Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
If you're limited in outdoor space to warm you, consider a small outdoor heater that is electric. These models only require a power outlet, and many have adjustable heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends the Infratech wall-mounted heater for its thin construction, which provides wind resistance. Customers also found that it balanced function and design. It requires a 220/240V hookup and is easy to install.
Size
The size of your patio as well as the amount you need 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 measured in Watts and BTUs. The higher the BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are generally less powerful than gas powered counterparts but can still provide sufficient heating for smaller areas. These heaters are great for areas with little or no natural ventilation, or areas that are vulnerable to winds. They don't produce any carbon monoxide.
Smaller patio heaters typically have a range of temperature settings which is useful if you're going to be making use of the space at different times 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 example, offers adjustable heating settings ranging from 750W to 1500W to accommodate a variety of temperatures.
Power
The output of heat from a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and watts. The amount of BTUs it produces can vary depending on the size of the area you want to warm, the weather conditions and the type of fuel you use. Some of the best patio heating units can heat a large space and are suitable for larger patios. Others, such as the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less efficient, but they can offer adequate heating for smaller areas.
You should also think about how much control you want over the temperature settings of your heater. Certain models let you select from a variety of options, while others provide an amount of heat that stays constant. If you are planning to use your patio heater in windy conditions, select one that has an adjustable heat setting.
While electric patio heaters plug into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural propane and gas options require a professional installation that uses special flue systems. This type of heating system is suitable for outdoor areas that need to be heated throughout the year however, it is not suitable for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heaters also release carbon monoxide, so they shouldn't be used in confined spaces unless vented properly.
The kind of fuel you select will impact the maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heats, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater we have included in this article, utilize propane tanks that weigh 20 pounds which can be refilled locally at a convenience store or gas stations. These patio heaters are most popular and come in many different styles that can be used in portable settings.
For a longer-lasting solution to your heating requirements for your patio, look for a mountable or ceiling-mounted option that's easily installed into a masonry wall structure like a pergola, deck or gazebo. These types of heaters typically connect to the existing wiring or plumbing and are easy to set up however, they could require more upfront expenses than other heaters for your patio.
Safety
Whatever type of patio heater you choose, there are some safety precautions that should be considered. If you're using an electric heater, make sure you keep it away from things that could catch fire. This includes fabrics, paper or some plastics. The radiation from heat and sudden movements could also pose a risk. It is also important to not leave a heater that is powered by gas unattended.
Propane or natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases. They can cause illness or even death if breathed in. They should only be used outdoors. They also require sufficient space to vent properly.
If you want to make use of a propane or natural gas patio heater indoors it is recommended to install an outdoor vented CO2 and/or CH4 detector in your home, which will notify you of dangerous emissions and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. The detectors are available in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement shops and are simple to install.
It is also important to ensure that your patio heater is placed on an even surface and not too close to any objects that could be damaged by the heat. A stand-up patio heater should be at least three feet away from any object and a wall-mounted heater should be attached to a wall or structure, like a gazebo, to avoid it from crashing over.
Some propane and gas patio heaters have a built-in tip-over auto shutoff feature which works by sensing when the heater tilts or isn't on a flat surface, and switching off the power to prevent a fire hazard. Even though these units are equipped with a tip-over auto shutoff feature, it is still best to be cautious because they could still tip over and cause a fire.
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 sturdy base and is properly weighted or secured.
Cost
By incorporating a patio heater, you can prolong the time you spend dining outside, relaxing or entertaining outdoors through the colder evenings and seasons. There are best electric patio heaters , freestanding, or tabletop models you can pick from to suit your budget and preferences.
The cost of an electric patio heater is contingent on its size and type as well as its fuel source. Propane heaters for instance, are usually cheaper than those that run on natural gas. The number of BTUs (British Thermal Units) produced by a patio heater may also vary. Smaller models could produce up to 10,000 BTUs, while larger models could produce 40,000 or more.
When selecting an electric patio heater that is small, safety and convenience are crucial aspects to take into consideration. A lot of freestanding, portable models have wheels and are simple to move. These units are very popular in bars and restaurants with outdoor seating, as they can 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 wall or ceiling mounted and require professional installation. They are ideal for areas where floor space is limited or you have high ceilings that cannot accommodate a standing heating system. These models are safer since they don't release pollutants like carbon monoxide. However they should be used within a properly ventilated area as per the instructions of the manufacturer. Some models are even made of weather-resistant materials that minimize damage from rain or wind. In addition these models are usually equipped with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve to prevent accidental burns.