Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
If you have a limited outdoor space to warm, look for a small electric patio heater. These models require only a power outlet and some have adjustable heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater for its thin structure, which provides wind resistance, and says that users have were able to find it to balance function and design. It requires a 220/240V hookup and is simple to set up.
Size
The dimensions of your patio and the amount of heat will determine which type and model of heater will best suit your needs. Patio heaters are powered or fueled by either gas or electricity and their output of heat is measured in both Watts and BTUs. The more BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are typically less powerful than their gas-powered counterparts, however they can be a good source of warmth for smaller spaces. They are also ideal for areas with little or no natural ventilation, or those that are susceptible to wind. They don't release any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically have several temperatures. This can be helpful in case you plan to make use of the space at different hours or at different distances from it. However, some models have a single fixed heat output, so it's important to read the product's description carefully prior to purchasing. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater, for instance, comes with adjustable heating modes ranging from 750W to 1500W to accommodate a range of temperatures.
Power
The output of a patio heater's heating is measured in watts and British thermal units (BTUs). The number of BTUs produced by a patio heater may vary depending on factors such as the size of the area you're looking to heat, the weather conditions, and the type of fuel used. Some of the best patio heaters can heat a large space and are suitable for larger patios. Others, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater, are less powerful but can still provide adequate heating for smaller spaces.
Think about how much control you would like over the heat settings of your heater. Some models let you choose from a range of heat settings, while others offer a constant set. If you plan to use your patio heater in windy weather, consider choosing one that has an adjustable setting for the heat or can be adjusted according to the winds blow.
Electric patio heaters can be plugged into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural gas and propane require a professional to install them with a specific system of flues. This kind of heating system is suitable for outdoor areas that need to be heated all year long, but it is not suitable for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heating systems also release carbon monoxide. They should not be installed in enclosed areas unless they are properly vented.
The type of fuel that you select will impact your maintenance requirements and cost. Liquid propane patio heats, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater we have included in this article use propane tanks that weigh 20 pounds that you can refill locally at a convenience store or gas stations. These types of patio heaters are the most sought-after by customers and are available in a variety of portable designs, including the tall tower-style floor heaters typically found in bars and restaurants with outdoor seating.
For a more permanent solution to your patio heating needs consider a wall- or ceiling-mounted option that can be easily fitted into a wall made of masonry or a structures like a pergola, deck or gazebo. These heaters are easy to install and are usually connected to existing wiring.
Safety
Regardless of the type of patio heater you pick, there are some security precautions that must be taken into account. For instance, if you have an electric heater, be sure to keep it away from anything that can catch fire, like fabric, paper, or plastics. The heat radiation and sudden movements could also be a danger. In addition you should never leave a standing heater unattended, particularly 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, so they should only be used outdoors. In addition, they require a sufficient amount of space for them for proper venting.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 or CO2 detector in your home is a good idea if you plan to use a propane patio heater or natural gas heater indoors. This will inform you to any harmful emissions and also prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors are sold in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement shops and are easy to install.
You should also make sure your patio heater is on an even surface and not too close to any object 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 affixed to a wall or structure, such as a gazebo, to avoid it from falling over.
Some gas and propane patio heaters have a built-in tip-over auto shutoff feature that detects when the unit tilts or is no longer on a flat surface and shutting off the power to prevent an ignition risk. However, it's always prudent to be on guard as even units with this technology can fall over and create an ignition risk.
You should never leave the heater unattended. If you live in an area prone to strong winds, be sure that the heater for your patio is on a sturdy base that is secured or secured with a weight.
Cost
Adding a patio heater to your outdoor space allows you to extend your enjoyment of outdoor dining, lounging or entertaining well into the cool evenings and throughout the year. A wide selection of overhead, freestanding and tabletop models are available to suit your budget and style, allowing you get the most out of your patio, backyard, deck, balcony or the lanai.
The price of a small electric patio heater varies depending on its size and type and also the fuel source. Propane heaters, for example, are usually cheaper than those that run on natural gas. The number of BTUs (British Thermal Units) produced by a patio heater could also vary. The smaller models can generate up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) while the larger models can produce more than 40,000 BTUs.
In addition to the price take into account safety and ease of use when choosing an electric patio heater for your small space. Many portable, free-standing models come with wheels and are easy to move. They are popular in restaurants and bars with outdoor seating, as they can heat tables at once. They are usually plug-in heaters that utilize standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they may not generate the same amount of heat as other types of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require an expert installation. These heaters are ideal for areas with limited floor space or high ceilings, which can't accommodate standing heaters. These types of models are generally safer since they don't release harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide however, they should be used in a properly ventilated area per the instructions of the manufacturer. Some models are constructed of weather-resistant materials, which minimize damage from wind or rain. Fireplaces And Stoves are usually equipped with a CSA-certified shut-off valve to prevent accidental burns.