Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
Find 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 build, which provides wind resistance, and says that users have were able to find it to balance function and aesthetics. It's easy to install and requires a 220/240V outlet.
Size
look at this site of your patio and the amount you need of heat will determine which model and type of heater will best suit your requirements. Patio heaters are powered or fueled with electricity or gas and their output of heat is measured in Watts and BTUs. The higher the BTUs the stronger the heater.
Electric patio heaters tend to be less powerful than gas counterparts, but they still provide enough warmth for smaller areas. They're also a good choice for areas that do not have natural ventilation or are prone to wind as they don't produce any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically have a variety of temperature settings. This can be beneficial if you plan to use the space at different hours or at different distances from it. Certain models come with an output of heat that is fixed. It is important to go through the product's description prior to making a decision. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater, for instance, comes with adjustable heating settings ranging from 750W up to 1500W to accommodate a variety of temperatures.
Power
The energy output of a patio heater is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and Watts. The number of BTUs it generates can differ 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 most effective patio heating units can warm large areas and are suitable for larger patios. Certain models, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less powerful, but can still heat up smaller spaces.
Consider how much control would like to have over the heat settings of your heater. Certain models let you select from a variety of settings, while others have an unchanging setting. If you are planning to use your patio heater in windy weather, consider choosing one that has an adjustable heat setting or that can be adjusted as the wind blows.
While electric patio heaters are plugged into standard 120-volt outlets, natural gas and propane options require a professional installation that uses special flue systems. This kind of heating system is perfect for outdoor areas that need to be heated all year round but isn't suited for indoor use. Natural gas and propane patio heating systems also release carbon monoxide. They should not be employed in enclosed spaces without venting them properly.
The type of fuel that you select will affect your maintenance requirements and cost. Liquid propane heaters for patios, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater we've included in this article, generally use 20-pound liquid propane tanks that can be refilled at a 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 such as the tall tower-style floor heaters typically found 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 installed into a masonry wall or structure like a pergola, deck or gazebo. These options usually connect to existing plumbing or wiring and are easy to set up however they will need more upfront costs than other patio heaters.
Safety
No matter what type of patio heaters you choose it is important to ensure that safety precautions are taken. For instance, if you are using an electric heater, make sure to keep it away from anything that can catch fire, like fabrics, paper or plastics. Heat radiation and unexpected movements can also pose a risk. It is also important to not leave a heater that is powered by gas unattended.
Propane or natural gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide, as well as other harmful gases. These can cause illness and even death if they are inhaled. They should, therefore, only be used outdoors. They also require an adequate amount of space to vent properly.
Installing an outdoor vented CH4 and/or CO2 detector in your home is a good idea if you plan to make use of propane patio heaters or natural gas heater indoors. This will notify you of any dangerous emissions, and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. The detectors are available in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement stores and are simple to install.
It's also crucial to make sure that your patio heater is set on a level surface, and not close to objects that could be damaged by the heat it produces. A stand-up patio heater must be at least 3 feet away from any object and a wall-mounted heater should be affixed to a wall or structure, like a gazebo, to avoid it from falling over.
Some gas and propane patio heaters come with an automatic tip-over shutoff function. This feature is activated when the unit tilts, or isn't placed on an even surface. It then shuts off the power to avoid a fire risk. But, it's recommended to be vigilant because even heaters with this technology can fall over and cause a fire hazard.
To prevent this, you must always be close to the heater during operation, and don't leave it unattended. If you live in a windy area, ensure that the patio heater has a solid base and is weighed or anchored.
Cost
A patio heater added to your outdoor space allows you to prolong your enjoyment of outdoor dining, lounging or entertaining into cool evenings and throughout the year. A variety of freestanding, overhead and tabletop models are suitable for your budget and design, allowing you to maximize the enjoyment of your backyard, patio, deck, balcony or the lanai.
The cost of a smaller patio heater electric varies depending on the type and size of the model you pick and also the fuel source. Propane heaters, for instance are typically less expensive than those that run on natural gas. The amount of BTUs produced by a patio heater can vary significantly. The smaller models can produce up to 10,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) while the larger models can produce at least 40,000 BTUs.
In addition to cost, consider safety and convenience when selecting an electric patio heater for your small space. Many portable, free-standing models are equipped with wheels and are easy to move. These heaters are extremely popular in restaurants and bars with outdoor seating because they can heat tables at once. They are usually plug-in heaters which use standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they may not produce the same amount of heat as other types of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require professional installation. These heaters are great for areas with limited floor space or high ceilings, which can't accommodate standing heaters. These kinds of heaters are usually safer since they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, however, they must be installed in a well ventilated space in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. Some models are even made with weather-resistant materials in order to limit damage from rain or wind. electric patio heater hanging are usually certified by CSA and come with an automatic shut-off valve to avoid accidental burns.