“Always think ahead.” The wise, from the U.S. Coast Guard (“always
ready”) to the Boy Scouts (“be prepared”), have taught us that all our lives. It’s
certainly true of your enjoyment of your outdoor furniture on your porch,
patio, deck, or yard. So that’s why, even when we’re sweltering in the dog days
of summer, we as a furniture store think a season ahead, anticipating your
needs for fall. Let’s take a look at two favorite accessories, fire pits and
outdoor heaters.
Safety First for Your Fire Pit
Of course you need not wait until there’s a nip in the
autumn air to start enjoying outdoor dining and drinks by firelight after dark.
First, ask your local fire department or town government if your municipality allows
outdoor fire pits. When you are shopping for one, if its burner is Canadian Standards
Association (CSA)-approved, then you know it meets an international quality standard.
This means your new fire pit has been thoroughly tested for safe use under
normal conditions at home. Our fire pits feature easy operation so you can put
out the flames at the touch of a button or adjust them with a knob. However, remember
that a fire pit remains hot the day after use. One of our typical burners is
powerful: 40,000 btu! Always keep an eye on speedy, rambunctious kids around
your fire pit. Three seconds of attention can mean the difference between
another fun evening and entirely preventable injury.
Outdoor Heater Essentials
When the cold air finally moves in for the year, your good
times outside will keep on rolling with one or more strategically placed
outdoor heaters, just like sidewalk or oceanfront dining at your favorite shore
restaurant. First, decide whether propane or electric is best for you. Propane
heats up fast, and with a large enough fuel tank, up to 20 gallons, you can warm
a large expanse such as your deck for a long time. If your space is enclosed,
do not use propane due to carbon monoxide. Because there is no flame, many
families with children prefer electric heaters. You also don’t have the hassle
of buying fuel, but consider the effect on your electric bill. Also, electric
heaters are smaller so they’re best suited for small spaces. A typical patio
heater warms up to 10 feet around, so consider whether you need more than one.
Again, consider safety features. For an outdoor heater these can include a cool-touch
steel grid.
For more on your fall and even winter outdoor heating options
for your alfresco entertaining, be sure to visit our Northfield, NJ furniture
store, for decades the Atlantic City area’s watchword for premier quality home
furniture at extraordinary savings.