Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Consider a small electric patio heater if you only have a small outdoor space to heat. These models only require a power outlet, and some have adjustable settings for heat.
Gotterbarn recommends the Infratech wall-mounted heater because of its light construction, which gives wind resistance. Customers also found that it was able to balance design and function. It's easy to install and requires a 220/240V connection.
Size
When it comes to choosing a patio heater the dimensions of your outdoor space as well as the amount of heat you require will be crucial in determining which type and model best suits your needs. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in Watts and BTUs. The more BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are typically less efficient than their gas counterparts, but they still provide sufficient heat for smaller areas. These heaters are also great for areas with low or no natural ventilation or those that are prone to winds. They don't produce any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters usually offer the option of a variety of heat settings, which can be useful when you're planning on making use of the space at different times or at different distances from the heater. Some models have one fixed heat output and it's essential to read the description of the product carefully before purchasing. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater, for example, offers variable heating settings that range from 750W up to 1500W to accommodate a variety of temperatures.
Power
The heat output of a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and Watts. The amount of BTUs generated by a patio heater can depend on factors like the size of the area you want to heat, the weather conditions, and the kind of fuel you use. The best patio heating units can heat large areas and are perfect for larger patios. Some, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less efficient, but can warm smaller spaces.
Consider how much control would like to have over the heat settings of your heater. Some models allow you to select from a variety of options, while others provide a preset amount of heat that remains constant. If you are planning to use your patio heater during the midst of a storm, you should consider one with an adjustable setting for the heat or that can be adjusted as the wind blows.
Electric patio heaters can plug into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural propane and gas require a professional to install them using a specialized system of flues. This kind of heating system is ideal for outdoor areas that require to be heated all year round but isn't suited for indoor use. Natural propane and gas patio heaters also release carbon monoxide, so they shouldn't be used in enclosed spaces unless vented properly.
The kind of fuel you pick will affect your maintenance and costs. Liquid propane patio heaters, such as the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater we've included in this article, generally make use of 20-pound propane tanks that can be refilled at the local convenience store or gas station. These kinds of patio heaters are the most sought-after by customers and are available in various styles that are portable that include tall tower-style floor heaters typically used in bars and restaurants with outdoor seating.
For a longer-lasting solution to your heating needs for your patio look for a mountable or ceiling-mounted option that can be installed into a wall made of masonry or a structures like a deck, pergola or gazebo. These heaters are simple to install and typically connect to the existing wiring.
Safety
No matter what type of patio heater you select Safety precautions must be taken. If you own an electric heater, make sure you keep it away from things that could catch fire. This includes paper, fabric or even certain plastics. The heat radiation and sudden movements can also pose a risk. Also, you should not leave a heater that is powered by gas unattended.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide and other harmful gases that can cause illness or even death when inhaled therefore, they should only be used outdoors. They also require a sufficient amount of open space to vent properly.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 and/or CO2 detector in your home is a good option if you intend to utilize propane patio heaters or natural gas heater inside. This will inform you to any harmful emissions, and will also help prevent carbon monoxide toxicity. The detectors can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores, and are simple to set up.
It's also crucial to ensure that the patio heater is on a level surface and is not too close to anything that could be damaged due to the heat it generates. A stand-up patio heater should be at least three feet away from any object and a wall-mounted heater should be affixed an exterior wall or structure, like the gazebo, to stop it from crashing over.
Some gas and propane patio heating units have an automatic tip-over shutoff function. This feature detects when the unit tilts, or is not on a flat surface. It then turns off the power to avoid a fire danger. However, it's always prudent to be on guard because even heaters with this technology can fall over and create a fire hazard.
For this reason, you must always be close to the heater during operation, and don't leave it unattended. If you live in a sweltering location, make sure the patio heater has a solid base and is properly weighted or anchored.
Cost
Adding a patio heater to your outdoor space can allow you to enjoy the benefits of outdoor dining, relaxing or entertaining into cool evenings and all through the seasons. A wide range of overhead, freestanding and tabletop models is available to fit your budget and design, allowing you to maximize the enjoyment of your patio, backyard deck, balcony, or lanai.
The cost of an electric patio heater is contingent on its size and the type and also the fuel source. Propane heaters, for example are generally less expensive than models that use natural gas. The amount of BTUs (British Thermal Units) produced by a patio heater may be quite different. Smaller models can produce as much as 10,000 BTUs, while larger models can produce up to 40,000 or more.
When choosing a small electric patio heater security and comfort are the most important aspects to consider. Many portable, freestanding models are on wheels and easy to move. These kinds of heaters are popular with bars and restaurants that have outside seating as they can be used to heat multiple tables. electric outdoor heater for patio into regular outlets and are energy efficient, but they may not produce the same amount of heat as other types of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require a professional installation. They are perfect for areas where floor space is limited or you have high ceilings that aren't large enough to accommodate a standing heater. These models are safer because they don't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide. However they should be used in a well ventilated area as per the manufacturer's instructions. Certain models are made of weather-resistant material that reduce damage from wind or rain. These models are usually equipped with a CSA-certified shut-off valve to avoid accidental burns.