Article Written By: Kathryn Dawson
Designers and manufacturers are honing products originally thought to cater to restaurants, outdoor bistros and factory floors, for the average home use. Comfortable patio furniture, gas BBQ grills and outdoor heating units are all affordable items to help lengthen your summer vacations and entertain guests even on the chilliest of nights.If you need something cozy for an intimate dinner under the stars, you ll find a number of table top patio heaters available. Typically if you are looking to warm a large area like a covered patio, you should look at the freestanding models. If you have a really large space to warm, you ll also find a number of energy efficient commercial grade patio heaters with propane, natural gas, and electric type fuel sources.Propane patio heaters come in both permanent and portable outdoor styles, although most people can easily recall the tall slim portables models which heat from above. I suspect more than once, you have appreciated the warm while dining al fresco at your favorite restaurant. You should shop for patio heaters where you buy patio furniture, natural gas, or butane heaters and in specialty shops for home decorating. Keep in mind the following thoughts when making your decision for gas patio heaters; most will increase the temperature about 10 degrees Fahrenheit:1. Portable or Permanent? Natural gas heaters make perfect companions to existing gas grill installations, but bottled fuels make it easier to put the heat right where you want it.2. Heating Area? Pick a heater for its ability to warm the area you use most, usually a 20-foot circle around the unit. Read product information carefully - the biggest and most expensive units do not always provide the most heat for your dollar.3. Safety First - Be sure the gas patio heater you choose is carefully engineered for safety. Industry-approved designs feature safety tilt switches, sealed burners, flame controls, electronic ignitions and emergency cut-off valves. No sense in looking good if you aren t safe.4. Infrared Heater Elements - Look for infrared heater elements with sturdy aluminum reflectors to direct the radiating heat down and out. You'll find them described as "mushroom" or "umbrella" designs on poles from 3 to 7 feet tall.Specifically to the UK, you might consider brands like Lifestyle, Orchid, and Enders. Typically the higher end brands will offer you a choice of stylish colours to match your outdoor patio décor. Look for LPG gas cylinders that include the Gaslow Regulator and Gauge. This is a handy feature to know when your propane tank is getting low. Some other features or considerations before you make your final decision could include the following:• Wheels for ease of movement• Hinge door and locking mechanism for tank storage and access• Availabilities of colours• Textured finish to complement your outdoor furniture• Safety pilot assembly and shut-off valve• CE approved• Anti-tilt and heavy duty cast iron ballast weight• Type of ignition – match free should be your preferred option• Reflector dimensions• Heating area and heating output or capacity• Gaslow Regulator with Gauge• Delivery or free shipping• Warranty• Operating Time• Disposal or refillable cartridges or cylindersWith so many affordable choices available to you, extending the comfort of your indoors to the outdoors is a fantastic way to enjoy every day and make it sense like being on holiday. Enjoy the comfort of a gas patio heater this afternoon.
This Article Has Been Published on Thu, 20 May 2010 and Read 179 Times