Enjoy Your Patio Even When the Weather Turns Cool With a Small Electric Patio Heater
Electric patio heaters are plug-and- go, unlike gas patio heaters, which require a propane tank connection and professional installation on an existing gas line. The heaters can be plugged in to a standard outdoor outlet and controlled with a the remote or a timer.
These heaters are easy to maneuver on wheels and can easily go over bumps or other obstacles in your yard. They also don't emit carbon monoxide which is a major issue in some gas models.
Heat Output
Many people love spending time on their patios or in their cozy backyard nooks, however these areas can get cold when the temperature drops. A small electric patio heater can help warm these areas and allow you to extend your outdoor time well into the evening, even if the sun sets.
The best electric patio heaters will have an impressive output of heat, and you can control the amount of warmth they generate by adjusting their power settings. You can keep your patio warm without increasing the cost of energy. You should also consider models with low wattage to decrease the amount of electricity they consume.
The BTU rating of a patio heater is the most important aspect to consider when it comes to heating efficiency. The higher the BTU rating, the greater space it can be capable of warming. A heater with a BTU of 40,000, for instance, can warm up an area of up to 1,000 square foot.
Another aspect that affects heating capacity of a patio heater is whether it's covered or open. Covered patios reduce loss of heat and keep the warmth of the heater for longer. On the other hand, exposed patios will lose more heat that they generate when it rises into air. The type of furniture used can affect the effectiveness of a heater for the patio.
For example tables made of glass and metal are more effective at absorbing heat than wooden or plastic ones. While the two latter materials are less expensive, they aren't as efficient at bringing warmth to your patio.
It's also important to note that your patio heater might require a well-ventilated area, based on its fuel source. Carbon monoxide is released by propane and natural gas heaters. This can be dangerous in enclosed areas. According to the manufacturer the heaters should only be used outdoors or in an area that is well ventilated. Electric heaters however, don't emit any harmful emissions and are safe to use in tight areas.
Safety Features
Patio heaters can provide a cozy touch when enjoying the outdoors, but they are not without dangers. Propane and natural gas heaters, in particular can release deadly carbon monoxide when not used in a safe manner. To avoid this look for models that have safety features like tip-over switches and protection against overheating. To ensure proper use, you should also read the instructions and warnings from the manufacturer.
It is also important to perform routine maintenance on your heater. Check that all connections are secure, and check that the gas lines aren't leaked. If you're using an electric model, you need to keep flammable materials such as paper or fabric away from the heater, since the heat that is released can ignite fires if they come into contact with these items. Standing best electric heater patio are at risk of being thrown over, so make sure they're set on flat surfaces and away from anything that might fall on them.
A lot of natural-gas and propane heaters have flame failure devices, which cut off the supply of fuel in the case of a fire bursting. Some models even have a tip-over auto shut off, which detects when the heater tilts or isn't on an even surface and shuts it off. While these features can reduce the risk of injury, it is important to still be careful about where you place them and make sure you don't leave them unattended while operating.
Another security feature to consider is a carbon monoxide detector. It's an essential feature for any home, but it's particularly crucial when you use gas patio heaters. This device alerts users 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, look for one with a remote control and programmable timing to allow you to set the ideal amount of warmth to your space. These options allow you to manage your heater with ease while enjoying your time outdoors. If you're looking for a home with a minimalist design, look for models that can be placed on ceilings or recessed into the wall to save space. These units are more discreet than larger models, which makes them ideal for smaller spaces that don't want to compromise style.
Power Options
You have several options when it comes time to power your new patio heater. The choice of whether you choose an electric or gas powered model is dependent on the size of your patio, existing energy sources and personal preferences.
In general electric models are generally more cost effective and more convenient to use than their gas counterparts. Plug them into standard electrical outlets and they can be turned on by pressing a button or flipping a switch. Many of these models come with multiple heat settings as well that let you control exactly how much warmth your room receives. These heaters are also perfect for areas that are prone to wind. They won't blow out like gas heaters.
Gas patio heaters can heat up to 215 feet and are known for their power. Based on the type of gas used they can be connected to propane or natural gas lines, or operated using portable cylinders that can be filled with wood pellets or propane when needed. Gas heaters are different from electric heaters. They require a minimum of 25% open space around the burner to function safely. They are also more likely to release CO2 if they are not properly ventilated.
The Btu (British Thermal Units) is the measurement unit for the amount of heat generated by the gas patio heater. When you are looking for an option, take the square footage of your outdoor space into consideration and choose one with more Btu rating to provide adequate heating coverage. For example, for a patio that is 2,000 square feet you will require a patio heater that has a Btu rating of 40,000.
While there are many advantages when you choose a propane-powered patio heater it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to regularly buy and replace fuel for this option. According to Thomas Bonfiglio CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality a 40,000 Btu model consumes about two pounds of propane every hour when running at full power.
If you're seeking a more sustainable alternative, think about a pellet patio heater instead. They are typically more affordable than gas patio heaters and operate on compressed wood. They are also less susceptible to emissions and consume less energy than other kinds of patio heaters, resulting in less waste and pollution. They're available in various styles, including freestanding units and wall-mounted models that can be mounted on ceilings or walls.
Overall
Enjoy Your Patio Even When the weather turns cool
A high-end patio heater lets you enjoy your outdoor space into the night, and throughout all seasons. At Lowe's we offer overhead, freestanding and commercial-grade patio heaters that can satisfy the requirements of your business or home. We also offer a variety of heating accessories such as controls and switches to help you control the temperature and duration of use of your patio heater.
The type of patio heating you choose will be determined by the size of the outdoor area as well as the power sources that are at hand in your office or at home. Electric models are plugged into 120-volt outlets of standard, making them the easiest to install. Gas-powered patio heaters can be dangerous due to the emission of carbon monoxide. Electric models don't. Some of them can be controlled remotely, while others are timed. They also have multiple temperatures.
Propane and natural gas-fueled patio heaters can heat spaces as high as 215 feet. Gas-powered patio heaters require a gas source and should only be used in well-ventilated areas. They can release carbon dioxide if they aren't properly monitored. They are a great choice for large outdoor areas you would like to keep warm throughout the entire year.
A small standing patio heater, such as our top pick, could be the ideal solution for small outdoor living spaces. This model comes with a remote and also has an LED fire display that provides a decorative appearance. It also has two heating modes (750W and 1500W) for your different warming requirements. It uses far-infrared technology that enhances blood circulation and metabolism while also providing warmth. It is ETL certified and has a waterproof structure which makes it suitable for balconies, courtyards and patios. It's simple to set up and can be operated manually or with a built-in timer. The built-in thermo sensor automatically turns off the heater when the temperature outside is too high to ensure your safety.