20 Fun Informational Facts About Small Patio Heater Electric
Selecting a Small Patio Heater Electric
If you have a limited outdoor space that you can warm, look for a small patio heater electric. These heaters require only the power outlet, and many offer adjustable heat settings.
Gotterbarn recommends the Infratech wall-mounted heater for its slim structure, which offers wind resistance. Customers also noted that it was able to balance function and design. It requires a 220/240V hookup and is simple to set up.
Size
The dimensions of your patio and the amount you need of heat will determine which type and model of heater will best suit your needs. Patio heaters are powered or fueled with electricity or gas and their heat output 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, however they can provide sufficient heating for smaller areas. They are also ideal for areas with little or no natural ventilation, or those that are prone to winds. They don't release any carbon monoxide.
Small patio heaters typically have a variety of heat settings. This can be helpful in case you plan to use the space at different hours or at different distances from it. Some models have an output of heat that is fixed. It's important to carefully go through the product's description prior to making a choice. The Cuisinart tabletop patio heater, for instance, comes with adjustable heating modes ranging from 750W to 1500W, to accommodate a variety of temperatures.
Power
The output of a patio heater's heating is measured in watts and British thermal units (BTUs). The amount of BTUs it generates can differ according to the size of the area you'd like to warm as well as the weather conditions and the type of fuel used. The best patio heaters can heat an entire area and are suitable for larger patios. Others, like the Star Patio Electric Tabletop Patio Heater are less efficient, but they can offer adequate heating for smaller spaces.
Consider how much control want to have over the temperature settings of your heater. Some models let you choose from a variety of choices, while others offer a preset amount of heat that stays constant. If you are planning to use your patio heater in windy weather, you should choose one with an adjustable heat setting.
Electric patio heaters can be plugged into the standard 120-volt outlets. Natural propane and gas require an expert to install them using a special system of flues. This type of heating system is ideal for outdoor areas which need to be heated throughout the year, but it is not suitable for indoor use. Natural propane and gas patio heating systems also emit carbon monoxide. They should not be installed in enclosed areas unless they're properly vented.
The type of fuel that you choose will impact the maintenance and cost requirements. Liquid propane patio heaters, like the AZ Patio Heaters Propane Patio Heater we have included in this article, make use of 20-pound propane tanks that you can refill locally at a convenience store or gas stations. These kinds of patio heaters are the most popular among customers 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.
For a more permanent solution to your patio heating needs look for a mountable or ceiling-mounted option that's easily fitted into a masonry wall structure such as a deck, pergola or gazebo. These heaters usually connect to the existing plumbing or wiring and are easy to set up, but they may require more upfront costs than other patio heaters.
Safety
Whatever type of patio heaters you choose, safety precautions should be taken. For instance, if are using an electric heater, make sure to keep it away from anything that can catch fire, like paper, fabric or certain plastics. Heat radiation and unexpected movements can also pose a threat. You should also never leave a gas-powered heater unattended.
Propane or natural gas patio heaters emit carbon monoxide and other harmful gases. They could cause illness and death if they are inhaled. They should, therefore, only be used in outdoor areas. Additionally, they require a large amount of space for proper venting.
If you want to utilize a propane or natural gas outdoor heater it is recommended to install an outdoor vented CO2 or CH4 detector in your home, which will alert you to any harmful emissions and help ensure that you are safe from carbon monoxide poisoning. These detectors are sold at most hardware stores and home improvement shops and are simple to install.
You should also make sure your patio heater is on a level surface, and not too close to any objects that could be damaged by its heat. A stand-up heater should be placed at least three feet away from any object. A wall-mounted heater should also be connected to something like a wall or gazebo to stop it from falling.
Certain propane and gas patio heaters have a built-in tip-over auto shutoff feature, which detects when the heater tilts or is no longer on a flat surface, and switching off the power to stop the risk of fire. However, it's still recommended to be vigilant as even units with this technology can fall over and cause a fire hazard.
You should never leave the heater unattended. Also, if you reside in an area that is prone to strong winds, make sure the patio heater is mounted on a sturdy base and is anchored or secured with a weight.
Cost
The addition of a heater for your patio to your outdoor space can allow you to enjoy the benefits of outdoor dining, lounging or entertaining well into the cool evenings and throughout the year. electric patio heater outdoor of freestanding, overhead, and tabletop models are suitable for your budget and style, allowing you get the most out of your backyard, patio deck, balcony, or your lanai.
The cost of a small electric patio heater can vary based on the model and size of the model you select and also the fuel source. Propane heaters, for example are generally less expensive than models that utilize natural gas. The amount of BTUs (British Thermal Units) produced by a patio heater could also vary. Smaller models may generate up to 10,000 BTUs, whereas larger models can produce at least 40,000 BTUs or more.
In addition to cost take into account safety and ease of use when selecting the right electric patio heater. A lot of freestanding, portable models are equipped with wheels and are simple to move. These units are very popular in bars and restaurants with outdoor seating because they can heat tables at once. They are usually plug-in heaters that use standard outlets. They are energy efficient, however they might not generate as much heat as other kinds of heaters.
Other models are wall or ceiling mounted and require professional installation. These heaters are ideal for areas with limited floor space or high ceilings, which are unable to accommodate standing heaters. These kinds of heaters are typically safer because they don't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide, although they should be installed in a well ventilated space in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. Certain models are made of weather-resistant material that reduce damage from rain or wind. These models are often equipped with a CSA-certified shut-off valve that prevents accidental burns.