Enjoy Your Patio Even When the Weather Turns Cool With a Small Electric Patio Heater
As opposed to gas patio heaters which require the connection to a propane tank as well as professional installation into an existing gas line Electric models are plug-and go. The heaters can be plugged in to an outlet for outdoor use and controlled with a remote or a timer.
Depending on the model the heaters can emit temperatures up to 12 feet and can be easily moved on wheels that let them go over bumps and other obstacles in your backyard. These heaters also do not produce carbon monoxide which is a problem for some gas models.
Heat Output
Many people love to spend time on their patios or in their private backyard nooks, however these areas can feel chilly when the temperature drops. A small electric heater can warm up these areas and allow you to take advantage of your outdoor space long into the evening.
The best electric patio heater will have a great heat output and you can utilize its power settings to control the amount of heat it produces. This way, you'll be able to keep your patio nice and toasty without increasing your energy costs too much. You should also consider models with low wattage to reduce the amount of energy they use.
In terms of the effectiveness of heating the patio heater's BTU rating is the most crucial factor to take into consideration. The greater the BTU rating, the greater space it is able to warm. A heater with a BTU of 40,000, for instance, can warm up the patio up to 1,000 square foot.
Another factor that affects the heat output of heaters for patios is whether it's covered or not. Covered patios help reduce the loss of heat, allowing the heater to retain its heat for a longer period of time. Uncovered patios lose more heat as they rise in the air. The type of furniture used can also influence the effectiveness of a heater for the patio.
Metal and glass tables, for example, reflect heat better than wooden or plastic tables. While both materials are less expensive, they won't warm your patio as well.
It is important to remember that based on the fuel source your patio heater could need to be placed in an area that is well ventilated. Carbon monoxide is released by propane and natural gas heaters. This can be dangerous in enclosed spaces. They should only be used outdoors or in a well-ventilated area in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Electric heaters, on the other hand are not polluting and are safe to use in restricted areas.
Safety Features
Patio heaters can provide an inviting touch to the outdoors, but they're not without risk. Propane and natural gas heaters, in particular can release deadly carbon monoxide when not used properly. To help you avoid this look for models that have safety features such as tip-over switches and protection against overheating. To ensure that you are using the device correctly you must also go through the instructions and safety tips from the manufacturer.
You should also be certain that you are performing regular maintenance for your heater. Make sure all connections are secure, and verify that the gas lines aren't leaked. If you're using an electric model, it's important to keep combustible materials such as paper or fabric away from the heating element, as emitted heat can cause fires when they come in contact with these objects. And, because standing heaters can fall over, be sure they're positioned on level surfaces and not near anything that could fall onto them.
Many propane and natural gas heaters come with flame failure devices that cut off the fuel supply if the flame is out. Some models even come with a tip-over auto shut-off, which detects when the unit tilts or is no longer on flat surfaces and turns off the power. While these features can reduce the chance of injury, you must be cautious about the place you put them and ensure that you never leave them unattended while they're operating.
Carbon monoxide detectors are a further security feature to think about. It's an essential feature to any home, but it's especially essential when using gas patio heaters. This device will alert people to dangerous levels carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a poison that can accumulate in enclosed spaces quickly and lead to death.
If you're seeking an electric heater make sure you choose one with a remote control and programmable timer to help you set the perfect amount of warmth for your space. These options let you control your heater without hassle while still enjoying a lifestyle outdoors. For homes that are more stylish choose models that can be placed on ceilings or recessed into the wall to save space. These units are more discrete than larger models, making them ideal for smaller areas that don't need to compromise on style.
Power Options
There are a variety of options available when it comes time to power your new patio heater. The dimensions of your patio, the energy sources available and your personal preferences will determine whether you opt for gas or an electric heater.
Electric models are typically cheaper and easier to use than gas models. Connect them to standard electrical outlets, and then turn them on by pressing a button, or by flicking the switch. Many of these models come with multiple heat settings as well that let you control exactly how much warmth your room receives. They are also ideal for areas that are prone to wind because they won't get blown out by gusts of wind, as gas heaters can.
Gas patio heaters can heat up to 215ft2 and are well-known for their power. Depending on the type of gas used, they can be hooked up to propane or natural gas lines, or operated with portable cylinders that can be filled with wood pellets or propane when needed. Contrary to electric models heaters require at least 25% open area around the burner to operate safely, and are more likely to release carbon monoxide when not properly ventilated.
The amount of heat a gas patio heater generates is measured in Btu (British thermal units). When shopping for an option, take the size of your outdoor space into consideration and select one that has more Btu rating to give you the best heating coverage. For instance, a 2,000 square foot patio will require a patio heater with a 40,000-Btu rating.
While there are electric pyramid patio heater when you choose a propane-powered patio heater it's important to keep in mind that you'll have to buy and replace fuel for this type of heater. According to Thomas Bonfiglio CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality a 40,000 Btu model consumes about two pounds of propane per hour when operating at full power.
Think about a pellet-based patio heater if your looking for a more environmentally friendly option. These models are usually less expensive than gas patio heaters and operate on compressed wood. These patio heaters are also less likely to emit pollutants and burn more efficiently, resulting in less waste. They are available in a range of styles including freestanding models as well as wall-mounted units that can be hung on ceilings or walls.
Overall
Enjoy Your Patio Even If the Weather Turns Cool
A high-quality patio heater lets you enjoy your outdoor space well into the night, and throughout all seasons. At Lowe's we have overhead, freestanding and commercial-grade patio heaters that can meet the needs of your home or business. We also offer a variety of heating accessories, like switches and control systems, to help you manage the temperature and time of your patio heater's use.
The type of patio heater you select will be determined by the size of your outdoor space as well as the power sources at hand in your home or office. Electric models are the easiest to install since they connect to standard 120 volt outlets. Gas-powered patio heaters are dangerous because they emit carbon monoxide. Electric models don't. They can be controlled remotely or by a timer, and some have multiple heat settings to give you more flexibility.
Propane and natural gas-powered patio heaters can heat spaces as high as 215 feet. They require gas lines and should be used only in well-ventilated areas because they could release carbon monoxide when left unattended. These are a good option for large outdoor spaces that you wish to keep warm throughout the season.
A small standing patio heater, such as our top choice, could be the ideal solution for smaller outdoor living areas. This model has a remote included and has an LED fire display which adds an aesthetic touch. It has two heating options (750W and 1.5kW) to meet your needs. It utilizes far infrared technology that improves the circulation of blood and increase metabolism while providing an impressive amount of warmth. It's ETL-approved and has a waterproof design that makes it perfect for courtyards, balconies, garages, and patios. It is simple to set up and is controlled either manually or with a built-in timer. The built-in thermal sensor automatically switches off the heater when the temperature in the surrounding area is too high to ensure your safety.