Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Look for a small electric patio heater if you only have an outdoor space that you want to heat. These models require only an outlet for power, and many offer adjustable heating settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater due to its thin structure, which provides wind resistance. They also say that users have found it to balance functionality and style. It is simple to install and requires a 220/240V power supply.
Size
The dimensions of your patio and the amount of heat will determine which type of heater is best for your needs. Patio heaters are powered by electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in BTUs and Watts. The more BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are typically less powerful than gas-powered counterparts, however they can provide sufficient warmth for smaller spaces. They're also a good choice for areas that do not have natural ventilation or are prone to wind as they don't produce any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically have various temperatures. This can be helpful when you intend to use the space at different times or at different distances from it. Some models have a fixed heat output. It's important to carefully go through the product's description prior to making a decision. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater for example, offers adjustable heating modes ranging from 750W up to 1500W to accommodate a range of temperatures.
Power
The energy output of a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and watts. The amount of BTUs it generates can differ depending on the size of the area you'd like to warm as well as the weather conditions and the type of fuel you use. The best patio heating units can heat a large space and are perfect for larger patios. Others, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater, are less efficient, but they can offer adequate heating for smaller spaces.
You should also consider how much control you want over the settings of your heater's temperature. Some models allow you to select from a range of options, while others offer a preset amount of heat that remains constant. If you are planning to use your heater on your patio during stormy conditions, select one that has an adjustable heat setting.
While electric patio heaters plug into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural gas and propane options require an installation by a professional that utilizes an exclusive flue system. This type of heating system is perfect for outdoor areas that need to be heated throughout the year, but isn't suitable for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heating systems also emit carbon monoxide. They should not be installed in enclosed areas unless they are properly vented.
The type of fuel you choose will impact your maintenance and costs. Liquid propane patio heaters, such as the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heating unit we've included in this article, typically utilize 20-pound propane tanks that you can fill at the local convenience store or gas station. These heaters for the patio are very popular and are available in a variety of portable styles.
If you're looking for a permanent solution to your patio heater needs think about a ceiling-mounted mountable option that can be easily incorporated into a structure or masonry wall, such as a pergola, deck, or gazebo. These options usually connect to existing plumbing or wiring and are easy to set up however, they could require more upfront costs than other heaters for your patio.
Safety
Whatever type of patio heater you select it is important to ensure that safety precautions are taken. For instance, if you have an electric heater be sure to keep it away from anything that could catch fire, like fabrics, paper or plastics. Heat radiation and unexpected movements can also pose a threat. Additionally, you should never leave a standing heater in a room that isn't being used, particularly if powered by gas.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide as well as other harmful gases that could cause illnesses or even death when inhaled therefore, they should only be used outdoors. They also require enough space to vent properly.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 or CO2 detector in your home is a good idea if you plan to utilize a propane patio heater or natural gas heater indoors. patio heat lamp electric will notify you of any dangerous emissions, and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors are available at a variety of hardware and home improvement stores, and are easy to install.
It's also crucial to make sure that the patio heater is on a stable surface and not too close to objects that could be damaged by the heat it creates. A stand-up heater should be placed at least three feet from any objects. A wall-mounted heater should be attached to something like a wall or gazebo to keep it from falling.
Some propane and gas patio heating units have an automatic tip-over shutoff function. This feature detects when the unit is tilted or is not on a flat surface. Then, it shuts off the power to prevent a potential fire hazard. Even though these units are equipped with an auto shutoff feature that detects tip-over, it is still best to use caution as they can still fall over and ignite.
To prevent this, you must always be close to the heater whenever it's in operation and avoid leaving it unattended. If you reside in an area that is prone to strong winds, make sure that the heater for your patio is mounted on a sturdy base and is anchored or secured with a weight.
Cost
By adding a patio heater, you can extend the time you can spend dining and enjoying your outdoor space into the cooler evenings and seasons. There are a variety of overhead, freestanding, and tabletop models you can pick from to suit your budget and style.
The price of a small electric patio heater varies based on its size and model and also its fuel source. Propane heaters, for example are generally less expensive than those that run on natural gas. The number of BTUs produced by a patio heater can also vary greatly. The smaller models can generate up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) while the larger ones can generate at least 40,000 BTUs.
When choosing a small electric patio heater safety and ease of use are crucial aspects to take into consideration. A lot of freestanding, portable models are on wheels and easily moveable. These kinds of heaters are popular with restaurants and bars that feature outside seating because they can easily heat multiple tables. They are typically plug-in heaters that use standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they may not produce as much heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are ceiling or wall mounted and require professional installation. These heaters are great for areas that have limited floor space or high ceilings, which are unable to accommodate standing heaters. These kinds of heaters are typically safer because they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide however, they must be used in a properly ventilated area per the manufacturer's instructions. sources tell me are constructed of weather-resistant materials that minimize damage from wind or rain. In addition these models are usually equipped with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve to protect against accidental burns.