How to Choose the
Best Gas Patio Heater ukAs autumn is approaching the time is now to start thinking about ways to expand your outdoor living area. Our top choice is this elegant and efficient copper lantern patio heater from Kettler Kalos.
Power ratings for heaters are typically listed in British thermal units (Btu) however the size of your garden and types of furniture used for outdoor use will determine the amount of heat you need. This pyramid heater comes with an automatic tip-over valve for security.
1. Size
Gas patio heaters are able to provide a larger heating radius than electric ones. This means that they require much more space, as they need to be at least seven feet away from any flammable object. In addition, they must be in a ventilated area to avoid the risk of fumes accumulating inside your home.
They come in a variety of sizes and styles. The size you pick will depend on the space you want to heat, and the size of your outdoor seating area. The BU-KO Pyramid model for instance is a stylish choice that will look great with garden furniture and can fit nicely in a corner. Its high-heat settings are ideal for taking the chill off a cool evening and its low setting can provide a calm ambience that's ideal to relax after dinner.
A hanging or wall-mounted heater is an excellent option for those with little space. These heaters don't require the floor and can be set up over a table or attached to a pergola, making them the best option for smaller gardens. They also tend to be more affordable than freestanding ones since they don't need a large base.
You can also consider an outdoor fire pit that is similar to a freestanding patio heater but offers a more rustic look. These heaters are cheaper than the pyramid or dome-top varieties and can be used in any outdoor space. However, it's important to keep in mind that they generate less heat than dome and pyramid patio heaters.
2. Design
This elegant pyramid-shaped heater made by German manufacturer Herschel will be an eye-catching feature in your backyard and looks elegant. It's also pretty affordable and can provide a significant amount of heat to help take the chill off chilly evenings. It uses infrared technology so it's much quieter than other models on the list. It also offers a low setting which gives a subtle light to create an inviting atmosphere.
This is a freestanding model, which doesn't require professional installation. It can be moved as needed to adjust the position of the heater. It's suitable for propane and natural gas. It has a remote control so you can alter the heat and lighting levels according to your needs. It's heavier than other models, but it has wheels and a hand handle to make it easier to move it.
Pyramid-style gas heaters are a favorite because they're very stylish and can create an impressive impression in the garden. The stainless steel is a sturdy material that is great for outdoor use. It also distributes heat evenly.
The type of fuel used for patio heaters is important to think about as it could affect the cost of running them. Gas models are cheaper than electric options, but they require refueling with butane or propane
gas fired patio heaters. This can cost a lot. They're also more efficient at heating a larger area than electric versions but they do need to be near an outlet so that you can switch them on and off when needed.
3. Power
In addition to looking fashionable,
pyramid gas patio heater patio heaters are durable and have a a reassuringly weighty base. This makes them more secure than some of the more fragile mushroom-top models, which tend to slide over easily. This model from Outsunny also comes with a handy swivel feature and a safety shut-off feature that cuts off the flame if it gets knocked over. The low and high heat settings help to take the chill off cooler evenings and to keep the ambience going after dark.
Propane
patio heater gas cylinder heaters come with a few advantages, including the speed at which they warm up an area.
propane gas patio heater gas heaters are also more portable, as the fuel source can be contained in a small container which can be moved and filled when required.
However, propane patio heaters can be more expensive to run, as you'll need to refill the tank regularly. Electric heaters will not require refills, but they could use more electricity than you expect, especially if the unit has multiple lights or a powerful fan.
Our top choice is an electric patio heater manufactured by Swedish company Opranic. It has five power levels that range from 1200W to 2000W, so it can be utilized in a variety of situations including heating garages or conservatories. The power cable is only approximately 1.8m in length and poses an issue for safety. It is recommended to avoid placing it too close to other equipment and to have an outdoor outlet nearby. It's not equipped with the advanced safety features of other models, like cut-out for tilt or overheat protection, but it's still simple to assemble and safe to use.
4. Efficiency
The amount of heat produced by your patio heater is measured in British thermal units (Btu). The higher the Btu output the greater amount of heat it can provide. This is crucial in the case of a larger home or you live in a cold area.
The high Btu output also means that your patio heater can warm a larger area at a quicker rate than other heaters. This is a great advantage if you're hosting parties or regularly hosting outdoor events in your garden.
Many gas patio heaters have a special reflector to help to concentrate the heat. This decreases the amount of heat that is wasted by heating the air around it, and instead focuses most of it on those who are directly beneath it. This means a lesser number of Btu's are needed to effectively warm the same amount of space which means less space and lower running costs.
It is crucial to ensure that your patio heater is being used in a safe manner. Always read the directions from the manufacturer and ensure it is away from anything that could catch the fire or ignite. Also, keep it on a solid surface to prevent it from falling over when it is being turned on. Be aware of any power cables that could be a danger to trip on.
If you're looking for a
patio heater gas flame heater that offers more functionality, consider one that can oscillate or provide multi-directional heating. This will distribute heat evenly across the area without leaving any cold or hot spots, making for the most pleasant experience.
5. Safety
If you're planning to buy an outdoor heater it's best to choose one that has an independent safety certification. Matthew Griffith, chief of the prevention section at the Montreal Fire Department says that this will ensure that it meets certain standards. It's also crucial to register your patio heater with the manufacturer. You'll also be notified when there's a safety warning or recall.
Gas models tend to be more efficient than electric ones that heat a room in a lesser amount of time and requiring less energy to operate. They also have the added benefit of an emitted flame that gives an invigorating glow, perfect for creating an inviting and warm atmosphere. They are a favorite choice for bars and restaurants where they help customers to stay outside longer and extend their stay.
Gas patio heaters that are best for safety and user-friendliness come with a variety of features. Certain models have a tilt-proof bottom that will shut off the unit in case it is accidentally tipped. Others are available with an automatic shut-off function that shuts off the device after a set period of time.
Other safety concerns include the ease at which a model can be moved as well as whether or not it is protected by a cage over the flame. The latter is a good idea since it shields against embers that fly out of the flame and could potentially start a fire.
