Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Find a small electric patio heater if you only have an outdoor space that you want to heat. These heaters only require a power outlet, and they are often adjustable in their heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater for its slim construction, which offers wind resistance. They also say that customers discovered it to be a good balance of function and design. It requires a 220/240V hookup and is simple to install.
Size
When it comes to selecting a patio heater the size of your outdoor space and the amount of heat you need are crucial factors in determining what type and model best suits your requirements. Patio heaters are powered or fueled by electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in both Watts and BTUs. The higher the BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are generally less powerful than gas-powered counterparts but they can provide enough heating for smaller areas. patio electric heater are also ideal for areas with low or no natural ventilation, or areas that are vulnerable to winds. They don't produce any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters usually offer a range of heat settings that can be beneficial in the event that you'll be using the space at various intervals or at different distances from the heater. Certain models come with a fixed heat output. It's important to carefully go through the product's description prior to making a decision. Cuisinart's tabletop heater comes with adjustable heating settings ranging from 750W to 1500W, which allows for various temperatures.
Power
The energy output of a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and Watts. electric patio space heater of BTUs it produces can vary according to the size of the area you want to warm, the weather conditions and the type of fuel you use. The best patio heaters are able to cover an extensive area and are well suited for larger patios. Some, such as the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less powerful, but they can provide heat to smaller areas.
You should also consider how much control you'd like over your heater's heat settings. Some models let you select from a variety of options, while others provide a preset amount of heat that stays 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 can be adjusted according to the wind blows.
Electric patio heaters can be plugged into standard 120-volt outlets. Natural propane and gas require the expertise of a professional to install them using a specialized system of flues. This type of heating system works well for outdoor areas that require to be heated throughout the year however, it is not suitable for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heaters also emit carbon monoxide. Therefore, they should never be used in tight spaces unless vented properly.
The type of fuel that you select will impact your maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heaters, such as the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater that we've included in this article, typically make use of 20-pound propane tanks that you can refill at a local convenience store or gas station. These patio heaters are most popular and are available in a variety of different styles that can be used in portable settings.
If you're looking for a long-lasting solution to your patio heater needs think about a ceiling-mounted mountable option that can be easily integrated into a structure or masonry wall, such as a deck, pergola or gazebo. These heaters are simple to install and are usually connected to existing wiring.
Safety
Regardless of the type of patio heater you select there are a few safety precautions that should be considered. For instance, if are using an electric heater, ensure that it is away from anything that can catch fire, like fabric, paper, or plastics. Heat radiation and unexpected movements could also be a danger. Additionally it is not advisable to leave a heater on the floor unattended, especially if it's powered by gas.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide and other harmful gases that can cause sickness or even death when inhaled and should only be used outdoors. They also require sufficient space to vent properly.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 and/or CO2 detector in your home is a good idea if you plan to make use of propane patio heaters or natural gas heater indoors. This will notify you to any harmful emissions, and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. The detectors are available at most hardware stores and home improvement shops and are simple to install.
It is also important to ensure that your patio heater is on a stable surface, and not too close to any object that could be damaged by the heat. A stand-up heater should be placed at least three feet away from any objects. A wall-mounted heater should also be attached to something like a gazebo or wall to prevent it from falling.
Some gas and propane patio heaters are equipped with a tip-over auto shutoff function, which works by sensing when the heater tilts or is no longer on a flat surface and turning off the power to prevent an ignition risk. Even though these units are equipped with a tip-over auto shutoff feature, it is still best to take care as they can still fall over and ignite.
To prevent this, you should always be near the heater whenever it's in operation and not leave it unattended. If you live in a sweltering location, make sure the patio heater has a solid base and is weighted or secured.
Cost
Adding a patio heater to your outdoor space will allow you to extend your enjoyment of outdoor dining, lounging 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 style, allowing you get the most out of your backyard, patio deck, balcony or your lanai.
The price of a small electric patio heater can vary based on the model and size of the model you choose and also the fuel source. For instance, propane heaters are typically cheaper than natural gas models. The amount of BTUs (British Thermal Units) produced by a patio heater can also vary widely. Smaller models may produce up to 10,000 BTUs, while larger models can generate 40,000 or more.
When selecting an electric patio heater that is small security and comfort are important factors to consider. Many portable, free-standing models come with wheels and are simple to move. These types of units are popular with bars and restaurants that have outside seating as they are able to heat several tables. They are usually plug-in heaters that utilize standard outlets. They are energy efficient, but might not generate the same amount of heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require professional installation. These heaters are great for areas with limited floor space, or high ceilings that aren't able to accommodate standing heaters. These models are safer since they don't release pollutants such as carbon monoxide. However they must be used in a well ventilated space as per the instructions of the manufacturer. Some models are even made with weather-resistant materials in order to limit damage from rain or wind. Additionally these models are usually equipped with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve to protect against accidental burns.