Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
If you're looking for a small outdoor space to heat, look for a small electric patio heater. They 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. It also states that users have were able to find it to balance function and aesthetics. It's easy to install and requires a 220/240V connection.
Size
When it comes to selecting a patio heater the dimensions of your outdoor space and the amount of heat you need are crucial factors in determining what kind and model is best suited to your requirements. Patio heaters are powered or fueled with electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in Watts and BTUs. The more BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are generally less efficient than their gas powered counterparts but can still provide sufficient heat for smaller areas. These heaters are great for areas that have little or no natural ventilation or those that are susceptible to winds. They don't produce any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters usually have various temperatures. This is helpful when you intend to make use of the space at different times or at different distances from it. Some models have an unassailable heat output. It is important 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 up to 1500W to accommodate a variety of temperatures.
Power
The heat output of a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and watts. The number of BTUs generated by a patio heater may differ based on various factors like the size of the space you're looking to heat and the weather conditions and the type of fuel used. The best patio heaters can heat large areas and are perfect for larger patios. Some, such as the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are not as powerful, but can still provide heat to smaller areas.
Consider how much control you would like over the heat settings of your heater. Certain models let you pick from a variety of settings, while others offer a constant set. If you plan on using your patio heater in windy weather, you should choose one with an adjustable temperature setting.
Electric patio heaters can plug into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural gas and propane 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 which need to be heated all year long, but it is not suitable for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heaters also emit carbon monoxide. Therefore, they shouldn't be used in confined spaces unless properly vented.
The kind of fuel you pick will impact the maintenance and cost needs. Liquid propane patio heaters, such as the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heating unit we've included in this article, generally use 20-pound liquid propane tanks that you can refill at the local convenience store or gas station. These types of patio heaters are the most popular with consumers and are available in a variety of portable designs that include tall tower-style floor heaters that are commonly used in bars and restaurants with outdoor seating.
If you want a more durable solution to your heating needs for your patio, look for a mountable or ceiling-mounted option that can be easily installed into a masonry wall or structure such as a pergola, deck or gazebo. fireplacesandstoves of heaters typically connect to existing wiring or plumbing and are easy to set up however, they could need more upfront costs than other patio heaters.
Safety
No matter what type of patio heater you select it is important to ensure that safety precautions are taken. For instance, if you have an electric heater, be sure to keep it away from anything that could be a source of fire, like paper, fabric or certain plastics. Unexpected movements and heat radiation can also pose a risk. Also, you should never leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
Propane or natural gas patio heaters emit carbon monoxide, as well as other harmful gases. These can cause illness and even death if breathed in. They should only be used outdoors. Additionally, they require a large amount of space to allow proper venting.
If you want to use natural gas or propane outdoor heater, it's best to install an outdoor vented CO2 and/or CH4 detector in your home, which will notify you of any harmful emissions and help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors are sold at a wide range of hardware stores as well as home improvement stores and are simple 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 heater should be located at least three feet from any objects. A wall-mounted heater should be affixed to something similar to a wall or gazebo to keep it from falling.
Certain propane and gas patio heaters have an automatic tip-over shutoff function. This feature detects when the unit tilts, or isn't placed on an even surface. Then, it shuts off the power to prevent a potential fire danger. Although these heaters have a tip-over auto shutoff feature but it is still advisable to take care since they are still able to tip over and cause fire.
You should never leave the heater unattended. If you live in a windy location, make sure the patio heater has a sturdy base and is weighed or anchored.
Cost
The addition of a heater for your patio to your outdoor space will allow you to extend your enjoyment of outdoor dining, relaxing or entertaining well into the cool evenings and throughout the year. There are many overhead tabletop, freestanding, or tabletop models available to fit your budget and style.
The price of a small electric patio heater varies based on its size and the type as well as the fuel source. For example propane heaters are generally cheaper than natural gas models. The amount of BTUs (British Thermal Units) produced by a patio heater may also vary widely. Smaller models may generate up to 10,000 BTUs, whereas larger models could produce up to 40,000 or more.
In addition to price Consider safety and comfort when selecting the right electric patio heater. A lot of freestanding, portable models are equipped with wheels and are easily moved. These kinds of heaters are popular with bars and restaurants with outside seating because they can be used to heat multiple tables. They are usually plug-in heaters that use standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they may not generate as much heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are ceiling or wall mounted and require professional installation. These heaters are great for areas with limited floor space or high ceilings, which can't accommodate standing heaters. They are safer as they don't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide. However they must be installed in a well ventilated area as per the manufacturer's instructions. Some models are constructed of weather-resistant material that reduce damage from rain or wind. These models are usually equipped with a CSA-certified shut-off valve to avoid accidental burns.