Heated parasols are radiant
heaters intended for outdoor use (cafes, restaurant terraces, hotel lobbies,
etc.). They are very useful for those who want to enjoy the outdoors while
escaping the harshness of winter. The first models operated on gas. They used
fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), propane or butane. Recently,
electric models have appeared that emit infrared rays on surrounding surfaces.
A question arises: what type of parasol should I choose?
GAS HEATED PARASOLS
Gas patio heaters use a propane
or butane cylinder. The gas cylinder is placed at the base of the device. Gas
models are very easy to use. In fact, all it takes is the press of a button to
make them work. Depending on the model, the weight of the heater can vary
between 10 and 30 kg. In terms of heating quality, electric and gas parasols
are equal. The notable difference is that gas models can heat larger spaces but
are less safe and can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Hence the recommendation
to use them only in well ventilated areas.
Unlike electric patio heaters,
gas heaters provide more power. However, it is important to check whether the
product complies with NF and CE safety standards, as these devices are liable
to cause fires. It is also essential that it has a flame detector and a fall
protection system.
The most commonly used materials
are stainless steel, epoxy coated steel, and plastic. It is advisable to opt
for heated parasols made of stainless steel, as they are more resistant.
ELECTRIC HEATED PARASOLS
In electric patio heaters,
electrical energy is converted into heat. These devices use reflectors which
direct heat to the outside, as do fans which help the heat to spread better.
Electric patio heaters have the
advantage of being easier to install. For their home use, there are portable
models, which can be taken anywhere and which only need to be plugged into an
electrical outlet. They have the advantage of being less expensive compared to
gas models.
Another advantage of electric
heaters is that they do not give off any type of gas that could be harmful to
health. This means that the user does not need a lot of ventilation for this
type of heaters. For this same reason, they are safer, because they are not
likely to produce carbon monoxide, considered to be very dangerous for health.
WHICH HEATED PARASOL IS BEST FOR YOU?
Both types of heated parasols
have their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of the most suitable
model will depend on the application for which the parasol is intended. The
needs of an individual wanting to heat their terrace are very different from
those of a hotelier or a barman looking for a professional parasol heater.
MOBILITY
Electric models require the use
of a cable and the proximity of an electrical outlet, which can pose aesthetic
problems. Unlike gas models, electric patio heaters are not very mobile.
Likewise, the low power of electric patio heaters makes them unsuitable for
intensive use.
EXPENSIVE
An electric patio heater is
inexpensive to purchase. But, it is more expensive to use. The reason is quite
simple: in most European countries, the price of electricity is higher than
that of gas.
SAFETY
Electric patio heaters are safer
than their gas counterparts when it comes to use in poorly ventilated spaces.
With electric patio heaters, users do not fear any toxic gas emissions.
At the end of this comparison, it
can be remembered that neither of these two types of heated parasols is
superior to the other. Now you are familiar with the pros and cons of both
parasols. It is up to you that which one you want to pick.