Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
If you're limited in outdoor space to warm choose a compact electric patio heater. These models only require a power outlet, and some have adjustable settings for heat.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater due to its thin structure, which provides wind resistance. They also say that customers were able to find it to balance function and aesthetics. It requires a 220/240V hookup and is simple to set up.
Size
When it comes to choosing a patio heater, the dimensions of your outdoor space as well as the amount of heat you need will be important factors in determining which type and model best suits your requirements. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in Watts and BTUs. The higher the BTUs the stronger the heater.
Electric patio heaters are typically less powerful than gas counterparts, but they still provide enough heating for smaller areas. These heaters are also great for areas with little or no natural ventilation, or those that are prone to wind. They don't release any carbon monoxide.
Smaller patio heaters typically have various temperatures which is useful when you're planning on using the space at different times or at different distances from the heater. Some models have one 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 variety of 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 a patio heater can differ based on various factors such as the size of the space you wish to heat as well as the weather conditions and the type fuel used. The best patio heaters are able to cover large areas and are ideal for larger patios. Others, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater aren't as efficient, but they can provide sufficient heating for smaller spaces.
Consider how outdoor heaters for patio electric want to have over the temperature settings of your heater. Certain models let you select from a variety of options, while others provide a preset amount of heat that stays constant. If you plan to use your patio heater in conditions of extreme wind, make sure you choose one that has an adjustable setting for the heat or that can be adjusted as the winds blow.
While electric patio heaters can be connected to the standard 120-volt outlets, natural propane and gas options require a professional installation that uses a specialized flue system. This kind of heating system works well for outdoor areas that require to be heated throughout the year 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 enclosed spaces unless properly vented.
The kind of fuel you pick will impact your maintenance and cost needs. Liquid propane heaters for patios, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heating unit we've included in this article, generally utilize 20-pound propane tanks that you can refill at a local convenience store or gas station. These patio heaters are most well-known and come in a variety of portable styles.
For a more permanent solution to your heating requirements for your patio consider a wall- or ceiling-mounted option that can be fitted into a wall made of masonry or a structure like a deck, pergola or gazebo. These heaters usually connect to the existing wiring or plumbing and are easy to install however, they could need more upfront costs than other patio heaters.
Safety
No matter what type of patio heater you select, safety precautions should be taken. For instance, if are using 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 could also pose a risk. Also, you should not leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
Propane or natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases. These can cause illness or even death if breathed in. They should only be used outdoors. They also require space to allow proper venting.
If you want to use a propane or natural gas outdoor heater it is best to install an outdoor vented CO2 or CH4 detector within your home. This will alert you to any hazardous emissions and will ensure that you are safe from carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors are available at most hardware and home improvement stores, and are easy to install.
It is also important to ensure that your patio heater is placed on a level surface, and not too close to any objects that could be damaged by the heat. A stand-up patio heater 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, such as the gazebo, to stop it from falling over.
Some gas and propane patio heaters have a built-in tip-over auto shutoff function, that detects when the heater tilts or is not on a flat surface and switching off the power to prevent an ignition risk. Even though these units come with an auto shutoff feature for tip-overs however, it is still recommended to be cautious since they are still able to tip over and cause fire.
For this reason, you should always be near the heater when it's in operation, and don't leave it unattended. If you live in a humid region, make sure that the patio heater has a solid base and is weighed or anchored.
Cost
Adding a patio heater to your outdoor space can allow you to enjoy the benefits of outdoor dining, lounging or entertaining into cool evenings and all through the seasons. There are many overhead tabletop, freestanding, or tabletop models available to fit your budget and preferences.
The price of a small electric patio heater varies depending on its size and model as well as the fuel source. Propane heaters, for instance, are usually cheaper than models that use natural gas. The amount of BTUs produced by a patio heating unit can vary significantly. The smaller models can produce up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs), while the larger models can produce at least 40,000 BTUs.
In addition to the price take into account safety and ease of use when selecting the right electric patio heater. Many freestanding, portable models are on wheels and easily moveable. These heaters are extremely popular in restaurants and bars with outdoor seating, as they can be used to heat tables. They are typically plug-in heaters that use standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they may not produce as much heat as other types of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require a professional installation. These types of heaters are ideal for areas with limited floor space or high ceilings, which can't accommodate standing heaters. These models are safer because they don't release pollutants like carbon monoxide. However they should be used within a properly ventilated area in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Some models are constructed with weather-resistant materials in order to limit damage from rain or wind. In addition they are often equipped with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve to stop accidental burns.