Stay Warm With A Patio Heater

Patio heaters are heaters for use in open spaces.The heaters are provided with a heavy aluminum
They are popular for domestic use and outside diningreflector at the top to direct the heat downwards
areas particularly in open cafes and restaurants withand outwards from the heater. These aluminum
outdoor seating.reflector type models are termed as mushroom patio
They usually heat a radius of 10-20 feet. Howeverheaters or umbrella patio heaters. The pole is usually
the radius varies according to the model and ambient3 to 7 feet tall. Ceiling patio heaters are also available
atmosphere. The heaters usually raise thein the market. These are installed permanently and
temperature from 10-30 degrees Fahrenheit.need less maintenance than the portable one.
Patio heaters are not designed for chilly winters asHeaters radiate anywhere up to 35,000 BTU (British
that would require a heavy duty heater withThermal Units). The emitter reaches a temperature
enormous energy consumption. They are used forup to 1150 degrees Fahrenheit. This causes bluing of
relatively little increase in ambient temperature andthe stainless steel. Also a brownish color develops on
particularly used in the evenings of late fall and earlythe emitter which appears like rust. However there is
spring.no cause for alarm as this brownish tint is normal and
Patio heaters run on a variety of fuel like natural gas,is not rusting of the unit.
propane, butane, kerosene etc. Some electric modelsThe cost of patio heaters varies as per the model. A
are also available. The natural gas models are popularreasonable quality patio heater may cost between
because they use the same fuel system as an$100 to $300. Look for safety features like tilt
outside grill. Portable heaters have a portable cylinderswitches, sealed burners, emergency cut off valves,
attached to the heating unit.flame controllers and electronic ignition systems etc
The principle used in most heaters is to heat usingwhen purchasing.
radiated heat and not convection. As a lot of energyThese items are available in shops where natural gas
gets used up in heating air for convection heating andor butane is available. Some specialty shops for home
very less percentage of heat is left for the userdecorating also keep patio heaters. Do not treat
convection heating is not feasible. Radiative heatingthem as toys. It is prudent not to let children operate
patio heaters are more economical as they providethem.
heat to the user and air is not heated.