How to Choose the Best Gas Patio Heater uk
As autumn is approaching it's time to begin planning how you can extend your outdoor living space. This sleek and effective copper lantern patio heater from Kettler Kalos is our top choice.
The power ratings of heaters are usually listed in British Thermal Units (Btu) however the size of the garden and the type of outdoor furniture you are using will determine the amount of heat you need. This pyramid heater comes with an automatic tip-over valve that is designed for safety.
1. Size
Gas patio heaters have more heat than electric ones. But, this also means that they require a lot of space as they typically need to be at least 7 feet from anything that could catch fire. In addition, they need to be in a well-ventilated space to avoid the danger of fumes rising within your home.
They are available in a variety of dimensions and styles. The size you pick depends largely on the amount of space you'd like to heat and how big the outdoor seating area is. For example, the BU-KO pyramid model is a chic option that looks great with your garden furniture and sits nicely in a corner of the room. Its high heat settings are ideal to take the chill off a cool evening while its low setting can create a relaxing ambience that's ideal for relaxing after dinner.
If you're in a tight amount of space to spare, a wall-mounted or hanging gas heater is a good option. These heaters don't require any floor space and can be placed over a table or attached to a parasol, making them the best option for smaller gardens. They are also more affordable than freestanding ones since they don't need a large base.
Alternately, you can explore a fire pit that's similar to an outdoor heater that is freestanding but provides more of a rustic look. These heaters are cheaper than dome-top or pyramid models and can be placed in any outdoor space. However, it's important to remember that they generate much less heat than dome and pyramid patio heaters.
2. Design
The elegant, pyramid-shaped heater from German manufacturer Herschel will be an eye-catching feature in your backyard and looks elegant. It's also reasonably priced and can provide a significant amount of warmth to take the chill off chilly evenings. It uses infrared technology so it's quieter than other models on this list. It also offers a low setting which gives a subtle light to create an enjoyable ambience.
It's a stand-alone model that doesn't require professional installation. It can be moved around should you require changing the location of the heater. It's suitable for natural and propane gas and has a remote control so you can adjust the lighting and heat levels as necessary. It's a little heavier than the other models on the list, however it does come with a handle and wheels so moving it is relatively simple.
Gas heaters in the pyramid design are well-known because they look beautiful and can be a real statement piece in your garden. They tend to be made of stainless steel, which is durable and great for outdoor use because it's excellent in dispersing heat evenly.
It is important to take into consideration the type of fuel patio heaters run on, as it could have an impact on their cost. Gas models are less expensive than electric ones, but they require refilling with propane gas or butane which can cost more over time. They're also more efficient at heating a larger area than electric ones, however they must be near an outlet to be able to turn them off and on when needed.
3. Power
In addition to looking fashionable In addition to looking stylish, pyramid patio heaters are built to last with a a reassuringly weighty base. This makes them more sturdy than some of those fragile mushroom-top models that tend to fall over. Outsunny's model also features an swivel function and a safety shut-off function which will cut off the flame if it's tipped over. Its low and high temperature settings allow you to reduce the chill of cooler evenings and keep the atmosphere in the evening after the darkness.
Propane patio heaters have a couple of advantages, one of which is the speed that they can heat an area. A propane gas heater is also more portable, since the fuel source is contained in a tiny bottle which can be moved and refilled as required.
However propane patio heaters can be more costly to run since you'll need refill the tank often. Electric heaters needn't be filled, but they can use more power than you'd expect, especially if they have multiple lights or powerful fans.
Our top pick is an electric patio heater made by Swedish company Opranic. It has five power settings ranging between 1200W and 2000W, so that it can be used for many different purposes that include heating garages as well as conservatories. For safety reasons the power cable is just 1.8m long, so it's essential to be mindful of where you place it close to other equipment, and to ensure that you have a dedicated outdoor socket nearby. It's not equipped with the latest safety features found in other models such as tilt-out or heat-protection, however it is still safe to use and easy to put together.
4. Efficiency
British thermal units (Btu) are used to measure the amount of heat generated by your patio heater. The more Btu, the more heat you'll get. This is particularly important when you have a larger space to heat or if you live in a colder area.
A high Btu output will also mean that your patio heater can provide heat to a larger area faster than the other models. This is great if you regularly organize outdoor parties or events in your garden.
A common feature found on a lot of gas patio heaters is a reflector that can be used to help concentrate the heat output. This helps reduce the amount of heat wasted by heating the air surrounding it, instead concentrating the majority of the heat to those directly underneath it. This means that a smaller amount of Btu's are required to effectively heat the same space and this means less footprint and lower running costs.
It is crucial to ensure that your patio heater is being used safely. Always follow calor gas patio heater , and make sure it's kept at a safe distance away from any flammable objects or anything else that could cause fire. Keep it on a flat surface to avoid it tipping over when it is turned on. Be aware of any power cables that could be a danger to trip on.
If you're looking for a patio heater that offers a higher level of functionality, look for one that is able to oscillate or offers multi-directional heating. This will distribute heat evenly across the area without leaving hot or cold areas, which makes for a more pleasant experience.
5. Safety
If you're looking to purchase an outdoor heater, it's a good idea search for one that has an independent safety certification. Matthew Griffith, prevention section chief for the Montreal Fire Department, says this will ensure that it meets certain safety standards. Registering your patio heater is also crucial. You'll also be notified if there's a safety alert or recall.
Gas models are more efficient than electric models, heating an area in a shorter amount of time and at a lesser cost. They also have the added benefit of a flickering flame that provides an energizing glow, ideal for creating an inviting and warm atmosphere. They are a favorite choice for bars and restaurants where they help customers to stay outside longer and prolong their visit.
Gas patio heaters that are the most secure and user-friendly include a variety of features. For instance, certain models feature an anti-tilt base that shuts off the unit in the event that it is accidentally tipping over. Some models include an automatic shut-off function that turns off the device after a predetermined period of time.
Safety considerations also include the ease of moving a model and if it has a shield of protection over the flame. The latter is a good idea as it protects against embers that fly out of the flame and could potentially cause an igniting fire. A patio heater is recommended to be kept at least two metres from any material that is flammable. It is also recommended to check the unit regularly for any wear and tear.