Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Consider a small electric patio heater in case you have only an outdoor space that you want to heat. They require just an outlet for power and some have adjustable heating settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater due to its thin structure, which provides wind resistance, and says that users have were able to find it to balance function and aesthetics. It requires a 220/240V power supply and is easy to install.
Size
When it comes to choosing a patio heater, the size of your outdoor space as well as the amount of heat you require will be crucial in determining what model and type is most suitable for your requirements. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity or gas, and their heat output measured in BTUs and Watts. The more BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are usually less powerful than their gas-powered counterparts, but they can provide enough heating for smaller areas. These heaters are great for areas with low or no natural ventilation, or those that are prone to wind. They don't emit any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters usually come with various heat settings. This is helpful if you plan to utilize the space for different times or at different distances from it. Some models have an output of heat that is fixed. It's essential to study the product's description before making a decision. Cuisinart's tabletop patio heater has adjustable heating settings ranging from 750W to 1500W, allowing for a range of temperatures.
Power
The heat output of a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and Watts. The amount of BTUs generated by a patio heater may depend on factors like the size of the space you want to heat as well as the weather conditions and the type fuel used. Some of the best patio heaters can reach large areas and are ideal for larger patios. Others, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less efficient, but they can offer adequate heating for smaller areas.
You should also consider the amount of control you would like over your heater's heat settings. Certain models let you pick from a range of heat settings, whereas others use an unchanging preset. If you intend to use your heater on your patio during stormy conditions, select one that has an adjustable setting for the heat.
While electric patio heaters are plugged into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural propane and gas options require an installation by a professional that utilizes an exclusive flue system. This type of heating system is suitable for outdoor areas that require to be heated all year round however, it is not suitable for indoor use. Natural propane and gas patio heaters also emit carbon monoxide. Therefore, they shouldn't be used in tight spaces unless vented properly.
The type of fuel you choose will affect your maintenance and cost needs. Liquid propane heaters for patios, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater we've included in this article, generally make use of 20-pound propane tanks that you can refill at the local convenience store or gas station. These heaters for the patio are very popular and come in many different styles that can be used in portable settings.
For a more permanent solution to your heating requirements for your patio, look for a mountable or ceiling-mounted option that can be integrated into a masonry wall or structures like a deck, pergola or gazebo. These types of heaters typically connect to existing wiring or plumbing and are simple 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 certain safety precautions that must be taken into account. If you have an electric heater, make sure you keep it away from things that could catch fire. This includes fabric, paper or some plastics. Heat radiation and unexpected movements can also pose a threat. Also, you should never leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
Propane or natural gas patio heaters emit carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases. These could cause illness and death if inhaled. They should, therefore, only be used outside. They also require enough space to be able to vent properly.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 and/or CO2 detector in your home is a great option if you intend to make use of a propane patio heater or natural gas heater inside. This will alert you to any harmful emissions, and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors are available at a wide range of hardware stores as well as home improvement stores and are simple to install.
You should also make sure your patio heater is placed on a level surface, and not too close to any objects that could be damaged by its heat. A stand-up heater for your patio should be at least 3 feet away from any object and a wall-mounted patio heater should be affixed to the wall or to a structure, like a gazebo, to avoid it from crashing over.
Some propane and gas patio heaters have an automatic tip-over shutoff feature. This feature is activated when the unit tilts, or is not on an even surface. Then, it shuts off the power to prevent a potential fire hazard. Although electric patio heater free standing have an auto shutoff feature that detects tip-over, it is still best to use caution since they are still able to tip over and cause fire.
For this reason, you must always be close to the heater whenever it's in operation and avoid leaving it unattended. If you live in a windy region, make sure that the patio heater has a sturdy base and is properly weighted or anchored.
Cost
Adding a patio heater to your outdoor space can allow you to extend your enjoyment of outdoor dining, lounging or entertaining into cool evenings and throughout the year. A variety of freestanding, overhead, and tabletop models are available to fit your budget and style, allowing you make the most of your patio, backyard deck, balcony or lanai.
The cost of a smaller electric patio heater varies based on the size and type of the model you select, as well as the fuel source. Propane heaters, for instance are generally less expensive than models that use natural gas. The number of BTUs (British Thermal Units) produced by a patio heater could be quite different. Smaller models may produce up to 10,000 BTUs, while larger models can generate at least 40,000 BTUs or more.
In addition to cost take into account safety and ease of use when choosing an electric patio heater for your small space. Many free-standing, portable models come with wheels and are simple to move. These heaters are extremely popular in restaurants and bars with outdoor seating, as they can heat multiple tables. They are usually plug-in heaters that use standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they might not generate as much heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require professional installation. They are great for areas that have limited floor space or high ceilings can't accommodate a standing heater. These kinds of heaters are typically safer because they don't release harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide although they must be used in a ventilated area per the manufacturer's instructions. Some models are made of weather-resistant material that reduce damage from wind or rain. Additionally these models are usually equipped with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve to protect against accidental burns.