subject: Outdoor Propane Patio Heaters- Warmth, Style, and Safety [print this page]
The passing of Labor Day generally means closing up the patio and getting ready for the winter months ahead. Gone are the hot fun-filled days of gatherings with family and friends in the backyard or patio. But, the fun doesn't have to end as summer slips into autumn. Outdoor propane patio heaters will keep your patio warm and toasty for fun with family and friends well into the fall.
There are three propane heater styles available for purchase. These styles are:
Post and Cap Heaters: Post and cap heaters are often seen at restaurants with outdoor eating spaces. These are freestanding units which are easily moved around. The heater usually connects to a propane tank. The heat from these style heaters is produced by burner grids found under the cap. Post and cap heaters can generate heat for areas up to 15 feet in diameter. The actual amount of heat output is measured by a unit's BTUs. Higher BTUs, equal more heating capacity. These heaters are an option that is affordable for many homeowners.
Portable Heaters: These are wheel bearing heaters. The wheels are usually on the heater's bottom. The wheels allow the heater to be moved around the patio quickly and easily as needed. Most patios can be adequately heated with a portable unit of about 2000 BTUs. However, portable heaters come in multiple sizes to meet the needs of smaller or larger patio areas.
Table Top Heaters: These heaters are compact units with the propane tank built into the base. They offer a convenient way to heat your patio. Table top units lack the heating capacity of the larger designs. However, they can easily warm specific small areas, such as the area around your patio table. These outdoor propane patio heaters are also usually the least expensive style propane heater on the market.
Whether you choose a table top or portable heater or even decide on a post and cap style for your patio heating needs, the most important factor will be its heating capacity. You want to ensure that the heater you select will heat your patio properly for as long as you need. The heating capacity of each heater is indicated by the number of BTUs it will generate. The lower the BTUs, the smaller the space it will heat properly and the higher the number, the larger the space it can heat. However, this does not mean you should get the highest number of BTUs you can find. You only want to keep your patio warm. If you get a heater that is too powerful, you could end up warming your whole neighborhood too!
In addition, you will need to consider the propane tank size used by your heater. Smaller propane tanks will not last very long, while larger heaters generally have larger tanks capable of extended use. Take the time to determine what your heating needs will be. If you'll only be outside for short periods of time, perhaps to enjoy a morning cup of tea before starting your day, you'll probably only need a small tank. A small propane tank like those found in table top units will be adequate for your needs. If, on the other hand, you are planning to spend lots of time outside for family gatherings or entertaining friends, you'll probably want to invest in a much larger tank.
After you've chosen the heater style that meets your needs, there are some safety features to consider. One important feature is an automatic shut off switch. This feature will keep your heater from becoming a fire risk should you leave it on for the night by accident. Other features to look for include spark ignition and temperature control settings.
Finally, outdoor propane patio heaters need to always be kept well-ventilated. Be sure that the heater is not placed near anything that is flammable or combustible. Your children and family pets should also be kept away from the heaters as well. You will also need to clean your heater regularly to ensure that it is free of cobwebs or debris that could interfere with the heater's operation. And most importantly, unless your unit is intended to be used indoors, never use your outdoor heater to provide warmth indoors. It is very easy to create a build up of carbon monoxide by doing this. This is an odorless, colorless, gas and it is fatal.
Once you have found the right heater for your outdoor space you will experience a vast world of new entertainment possibilities. The cool nights of autumn will no longer serve to dampen your outdoor fun; you and your friends can stay comfortable and warm with your own propane heater.
Outdoor Propane Patio Heaters- Warmth, Style, and Safety
