Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Consider a small electric patio heater if you only have an outdoor space that you want to heat. They require just the power outlet, and many offer adjustable heating settings.
Gotterbarn recommends the Infratech wall-mounted heater due to its light structure, which offers wind resistance. Fireplaces And Stoves reported that it was able to balance design and function. It is easy to install and requires a 220/240V outlet.
Size
The size of your patio and the amount you need of heat will determine which model and type of heater is best for your requirements. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity or gas and their heat output is measured in Watts and BTUs. The higher the BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are generally less powerful than their gas-powered counterparts but they can be a good source of warmth for smaller spaces. They're also a great option for areas that do not have natural ventilation or are prone to wind as they don't emit carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically have various temperatures. This can be beneficial when you intend to use the space at different times or at different distances from it. Certain models come with a fixed heat output. It is important to study the product's description before making a choice. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater for example, offers variable heating settings that range 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 generated by a patio heater could depend on factors such as the size of the space you're looking to heat and the weather conditions and the kind of fuel you use. The best patio heaters are able to cover large areas and are ideal for larger patios. Some, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater aren't as efficient, but they can provide sufficient heating for smaller spaces.
You should also think about how much control you want over your heater's heat settings. Some models let you select from a variety of choices, while others offer an amount of heat that is constant. If you intend to use your patio heater during windy weather, choose one with an adjustable temperature setting.
While electric patio heaters can be connected to the standard 120-volt outlets, natural gas and propane options require an installation by a professional that utilizes a specialized flue system. This type of heating system works well for outdoor areas that require to be heated all year round, but it is not suitable for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heating systems also emit carbon monoxide. They shouldn't be used in enclosed spaces unless they're properly vented.
The type of fuel that you choose will impact your maintenance requirements and cost. 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 can be refilled at the local convenience store or gas station. These heaters for patios are the most popular and come in many designs that are portable.
If you're looking for a long-lasting solution to your heater needs for your patio, consider a ceiling-mounted or mountable option that can be easily integrated into a structure or wall, such as a deck, pergola, or gazebo. These options usually connect to the existing plumbing or wiring and are easy to install however, they could need more upfront costs than other heaters for your patio.
Safety
Whatever kind of patio heater you select it is important to ensure that safety precautions are taken. For instance, if you have an electric heater ensure that it is away from anything that could catch fire, like paper, fabric or certain plastics. The heat radiation and sudden movements could also be a danger. It is also important to not leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
Propane or natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide, as well as other harmful gases. They can cause illness and even death if breathed in. They should therefore only be used outside. They also require enough space to vent properly.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 and/or CO2 detector in your home is a great idea if you plan to utilize a propane patio heater or natural gas heater inside. This will inform you to any harmful emissions and also prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors are available in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement shops and are simple to install.
It's also important to ensure that the patio heater is on a stable surface, and not close to anything that could be damaged due to the heat it generates. A stand-up patio heater must be at least three feet away from any object and a wall-mounted patio heater should be affixed to an exterior wall or structure, like the gazebo, to stop it from crashing over.
Some gas and propane patio heaters have a built-in tip-over auto shutoff feature which works by sensing when the heater tilts or is not on a flat surface and shutting off the power to avoid the risk of fire. Even though these units are equipped with a tip-over auto shutoff feature, it is still best to use caution as they can still fall over and cause fire.
It is not advisable to leave the heater unattended. If you live in a humid region, make sure that the patio heater has a solid base and is weighted or anchored.
Cost
The addition of a heater for your patio to your outdoor space can allow you to extend your enjoyment of outdoor dining, lounging or entertaining into cool evenings and throughout the year. A wide selection of freestanding, overhead, and tabletop models is available to suit your budget and design, allowing you to get the most out of your patio, backyard deck, balcony or lanai.
The cost of a smaller electric patio heater can vary based on the model and size of the model you pick, as well as the fuel source. For instance propane heaters are generally cheaper than natural gas models. 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) and the larger ones can generate more than 40,000 BTUs.
When choosing an electric patio heater that is small, safety and convenience are crucial aspects to take into consideration. A lot of freestanding, portable models have wheels and are easy to move. These types of units are popular with restaurants and bars that feature outside seating as they can be used to heat multiple tables. They are typically connected to standard outlets and are energy efficient however they might not generate as much heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are ceiling or wall mounted and require professional installation. They are perfect for areas where floor space isn't enough or you have high ceilings that aren't large enough to accommodate a standing heater. These models are safer because they don't release pollutants like carbon monoxide. However, they must be installed in a well ventilated area as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some models are even made of weather-resistant materials that minimize the damage caused by wind or rain. Additionally these models are usually equipped with a CSA safety rating and an auto shut-off valve that can protect against accidental burns.