Patio Heaters

Increasingly homeowners want to extend the season for using their patios and patio heaters allow them to do just that. Patio heaters come in many styles from inexpensive fire pits to mid-range propane towers and on up to more expensive permanently installed hanging heat lamps. Homeowners who are thinking about investing in a patio heater will want to think about cost, installation and power sources. The most important consideration when buying a patio heater though is safety.

The easiest patio heater to use and the most inexpensive will probably be a fire pit. This type of patio heater is available from most big box retailers beginning at about sixty dollars. The prices can go up quite high depending upon the size of the fire pit and the material from which it is made. Most are ready for use directly from the box. When buying a fire pit patio heater it is very important to make sure that its legs and base do not transmit excessive amounts of heat to the patio surface particularly if the surface is wood. Fire pits with copper bowls which are tested to at least 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit are probably the minimum acceptable standard. Also be sure that the fire pit has a fire screen to deter sparking and a lid to smother flash fires. Popular fire pit styles include low slung bowls set on wrought iron legs and the chimenea style which as its name implies has the look of a small chimney.

Self contained portable propane towers are reasonably priced, safe when used appropriately and provide an even gentle heat. This type of patio heater operates off of a liquid propane tank located in the base of the unit. The tank generally provides heat for about ten hours. Look for a propane patio heater with an automatic shutoff valve should the element tip beyond a certain point. Propane patio heaters are excellent solutions for warming up groups who are eating outside. Two or three of these heaters placed around the periphery of the patio can provide heat for an outdoor party over an extended period of time. Tabletop propane patio heaters are also available for more intimate occasions.

Homeowners looking for permanent patio heaters might think about installing electric ceiling heaters. This type of patio heater provides consistent radiant heat for an area of up to 100 square feet. For even larger spaces there are high end infrared electric patio heaters. Of course, an electric heater does require a power supply and must be mounted at least eight feet from floor level. Still, the installation is uncomplicated as it requires only a standard grounded plug. An electric patio heater provides the safest outdoor heat source.

Patio heaters are an exceptional way to make use of an outdoor area almost year round. Remember to look for a patio heater than not only provides warmth and style but safety as well. Once a homeowner has satisfied these three criteria nothing is left to do but go outside and enjoy the cool, crisp evenings.

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