Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
If you're limited in outdoor space to warm you, consider a small patio heater electric. These heaters only require a power source and they are often adjustable in their heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends the Infratech wall-mounted heater because of its thin construction, which provides wind resistance. Customers also noted that it was able to balance design and function. It is easy 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 ideal for your requirements. 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-powered counterparts, but they can provide sufficient heating for smaller areas. They're also a great option for areas that do not have natural ventilation or are susceptible to wind, as they don't produce any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters usually have a variety of temperature settings. outdoor electric heater patio can be helpful when you intend to utilize the space for different hours or at different distances from it. However, some models have one fixed heat output and it's essential to read the description of the product carefully before purchasing. Cuisinart's tabletop patio heater offers variable heating options ranging from 750W to 1500W, allowing for an array of temperatures.
Power
The heat output of a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and watts. The amount of BTUs produced by a patio heater could depend on factors like the size of the space you want to heat and the weather conditions and the kind of fuel you use. Some of the best patio heating units can heat large areas and are ideal for larger patios. Some, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater aren't as powerful, but they can heat up smaller spaces.
Think about how much control you would like over the heat settings of your heater. Some models let you select from a variety of options, while others offer an amount of heat that is constant. If you intend to use your heater on your patio during stormy weather, you should choose one with an adjustable heat setting.
While electric patio heaters plug into standard 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 suitable for outdoor areas that need to be heated year-round however, it isn't suitable for indoor use. Natural propane and gas patio heating systems also emit carbon monoxide. They should not be employed in enclosed spaces unless they are properly vented.
The type of fuel that you select will impact the maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heats, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heating System that we have included in this article, use 20-pound liquid tanks of propane, which you can refill 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.
If you're looking for a permanent solution to your patio heater needs look into a ceiling-mounted or mountable option that can be easily installed into a structure or wall, such as a deck, pergola or gazebo. These heaters usually connect to the existing plumbing or wiring and are easy to set up however, they could require more upfront expenses than other patio heaters.
Safety
Regardless of the type of patio heater you pick, there are some safety precautions that should be taken into account. If you have an electrical heater, keep it away anything that could catch fire. This includes fabric, paper or some plastics. Heat radiation and unexpected movements could also be a danger. Additionally it is not advisable to leave a standing heater unattended, particularly if it's powered by gas.
Propane or natural gas patio heaters emit carbon monoxide and other harmful gases. They can cause illness and even death if they are inhaled. They should therefore only be used outside. Additionally, they require a large amount of space for proper venting.
If you plan to utilize a propane or natural gas outdoor heater, it's best to install an outdoor vented CO2 and/or CH4 detector in your home. This will notify you of harmful emissions and help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors are available 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 stable surface and is not too close to objects 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 heater should be affixed the wall or to a structure, such as a gazebo, to avoid it from falling over.
Some propane and gas patio heaters come with a built-in tip-over auto shutoff feature that detects when the heater tilts or is not on a flat surface, and shutting off the power to avoid the risk of fire. Even though these units come with an auto shutoff feature for tip-overs however, it is still recommended to take care because they could still tip over and cause fire.
For this reason, you should always be near the heater when it's in operation and not leave it unattended. Also, if you are in an area susceptible to strong winds, be sure that the heater for your patio is on a sturdy base and is anchored or supported by weights.
Cost
By incorporating a patio heater will allow you to prolong the time you spend dining outside, relaxing or entertaining outdoors in the cooler evenings and season. There are numerous overhead tables, freestanding, and tabletop models you can pick from to suit your budget and style.
The cost of a small electric patio heater varies based on its size and the type, as well as its fuel source. For example, propane heaters are typically less expensive than natural gas models. The amount of BTUs produced by a patio heating unit can also differ greatly. The smaller models can generate up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs), while the larger ones can generate more than 40,000 BTUs.
In addition to price, consider safety and convenience when choosing a small patio heater electric. Many free-standing, portable models come with wheels and are simple to move. They are popular in restaurants and bars with outdoor seating, as they can heat tables at once. They are typically plug-in heaters that utilize standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they may not generate the same amount of heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are ceiling or wall mounted and require professional installation. They are great for areas where floor space isn't enough or high ceilings cannot accommodate a standing heating system. They are safer as they do not emit pollutants like carbon monoxide. However they should be used within a properly ventilated area in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Some models are made of weather-resistant materials, which minimize damage from rain or wind. These models are typically certified by CSA and come with an automatic shut-off valve to prevent accidental burns.