Choices When Choosing Outdoor Heating

By B Joseph Walker

The kind of outdoor heating you select for your patio or yard will depend on a few factors. First, there are many types of outdoor heaters that are powered by electricity or natural gas. If you want to have a heater that uses this type of energy, you'll need to have an electrical or gas outlet in the area where the heater will be installed.

People have used propane heat for both residential and agriculture for many years. These heaters provide an even flow of heat and are easily identified by their umbrella tops. The heaters are designed in styles that range from an antique lamp look to a modern abstract design that will fit in any decor.

The heaters contain a small propane tank that is filled with natural gas or propane at a distributor. The heaters can be found in stand-alone units that are as tall as seven feet. These heaters can be placed throughout a yard and often use a standard propane tank.

Many of the larger propane stand-alone heaters are designed with locking wheels to make them more mobile. That is one of the greatest advantages of these types of heaters, they can be easily moved to any location in the yard or patio with ease. The other benefit of the heaters is that an optional indicator on the tanks show when the gas is getting low so you can refill the tank before it runs out.

The latest designs of heaters are including a visual delight with a bonfire enclosed in metal mesh. These stand-alone units can be placed in a corner of the patio or along a pathway. They are unique, and create a modern and beautiful look for your yard.

Electrical outdoor heaters are available in diverse styles that can serve a dual purpose in a yard. They provide heat evenly up to nine feet in radius. Many of these heaters also have lamps built in to them and product infrared heat. These lights can be installed on a wall of the home to light and keep a patio area warm, or they can be used in units that stand on the floor of the patio. The units are less mobile than propane heaters because of the need for an electrical outlet or cord to power the system.

Both natural gas and electrical heaters must be near an outlet for power. These heaters are not highly mobile because of the need for a nearby outlet. Many of these heaters are found as fireplaces or in pits that allow individuals to sit near the warmth.

Other fireplaces and pits use wood or natural gas to produce heat. The gas heaters are made to be used with a natural gas outlet and are often found near pool areas where an electrical outlet or exposed cord could pose a danger to people who may get wet.

Ethanol gel which is fermentation grade ethyl alcohol, is very popular in fireplaces that are equipped for wood or gas. These gels produce the crackling flames that wood does and are long burning. They do not produce smoke or toxins in the air and are preferable in an environmentally friendly area. People living in areas where burning wood is prohibited find that the gel packs are a viable alternative for these types of heaters. - 30228

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