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 on an existing gas line. The heaters can be plugged in to an outlet for outdoor use and controlled with a the remote or a timer.
These heaters are easy to move on wheels and can easily go over bumps or other obstacles in your yard. They also do not produce carbon monoxide which is a concern for some gas models.
Heat Output
Many people love to spend time on their patios or in their backyard nooks, however these areas can get cold when temperatures drop. A small electric patio heater can to warm these areas and allow you to extend your outdoor time into the evening, even after the sun goes down.
The best electric patio heaters will offer a high output of heat, and you can manage the amount of heat they generate with their power settings. You can keep your patio warm without having to increase your energy costs. It is also recommended to consider models with low wattage to reduce the amount of electricity they use.
In terms of heating effectiveness, a patio heater's BTU rating is the most crucial factor to consider. The greater the BTU rating, the greater space it can be capable of warming. A heater with a BTU of 40, for instance, can warm up the patio up to 1,000 square foot.
The heat output of patio heaters is also affected by whether they are covered or not. Covered patios minimize heat loss, which allows the heater to keep its warmth for longer. Uncovered patios lose more heat as it rises in the air. The type of patio furniture can also affect the efficiency of a patio heater.
For instance tables made of glass and metal are more effective at absorbing heat better than plastic or wooden tables. While the two latter materials are more affordable but they're not as effective at bringing warmth to your patio.
It is also important to keep in mind that your patio heater might need to be kept in a well-ventilated space, depending on the fuel source. Natural propane and gas heaters emit carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous when it accumulates in enclosed areas. According to the manufacturer they are best used outdoors or in an area that is well ventilated. On the other the other hand, electric heaters don't release any pollutants and are safe to use in restricted spaces.
Safety Features
Patio heaters add a cozy touch to outdoor living, but they're not without their potential hazards. Propane and natural gas heaters, in particular can release dangerous carbon monoxide if not properly used. To help you avoid this make sure you choose models with safety features like tip-over switches as well as overheating protection. To ensure proper use it is also recommended to read the instructions and cautions provided by the manufacturer.
You'll also want to be sure that you maintain routine maintenance on your heater. Check that all connections are secure, and check that the gas lines aren't leaking. Make sure that combustibles like paper or fabric away from electric heaters. The heat emitted could ignite when it gets in contact with them. And, because standing heaters can fall over, make sure they're set on level surfaces and away from anything that could fall on them.
Many natural-gas and propane heaters come with flame failure devices that cut off the fuel supply in the event of a fire out. Some even come with a tip-over auto shut-off that detects when the heater tilts or is no longer on an even surface and shuts off. Although these features can lower the chance of injury, it is important to still be careful about where you put them and never leave them unattended while they're operating.
Carbon monoxide detectors are another security feature to think about. It is a must-have feature for any home, but it is especially crucial for those who use gas patio heaters. This gadget will alert you to the dangers of carbon monoxide that can build up quickly in small spaces 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 home. These options provide you with the flexibility to control your heater without hassle while enjoying a relaxing outdoor lifestyle. And for design-focused homes choose models that can be hung on ceilings or recessed into the wall to save space. These models are more discrete than larger models and are ideal for smaller spaces which don't want to sacrifice style.
Power Options
There are many options in the matter of the energy source of your new patio heater. Whether you opt for gas or electric powered model depends on the size of your patio, existing energy sources and personal preferences.
Generally speaking, electric models are more economical and convenient to use than their gas counterparts. They can be connected to regular electrical outlets and switched on with the flick of a switch or the push of a button. A lot of these heaters come with multiple heat settings as well that let you control exactly how much warmth your room receives. These heaters are ideal for areas susceptible to wind. They won't blow out like gas heaters.
Gas patio heaters are known for their high output of heat and can effectively warm up spaces up to 215ft2. 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. Gas heaters, unlike electric models, require at least 25% of space surrounding the burner to function properly. They are also more likely to release CO2 if not properly ventilated.
The amount of heat that a gas patio heater produces is measured in Btu (British thermal units). Take into consideration the dimensions of your outdoor space when selecting the right model. more helpful hints will give better heating coverage. For instance, a 2,000-square foot patio will require a patio heater with a 40,000-Btu rating.
It is important to keep in mind that a propane patio heater has its advantages, however you'll need to purchase and replace the fuel regularly. According to Thomas Bonfiglio CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality a 40,000 Btu model consumes approximately two pounds of propane every hour when running at full power.
If you're looking for a more sustainable alternative, think about a pellet patio heater instead. These models are powered by compressed wood pellets, and are generally less expensive than other gas patio heaters. They are also less likely to release pollutants and produce more heat which means less waste. These heaters come in a variety of styles, including freestanding models as well as wall-mounted units that can be mounted on walls or ceilings.
Overall
Relax on Your Patio Even When the Weather Changes
With a high-quality patio heating system, you can enjoy your outdoor space throughout the year and into night. Lowe's offers overhead freestanding, commercial-grade, and freestanding heaters that will meet your requirements for home or business. We also have a range of heating accessories such as controls and switches to aid in controlling the temperature and duration of use of your 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 available at your home or office. Electric models are the most simple to install because they plug into standard 120 volt outlets. They also don't release carbon monoxide which is a problem with gas-powered patio heaters. They can be controlled remotely or via the use of a timer. Some have multiple heat settings for added versatility.
Patio heaters that are powered by propane and natural gas can heat up to 215ft2. They require a gas line and should be used only in areas that are well ventilated since they can release carbon monoxide if left unattended. They are a great option for large outdoor areas that you want to keep warm all through the entire year.
For smaller outdoor living spaces, a small standing patio heater such as our top pick is ideal. This model comes with a remote and an LED fire display that provides an aesthetic feature. It also has two heating modes (750W and 1500W) for different heating needs. It makes use of far infrared technology that improves blood circulation and promote metabolism while providing a huge amount of warmth. It's ETL-listed and features a water-resistant design that makes it ideal for balconies, courtyards, garages and patios. It's simple to set up and operates either manually or using a built-in timer. The heater is automatically turned off by the built-in sensor when the temperature gets too high.