaters, bar-shaped heaters with their own stands, parasol heaters, and tall freestanding designs. Some models are stylish while others are more practical and practical.

Electric patio heaters have an advantage because they do not produce any emissions and can be used in small gas patio heater enclosed spaces, without venting. They're also easier to maintain and more affordable to run than gas-powered models, making them a good choice for homeowners who want to lower their environmental impact. There are many models available with a range of shades to match your decor, and can also be installed in ceilings to provide more subtle installation.

Safety

As with any heat source, patio heaters have some security concerns to be considered. For one, they produce a lot of heat, which means they must be kept away from any flammable items such as furniture, curtains, carpets and decorations. They should also be placed on non-flammable surfaces, such as tiles or concrete. For the best gas patio heater security, experts recommend a minimum of three feet of clearance around the entire heater.

Because they produce carbon monoxide and other noxious gases gas patio heaters must never be used indoors or in any enclosed area where the fumes can build up and contaminate occupants. Propane and natural gas patio heaters should also always be used outdoors where there's ample ventilation to keep the harmful fumes from getting into.

The advantage of electric patio heaters is that they do not emit any fumes, making them the most safe option of all four types of outdoor heating. They can also be powered by a steady source of electricity, which is convenient since it doesn't require 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. If you intend to use them outside check with your local fire department as well as city building codes for more details on guidelines and warnings specific to your region.

If you decide to go with a natural-gas, propane, or electric model, be sure it has a good warranty in case of problems. Electric and gas models should be professionally inspected before the start of every season. This will ensure that they're operating properly and won't create any safety issues in the future.

The price of propane and natural gas gas patio heater gas heaters for patios will increase in the event that the cylinder isn't regularly replaced. The convenience of being able to simply pop a new gas cylinder in place is worth the cost for homeowners who have a lot of.

Installation

It is crucial to allow professionals to install your new patio heater. Gas (propane, natural gas) and electric systems both require a large mounted system that needs to be securely fixed. They also operate on higher voltages, and as such, they require a great deal of attention to their installation.

You should always ensure that a gas patio heater is vented properly. This will prevent carbon monoxide from accumulating in your home. Carbon monoxide can be deadly. It is a good idea to also use only approved tanks and have your propane tank filled whenever required. Gas patio heaters are generally more efficient than electric models. However, they can be less portable due to the propane needs to be replenished regularly.

For electric models, it's ideal to put the unit in a protected area to reduce the loss of heat. Additionally it can aid in protecting the heater from weather conditions and debris that can cause damage. You may need to use an extension cable that is outdoor for your electric heater in some cases. Make sure that it is a heavy duty model that is designed for outdoor usage.

Electric and gas patio heaters are available in a variety of styles, such as ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted and freestanding. You can find them in a variety of colors and finishes that will match your existing decor. Some of the more popular options are polished stainless steel, oil rubbed bronze, and matte black.

The best method to determine which heater is right for your needs will depend on a variety of factors, such as the typical heating area in your area, as well as the cost of energy in that region. The most important aspect is safety. Make sure that the appliance you purchase comes with a built in flame sensor that will shut off the unit when the flame ceases to burn. Some models have protective guards around the burner, which could help reduce the chance of a fire and prevent accidents.

Maintenance

No matter which type of heater you pick, regular maintenance is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation. This is especially relevant for patio heaters that use gas, as they are more prone to problems than their electrical counterparts because of the fuel source.

Be sure to check for carbon deposits in the orifices of the pilot tubes in heaters that run on gasoline. These deposits can reduce the heat output and could even cause fire. The thermocouple and the regulator should also be inspected to ensure they are in good working order. They can be repaired or replaced by a professional, if needed.

At least once per year, propane and natural gas patio heater gas flame heaters have to be inspected for leaks and other security issues. The inspection should be conducted by a licensed gas professional and includes checking for damage to the electrical wiring, which can be damaged through exposure to elements and curious creatures.

Infrared electric patio heaters on the other hand require less maintenance than gas flame patio heater-powered models. They utilize radiant heating to warm people and objects instead of just warming the air around them and that's the reason they are more efficient in warming patios. Gas heaters release greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide into the air when operating. They do not.

If you have propane or natural-gas for your patio heater, be sure to keep an extinguisher nearby and remind your guests to be careful when they are too close to. Cleaning the burner screen and dome of your heater is essential to get rid of dust, dirt and other debris. If you notice an accumulation of carbon, which could hinder the flame, you may require replacing the igniter or element.

Each time you change the gas bottle, make sure that the hose fitting to the regulator is really secure. The jubilee clip should be tight and there should not be discernable movement between the two parts. Every now and then, you should give the hose an "soap-test" to ensure that it isn't leaky.