Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Find an electric patio heater that is small for an outdoor space that you want to heat. These models require only an outlet for power and some have adjustable heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends this wall-mounted Infratech heater for its thin construction, which offers wind resistance. They also say that customers discovered it to be a good balance of functionality and style. It requires a 220/240V power supply 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 are crucial factors in determining what model and type is most suitable for your needs. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in BTUs and Watts. The higher the BTUs the stronger the heater.
Electric patio heaters are typically less powerful than gas-powered counterparts, but they can provide sufficient heating for smaller areas. They're also a good choice for areas that don't have natural ventilation, or are susceptible to wind because they don't emit carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters usually offer a range of temperatures that can be beneficial in the event that you'll be making use of the space at different times or at different distances from the heater. Certain models come with an output of heat that is fixed. It is important to read the product description before making a decision. Cuisinart's tabletop patio heater offers adjustable heating modes from 750W up to 1500W, which allows for an array of temperatures.
Power
The output of heat from a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and watts. The number of BTUs it produces can vary according to the size of the area you wish to warm and the weather conditions as well as the kind of fuel used. Some of the best patio heaters can reach large areas and are ideal for larger patios. Others, such as the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater aren't as powerful but can still provide sufficient heating for smaller spaces.
It is also important to consider how much control you want over the temperature settings of your heater. Certain models let you select from a variety of options, 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 weather, consider choosing one with an adjustable temperature setting or that can be adjusted as the wind blows.
Electric patio heaters can be plugged into regular 120-volt outlets. Natural gas and propane require the expertise of a professional to install them using a special system of flues. This kind 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 propane and gas patio heating systems also release carbon monoxide. They should not be installed in enclosed areas unless they are properly vented.
The kind of fuel you pick will affect your maintenance and costs. Liquid propane heaters for patios, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heating unit 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 types of patio heaters are the most sought-after by customers and come in a variety of portable styles, including the tall tower-style floor heaters typically seen at restaurants and bars with outdoor seating.
If you're looking for a durable solution to your heating needs in the patio, consider a ceiling-mounted or mountable option that can be easily installed into a structure or wall, like a deck, pergola or gazebo. These options usually connect to existing plumbing or wiring and are easy to set up, but they may require more upfront costs than other patio heaters.
Safety
No matter what type of heater you pick for your patio, safety precautions should be taken. If you own an electrical heater, be sure to keep it away from anything that may catch fire. This includes fabric, paper or some plastics. Heat radiation and sudden movements can be dangerous. Additionally it is not advisable to leave a standing heater unattended, especially if it's powered by gas.
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 outdoors. They also require sufficient space to vent properly.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 or CO2 detector in your home is a good idea if you are planning to use propane patio heaters or natural gas heater indoors. This will notify you of any dangerous emissions, and will also 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 on an even 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 an exterior wall or structure, such as a gazebo, to avoid it from crashing over.
Some propane and gas patio heaters come with an automatic tip-over shutoff feature. This feature detects when the unit is tilted or is not on an even surface. It then turns off the power to avoid a fire risk. Although these heaters come with an auto shutoff feature for tip-overs, it is still best to use caution since they are still able to tip over and ignite.
It is not advisable to leave the heater unattended. If you live in a sweltering region, make sure that the patio heater has a solid base and is properly weighted or anchored.
Cost
By adding a heater to your patio it will extend the time that you spend eating outside and relaxing, or entertaining outside in the cooler evenings and season. A wide range of freestanding, overhead, and tabletop models is suitable for your budget and style, allowing you to make the most of your backyard, patio, deck, balcony or lanai.
The cost of an electric patio heater varies based on its size and the type as well as its fuel source. For instance, propane heaters are typically cheaper than natural gas models. The number of BTUs produced by a patio heating unit can also differ greatly. The smaller models can produce up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs), while the larger models can produce more than 40,000 BTUs.
When selecting an electric patio heater that is small, safety and convenience are important factors to take into consideration. Many portable, freestanding models have wheels and are easy to move. These kinds of heaters are popular with restaurants and bars that feature outside seating because they are able to heat several tables. They are usually plug-in heaters which use standard outlets. They are energy efficient, but might not generate the same amount of heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require a professional installation. These heaters are ideal for areas with limited floor space or high ceilings that aren't able to accommodate standing heaters. They are safer as they don't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide. However fireplacesandstoves must be used within a properly ventilated area in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Certain models are made of weather-resistant materials that minimize damage from wind or rain. These models are often equipped with a CSA-certified shut-off valve to avoid accidental burns.