Choosing an Electric Pyramid Patio Heater

Patio heaters are perfect for outdoor spaces that require of warmth and atmosphere. When choosing a heater patio electric, consider how warm the area will be as well as its heat output in BTUs or Watts.

Electric models are lightweight and safe to use in enclosed spaces such as patios or garages. However they require a corded power source and aren't as strong as propane models.

Safety Features

While patio heaters add a nice cozy element to outdoor spaces, it's important to keep safety in mind. Natural gas and propane-powered models release carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicals, so they must be installed in a ventilated area per the manufacturer's instructions. Electric heaters on the other hand, don't release any pollutants and are safe for use in confined areas.

Find a model with solid base to stop it from tipping over. Some manufacturers also include tilt switches, which turns off the heating element when the unit is tilted past an angle of a certain degree. This minimizes the risk of injury or fire to anyone nearby, especially if you're enjoying a cocktail and chatting with your friends.

The GH Institute's testers looked for models that were simple to set up and operate. The Member's Mark patio heating unit only required one person to set it up. It also features wheels on its base, which makes transporting it easy. We also enjoyed the fact that this model has an easy-to-read control panel, and was simple to move around the deck. It also offers a nice amount of heat -- up to 10 feet in a circle. And it comes with a propane tank.

Another crucial aspect to think about is the size of the space you're hoping to warm. It may be necessary to use a larger heater for a larger area than one that is smaller. Many manufacturers indicate the power of their heaters in British thermal units. The greater the Btu rating the more powerful the heater.

It is also possible to determine whether a particular model is safe to use on a wood deck. Most patio heaters that are freestanding are safe to use on decks. However, it is always a good idea double-checking the instructions and following any precautions that are specific to the model.

If you're thinking of purchasing an electric pyramid patio heater, it's best to stay clear of models with cords that cross walkways. These cords are a tripping danger for those who aren't paying close to the area. They also increase the chance that someone may accidentally touch the heating elements.

Heat Output

The output of heat from a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (Btu). A higher Btu rating indicates that the heater can heat an area larger. A heater with 40,000 BTU can warm up to 2,000 square feet and Electric Pyramid Patio Heater is big enough for several people. Larger rooms and colder climates require a higher Btu rating to keep everyone comfortable.

waterproofmodels, and some of the top models can fold up and take inside to store when not in use. This makes them ideal for porches that are regularly used, or for people who like to move furniture around and make use of various outdoor spaces all through the all year.

The pyramid-style patio heaters we looked at all had covers designed to protect the unit and secure from harsh weather. We found the Member's Mark pyramid heater to have a cover that was quick and easy to use which kept the unit sheltered from rain and snow while still being easily accessible. It was also easy to transport from place to place and was an ideal choice for those who wanted the comfort of an inviting, warm spot but also wanted to be able to move the source of heat as required.

If you're looking for a propane or electric outdoor heaters for patio patio heater, it's important to think about how much power you'll require to keep your outdoor heater for patio electric space warm. A majority of the top-rated patio heaters in our review produce 40,000 Btu's which is enough to comfortably heat up to 2,000 square feet. If you have a larger area that needs heating, we recommend choosing one with more Btu's.

You should also consider whether your patio heater will be powered by electricity or propane, as each has advantages. Propane patio heaters generally provide more warmth than modern electric patio heater models and don't need the same amount of maintenance. They must be kept in a well-ventilated space at all times and can be less appealing to homeowners.

When you are choosing an electric patio heater, opt for one that has safety features such as tip-over protection or adjustable heat settings. Consider the ease of moving and installing the heater in addition to as its appearance. It is recommended to choose a patio heater that is tested by an independent body like Underwriters Laboratories, or Underwriters Laboratories of Canada.

Aesthetics

Unlike a freestanding infrared heater that uses heat rays to warm the air, dome-top and pyramid patio heaters run on propane and emit an electric flame to create a warm fire effect. These heaters are usually triangular with a central column with flames that are extending across the center. They provide the most coverage. These models have lower outputs of heat than infrared heaters but they still provide enough warmth to keep diners warm when dining outside.

Most of the outdoor heaters we tested were packaged in boxes and required some sort of assembly, with varying levels of difficulty. Some, like the Dura Heat Tank Top were extremely easy to put together, while others took hours to put together, like the Member's Mark pyramid heater, which was the most difficult to assemble of all the models we tried.

These units are intended for outdoor use and need to endure harsh weather conditions. Durability is an important consideration. The stainless steel of the Member's Mark unit is better in enduring rain and snow than units with glass tubing that can easily break or break. This model comes with a protective cover that is useful during windy conditions.