How to Choose the Best Gas Patio Heater uk
With autumn approaching, now's the time to begin thinking about the possibility of extending your outdoor living space. This stylish and efficient copper lantern patio heater by Kettler Kalos is our top choice.
The power ratings of heaters are usually listed in British Thermal Units (Btu) however the size of your garden and the type of outdoor furniture you are using will determine the amount of heat you need. This pyramid heater features an automatic tip-over valve to ensure security.
1. Size
Gas patio heaters have a higher heating radius than electric patio heaters. This means that they require much more space, since they must be at least seven feet from any flammable object. They must also be set outside in an area which is well ventilated to prevent the risk of fumes accumulating inside your home.
They are available in various sizes and designs. The size you select will depend on how much space you want to heat, and the dimensions of your outdoor seating space. For instance, the BUKO pyramid model is a chic option that will look fantastic with your garden furniture and sits well in the corner of the room. Its high-heat settings are ideal for taking the chill off the evening, and its low setting can provide a calm ambience that is perfect for relaxing after dinner.
A hanging or wall-mounted heater is an excellent option for those with the space for a few items. These heaters are great for small gardens as they don't require a lot of area for flooring, and can be attached to a parasol, or set over tables. They also tend to be more affordable than freestanding ones since they don't require a huge base.
You can also consider an outdoor fire pit that is similar to a freestanding patio heater, but provides more of a rustic feel. These heaters can be used in any outdoor space and are more affordable than dome-top or pyramid heaters. However it is important to keep in mind that they generate much less heat than pyramid and dome-top patio heaters.
2. Design
This beautiful, pyramid-shaped heater from German manufacturer Herschel is sure to be the focal point of your garden and appear stylish. It's also quite affordable and provides lots of heat that can help to warm up chilly evenings. It's quieter since it uses infrared and has an option to set it at a low level to create a comfortable environment.
It's a free-standing model that doesn't require any professional installation and can be moved around if you need to change the position of the heater. It's compatible with propane and natural gas. It comes with a remote control so you can alter the lighting and heat levels according to your needs. It's a little heavier than the other models on this list but it does come with wheels and a handle making moving it simple.
Pyramid-style gas heaters are popular because they're very elegant and can make an impressive statement in the garden. They are typically constructed out of stainless steel that is strong and ideal for outdoor use because it's extremely efficient at dispersing heat evenly.
It is important to take into consideration the kind of fuel patio heaters use, as it could influence their price. Gas models are less expensive than electric options but they must be refilled with propane gas or butane which can be costly over time. They're also more efficient at heating larger areas than electric versions but they do need to be close to an outlet so that you can switch them on and off when needed.
3. Power
In addition to looking fashionable, pyramid patio heaters are sturdy with the reassurance of a solid base. This makes them safer than the more fragile models with a mushroom top, which tend to slide over easily. This model from Outsunny also comes with a handy swivel feature and a safety shut-off feature that shuts off the flame in case it is knocked over. The low and high heat settings help to reduce the chill of cooler evenings and keep the ambience going after dark.
Propane offers a few advantages over electric patio heaters, for instance, the speed of heating up the space. A propane gas heater is also more portable since the fuel source is contained in a small container that can be moved around and filled when required.
However, propane patio heaters can be more expensive to run because you'll have to refill the tank regularly. Electric heaters don't need to be refilled, but may use more power than you'd expect, especially if they have numerous lights or powerful fans.
Our top pick is an electric patio heater made by Swedish company Opranic. It has five power levels that range from 1200W to 2000W, so it can be utilized in a variety of situations including heating garages or conservatories. To ensure safety the power cable is only 1.8m long, making it crucial to be aware of the location you place it near to other equipment, and to ensure that you have an outdoor socket nearby. It doesn't have the advanced safety features of other models, such as tilt-out or heat-protection, however it is still easy-to-assemble and safe-to-use.
4. Efficiency
British thermal units (Btu) are used to measure the amount of heat produced by your outdoor 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 reside in a colder region.
The high Btu output also means that your patio heater will be able to heat a larger space faster than other heaters. This is a great benefit if you frequently host outdoor events or parties in your garden.
A typical feature on many gas patio heaters is a reflector that can be used to focus the heat output. This reduces the amount of heat that is wasted by heating the air around it, instead concentrating most of it on those who are directly beneath it. This means that less Btu is needed to heat the same area, resulting in less footprint and lower operating costs.
It is crucial to use your patio heater safely. Always read cheap patio gas of the manufacturer and ensure it's kept at away from any flammable objects or anything else that could cause fire. Keep it on a solid surface to avoid falling over when it is it is on. Finally, be mindful of any power cables that could cause a trip hazard.
If you want a patio heater that provides an exceptional level of performance, look for one that is able to oscillate or has multi-directional heating. This will help to evenly heat the entire space without leaving hot or cold spots, which makes it a more relaxing experience.
5. Safety
It's a smart idea to buy a patio heater that has an independent safety certification. Matthew Griffith, prevention section chief of the Montreal Fire Department, says this will ensure that it meets certain safety standards. Registering your patio heater is crucial. You'll also be notified when there's a safety alert or recall.
Gas models are more efficient than electric models, allowing you to heat an area in a shorter amount of time and at a lower price. They also offer the benefit of the flickering flame which gives an invigorating glow, perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. They're a favorite choice for bars and restaurants, where the warmth helps customers stay inside and extend their stay.
Gas patio heaters that are most secure and user-friendly include a variety of features. Certain models come with a tilt-proof bottom that will shut off the unit if it is accidentally tilted. Some models have an automatic shut-off function that turns off the device after a certain time.
Other safety considerations include the ease with which a model can be moved and whether it is protected by a cage over the flame. The latter is a good idea as it protects against embers flying out of the flame and could potentially cause a fire. A patio heater is recommended to be kept at least 2 metres away from any flammable material. It is also advisable to regularly check the unit for any wear and tear.