Choosing an Electric Pyramid Patio Heater
Patio heaters are perfect for outdoor spaces in need of warmth and atmosphere. When choosing a heater be aware of how warm the area will be and its heat output in BTUs or Watts.
Electric models are portable and safe to use in enclosed areas such as patios or garages. They require a corded source for power, and aren't as powerful as propane models.
Safety Features
While patio heaters add a nice cozy element to outdoor spaces, it's important to be aware of safety. Natural gas and propane-fueled models release carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicals, which is why they must be installed in a ventilated area per the manufacturer's instructions. Electric heaters emit no pollution and can be used in restricted areas.
Find a model with an erect base to stop it from tipping over. Some manufacturers have a tilt switch that shuts off the heater when the unit is tilted over a certain degree. This helps reduce the risk of injury or fire to those around during conversations with friends and sipping cocktails.
The GH Institute tested models that were simple to use and set up. The Member's Mark patio heater required only one person to put it together and has a convenient set of wheels on the base to make it easy to transport. We also liked that this model had an easy-to-read control panel that it was easy to move around the deck. It also has a good amount of heat--up to 10 feet in a circle. And it comes with a propane tank included.
Another important aspect to take into consideration is the size of the space you're hoping to warm. It may be necessary to use a larger heater to warm a larger area. Many manufacturers indicate their heating capacity in British thermal units (Btu), and the more powerful the Btu rating, the greater the heating capacity.
You can also determine whether a particular model is safe to use on a wooden deck. The majority of freestanding patio heaters are safe to use on most decks, but it's always a good idea to read the instruction manual thoroughly and follow any specific precautions that could be in place.
If you're considering buying an electric pyramid patio heater, you should try to stay clear of models with cords that run across walkways. These cords could cause dangers of tripping for those who don't pay attention, and they can also increase the risk of a mishap with the heating elements.
Heat Output
The output of heat is measured in British Thermal Units (Btu). A higher Btu rating indicates that the heater is able to warm an area larger. A 40,000 BTU heater can warm 2,000 square feet comfortably, which is large enough to accommodate several people. Larger spaces and colder climates require a higher Btu rating to ensure everyone is at ease.
Electric patio heaters plug into electrical outlets and produce infrared warmth that warms objects and people however they don't emit harmful pollutants. The gas-powered patio heaters however, emit carbon monoxide, as well with other harmful chemicals. This makes them unsuitable for use in enclosed spaces without adequate ventilation. Because of this, they need to be used outdoors only in areas with adequate ventilation and are not recommended for households with pets or children.
Propaneand natural-gas-powered patio heaters usually offer more heat than electric ones, but their fuel costs are more expensive. They are also heavier and more difficult to move than electric models, which makes them less mobile. If you're concerned about the possibility of a security risk, you should consider buying an outdoor propane patio heater equipped with an anti-tip feature to keep the unit from tipping over.
This stainless steel patio heater comes with a stunning flame centers. The durable aluminum and steel structure is resistant to corrosion, which means this patio heater will last for years of use. A reliable pulse ignition system ensures quick, easy starting. The built-in control valve permits you to adjust the heat settings according to your preferences. A side door allows for easy access to a 20-pound propane tank (sold separately).
This freestanding outdoor gas patio heater boasts a stunning Btu rating of 40000, which is sufficient to comfortably warm up to 220 square feet. This heater is designed to withstand the harshest conditions of weather, including strong winds. It's an excellent choice for outdoor dining as it emits infrared heat that can be felt through tablecloths and other fabrics that are breathable. It also comes with a protective cover to keep the patio heater safe and clean when it's not being used.
Portability
One of the most important considerations when it comes to heaters for patios is whether or not they can be easily moved from one place to another. This is especially true for freestanding heaters, and a lot of the top models can be folded and put away indoors when not in use. This makes them great options for porches that are regularly used, or for people who like to move furniture around and take advantage of different outdoor spaces all through the all year.
The pyramid-style patio heaters we reviewed all included covers designed to protect the unit and secure from the harsh weather. The Member's Mark heater had a cover that was simple to use and protected the unit from snow and rain. It was easy to move from one place to another and is the ideal choice for those who want to have an inviting, warm place and also be able to move the heater when required.
Whether you're looking for an electric or propane patio heater, you need to think about the amount of power you'll need to keep your outdoor space warm. The most popular patio heaters we tested provide around 40,000 Btu, which is sufficient to heat up to 2,000 sq. feet. If you have a larger space that needs heating, we suggest choosing one with more Btu's.
It's also important to consider whether you'd prefer your heater for your patio to be powered by electricity or propane since each option offers its own advantages. Propane patio heaters are usually more efficient than electric models and require less maintenance. However, they should be kept in a ventilated area all the time which can cause them to be less suitable for certain homeowners.
When you are choosing an electric patio heater you should look for a model with a safety feature that has tip-over protection as well as adjustable heat settings. It is also important to think about the ease of assembling and moving the heater to your patio, as well as its aesthetics. relevant web page is recommended to choose a patio heater that has been tested by a reputable independent testing body like Underwriters Laboratories or Underwriters Laboratories of Canada.
Aesthetics
Dome-top and pyramid-shaped patio heaters release flames, creating an inviting fire. They operate on propane instead of an infrared heater, which makes use of heat radiation. They usually feature a three-pronged triangular shape and a center column with flames that run along the middle to ensure maximum coverage. These types generally have lower heat output than infrared units, but still offer enough warmth to keep diners warm when dining outside according to Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality.
Most of the outdoor heaters that we tested came in boxes and required assembly prior to using. The difficulty of the assembly varied. Some, like the Dura Heat Tank Top, were extremely easy to put together however, others took hours for assembly, such as the Member's Mark pyramid heater, which was the most difficult to put together of the models we tried.
These units are made for outdoor use and must endure harsh weather conditions. Durability is an important consideration. The stainless steel of the Member's Mark unit is better suited to withstand snow and rain than units that use glass tubing, which is prone to break or even crack. This model comes with a protective cover that can be helpful in windy weather.