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 an propane tank connection as well as professional installation in an existing gas line. They can be plugged into an outlet for power in the outdoor and controlled by remotes or a timer.
These heaters are simple to move around on wheels and can easily go over bumps and other obstacles in your yard. They also don't emit carbon monoxide, which is a major concern 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 temperatures drop. A small electric heater can warm up these areas and let you enjoy your outdoor space well into the evening.
The best electric patio heaters will have an impressive output of heat, and you can regulate the amount of heat they generate with their power settings. You can keep your patio warm without having to increase your energy bills. Additionally, you should look for a model with lower watts, as this will lower the amount of energy it consumes.
In terms of the effectiveness of heating, a patio heater's BTU rating is the most important factor to consider. The greater the BTU rating, the more area it will be able to warm. A heater with a BTU of 40,000, for example will warm the patio up to 1,000 square foot.
Another factor that affects the heat output of a patio heater is whether it's covered or open. Covered hanging electric patio heater reduce loss of heat and keep the warmth from the heater longer, while covered patios lessen the heat they produce as it rises into the air. Additionally, the kind of furniture you have can also affect how effective the patio heater works.
Glass and metal tables for instance reflect heat better than wooden or plastic tables. Although both are more expensive, they do not warm your patio as well.
It is important to remember that, based on the fuel source your patio heater could require a well ventilated space. Carbon monoxide is released by propane and natural gas heaters. This is a risk in enclosed areas. They should only be used outside or in a well-ventilated location in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Electric heaters, however, are not polluting and are safe to use in tight spaces.
Safety Features
Patio heaters can provide a cozy touch when enjoying the outdoors, but they're not without potential hazards. Propane heaters and natural gas heaters can emit deadly carbon dioxide if not properly used. To help you avoid this look for models that have safety features like tip-over switches and protection against overheating. To ensure that you are using the device correctly it is also recommended to read the instructions and cautions provided by the manufacturer.
It is also important to make certain that you are performing regular maintenance for your heater. Check that 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 flammable materials like fabric or paper away from the heating element, because the heat it emits could ignite in the event that they come into contact with these objects. Standing patio heater electric infrared are at risk of falling over so make sure they're positioned on flat surfaces and away from anything that could fall on them.
Many propane and natural gas heaters come with flame failure devices that shut off the fuel supply if the flame goes out. Certain heaters come with an automatic shut-off for tip-overs that detects when it is tilted or moves off the flat surface. These features can decrease the risk of injuries. However, you must be careful where you place these devices and not leave them unattended while they are operating.
Another safety feature to consider is a carbon monoxide detector. It is a must-have feature for every home, but is particularly important when you are using 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 make sure you choose one with remote control and programmable timing to allow you to set the ideal amount of warmth to your space. These options allow you to control your heater without hassle while enjoying your time outdoors. For homes that have a design-oriented preference, consider models that can be attached to the ceiling or integrated into the wall. This will save space. These units are more discreet than larger models, making them perfect for smaller spaces that do not want to sacrifice style.
Power Options
You have a number of options when it comes time to power your new patio heater. Whether you opt for gas or electric powered model is contingent on the size of your space, existing energy sources and personal preferences.
Electric models are usually more affordable and simple to use than gas models. Plug them into standard electrical outlets, and then turn them on by pressing a button or flipping a switch. Many of these products feature multiple heat settings as well that let you decide how much heat your space receives. They're also great for areas that are prone to wind, as they won't be destroyed by the force of wind, as gas heaters can.
Gas patio heaters can be heated to 215ft2 and are renowned for their power. Depending on the type gas used they can be hooked up to propane or natural gas lines, or operated using portable cylinders that can be filled with propane or wood pellets as needed. In contrast to electric models, gas heaters require a minimum of 25 percent open space around the burner in order to function safely and are more likely to release carbon monoxide when not properly ventilated.
The Btu (British Thermal Units) is the measurement unit for the amount of heat produced by the gas patio heater. Take into consideration the size of your outdoor area when choosing the best model. A greater Btu rating will give greater heating coverage. For instance, if you have a patio that is 2,000 square feet you would require a patio heater that has a Btu rating of 40,000.
It's important to keep it in mind that a propane patio heater has its benefits, but you will need to buy and replace the fuel regularly. According to Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality, a model that is 40,000 Btu will consume about two pounds of propane every hour it's on full power.
Consider a pellet patio heater if your looking for an eco-friendly option. These heaters are generally less expensive than gas patio heaters and run on compressed wood. They're also less prone to emissions and consume less energy than other kinds of patio heaters which means less waste and less pollution. They're available in a variety of designs, including freestanding units and wall-mounted models that can be installed on walls or ceilings.
Overall
Relax on Your Patio Even if the weather turns cold
With a top-quality patio heating system, you can enjoy your outdoor space throughout the year, and even into the night. At Lowe's, we carry overhead, freestanding and commercial-grade patio heaters that can satisfy the requirements of your business or home. We also have a range of heating accessories like switches and control systems that aid in controlling the temperature and time of use of your patio heater.
The kind 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 home or office. Electric models are the simplest to install because they plug into standard 120-volt outlets. Gas-powered patio heaters can be dangerous because they emit carbon monoxide. Electric models do not. They can be controlled remotely or via a timer, and a few come with multiple settings to give you more flexibility.
Propane and natural gas-fueled patio heaters are able to heat areas up to 215 feet2. They require a gas line and should be used only in well-ventilated areas because they could release carbon monoxide when left unattended. They could be a better option for large outdoor living areas that you want to keep warm throughout the year.
A small-sized standing patio heater, such as our top choice, could be the ideal solution for smaller outdoor living spaces. This model comes with a remote and has a digital LED fire display that provides an aesthetic touch. It also comes with two heating options (750W and 1500W) for different heating needs. It uses far-infrared technology that improves the metabolism and circulation of blood while providing warmth. It's ETL-listed and comes with a waterproof design that makes it ideal for balconies, courtyards, garages, and patios. It is easy to set-up and can be controlled by hand or by a built in timer. The heater is automatically turned off by the built-in sensor if the temperature is too high.