Saturday 4 June 2011

Propane Patio Heaters - Your Option When Choosing for Patio Heaters

You probably want to spend a little in the patio before going to bed. However, the cold weather prevents you from doing whatever activity you want to do. Indeed, when the cold season comes, the outdoor activities are limited.

Fortunately, there are patio heaters that come very useful during winter days and night. This outdoor item helps keep the patio warm and cozy to stay so you can use the place the whole year round no matter how cold or hot the season is.

Outdoor heaters are available in several forms such as the free-standing heaters and wall-mounted. There are also fire pits and outdoor fireplaces. The heaters are operated using different fuel sources such as propane, natural gas and electricity. The heaters use the fuel efficiently thus giving you more hours to enjoy the warmness of the patio.

Free-standing heater units such as the floor-standing and tabletop are mostly used by homeowners. This type of heater offers portability. The floor-standing units are equipped with rear wheels thus you can move the unit easily and so as the tabletop heating units that are lightweight. These heaters are mostly operated using propane fuel. This form of heater is mostly called Umbrella or Mushroom patio heaters.

Mostly, a tabletop patio heaters produce heat up to 7,000 to 11,000 BTU can provide heat range up to 7ft. diameter. For example, a 16 oz. Propane cylinder can provide two to three hours of heating effect. This is ideal for simple outdoor dining.

On the other hand, the 40,000BTU floor-standing propane heaters can provide heat in areas up to 18ft in diameter. This heater uses 20lbs. standard disposable propane tank and heating consumption for up to 10hours. This is ideal for outdoor parties that can be extended until midnight.

Most propane patio heaters are equipped with safety features such auto tilt valve that automatically shuts off the heater incase the unit accidentally falls. The heaters also feature Piezo igniter for easy ignition.

It is important that you have knowledge about the safety precautions and the proper usage of the heater . Propane patio heaters are intended for outdoor use. Do not try to turn it on inside the house as it will produce harmful gas fumes. Also avoid placing the unit when it is in operation in windy areas. The wind might affect the heating efficiency. Yet, it is necessary to place the heater in a well-ventilated area but not windy. Clear the area where the heater is standing and take all the flammable objects around the heater. Choose the unit that is UL listed to ensure that the heater passed all the quality control examination and to make sure the heater is durable and efficient.

Do a little research about the certain unit of your choice before purchasing it. This will help you determine the characteristics of the unit and can help you choose the best one and enjoy the warmth that it provides when you spend time outside feeling comfortable while relaxing in the outdoor furniture set in your patio.