In recent years, patio heaters that run on canisters of gas were introduced to the commercial market in the United Kingdom. Walking down the street, you could often see these heaters being used to keep patrons warm while they dined or drank in outdoor spaces. It wasn’t long before similar heaters were introduced to the residential market. These heaters quickly caught on as more and more homeowners discovered just how efficient they were at creating a comfortable outdoor space.
Despite the popularity of gas patio heaters, there are other heating options that you may want to explore. For instance, you could go with something modern and energy-efficient such as an electric radiant heater. Alternatively, you could go with something more traditional such as a wood burning stove or a fire pit. Whichever option you choose, it is important to follow basic safety guidelines so that you can prevent the chances of injuries or fires occurring.
Safety Tips For Using Patio Heaters
Regardless of what type of heater you choose for your patio, you need to make sure that it is located far away from any potentially flammable items. These heaters should never be used near awnings, patio umbrellas, or vegetation. Don’t forget to take into account any movement that may occur on breezy days when choosing a location that is free and clear from all obstacles.
Patio heaters should also be positioned well away from buildings. Even if your home is made from a heat-resistant material such as brick or stone, there are still elements that could become damaged or catch on fire. For instance, your gutters or your window frames may not be heat resistant. You need to be sure that you don’t inadvertently cause a fire by placing the heater too close to your property.
Patio Heaters That Use Gas
Gas heaters are quite effective when it comes to heating outdoor spaces. It is important to educate yourself about how to use them safely, however. You need to make sure that all of the parts of the heater are in good working order each and every time that you turn it on. You also need to use caution when you are installing new gas cylinders to avoid any accidents or loose connections.
One thing that makes gas patio heaters such a good choice is that they are highly unlikely to tip over. The weight of the tank of gas at the base provides a lot of stability, minimizing the chances of accidentally knocking the heater over. That doesn’t mean, however, that these heaters never tip over. There is always the chance that they will fall. Because of that, you need to make sure to choose a heater that will automatically shut off if it starts to tip over or fall. Remember, however, that even if the heater shuts off, the heating elements may still be hot after it falls.
Patio Heaters That Run On Electricity
Electric patio heaters can be a good option if you are looking for something that is a little bit safer. Because these heaters are usually connected to a wall, you don’t have to worry about them falling over. Of course, there are models on the market that are similar in design to gas patio heaters. If you opt for one of these fireplace options for your patio table and space, make sure that it has a safety switch that will automatically shut it off if it tips.
Traditional Heaters That Burn Wood
If you want to create a patio that is filled with old-world charm, you may want to choose a wood-burning heater. Keep in mind, however, that these types of heaters are usually a lot harder to maintain than gas or electric patio heaters. You also need to be sure that you have plenty of wood on hand to keep them running.
Instead of an open fire pit, you may want to opt for a chiminea. These stoves are traditionally found in South America. They do an excellent job of funneling the smoke away from anyone who happens to be sitting on the patio. They also help contain the fire since it is totally enclosed inside the chiminea. This allows it to provide heat while minimizing the risk of any of the surrounding area catching on fire.
If you decide to go this route, be sure to warn children about how hot chimineas can become. The last thing that you want is for them to touch the outside of it and get burnt. Some people prefer an open fire since it is easier for children to see the danger than it is when the fire is completely enclosed.
A Few Final Tips
Patio heaters are not toys and are designed only for outdoor use. Never bring them into your home. Additionally, anything flammable should be kept as far away as possible from the heater to prevent accidental fires. If you are going to move the heater to a new location, be sure to give it plenty of time to cool off before you try to pick it up.
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