Outdoor Gas Heaters

Outdoor gas heaters for patios, pergolas or decks are a wonderful way to extend the usable season for your outdoor space. The appliances can be used in warmer climates with mild winters throughout the entire season. For cold winter climates, you may be able to use the outdoor living space for an additional month or two in the spring and fall. Depending upon the size and style of the heater, you can heat significant areas at a relatively low cost. The obvious reason for purchasing these heaters is to provide a more comfortable and enjoyable temperature outdoors so that some typical warm weather activities such as grilling or lounging can be continued. If you enjoy a barbecued meal on the patio, you don't want to give it up just because the weather turns cooler. By installing a heater near the grill, you can cook and eat in comfort.

Buying an outdoor gas heater should begin by comparing options. Look for customer and expert reviews that compare and contrast the various features. You will want to find a heater that has sturdy construction and tight connections. There are local distributors for most heaters, or you may choose to purchase on the Internet and hire a professional to install the heater. You can choose between propane gas heaters that can be moved around on your deck or patio and natural gas heaters that are intended to be hooked up to permanent gas lines.

When choosing a heater, you will need to consider the size of the space where the heater will be placed and the number of people occupying the space. Don't go with a heater that is too small and try to run it full blast to compensate. A heater that is too large in a crowded space is likely to end up burning someone because it takes up more space than required. Any heater that you choose should be solid enough to stay put, even in windy or crowded conditions.

Heaters can be installed in various ways. Place the heater in a location with full support so that it can't be tipped over. Some owners install the heaters in the wall, so there is no danger of toppling over. Choose the most stable heater you can find. Try to find a heater that won't spill if it is knocked over.

Safety is an important aspect to consider when purchasing an outdoor heater that is gas powered. If you have small children, they should never be left unattended around a gas heater. Children has a fascination for fire and could suffer serious burns if the heater flame is open. Spilled fuel is another danger that a good heating unit will have built in prevention means. Read the instruction manual completely so that you know where any safety switches are located. You should never leave a heater burning continuously. The fuel can run out and overheat the unit.

It's important to keep the heater clean. A dirty surface can cause the heaters to break down. Check the operating parts of the heater and the fuel level regularly so that there are no problems with malfunctioning components.

Outdoor gas heaters can prolong and enhance the enjoyment of your deck, patio or other outdoor space. Be sure to choose a unit that fits the amount of space that you are trying to heat. You should also be sure to operate the heater according to recommended instructions.