How to Choose the Best Gas Patio Heater uk
As autumn approaches it's time to begin thinking about ways to expand your outdoor living area. Our top choice is this elegant and durable copper lantern patio heater from Kettler Kalos.
The power ratings of heaters are usually listed in British Thermal Units (Btu) However, the size of your garden and the type of furniture you have will determine the amount of heat you will require. This pyramid heater also has an automatic tip-over valve for safety.
1. Size
Gas patio heaters are able to provide greater heating range than electric ones. But, this also means that they require a lot of space since they require at least 7 feet from anything that could catch fire. They must also be set outside in an area that is well-ventilated to prevent the risk of fumes accumulating in your home.
They come in a variety of sizes and styles. The size that you choose will depend on the amount of space you want to heat, as well as the size of your outdoor seating space. For instance, the BUKO pyramid model is a chic choice that can look great with your garden furniture and sits well in a corner of the room. Its high-heat settings are ideal for removing the chill from the evening, while its low settings can provide a gentle ambience that is perfect to relax after dinner.
A hanging or wall-mounted heater is a great choice if you only have the space for a few items. These heaters are great for small gardens as they don't require much floor space, and can be attached to a parasol or hung over tables. They are also less expensive than freestanding models since they don't require a large base.
You can also consider an outdoor fire pit that is similar to a patio heater that can stand on its own, but with more rustic appearance. 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 produce far less heat than dome and pyramid patio heaters.
2. Design
This beautiful pyramid-shaped heater from German manufacturer Herschel will create the focal point of your garden and look really stylish. It is also very economical and can provide plenty of heat that can help to warm the cold winter nights. It uses infrared technology so it's much quieter than the other models on this list and also offers a low setting which provides subtle light to create an inviting atmosphere.
This is a freestanding model, which does not require professional installation. It can be moved to alter the position of the heater. It's suitable for both propane and natural gas. It has an adjustable remote so that you can alter the lighting and heat levels depending on the need. It's a bit heavier than the other models on this list, but it comes with a handle and wheels making moving it simple.
Pyramid-style gas heaters are a favorite because they're elegant and can make an impressive statement in the garden. They are typically constructed from stainless steel which is extremely durable and suitable for outdoor use since it's extremely efficient in dispersing heat evenly.
It is important to take into consideration the kind of fuel patio heaters run on, as it could influence their price. Gas models are less expensive than electric ones, however they require refueling with butane and propane gas. This can be costly. They also have a better capacity for heating a larger area than electric ones, however they must be near an outlet so that you can switch them off and on as required.
3. Power
Pyramid patio heaters look elegant and are sturdy, with a weighty base. This makes them more sturdy than some of those fragile models with a mushroom top that can slide over. Outsunny's model comes with a swivel feature and a safety shut-off feature that will stop the fire in case it is knocked over. Its low and high temperature settings allow you to take the chill off cooler evenings and also keep the ambiance in the evening after dark.
Propane patio heaters have a couple of advantages, one of which is the speed at which they heat up an area. A propane gas heater can also be more portable because the fuel source is contained in a tiny bottle that can be moved and filled as required.
However propane patio heaters may be more expensive to run because you'll have to refill the tank regularly. Electric heaters won't require a refill, but they will consume more electricity than you might think, particularly in the case of units with multiple lights or a powerful fan.
An electric model from Swedish firm Opranic is our top choice for a versatile patio heater. It has five power settings that range between 1200W and 2000W, so that it can be used in many different purposes such as heating garages and conservatories. To ensure safety, the power cable is only 1.8m long, so it's crucial to be aware of where you place it in relation to other equipment, and that there is an outdoor socket close by. It doesn't have the more advanced safety add-ons of other models, such as cut-out for tilt or overheat protection, but it's still simple to assemble and safe to use.
4. Efficiency
British thermal units (Btu) are used to measure the amount of heat produced by your outdoor heater. The higher the Btu the greater the heat you will get. This is important if your home is larger or you live in a cold region.
Having a high Btu output also means that your patio heater can warm a larger area faster than its counterparts. This is a great advantage if you're hosting events or frequently host outdoor events in your garden.
A typical feature on a lot of gas patio heaters is a reflector that can be used to focus the heat output. This decreases the amount of heat lost by heating the air around it, instead concentrating the majority of the heat to those right beneath it. This means that a fewer amount of Btu's are required to effectively heat the same area which means a smaller footprint and lower running costs.
Of course, it's important to ensure that your patio heater is used safely. Always read the instructions from the manufacturer and ensure it is away from anything that could catch burning or combustibles. Also, ensure Fireplaces And Stoves is placed on a level surface to prevent it from tipping over when it is on. Be aware of any power lines that could be a trip hazard.
If you're looking for an outdoor heater that has more performance, you should consider one that is able to oscillate or offers multi-directional heating. This will allow you to evenly heat the entire space without leaving hot or cold spots, making it a more enjoyable experience.
5. Safety
If you're considering buying an outdoor heater, it's a good idea to look for one with an independent safety certification. Matthew Griffith, chief of the prevention section at the Montreal Fire Department says that this will ensure it meets certain standards. Registering your patio heater is also important. This way, you'll be contacted in the event of a recall or safety alert.
Gas models are more efficient than electric models, allowing you to heat an area in less time and at a lesser cost. They also offer the benefit of a flickering flame that provides an invigorating glow, perfect to create an inviting and warm atmosphere. These are a popular option for bars and restaurants which allows patrons to stay longer and prolong their visit.
The most effective gas patio heaters are designed with safety in mind and can be found with a range of features designed to make them as user-friendly as they can be. For instance, some models have an anti-tilt base that shuts off the unit if it's accidentally tipping over. Certain models come with an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the device after a specific period of time.
Safety considerations include the ease of moving a model, and if it has an extra shield to protect the flame. This is a great idea, as it prevents sparks from flying away from the flame, and could cause a fire. A patio heater should be kept at least two metres from any flammable materials. It is also advisable to check the unit regularly for any wear and tear.