Wednesday, August 8, 2018

How to Choose the Best and Safest Fire Pits and Outdoor Heaters for You


“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.

Outdoor fire pit

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

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.