Modern Electric Patio Heater
Many models have tip-over protection to avoid accidents. The best ones utilize infrared radiation to warm objects and individuals instead of heating the air.
electric patio heater infrared and dome-top heaters are great in large spaces, but they require the highest Btu rating. They are also secure, but you must follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the placement. Also be freestanding electric patio heater to keep them away from combustible materials.
Style Design
If you're seeking to add warmth and style to your patio, without taking away from the overall design look into a wall or ceiling-mounted electric patio heater. These models emit an ethereal glow that emits infrared heat that warms objects and people instead of the air. They are easy to integrate into your backyard. They complement the color and style of your patio furniture, but without taking over the scene.
Apart from being convenient and portable In addition, electric heaters are more affordable to run than propane or natural gas ones. However, if your patio is open to the elements, you may end up paying more for electric bills since your heating costs will increase when you use them frequently.
Gas-powered models operate on either natural gas or liquid propane and feature a live fire in glass tubes. Their heat output is measured in British Thermal Units. Many restaurants and bars use dome-top or pyramid-style gas heaters, which stand on their own or are integrated into tables. Mobile versions utilize liquid propane tanks that are readily available while mounted versions need plumbed connections and expensive initial cost.
Determine the square footage of your patio to determine the amount of BTUs you'll need for it to be warm enough. The majority of manufacturers provide the heating capacity in BTUs on their websites, so it's easy to compare various options. Once you've determined the appropriate output, choose a heater that's size is in line with your space and also has features that meet your requirements. Some models come with a tip-over shutoff feature that is a useful safety function that detects when the heater tilts or falls and then shuts off the flow of fuel. Some even have overheating protection that shuts off the heater when it gets too hot. To reduce the risk of fire, keep flammable items such as chairs and tablecloths away from your gas heater.
Easy to Operate
Modern patio heaters are more secure than propane models because they do not utilize open flames and come with built-in safety features like auto safety shut-offs for safety, an unflammable base, as well as a CSA safety rating. But, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid placing the heater in proximity to objects that are flammable or could easily catch fire. Also, make sure your patio heater has adequate ventilation because you don't want expose yourself or guests to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Electric patio heaters are not as powerful as propane patio heaters however they provide the convenience of portability and ease of use. They're powered by a simple plug-in connection, and do not require refilling or stored with propane tanks. This makes them perfect for apartments and homes with limited outdoor space. These units use infrared to heat the air and the objects around them. Some have a tilting head to allow you to place the heat precisely where you want it.
Propane heaters can be very heavy and require a professional installation in your gas line. Based on the type of propane heater you choose, it might also be required to store or replace propane tanks. Natural gas patio heaters are a similar option to propane heaters, but they are cheaper to operate and don't require the purchase of additional fuel tanks.
When choosing a patio heater, select one that matches the size of the area and the climate. A model with higher BTUs can be more effective in cooler climates or when hosting a large group of people. For instance, the Bromic PLHT-F300 patio heater comes with a 50,000 BTU output and can heat up to 300 square feet, making it suitable for smaller decks or backyards.
While we like the sleek small design of this electric patio heater from East Oak, we found that it only emitted warmth for nine feet away, which might not be enough for some larger outdoor areas. It's easy-to-use and has an intuitive control panel. The instructions are printed on the unit, so that guests or first-time users are able to quickly master how to make use of it. It also has an emergency shut-off valve as well as wheels at the base, which makes it easy to move around when needed.
Energy-Efficient
The main feature of any patio heating device is its power to heat. Most models indicate this in British thermal units. A higher Btu rating means that the heater has greater heating capacity and is able to keep a room warm. A good rule of thumb is to multiply the square footage of your outdoor space by 20 to find out the amount of Btu you require to have enough heating.
As opposed to gas patio heaters which emit radiant heat, electric models heat the air using infrared radiation. They can be used in enclosed spaces that would otherwise be too cold to be comfortable. Electric heaters are also more environmentally sustainable since they don't rely on a propane tank, or even a flame. Electric heaters are typically more expensive than models that use natural gas, and you'll need to recharge your battery or replace the cord regularly.
Another thing to take into consideration when looking for a patio heater is how long the cord will be, as this will impact the place you can put it and if it interferes with your lighting scheme for your outdoor. You should avoid models with cords that run through busy walkways, which can cause tripping hazards, or require you to plug in the unit near to flammable objects. Certain patio heaters have a cord that automatically shuts off to prevent fires. You can also choose models that don't produce sparks or naked flames.
The last thing to be thinking about is how quickly the patio heater will heat. Some gas heaters require a long time to reach the temperature you want, but most electric models are ready for use the moment they are plugged in. Some models even have adjustable heat settings, so you can turn them up or down depending on the weather conditions and the temperature of your area.
A good patio heater can allow you to enjoy your outdoor spaces through winter. At Lowe's we offer a wide selection of free-standing and tabletop electric patio heaters that will be a perfect fit for your lifestyle and your outdoor decor. Shop our collection online or in-store for a hassle-free shopping experience.
Versatile
If you're looking for an outdoor heater that gives instant heating but doesn't need gas, then an electric model is likely to be your best choice. These models can be mounted directly to the ceiling or on the wall and connect to an outlet for outdoor use. Certain models come with a remote and three different heating settings you can select depending on the weather and temperature. They are also available in various sizes, ranging from small tablestop models to large models that cover an entire patio area.
Unlike propane heaters, which typically need an ignition gas connection to operate, electric heaters can be used virtually anywhere, including in gazebos, according to Dixon. You'll still need to keep them away from the ignition source and ensure that you have adequate ventilation, but they're not subject to the same maintenance requirements as propane or natural heaters.
If you are looking for an electric patio heater select a model that fits the style of your room. Some models sport sleek, elegant looks that is a perfect match for modern designs, while others have an older-fashioned look. A dome or pyramid-style patio heater looks great in a cozy dining space or backyard space. These designs are especially efficient when they are paired with a patio umbrella that hangs which can help keep the heat out while keeping you shaded and protected from the elements.
A patio heater that is electric is a great option to extend your outdoor dining and entertaining time into the winter months. They also consume less energy than propane models and can help you save money on energy bills over time. To reduce the risk of tipping or fire hazards you should consider a model that has a base with weights or one that has an anti-tip shutoff feature. You'll also want to be sure that the unit is correctly placed and away from any flammable objects.