There are a many choices when it comes to outdoor heating equipment.
But before the explosion of home patio heaters, you may have only seen
outdoor heating in bistros and other outdoor venues. Radiant heat has
been around for a long time for commercial applications, such as heating
workers in a warehouse.
These heavy duty options still exist for outdoor heating. They are designed
for high BTU output and for extended periods of use. Available in both
electric and gas, they are designed to be hard-wired or plumbed for permanent
installation.
They tend to lack the attractive appearance found on residential use
equipment and employ a functional utilitarian design. However, this isn't
necessarily a bad thing, it may actually work with your landscape. Furthermore,
because most commercial equipment is designed for ceiling mount, it will
be less prominent and may just disappear into the overhead.
Many of the ceiling mount units are rectangular and come in a variety
of lengths. These can be mounted in seating areas and other other covered
parts of the patio. Some models are designed for use where they are exposed
to the elements. One advantage to this overhead style is that it can
be placed closer to people instead off to the side. Another advantage
is that it doesn't take up valuable square footage.
The commercial patio heaters that look like the design now commonly
available for home use, do not seem to offer an advantage over the less
expensive home units. Commercial umbrella heaters' BTU output is about
the same or only slightly greater. Their ruggedness seem roughly equivalent
to home units. Operation is the same. Really we can't see a reason for
opting for a more expensive commercial unit when the residential unit
does the job just as well.
Learn more about the options
in outdoor heating in these articles listed below.
