= 5, Easy Upgrades Can Extend Outdoor (NAPSA)—Cooler weather can be a great time to transform a patio or deck into a cozy space to relax with family or entertain friends. Propane appliances such as patio heaters, fire pits and lighting extend warm-weather fun, while their portability and range of prices make it easy to customize an outdoor space to fit any lifestyle or budget. “As families look for ways to spend more quality time at home, outdoor areas are becoming a nat- ural extension of a home’s living space,” says Stuart Flatow, vice president, safety and training, Propane Education & Research Council (PERC). “With careful planning and safety in mind, sim- ple upgrades offer year-round enjoyment.” Handy homeowners who are budget-minded may wantto take on their outdoor room redo as a do- it-yourself (DIY) project. Before getting started, assess your skills, patience, time and budget and decide when to bring in a professional. To ensure a smooth process, PERCoffers a helpful list of dos anddon'ts: DIY Dos Do establish a budget ahead Patio heaters, fire pits and lighting can makeit easier to extend warmweatherfun into the colder months. Do make sure the gas is turned off during installation and check for leaks before operating. Do have a qualified service technician inspect your outdoor appliances annually. DIY Don’ts Don’t install an outdoor appliance indoors—orvice versa. Don’t assemble appliances with propane cylinders yourself unless you’ve read the manual and are prepared to follow all instructions. Don’t move a portable appliance such as a heater or grill while it’s in use. check before hiring a professional. Don’t store or place a propane cylinder indoors, or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed or tent. Visit usepropane.com for more and away from structures. propane appliances into your outdoor remodelprojects. of time, with a 10 percent cushion for unexpected expenses. Do conduct a background Do keep outdoor propane appliances clear of flammables tips on safely incorporating
