Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Consider an electric patio heater that is small in case you have only a small outdoor space to heat. These models only require a power outlet, and many have adjustable heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater due to its thin construction, which offers wind resistance. It also states that users have were able to find it to balance functionality and style. It is simple to install and requires a 220/240V outlet.
Size
When you are deciding on a patio heater the size of your outdoor space and the amount of heat you need will be important factors in determining what kind and model is best suited to your requirements. Patio heaters can be powered by gas or electricity and their heat output is measured in Watts and BTUs. The more BTUs the more powerful the heater.
Electric patio heaters are typically less powerful than gas-powered counterparts, but they can be a good source of heat for smaller spaces. They are also ideal for areas with little or no natural ventilation or those that are prone to wind. They don't release any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically offer a range of temperature settings, which can be useful if you're going to be using the space at various times or at different distances from the heater. Some models have an unassailable heat output. It's essential to read the product description before making a choice. Cuisinart's tabletop heater comes with adjustable heating modes that range from 750W to 1500W, which allows for various temperatures.
Power
A patio heater's heat output is measured in Watts and British thermal units (BTUs). The number of BTUs produced by a patio heater may vary depending on factors like the size of the area you wish to heat as well as the weather conditions and the type of fuel used. Some of the most effective patio heaters can cover large areas and are well suited for larger patios. Some, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less powerful, but can still heat up smaller spaces.
You should also consider how much control you'd like over your heater's heat settings. Some models let you choose from a variety of options, while others offer the option of a predetermined amount of heat that is constant. If you intend to use your patio heater during windy conditions, select one that has an adjustable heat setting.
While electric patio heaters plug into standard 120-volt outlets, natural gas and propane options require a professional installation that uses a specialized flue system. This type of heating system is ideal for outdoor areas that need to be heated throughout the year however, it is not suitable for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heating systems also release carbon monoxide. They should not be employed in enclosed spaces unless they are properly vented.
The kind of fuel you select will impact the maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heats, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heating System that we have included in this article use 20-pound liquid tanks of propane that you can refill locally at a convenience store or gas stations. These kinds of heaters for patios are the most popular with consumers and are available in various styles that are portable that include tall tower-style floor heaters commonly used in bars and restaurants with outdoor seating.
For a more permanent solution to your heating requirements for your patio consider a wall- or ceiling-mounted option that can be easily fitted into a masonry wall or structure like a deck, pergola or gazebo. These heaters are simple to install and are usually connected to the wiring.
Safety
No matter what type of patio heater you select Safety precautions must be taken. For instance, if are using an electric heater, be sure to keep it away from anything that could catch fire, such as fabric, paper, or plastics. Heat radiation and unexpected movements can also pose a risk. You should also not leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
Propane and natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide as well as other harmful gases that can cause illness or even death if inhaled therefore, they should only be used outdoors. In addition, they require a sufficient amount of open space to vent properly.
If you plan to use a propane or natural gas heater for your patio it is recommended to install an outdoor vented CO2 and/or CH4 detector within your home. This will alert you to any hazardous emissions and will stop carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors can be purchased at most hardware and home improvement stores and are simple to set up.
It's also crucial to ensure that your patio heater is placed on a stable surface and is not too close to anything that could be damaged by the heat it produces. A stand-up patio heater should be at least three feet away from any object, and a wall-mounted patio heater should be affixed to a wall or structure, such as a gazebo, to avoid it from falling over.
Some propane and gas patio heating units have an automatic tip-over shutoff feature. This feature detects the moment when the unit is tilted, or isn't on a flat surface. Then, it shuts off the power to prevent a potential fire risk. Even though these units are equipped with an auto shutoff feature for tip-overs but it is still advisable to take care as they can still fall over and cause fire.
For this reason, you should always be in close proximity to the heater whenever it's in operation and avoid leaving it unattended. If you live in a windy region, make sure that the patio heater has a solid base and is properly weighted or anchored.
Cost
Adding a patio heater to your outdoor space will allow you to extend your enjoyment of outdoor dining, relaxing or entertaining into cool evenings and throughout the year. There are numerous overhead tabletop, freestanding, or tabletop models you can pick from to fit your budget and preferences.
The cost of a smaller electric patio heater can vary based on the type and size of the model you select and also the fuel source. Propane heaters, for example, are usually cheaper than models that utilize natural gas. The amount of BTUs produced by a patio heating unit can vary significantly. The smaller models can generate 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 a small patio heater electric. A lot of freestanding, portable models have wheels and are easily moved. These heaters are extremely popular in restaurants and bars with outdoor seating, as they can be used to heat tables. They usually plug into regular outlets and are energy efficient, but 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 ideal for areas where floor space is limited or you have high ceilings that can't accommodate a standing heater. These models are safer since they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. However they should be installed in a well ventilated area as per the manufacturer's instructions. Some models are constructed of weather-resistant materials, which minimize damage from rain or wind. amazon patio heater electric are typically equipped with a CSA-certified shut-off valve that prevents accidental burns.