Forced Air Propane Heaters
One of the primary types of heater making a comeback on the retail market is the propane heater. Energy efficient and cost effective, a propane heater is not only easy to use, it is environmentally friendly as well. While there are several different styles and types of units on the market, one of the most common types for everyday household use are forced air propane heaters.
What Is A Forced Air Propane Heater?
A propane heater works on the basic principle that lighting propane gas on fire and using that fire to increase the temperature of the unit's heating element will produce an overall increase in the temperature surrounding the heating element as well. This concept is known as radiating heating and is ideal for small propane heaters meant to be kept near a couch or chair, or even outdoor propane heaters mounted in a garage over a frequently used work area.For larger areas, a different method is recommended in the form of a forced air propane heater. A forced air heater works on the same basic principle as a radiating heater except for the addition of a fan mechanism within the heater itself. The fan not only helps pull air into the propane heater, increasing the amount of air being exposed to the heating element, it also pushes the heated air out of the unit, allowing the warmer air to cover a larger area surrounding the unit.
Where Should I Use A Forced Air Heater?
Forced air units are recommended for large interior rooms such as living rooms and family rooms. They are designed to not only heat the air, but also help to keep it circulating in the room. Because of the added heat and air output of a forced air unit, they are not recommended for small, enclosed areas. If you are looking for an outdoor heater for a patio, open garage or workshop, a radiant heater will work best since it has the ability to heat the area immediately around it without the risk of energy loss from the heat having to travel any distance. Closed garages or workshops, however, are best suited for forced air units since the enclosed area allows the heated air to stay circulating within the room as opposed to escaping. Proper ventilation, however, should be maintained at all times and most units will have a safety shut off that will kick in if the oxygen levels in the room drop too low.
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