Regardless of what you are looking for in a patio heater, you will want to make sure that you consider a few important factors before you make your purchase. This includes what type of heating you are looking for, whether you want a free-standing or tabletop model, and whether you want to use natural gas or propane to heat your patio. This will help you narrow down your search and help you make a decision that is right for you.

Free-standing

Whether you want to extend your outdoor season or just spend a few more evenings enjoying the view, you can find a free-standing infrared patio heater that will be a good fit. There are several types of heaters to choose from, and each one is designed to meet your needs. Some are suitable for small gatherings, while others are more powerful for larger gatherings. You can also find ones that can be wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted. You can also find ones with covers that prevent debris from blowing into the heating element.

One of the newest free-standing infrared patio heaters is from VASNER. It has an inconspicuous base and the latest generation of woven carbon fibres. The StandLine 23R heater is available in black or silver. It’s easy to assemble and it has a long service life. It’s also made from carbon fibre, making it environmentally friendly.

Another free-standing infrared heater is from Bromic Heating. It has a rounded shape, making it suitable for indoor or outdoor use. It’s designed to be resistant to splashes, heavy rain, and snow. It has a patented carbon fibre heating tube that helps reduce running costs by up to 90%. It’s also easy to move. It has bottom wheels for easy mobility.

Energ+ Hea-21821 is a water-resistant infrared heater that’s ideal for kiosks, terraces, and indoors. It’s completely silent, economical, and efficient. It’s also IP-44 rated, making it safe and weather-resistant. It can be adjusted from 5.5 to 6.7 feet, making it ideal for wide areas.

The StandLine heater also has a remote control, making it easy to adjust. It’s designed to fit mobile homes, mobile offices, and other portable spaces. It also has a simple design, making it ideal for use in the office.

Tabletop

Whether you’re looking for an electric or infrared patio heater, you’ll find that both types have their own unique benefits. The best option for you will depend on your climate, the size of your patio, and what you want to do with the heater. You can also find models with extra safety features.

If you want to heat a smaller space, a tabletop infrared heater can be the perfect option. They are small, light, and portable. They also generate a lot of heat for their small size.

Electric tabletop heaters can be the best option for you if you’re looking for a heater that is environmentally friendly. They also heat longer, which means that you will save money on your utility bill.

Tabletop heaters can be electric or propane powered. Whether you choose a propane model or an electric one, make sure you have a propane tank that can be inserted. They should also have a shut off valve and an electronic ignition.

For electric heaters, the output should be indicated in kilowatts (kWh) and BTUs (British Thermal Units). Infrared heaters are also considered to be an energy efficient option because they generate a lot of heat for their small design. You should also look for models with adjustable heat settings. You can also set the heater to a lower temperature when it is warmer or a higher temperature when it is cooler.

If you are looking for a heater that can heat a larger area, a propane powered model may be the best option for you. You can also get tabletop heaters that are made of aluminum or steel. These models are also durable and resistant to rust.

Natural gas or propane

Whether you’re looking to warm up the patio or entertain guests, you can do so safely with a natural gas or propane patio heater. Although they require a little more maintenance, they are also much more efficient than their electric counterparts.

Typical full-size natural gas patio heaters produce 40,000 BTUs, which is enough to heat an area up to 20 feet in diameter. While they require a professional installation, they’re also less expensive to run than their electric counterparts.

Natural gas is clean to burn, and its odor is usually nonexistent. The downside is that you’ll have to install gas lines, and you may have to pay a plumber to do the work.

There’s also a certain amount of danger in having a heater without a flame. The heat from a gas-burning model can also build up, making enclosed spaces dangerous. And while propane-fueled patio heaters are portable, they’re not recommended for indoor use.

Natural gas and propane patio heaters are among the best outdoor heating solutions for the cold months. However, you’ll also need to determine which type of fuel is right for you.

The most important factor to consider is the size of the area you’ll be using the heater. If it’s a small patio, you’ll need a smaller unit. On the other hand, if you’re using it to heat a large area, you’ll need a larger heater.

You also need to consider the cost of the fuel. Natural gas is much cheaper than propane, but you’ll also have to pay to have a gas line installed. Also, you’ll want to make sure that there is plenty of space around your unit, as you’ll need at least three feet of airspace to operate a gas unit.

Energy efficiency

Unlike traditional patio heaters, infrared and electric patio heaters are extremely energy efficient. They use up to 40% less energy than typical space heaters, resulting in lower heating costs. The heat produced by infrared heaters is transferred directly to people and objects, rather than heating the air.

These heaters also do not produce smoke or fumes, or generate UV radiation. These features make them safer for children and animals. Infrared and electric patio heaters do not produce condensation and require no ventilation or exhausts.

If you want to use your patio heater in an outdoor area such as your patio or garden, check to make sure it is UL Listed and has a safety rating. It should also be located at least 4.6 metres away from any combustible material. It is also recommended that you set up your electric heater at least one metre away from an outlet, if possible.

Some models also include wireless controls and dimming options. These new safety features make many models safe for households with children and pets.

Some infrared heaters use as little as 300 watts of electricity. In addition, some models have been UL Listed, which means that they have been through rigorous safety testing.

You can see the amount of energy your heater uses on the device’s power cord sticker. Infrared and electric patio heaters also use less energy than convection heaters, which heat the air. You can also use a thermostat to control your heater’s temperature.

Unlike convection heaters, infrared and electric heaters require less maintenance and require less time to preheat. Infrared heat also reduces the risk of mold. The heat also improves blood circulation, which is beneficial for your health.

Maintenance

Regardless of the type of patio heater you have, it is important to maintain it properly. If you do not do so, your heater may not operate as efficiently or safely as it could.

The best way to keep your heater performing at its best is to schedule an annual service visit from a qualified technician. This will ensure that your heater continues to operate at peak efficiency while avoiding the cost of downtime and repair bills.

To maintain an infrared patio heater, it is important to pay attention to the following:

For starters, make sure that the orifices on the heater are free of dirt, soot and cobwebs. This will improve the heater’s efficiency and ensure that you get the most out of each kilowatt of energy.

Also, be sure to check the impeller fan for signs of wear and tear. A dirty fan will prevent proper air movement. It is also important to check the motor’s oil level. If your motor hasn’t been serviced in a while, it may be time to invest in a new motor.

You may also wish to clean the aluminum reflector on the heater. This will help improve the heater’s efficiency and make sure that you get the most out of each watt of energy.

Lastly, you may wish to test the spark igniter on your heater. This small component is usually secured to the ignition assembly by a single retainer nut. If it is secure, you should be able to unscrew it and see a spark. If not, you may need to buy a new spark igniter.

For the most part, you should be able to enjoy your patio heater for years to come. However, regular maintenance will ensure that your investment will last a lifetime.