Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
If you're looking for a small outdoor space to heat you, consider a small outdoor heater that is electric. They only require a power outlet, and they are often adjustable in their heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater due to its thin build, which provides wind resistance. They also say that customers found it to balance function and design. It requires a 220/240V hookup and is simple to install.
Size
When it comes to selecting a patio heater the size of your outdoor space and the amount of heat you need will be important factors in determining the type and model best suits your requirements. Patio heaters can be powered by gas or electricity 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 powerful than their gas-powered counterparts, but they can still provide enough heating for smaller areas. They are also ideal for areas with little or no natural ventilation or areas that are vulnerable to wind. They don't emit any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters usually have several heat settings. This can be beneficial if you plan to use the space at different hours or at different distances from it. Some models offer a fixed output of heat, so it's important to read the product's description carefully prior to purchasing. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater, for instance, comes with variable heating settings that range from 750W to 1500W to accommodate a range of temperatures.
Power
The heat output of a patio heater is measured in watts and British thermal units (BTUs). The amount of BTUs produced by a patio heater could vary depending on factors like the size of the area you want to heat and the weather conditions and the type fuel used. Some of the best patio heaters can reach a large area and are ideal for larger patios. Others, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater aren't as effective, but still provide adequate heating for smaller areas.
It is also important to consider how much control you'd like over the settings of your heater's temperature. Certain models let you select from a variety of heat settings, while others offer a constant set. If you intend to use your patio heater during conditions of extreme wind, make sure you choose one with an adjustable setting for the heat or that can be adjusted as the wind blows.
Electric patio heaters can plug into standard 120-volt outlets. Natural gas and propane require a professional to install them using a special system of flues. This type of heating system is ideal for outdoor areas that need to be heated throughout the year but isn't suited for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heaters also emit carbon monoxide. Therefore, they should never be used in enclosed areas unless they are properly vented.
The type of fuel you choose will affect your maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heaters, such as the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater that we've included in this article, usually utilize 20-pound propane tanks that can be refilled at the local convenience store or gas station. Best electric patio heater of patio heaters are the most popular with customers and are available in a variety of portable styles such as the tall tower-style floor heaters commonly found in bars and restaurants with outdoor seating.
If you're looking for a permanent solution to your heater needs for your patio, consider a ceiling-mounted or mountable option that can be easily incorporated into a structure or wall, like a deck, pergola, or gazebo. These heaters usually connect to the existing wiring or plumbing and are simple to install however they will need more upfront costs than other heaters for your patio.
Safety
Whatever type of patio heaters you choose, safety precautions should be taken. For instance, if you are using an electric heater, make sure to keep it away from anything that could be a source of fire, like paper, fabric or certain plastics. Rapid movements and heat radiation can be dangerous. You should also not leave a heater that is powered by gas unattended.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide as well as other harmful gases that could cause illness or even death when inhaled, so they should only be used outdoors. They also require enough space to vent properly.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 or CO2 detector in your home is a great idea if you plan to use propane patio heaters or natural gas heater indoors. This will inform you of any dangerous emissions, and 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 a level surface, and not too close to any object that could be damaged by its heat. A stand-up patio heater must be at least 3 feet away from any object and a wall-mounted heater should be affixed to the wall or to a structure, such as the gazebo, to stop it from crashing over.
Some gas and propane patio heaters have an automatic tip-over shutoff function. This feature detects when the unit is tilted or isn't on a flat surface. Then, it shuts off the power in order to avoid a fire danger. However, it's always best to be cautious as even units with this feature can tip over and cause the risk of fire.
This is why you must always be close to the heater during operation and not leave it unattended. If you live in a sweltering region, make sure that the patio heater has a solid base and is weighted or anchored.
Cost
Adding a patio heater to your outdoor space will allow you to prolong your enjoyment of outdoor dining, relaxing or entertaining well into the cool evenings and throughout the seasons. There are numerous overhead, freestanding, and tabletop models you can pick from to suit your budget and style.
The cost of an electric patio heater varies based on its size and the type and also the fuel source. Propane heaters, for instance, are usually cheaper than those that run on natural gas. The amount of BTUs produced by a patio heater can also differ greatly. The smaller models can produce up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) and the larger ones can generate more than 40,000 BTUs.
In addition to cost Consider safety and comfort when selecting a small patio heater electric. Many free-standing, portable models are equipped with wheels and are easy to move. These heaters are extremely popular in bars and restaurants that have outdoor seating, since they can heat multiple tables. They typically plug into standard outlets and are energy efficient however they might not produce as much heat as other types of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require professional installation. These heaters are great for areas with limited floor space or high ceilings, which are unable to accommodate standing heaters. These kinds of heaters are generally safer since they don't release harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide, however, they should be used in a properly ventilated area in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. Some models are constructed of weather-resistant materials that minimize damage from rain or wind. In addition these models are usually equipped with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve that can protect against accidental burns.