Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Enjoy Your Outdoor Space - Patio Heater Safety Tips

It's finally time to enjoy outdoor living spaces in Arizona, and a patio heater can help homeowners get the
most use out of patio areas throughout the winter.  Propane-fueled patio heaters can make your outdoor space cozy on even the chilliest night, and are great for entertaining.  When setting up your heater, you’ll want to position it on a level surface and ensure that it is fully and properly assembled before operating the unit.  Choose a location close enough to your seating area, but far enough away from anything that could potentially ignite.  A 3 foot clearance is generally recommended for larger units.  Plastic, fabric, wood and paper should be positioned at a safe distance from your heater.

Keep your patio heater clear of any obstructions at all times.  Even seemingly insignificant debris like spider webs or leaves can clog air ducts and reduce the ventilation and proper air flow, resulting in poor performance.  Don’t use your heater as a towel rack or attempt to dry clothing using the unit – you may end up with a fire on your hands!   Watch children around the heater and make sure rough activities that could result in the heater being jostled or tipped over are kept away from the patio area.

Check your heater’s hoses and fittings on a regular basis to prevent the occurrence of leaks.  Have your patio heater serviced on an annual basis and after any long periods of storage.  Following these common-sense safety tips will ensure that you enjoy your heated patio throughout the winter months.