Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Find an electric patio heater that is small if you only have a small outdoor space to heat. They require just the power outlet, and many offer adjustable temperature settings.
Gotterbarn recommends the Infratech wall-mounted heater for its thin construction, which gives wind resistance. Customers also reported that it balanced function and design. It is simple to install and requires a 220/240V outlet.
Size
The dimensions of your patio and the amount of heat will determine which model and type of heater is best for your needs. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity or gas and their heat output is measured in BTUs and Watts. The more BTUs, the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are generally less efficient than their gas-powered counterparts, but they can be a good source of warmth for smaller spaces. These heaters are also great for areas that have little or no natural ventilation or those that are prone to wind. They don't emit any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically offer a range of temperature settings that can be beneficial when you're planning on using the space at different intervals or at different distances from the heater. Certain models come with a fixed heat output. It's important to carefully read the product description before making a decision. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater, for instance, comes with adjustable heating settings ranging from 750W to 1500W to accommodate a variety of temperatures.
Power
The heat output of a patio heater is measured in watts and British thermal units (BTUs). The number of BTUs produced by the heater can differ according to the size of the area you want to warm, the weather conditions and the type of fuel you use. patio heater electric of the best patio heating units can heat large areas and are suitable for larger patios. Certain models, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less powerful, but can still warm smaller spaces.
Consider how much control you want to have over the temperature settings of your heater. Some models let you choose from a variety of options, while others offer the option of a predetermined amount of heat that remains constant. If you are planning to use your patio heater during windy conditions, select one that has an adjustable heat setting.
While electric patio heaters plug into standard 120-volt outlets, natural propane and gas options require an expert installation that makes use of a specialized flue system. This type of heating system is ideal for outdoor areas that require to be heated year-round however, it isn't suitable for indoor use. Natural propane and gas patio heaters also emit carbon monoxide, and they should never be used in confined spaces unless properly vented.
The type of fuel you select will impact the maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heaters, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heating System that we have included in this article, use 20-pound propane tanks that you can refill locally at gas or convenience stores. stations. These heaters for the patio are very popular and come in many designs that are portable.
For a more permanent solution to your patio heating needs consider a wall- or ceiling-mounted option that's easily fitted into a wall made of masonry or a structure such as a deck, pergola or gazebo. These heaters usually connect to existing plumbing or wiring and are simple to install however, they could require more upfront expenses than other patio heaters.
Safety
Whatever type of heater you pick for your patio, safety precautions should be taken. If you own an electric heater, keep it away anything that may catch fire. This includes fabric, paper, or certain plastics. The radiation from heat and sudden movements could also pose a risk. Additionally, you should never leave a heater on the floor in a room that isn't being used, particularly if powered by gas.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide and other harmful gases that could cause illnesses or even death when inhaled and should only be used outdoors. In addition, they require an adequate amount of space to vent properly.
If you plan to make use of natural gas or propane patio heater indoors it is best to install an outdoor vented CO2 and/or CH4 detector in your home, which will alert you to any dangerous emissions and ensure that you are safe from carbon monoxide poisoning. The detectors can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores and are easy to install.
It's also important to ensure that your patio heater is placed on a level surface and is not too close to anything that could be damaged by the heat it produces. A stand-up patio heater should be at least 3 feet from any object and a wall-mounted patio heater should be affixed to an exterior wall or structure, like a gazebo, to prevent it from crashing over.
Some propane and gas patio heaters have an automatic tip-over shutoff feature. This feature detects when the unit is tilted or isn't placed on an even surface. Then, it shuts off the power to prevent a possible fire risk. But, it's best to be cautious as even units with this feature can tip over and cause the risk of fire.
To prevent this, you should always be in close proximity to the heater when it's in operation and not leave it unattended. Also, if you reside in an area that is prone to strong winds, make sure the patio heater is mounted on a sturdy base and is anchored or secured with a weight.
Cost
The addition of a heater for your patio 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. There are a variety of overhead tables, freestanding, and tabletop models available to fit your budget and style.
The cost of an electric patio heater is contingent on its size and model, as well as the fuel source. Propane heaters, for example are typically less expensive than models that utilize natural gas. The number of BTUs produced by a patio heater can vary significantly. Smaller models may produce as much as 10,000 BTUs, while larger ones could produce at least 40,000 BTUs or more.
When choosing a small electric patio heater safety and ease of use are important factors to consider. A lot of freestanding, portable models are on wheels and easy to move. These kinds of heaters are popular in bars and restaurants that have outside seating as they are able to heat several tables. They typically plug into regular outlets and are energy efficient, but they may not produce as much heat as other types of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require professional installation. They are perfect for areas where floor space is limited or there are high ceilings that cannot accommodate a standing heating system. These models are generally safer since they don't release pollutants such as carbon monoxide, but they should be installed in a well ventilated space in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. Some models are even made with weather-resistant materials in order to limit damage from rain or wind. These models are often CSA-rated and have an automatic shut-off valve to avoid accidental burns.