Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
If you have a limited outdoor space to heat choose a compact patio heater electric. These heaters only require a power source and they are often adjustable in their heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater for its slim build, which provides wind resistance, and says that users found it to balance function and aesthetics. It requires a 220/240V connection and is simple to install.
Size
outdoor heater for patio electric of your patio and the amount of heat will determine which model and type of heater is ideal for your requirements. Patio heaters are powered or fueled by electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in both BTUs and Watts. The more BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters tend to be less powerful than their gas-powered counterparts, but they can still provide sufficient warmth for smaller areas. They're also a good 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 various temperature settings. This can be beneficial in case you plan to utilize the space for different times or at different distances from it. Certain models come with an output of heat that is fixed. It is important to study the product's description before making a choice. Cuisinart's tabletop heater comes with variable heating options ranging from 750W up to 1500W, offering various temperatures.
Power
The output of a patio heater's heating is measured in Watts and British thermal units (BTUs). The amount of BTUs produced by the heater can differ according to the size of the area you wish to warm and the weather conditions as well as the type of fuel you use. Some of the best patio heaters can heat a large space and are suitable for larger patios. Others, such as the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater aren't as powerful but can still provide adequate heating for smaller areas.
Consider how much control would like over the heat settings of your heater. Certain models let you select from a variety of heat settings, whereas others use a constant set. If you intend to use your patio heater in windy conditions, select one that has an adjustable heat setting.
Electric patio heaters can plug into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural gas and propane require the expertise of a professional to install them using a specialized system of flues. This kind of heating system is perfect for outdoor areas that need to be heated all year round, but isn't suitable for indoor use. Natural propane and gas patio heaters also release carbon monoxide, so they should never be used in confined areas unless they are properly vented.
The type of fuel that you select will affect your maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heats, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater that we have included in this article use 20-pound propane tanks that you can refill locally at gas or convenience stores. stations. These kinds of patio heaters are the most sought-after by consumers and are available in various styles that are portable such as the tall tower-style floor heaters typically found in bars and restaurants with outdoor seating.
If you're looking for a durable solution to your heater needs for your patio think about a ceiling-mounted mountable option that can be easily incorporated 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 install however, they could need more upfront costs than other heaters for your patio.
Safety
Regardless of the type of patio heater you choose, there are some safety precautions that must be considered. For instance, if you are using an electric heater, ensure that it is away from anything that could be a source of fire, like fabric, paper, or plastics. The radiation from heat and sudden movements can be dangerous. Also, you should never leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide as well as other harmful gases that could cause sickness or even death when inhaled therefore, they should only be used outdoors. In addition, they require a large amount of open space to allow proper venting.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 and/or CO2 detector in your home is a great idea if you are planning to make use of propane patio heaters or natural gas heater indoors. This will notify you of any dangerous emissions and also prevent carbon monoxide toxicity. These detectors are sold at a wide range of hardware stores as well as home improvement shops and are simple to install.
It is also essential to ensure that the patio heater is on a stable surface, and not close to anything that might be damaged by the heat it produces. A stand-up heater must be located at least three feet away from any object. A wall-mounted heater should also be affixed to something similar to a wall or gazebo to prevent it from falling.
Certain propane and gas patio heaters have a built-in tip-over auto shutoff feature which detects when the unit tilts or is no longer 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 however, it is still recommended to be cautious because they could still tip over and cause a fire.
This is why you must always be close to the heater when it's in operation and not leave it unattended. Additionally, if you reside in an area that is prone to strong winds, be sure the patio heater is on a sturdy base and is securely supported by weights.
Cost
By adding a patio heater it will extend the time you spend dining outside, relaxing or entertaining outdoors into the cooler evenings and seasons. A variety of freestanding, overhead, and tabletop models are available to suit your budget and style, allowing you make the most 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. Propane heaters for instance are generally less expensive than models that utilize natural gas. The number of BTUs (British Thermal Units) produced by a patio heater could be quite different. Smaller models could produce up to 10,000 BTUs, whereas larger models can generate 40,000 or more.
When choosing a small electric patio heater, safety and convenience are the most important aspects to consider. Many free-standing, portable models have wheels and are easily moved. These units are very popular in bars and restaurants that have outdoor seating, since they can heat multiple tables. They usually plug into standard outlets and are energy efficient however they might not produce as much heat as some other kinds of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require professional installation. These heaters are ideal for areas that have limited floor space or high ceilings, which can't accommodate standing heaters. These types of models are typically safer because they don't release pollutants like carbon monoxide, but they must be installed in a well ventilated area in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Certain models are made of weather-resistant materials, which minimize damage from rain or wind. These models are typically equipped with a CSA-certified shut-off valve to prevent accidental burns.