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. These heaters require only the power outlet and a few have adjustable heating settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater for its slim construction, which offers wind resistance. They also say that users have were able to find it to balance functionality and style. It requires a 220/240V hookup and is easy to install.
Size
The size of your patio and the amount of heat will determine which type of heater will best suit your requirements. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in BTUs and Watts. The higher the BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are usually less powerful than gas-powered counterparts, but they can be a good source of warmth for smaller spaces. They are also ideal for areas that have little or no natural ventilation or those that are susceptible to wind. They don't emit any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically have various temperatures. This is helpful when you intend to use the space at different times or at different distances from it. Some models have an unassailable heat output. It is important to read the product description before making a decision. Cuisinart's tabletop heater comes with variable heating options ranging from 750W up to 1500W, which allows 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 may depend on factors such as the size of the area you want to heat, the weather conditions, and the type fuel used. Some of the most effective patio heaters can cover large areas and are well suited for larger patios. Some, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater aren't as powerful but can still provide adequate heating for smaller spaces.
You should also consider the amount of control you would like over the settings of your heater's temperature. Certain models let you pick from a variety of settings, while others have a constant preset. If you are planning to use your patio heater in windy weather, consider choosing one with an adjustable temperature setting or that can be adjusted as the wind blows.
Electric patio heaters can be plugged into the standard 120-volt outlets. Natural propane and gas require the expertise of a professional to install them using a specialized system of flues. This type of heating system is suitable for outdoor areas that require to be heated year-round however, it isn't suitable for indoor use. Natural propane and gas patio heating systems also release carbon monoxide. They should not be installed in enclosed areas without venting them properly.
The kind of fuel you pick will affect your maintenance and cost needs. Liquid propane patio heaters, such as the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater we've included in this article, typically make use of 20-pound propane tanks that you can fill at the local convenience store or gas station. These patio heaters are most well-known and come in a variety of designs that are portable.
For a longer-lasting solution to your heating requirements for your patio look for a mountable or ceiling-mounted option that can be easily integrated into a wall made of masonry or a structure like a deck, pergola or gazebo. These options usually connect to existing plumbing or wiring and are easy to install, but they may require more upfront costs than other heaters for your patio.
Safety
Regardless of the type of patio heater you pick, there are some security precautions that must be considered. For instance, if you have an electric heater be sure to keep it away from anything that could catch fire, such as fabrics, paper or plastics. The radiation from heat and sudden movements can be dangerous. Also, you should not leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
small patio heater electric or natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases. These could cause illness and death if inhaled. They should only be used in outdoor areas. 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 idea if you plan to make use of a propane patio heater or natural gas heater inside. This will alert you to any potentially dangerous emissions, and prevent carbon monoxide toxicity. These detectors can be purchased at a variety of hardware and home improvement stores, and are simple to install.
Also, make sure that your patio heater is on a stable surface, and not too close to any objects that could be damaged by its heat. A stand-up heater must be placed at least three feet from any objects. A wall-mounted heater should also be affixed to something similar to a gazebo or wall to prevent it from falling.
Some propane and gas patio heating units have an automatic tip-over shutoff function. This feature detects the moment when the unit is tilted, or isn't placed on a flat surface. It then turns off the power to prevent a potential fire hazard. Although these heaters are equipped with an auto shutoff feature that detects tip-over however, it is still recommended to be cautious because they could still tip over and cause a fire.
This is why you should always be near the heater whenever it's in operation, and don't leave it unattended. If you live in a windy location, make sure the patio heater has a solid base and is properly weighted or anchored.
Cost
By incorporating a patio heater it will prolong the time you spend eating outside, relaxing or entertaining outdoors into the cooler evenings and the seasons. A wide range of overhead, freestanding and tabletop models are available to fit your budget and style, allowing you to maximize the enjoyment of your backyard, patio, deck, balcony or the lanai.
The price of a small electric patio heater varies based on its size and type, as well as the fuel source. Propane heaters, for instance are typically less expensive than those that run on natural gas. The number of BTUs produced by a patio heating unit can also vary greatly. The smaller models can produce up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs), while the larger models can produce at least 40,000 BTUs.
When selecting a small electric patio heater, safety and convenience are important factors to take into consideration. A lot of freestanding, portable models come with wheels and are easy to move. These types of units are popular with bars and restaurants with outdoor seating since they are able to heat several tables. They typically plug into standard outlets and are energy-efficient however they might not generate as much heat as some other types of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require a professional installation. They are ideal for areas where floor space is limited or high ceilings aren't large enough to accommodate a standing heater. These types of models are typically safer because they don't release harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide, but they should be used in a ventilated area in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. Certain models are made of weather-resistant materials that minimize damage from rain or wind. Additionally these models are usually equipped with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve to prevent accidental burns.