How to Choose the
Best Gas Patio Heater ukAs autumn approaches, it's time to start planning ways to extend your outdoor living space. Our top pick is this stylish and efficient copper lantern patio heater from Kettler Kalos.
The ratings for heaters' power are typically stated in British thermal units (Btu) however the dimensions of your garden and types of furniture used for outdoor use will determine the heat strength you require. This pyramid heater has an automatic tip-over valve for safety.
1. Size
Gas patio heaters can offer more heat than electric ones. But, this also means that they require a lot of space since they must be at least 7 feet from anything that could catch fire. They must also be set outside in an area which is well ventilated to avoid the risk of fumes accumulating inside your home.
They are available in different sizes and designs. The size you select will depend on the space you want to heat and the dimensions of your outdoor seating area. The BU-KO Pyramid model for instance is a stylish choice that looks great with garden furniture and can fit nicely in a corner. Its high-heat settings are perfect for a cool evening and its low-heat option is ideal for relaxing after dinner.
A wall-mounted or hanging heater is an excellent option for those with a small amount of space. They are perfect for small gardens since they don't require much space for floor space and can be affixed to a parasol or hung on top of a table. They also tend to be less expensive than freestanding models since they don't need a large base.
You could also try the fire pit that is similar to a patio heater, but stands alone but has a more rustic feel. These heaters are cheaper than dome-top or pyramid models and can be placed in any outdoor space. It is important to note that they produce less heat than dome top and pyramid patio heaters.
2. Design
The elegant pyramid-shaped patio heater by Germany's Herschel is designed to be a true centerpiece in the garden and looks really quite elegant. It's also quite affordable and can provide a substantial amount of warmth to alleviate the chill of cold evenings. It utilizes infrared technology, so it's a lot quieter than other models on the list. It also offers a low setting which gives a subtle light to create a pleasant ambience.
This is a self-standing model which doesn't require professional installation. It can be moved as needed to adjust the location of the heater. It's suitable for both propane and natural gas. It also comes with a remote control so you can adjust the level of light and heat depending on the need. It's heavier than other models, but it has wheels and a hand-handle for easier transportation.
Pyramid-style gas heaters are popular because they're very elegant and can make an impressive impression in the garden. The stainless steel is a sturdy material that is ideal for outdoor use. It also evenly distributes heat.
The kind of fuel used in patio heaters is crucial to consider because it can affect the cost of operating them.
gas patio heater uk models are less expensive than electric models, however they require refueling with butane or propane gas. This can be costly. They're also more efficient at heating larger areas than electric models, but they must be close to an outlet so that you can turn them off and on as required.
3. Power
As well as looking stylish, pyramid patio heaters are durable and have a the reassurance of a solid base. This makes them safer than other fragile mushroom-top models, which tend to slide over easily. The model from Outsunny comes with a handy swivel feature and a safety shut-off feature that stops the flame in case it is crushed. Its low and high temperatures help reduce the chill of cooler evenings and also keep the ambiance going after dark.
Propane has a few advantages over electric patio heaters, such as the speed of heating up the space. Propane
gas or electric patio heater heaters is also more portable as the fuel source is contained in a small bottle that can be moved around and filled as needed.
However
propane gas patio heater patio heaters may be more expensive to run, as you'll need refill the tank often. Electric heaters needn't be refilled, but may use more power than you'd expect particularly if they feature numerous lights or powerful fans.
An electric model made by Swedish firm Opranic is our top pick for a patio heater that is versatile. It comes with five power levels ranging from 1200W up to 2000W, meaning it can be utilized in a variety of scenarios, such as heating garages or conservatories. To protect yourself the power cable is just 1.8m long, which means it's crucial to be aware of the location you place it in relation to other equipment, and that you have a dedicated outdoor socket close by. It's not equipped with the sophisticated safety features of other models, like tilt cut-out or overheat protection, but it's still simple to put together and safe to use.
4. Efficiency
The amount of heat your patio heater produces is measured in British thermal units (Btu). The greater the Btu output is, the more heat it can provide. This is especially important when your home is bigger or you live in a more cold region.
The high Btu output also means that your patio heater will be able to heat a larger space faster than its counterparts. This is an excellent advantage if you're hosting parties or regularly host outdoor events in your backyard.
Many gas
patio heater gas regulator heaters have special reflectors to help concentrate the heat. This reduces the amount of heat that is wasted in heating the air around it, instead of focussing the majority of it on those who are directly below it. This means that less Btu is needed to heat the same space, resulting in an area that is smaller and less operating costs.
It's also important to ensure that your patio heater is used safely. Always read the directions from the manufacturer and ensure it is away from anything that could catch on burning or combustibles. Keep it on a solid surface to avoid tipping over when being turned on. Finally, be mindful of any power cables that could result in a trip hazard.
If you're looking for a patio heater that offers an exceptional level of performance, look for one that is able to oscillate or features multi-directional heating. This will help evenly heat the entire area without leaving hot or cold spots, which makes it a more relaxing experience.
5. Safety
If you're looking to purchase a patio heater, it's best to choose one that has an independent safety certification. Matthew Griffith, chief of the prevention department 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. So, you'll be contacted in the event of an alert for safety or recall.
Gas models are more efficient than electric ones, heating a space in a shorter period of time and requiring less money to operate. They also have a flickering fire that creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. They're a popular choice for restaurants and pubs, where the warmth helps customers stay inside and extend their visit.
Gas patio heaters that are most secure and user-friendly have a range of features. For example, some models have a tilt-proof base that shuts off the unit if it's accidentally tipping over. Certain models come with an automatic shut-off feature that switches off the device after a specific amount of time.
Other safety considerations include the ease with which a model can be moved, and whether it has a protective cage over the flame. The latter is a good option as it guards against embers flying out of the flame, which could spark an igniting fire. In addition, a patio heater should be kept at least 2 metres away from any flammable materials.