Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Find an electric patio heater that is small for an outdoor space that you want to heat. These heaters require only a power outlet and some have adjustable heating settings.
Gotterbarn recommends the Infratech wall-mounted heater because of its light construction, which provides wind resistance. Customers also reported that it balanced design and function. It requires a 220/240V power supply and is simple to set up.
Size
When it comes to selecting a patio heater, the size of your outdoor space and the amount of heat you require will be important factors in determining the model and type is most suitable for your requirements. Patio heaters are powered with electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in both BTUs and Watts. The more BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are usually less efficient than their gas-powered counterparts, but they can be a good source of heat for smaller spaces. These heaters are great for areas that have little or no natural ventilation or areas that are vulnerable to wind. They don't emit any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically offer a range of temperatures, which can be useful if you're going to be making use of the space at different intervals or at different distances from the heater. Some models have an unassailable heat output. It's essential to go through the product's description prior to making a choice. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater for example, offers 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 amount of BTUs produced by a patio heater can differ based on various 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 heating units can warm large areas and are perfect for larger patios. Some, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less effective, but still provide sufficient heating for smaller spaces.
Think about how much control you want to have over the temperature settings of your heater. Some models let you select from a variety of choices, while others offer the option of a predetermined amount of heat that is constant. If you are planning to use your patio heater in windy conditions, select one that has an adjustable setting for the heat.
Electric patio heaters can be connected into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural gas and propane require an expert to install them with a specific system of flues. This kind of heating system is suitable for outdoor areas that need to be heated year-round, but isn't suitable for indoor use. Natural propane and gas patio heaters also emit carbon monoxide, and they should never be used in confined spaces unless properly vented.
The type of fuel you select will affect your maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heats, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater that we have included in this post, use 20-pound liquid tanks of propane which can be refilled locally at a convenience store or gas stations. These patio heaters are most popular and come in many different styles that can be used in portable settings.
If you're looking for a permanent solution to your patio heater needs look into a ceiling-mounted or mountable option that can be easily installed into a structure or wall, such as a deck, pergola or gazebo. These options usually connect to existing wiring or plumbing and are simple to install however they will need more upfront costs than other patio heaters.
Safety
No matter what kind of patio heater you pick, there are some safety precautions that should be taken into account. If you're using an electric heater, make sure you keep it away from things that could catch fire. This includes paper, fabric or even certain plastics. Heat radiation and sudden movements can also be a danger. Also, you should not leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
read or natural gas patio heaters emit carbon monoxide and other harmful gases. These can cause illness and even death if inhaled. They should therefore only be used outside. They also require space to be able to vent properly.
If you are planning to utilize natural gas or propane heater for your patio, it's best to install an outdoor vented CO2 or CH4 detector within your home. This will alert you to any harmful emissions and help ensure that you are safe from carbon monoxide poisoning. The detectors are available in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement stores and are easy to install.
It's also important to make sure that the patio heater is on a stable surface and not too close to anything that might be damaged by the heat it creates. A stand-up heater for your patio should be at least three feet away from any object and a wall-mounted patio heater should be affixed a wall or structure, such as the gazebo, to stop it from crashing over.
Some gas and propane patio heaters come with a built-in tip-over auto shutoff function, that detects when the unit tilts or is not on a flat surface, and shutting off the power to prevent an ignition risk. Although these heaters are equipped with an auto shutoff feature that detects tip-over but it is still advisable to use caution since they are still able to tip over and ignite.
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 humid area, ensure that the patio heater has a solid base and is properly weighted or anchored.
Cost
A patio heater added to your outdoor space will allow you to prolong your enjoyment of outdoor dining, lounging or entertaining into cool evenings and throughout the year. There are many overhead tables, freestanding, and tabletop models available to fit your budget and style.
The cost of an electric patio heater varies based on its size and type and also its fuel source. For instance propane heaters are generally less expensive than natural gas models. The amount of BTUs produced by a patio heating unit can also vary greatly. The smaller models can generate up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs), while the larger ones can generate at least 40,000 BTUs.
In addition to cost Consider safety and comfort when selecting the right electric patio heater. Many freestanding, portable models have wheels and are easily moveable. These kinds of heaters are popular with bars and restaurants with outside seating because they can easily heat multiple tables. They are typically plug-in heaters that use standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they may not produce the same amount of heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are ceiling or wall mounted and require professional installation. They are great for areas where floor space is limited or you have high ceilings that aren't large enough to accommodate a standing heater. These models are safer because they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. However they should be installed in a well ventilated space as per the manufacturer's instructions. Certain models are made of weather-resistant materials, which minimize the damage caused by rain or wind. In addition, these models often come with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve to stop accidental burns.