The heater can be used indoors and outdoors. The device is able to create a comfortable microclimate in a small open area in the cool season. A person can relax in the fresh air in autumn or spring without the risk of catching a cold. Outdoor heaters for summer verandas are not very common, so you need to choose them taking into account their technical features.
Varieties of street heaters and the principle of operation
Devices for heating can be floor, ceiling or wall. According to the method of supply, the device is gas or electric.
Gas
The gas heater for the veranda in appearance resembles a mushroom on a thin high leg or a floor lamp. At the heart of the product is a metal casing, inside which is a cylinder with fuel. The standard capacity is 27 liters. Propane or butane is used as fuel. A long pipe emerges from the cylinder upwards, through which gas enters the burner. This component is surrounded by a grid that generates infrared waves.
At the top of the fixture is a wide reflector that directs heat to the heating zone. You can adjust the power of the product using the fuel supply control unit located at the burner inlet.
An interesting option for a heater is a pyramid. Inside this model is a glass tube in which the fuel burns. You can put such a heater in the gazebo, as it is not suitable for open areas due to the short range.
Electric
An electric infrared device can be installed on a stand-leg or mounted on a wall or ceiling. It works from a standard power supply. The main structural element is a tube with a nichrome spiral, which provides soft heat and heats up to 900 degrees. It is made of glass, aluminum and ceramic. Glass options have a small resource of use.
A metal reflector is used to direct infrared rays to the desired area.
The choice of electric models is more extensive. Such products are made in the form of lampposts, table lamps, propellers.
On outdoor areas, terraces or gazebos, infrared equipment is more commonly used. A special reflector directs heat pointwise. It warms up objects in a small area. At the same time, the minimum amount of thermal energy is spent on air.
Advantages and disadvantages
These devices have their advantages and disadvantages. Gas units have the following advantages:
- good appearance, which allows the use of devices in any interior;
- simplicity of construction;
- autonomy of work (you only need to change the cylinder on time);
- mobility (some models are equipped with wheels for ease of movement);
- lack of emission of hazardous combustion products into the environment;
- silent operation.
However, such devices have a low efficiency. They heat the skin of a person, drying it. Long wavelength models are expensive. Gas appliances operate at an air temperature of at least +10 degrees. It is not recommended to install such a heater in enclosed spaces. You will have to constantly monitor the level and availability of fuel.
Electrical appliances are lightweight, quickly warm up the desired area. When connected correctly, the device is completely safe.It can be installed on open terraces and in gazebos. The device is capable of operating at temperatures from -5 degrees. The only drawback is the dependence on the mains.
Features of the choice of street heaters
To choose the right heater for the street, you need to take into account its power, the manufacturer, as well as fuel consumption and the need to move the product.
Heating radius
In winter, such equipment is not recommended to be used outdoors if the temperature is below +5 degrees. The power of electric devices does not exceed 3 kW, so the heating radius is not more than 3 m. They are more suitable for small arbors or verandas. Gas appliances are able to provide a heating radius of up to 6-10 m if the burner is at the top. Devices with a capacity of 13 kW can provide heat with an area of 23 sq.m.
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption depends on the power of the product. Since electrical appliances are not very powerful, they are considered economical. Gas equipment burns about 0.6-0.9 liters per hour.
The electric apparatus will warm while it is plugged in, the gas model works as long as there is enough fuel in the cylinder. This time ranges from 14-30 hours.
Overview of popular manufacturers
When choosing a device, the manufacturer is of great importance. The characteristic features of some of them should be considered.
Dolce vita
The brand has Italian roots. This model is characterized by grace, external beauty and perfect technology. The device runs on gas. It is effective and completely safe, as it is equipped with two passive protection systems. The device is a flare type. It is made only in Italy using certified European components.
The product is mobile, it can be moved on a small cart, which is included. Heating provides a soft but powerful heat. It does not take up much space. The device operates autonomously from the mains. A 24-27 liter fuel tank is located at the bottom of the heater. An additional LED backlight is present at the bottom of the device.
Chillchase
The specified model performs two functions: heating the area and local lighting. Such a device is used in domestic conditions, on the terraces of cafes and bars. The heat is very soft. The device does not burn oxygen; air does not circulate during its operation.
Kroll
German heating equipment is made of stainless steel. It is able to heat the territory up to 6 m in diameter. The work will be effective even with strong winds or other atmospheric influences. The device simply installs and moves. It provides a comfortable atmosphere, as it warms up space to +20 degrees.
The device runs on a standard gas cylinder of 27 liters. The main fuel is propane. The power of the equipment is 5-12 kW. Equipped with piezo ignition. The power of heating is continuously adjustable.
Heaters for the street are presented in different models, their range is wide. Depending on the operating conditions, gas or electric models can be selected. All manufacturers guarantee complete safety of the heaters, but they must be used correctly - in accordance with the instructions. Installation is best entrusted to specialists.