Can You Use a Patio Heater Indoors?
If you have a patio heater but want to use it indoors, there are a few things you need to consider. The first is whether you should use an electric or propane heater. There are also factors to consider when choosing an infrared heater.
Propane
Propane patio heaters are a great way to enjoy the warm weather outside. However, they can be dangerous if not used properly. To avoid this, follow these tips to ensure your safety.
First, make sure you have a good-quality propane tank. Improperly installed tanks can result in explosions. Also, ensure that you keep your tank filled with fresh, dry air.
When using a gas heater, never leave the door unlocked or allow anyone to enter the room. This is especially important if you have children, pets, or guests. Leaving the door open can lead to a fire.
A battery-operated carbon monoxide detector is a good idea for fuel-burning devices. These devices are designed to detect small amounts of CO, but if they detect too much, they shut off.
Another feature to look for is a low-oxygen sensor. A good propane heater will have this. If there is not enough oxygen, then the flame will burn a little more slowly and produce less heat.
You should also be careful to avoid touching flammable materials around the propane heater. In addition, you should not use aerosol sprays or any other flammable products near the unit.
One of the most important features to have is an auto tip-over shutoff. If you have one, it will turn off if the heater is tipped over.
Electric
Electric patio heaters are great for indoor use, but you need to take certain precautions when operating them. Not only can they be dangerous, but they also emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. For safety purposes, it is important to choose a model that has a CSA-approved rating.
Although most electric patio heaters can produce a lot of heat, they are not as powerful as propane or natural gas models. They require a higher voltage. In addition, you will need professional wiring to get the most out of your electric heater.
The best way to determine which type of electric patio heater is right for you is to do a little research. Some models can be easily installed while others are a bit more difficult to install. You can find some that can be mounted on a pole or wall, while others are portable.
One of the cheapest ways to power your heater is with an on/off switch. Depending on your budget and needs, you can also opt for a hand-held remote that can control multiple heaters.
Using an RCD plug to protect against electrical fires is a good idea. Also, most models have an automatic shut-off button that cuts off the gas supply in case of malfunction.
Infrared
Outdoor infrared patio heaters are a useful heating solution. They are particularly useful in outdoor spaces like terraces, conservatories, and warehouses.
They are effective because they can produce radiant heat, which is a form of heat that is directly transferred to objects. Radiated heat is beneficial because it doesn’t waste energy heating the air. However, they can also cause some hazards.
Patio heaters can emit harmful gases if they are left unattended. Luckily, most have built-in safety mechanisms to prevent this from happening. Some of them even come with remote controls so you can switch them on and off multiple heaters.
When shopping for a new patio heater, make sure that it is safe for use indoors. Look for features such as tip-over protection, which shuts off the heater when it tips over. Also, look for a built-in thermostat. This will automatically lower the heating output when the room is already hot.
Never leave a gas or propane heater unattended inside a house. They can produce toxic gases that may cause you to get sick. Carbon monoxide, for example, is a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly. It can cause nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Natural gas infrared heaters are often used for outdoor applications but can be installed inside a home. They are generally wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted and can provide adjustable heat.