11 Ways To Completely Sabotage Your Electric Pyramid Patio Heater
Choosing an Electric Pyramid Patio Heater
Patio heaters are perfect for outdoor spaces in need of warmth and ambience. When choosing a model be aware of the temperature of the area it will be and the heat output in BTUs or Watts.
Electric models are safe and easy to use in enclosed spaces, like patios and garages. They require a corded source for power and aren't quite as powerful as propane models.
Safety Features
While patio heaters add an appealing and cozy feature to outdoor spaces, it's vital to keep safety in mind. Natural-gas and propane-powered models emit harmful chemicals and carbon monoxide, and should be placed in a space that is well ventilated as per the instructions of the manufacturer. Electric heaters on the contrary, do not release any pollutants and are safe for use in areas that are restricted.
Choose a model that has an erect base to stop it from falling over. Some manufacturers offer an option to shut off the heater when the unit is tilted over an amount. This minimizes the risk of fire or injury to anyone in the vicinity, especially when you're drinking a drink and chatting with your buddies.
The GH Institute tested models that were simple to set up and use. The Member's Mark patio heater required just one person to assemble and comes with a set of wheels on the base to make it easy to transport. This model is also easy to navigate and maneuver around the deck. It provides a good amount of heat, up to 10 feet in a circular pattern. It also comes with an included propane tank.
Another important aspect to take into consideration is the size of the area you're looking to warm. It may be necessary to use a larger heater for a wider area than a smaller one. Many manufacturers list their heat output in British thermal units (Btu), and the greater the Btu rating, the higher the heating capacity.
You can also check whether the model you are considering is suitable for use on a hardwood deck. The majority of patio heaters that are freestanding are safe to use on most decks, however it's best to double-check the instruction manual and follow any specific precautions that could be in place.
If you're considering buying an electric patio heater pyramid, stay clear of the ones with cords that traverse walkways. These cords could cause tripping hazards for people who aren't paying attention, and they also increase the chance of a mishap with the heating elements that are hot.
Heat Output
The output of heat is measured in British Thermal Units (Btu). A higher Btu rating means that the heater can heat more of a large area. A 40,000 btu heater can provide warmth to 2,000 square feet and is big enough for several people. Larger rooms and colder climates require an even higher Btu rating to ensure everyone is at ease.
Electric patio heaters are plugged into an electrical outlet, and they generate infrared heat that warms people and objects. They do not emit harmful pollutant. Gas-fueled patio heating units, however, release carbon monoxide, as as other harmful chemicals. This makes them unsuitable for use in enclosed spaces that lack adequate ventilation. This is why they should only be used outdoors in areas that are well ventilated. They are not recommended for homes that have children or pets.
Patio heaters that operate on natural gas or propane usually produce more heat, but they are more expensive. These patio heaters are also heavier and more difficult to move than electric models, making them less portable. If outdoor heater for patio electric worried about a potential security risk, you should consider buying an outdoor propane patio heater with an anti-tip feature to prevent the unit from tipping over.
A mesmerizing flame centerpiece adds dramatic flair to this stainless steel pyramid patio heater. The durable steel and aluminum structure is resistant to corrosion which means the heater will last through years of use. A reliable pulse ignition system ensures quick, easy starting. The built-in control valve lets you to adjust the heat settings according to your preferences. A side door gives you easy access to a propane tank of 20 pounds (sold separately).
This freestanding outdoor gas patio heater has an impressive Btu rating of 40000, which is sufficient to comfortably warm up to 220 square feet. The patio heater is built to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds. It's also a great choice for outdoor dining as it emits infrared heat, which can be felt through tablecloths and other breathable fabrics. The patio heater comes with a protective cover to keep it clean and secure when not in use.
Portability
One of the most important aspects when it comes to heaters for patios is whether or not they are able to be easily moved from place to another. This is especially true for free-standing models, and some of the most effective models can fold up and be taken indoors for storage when it's not being used. This makes them excellent choices for porches that are frequently used, or for people who like to move furniture around and take advantage of different outdoor spaces throughout the all year.
All of the heaters for patios in the pyramid style that we tested came with covers that were designed to shield them from the harsh weather. The Member's Mark heater had a cover that was simple to use and protected the unit from rain and snow. It was also easy to move from one place to another, which made it a good choice for those who want the comfort of an inviting, warm spot but also needed to be in a position to move the heating source when required.
It's important to consider how much power is needed to heat your outdoor space, whether you're purchasing a propane patio heater or an electric one. Many of the best-rated patio heaters in our review provide 40,000 Btu's of heat which is enough to comfortably warm up to 220 square feet. If you're looking to warm an area that is larger we recommend a heater that has higher Btu.
It is important to consider whether your patio heater is powered by electricity or propane since each has advantages. Propane patio heaters generally offer more warmth than electric ones, and they don't require the same amount of maintenance. They must be kept in a well-ventilated space all the time and can be less practical for some homeowners.
When you are choosing an electric patio heater, look for one that has safety features like tip-over protection or adjustable temperature settings. It is also important to take into consideration the ease of moving and assembling the heater around and its aesthetics. It is recommended to choose the patio heater that is that is tested by an independent body such as Underwriters Laboratories, or Underwriters Laboratories of Canada.
Aesthetics
In contrast to a freestanding infrared heater which uses heat radiating radiation to warm the air, dome-top and pyramid patio heaters run on propane and produce an electric flame to create a cozy fire effect. They are typically triangular with an elongated central column with flames running up the center. They provide the most coverage. These models generally have lower heat output than infrared units, however they still provide enough warmth to keep diners warm when dining outside as stated by Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality.
Most of the outdoor heaters we tested came in boxes and required some kind of assembly with varying levels of difficulty. Some, such as the Dura Heat Tank Top, were incredibly easy to assemble and others took a long time to put together, like the Member's Mark pyramid heater, which was the most difficult to assemble of the models we tried.
These units are designed for outdoor use and need to endure harsh weather conditions. Durability is therefore an important aspect to consider. The ones made of durable materials, like the stainless steel on the Member's Mark model, are more able to stand up to snow and rain than models that utilize glass tubing in the middle of the unit, which can easily break or crack. This model comes with a protective cover that can be helpful in windy conditions.