How to Choose cheap patio gas
With autumn on the way, now is the time to think about expanding your outdoor living space. Our top pick is this stylish and effective copper lantern patio heater from Kettler Kalos.
Power ratings for heaters are typically stated in British thermal units (Btu) but the dimensions of your garden and types of furniture used for outdoor use will determine the amount of heat you need. This pyramid heater also comes with an automatic tip-over valve for safety.
1. Size
Gas patio heaters have greater heating range than electric ones. This means that they require plenty of space, as they need to be at least seven feet away from any flammable object. In addition, they need to be in a ventilated area to avoid the danger of fumes building up inside your home.
They are available in different sizes and styles. The size you pick depends heavily on the size of space you'd like to heat and how large your outdoor seating area is. The BUKO Pyramid model, for instance is a stylish choice that will look stunning with garden furniture and can fit nicely in an area. Its high-heat settings are perfect for a cool night, while its low-heat setting is perfect for a relaxing evening after dinner.
A hanging or wall-mounted heater is a great option 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 set on top of a table. They are also less expensive than freestanding ones because they don't require a huge base.
Alternately, you can explore an outdoor fire pit that is similar to a freestanding patio heater but gives a more rustic look. They can be used in any outdoor area and are cheaper than pyramid or dome-top heaters. It is important to keep in mind that they generate less heat than dome-top and pyramid patio heaters.
2. Design
This elegant pyramid-shaped heater made by German manufacturer Herschel will create an eye-catching feature in your backyard and looks elegant. It's also economical and can provide lots of heat to warm the winter evenings. It uses infrared technology so it's a lot quieter than other models on this list and also offers a low setting which provides subtle light to create a pleasant ambience.
It's a self-standing model that doesn't require any professional installation and can be moved around as needed if you need to change the position of the heater. It's compatible with propane and natural gas. It also has a remote control so you can alter the level of light and heat depending on the need. It's heavier than the other models on this list, but it does come with wheels and a handle so moving it is easy.
Gas heaters with a pyramid style are well-known because they look beautiful and can be a real design element in your garden. They're typically made from stainless steel which is extremely durable and suitable for outdoor use because it's very good in dispersing heat evenly.
The kind of fuel used in patio heaters is crucial to think about as it could significantly impact the price of operating them. Gas models are more affordable than electric ones, however they require refueling using butane and propane gas. This can be costly. Gas models are also more efficient at heating larger areas than electric models, but they must be placed near an outlet to allow you to turn them on and off.
3. Power
Pyramid patio heaters look elegant and are sturdy, with a weighty base. This makes them more secure than other fragile mushroom-top models, which tend to fall over easily. Outsunny's model comes with a swivel feature and a safety shut-off feature that can cut off the fire in case it is knocked over. The high and low temperatures will allow you warm up in the evenings when it's cooler.
Propane patio heaters offer number of advantages, among them the speed that they can heat an area. Propane gas heaters are also more portable because the fuel source can be contained in a small container that can be moved around and filled when required.
The propane patio heaters are more costly because you will need to refill it often. Electric heaters do not need to be replenished, but they may draw more electricity than you'd like to, especially if they have numerous lights or powerful fans.
An electric model made by Swedish firm Opranic is our top pick for a patio heater that can be used in a variety of ways. It comes with five power settings ranging from 1200W to 2000W so that it can be used in many different purposes, including heating garages and conservatories. The power cable is approximately 1.8m in length, which is an issue of safety. It is recommended to avoid placing it close to other equipment and to have an outdoor socket nearby. It's not equipped with the more sophisticated safety features of other models, like cut-out for tilt or overheat protection, but it's still easy to put together and safe for use.
4. Efficiency
The amount of heat produced by your patio heater is measured in British thermal units (Btu). The more powerful the Btu output, the more warmth it will generate. This is especially important in the event that you have more area to heat or you are located in a colder climate.
A patio heater with a high Btu rating will also be able to heat more area than other heaters. This is a huge benefit if you're hosting events or frequently host outdoor events in your backyard.
A typical feature on many gas patio heaters is a reflector that can be used to help concentrate the heat output. This helps reduce the amount of heat lost by heating the air surrounding it, and instead focuses most of it on those who are directly beneath it. This means that a fewer number of Btu's is required to efficiently heat the same amount of space which means less space and lower operating costs.
It is crucial to ensure that your patio heater is used in a safe manner. Always read the manufacturer's instructions, and make sure it's kept at away from any combustible object or anything else that could cause fire. Keep it on a flat surface to prevent it from tipping over when it is turned on. Finally, be mindful of any power cables that could cause an accident.
If you're looking for an outdoor heater that has an exceptional level of performance, look for one that can oscillate or features multi-directional heating. This will help evenly heat the entire space without leaving hot or cold spots, making it a much more pleasant experience.
5. Safety
If you're considering buying a patio heater, it's a good idea to choose one that has an independent safety certification. Matthew Griffith, chief of the prevention department at the Montreal Fire Department says that this will guarantee that it is in compliance with certain standards. Registering your patio heater is also crucial. So you'll be informed in the event of an alert for safety or recall.
Gas models are more efficient than electric ones which means that they heat up a space in a lesser amount of time and requiring less money to operate. They also offer the benefit of an emitted flame that gives an energetic glow, ideal to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. They're a popular choice in bars and restaurants, where the warmth encourages customers to stay outside and prolongs their stay.
The most effective gas patio heaters are designed with safety in mind. They are available with a range of features to make them as user-friendly as is possible. Certain models have a bottom that is tilt-proof and will shut off the heater in the event that it is accidentally tilted. Other models have an automatic shut-off feature that turns the device off after a set period of time.
Safety considerations also include the ease of moving a model and whether it comes with an extra shield to protect the flame. This is a great option, as it prevents embers from flying out of the flame, and could cause an explosion. A patio heater should be kept at least two metres away from any flammable material. It is also essential to check the heater regularly for any wear and tear or damage.