In the realm of outdoor living, warmth and comfort reign supreme, and tabletop outdoor heaters emerge as the perfect companions for creating cozy and inviting spaces. These compact yet mighty heating solutions are designed to transform your patio, deck, or balcony into a toasty haven, extending your outdoor enjoyment well into the cooler months. As you embark on your quest for the ideal tabletop outdoor heater, let's unravel the factors that define an excellent choice.
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Important Tip #1: Safety Features
The first and most important factor before buying any tabletop outdoor heater is safety. Ensure that the device is designed with safety features to avoid any accidents. Check for certifications such as CSA and UL to determine if it meets the essential safety standards. Also, the heater should have a safety tilt switch, which immediately turns it off in case it tips over. Additionally, a protective cage or guard will prevent anyone from contacting the heating element.1.1 Tip #1 Example:
One example of a tabletop outdoor heater with excellent safety features is the Hiland HLDS032-B tabletop heater. It has an anti-tilt switch that automatically shuts it off when it tilts to 30 degrees or more. It also has a protective grille that surrounds the heating element, preventing people from accidentally touching it. The device is CSA certified, indicating that it meets the essential safety standards.
Important Tip #2: Heating Power
When selecting the right tabletop outdoor heater, the heating power is a crucial factor to consider. The heating power is the amount of heat the device can radiate, which is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). Outdoor heating needs a bit more power compared to indoor heating, primarily if the area is open, windy and chilly. You should determine the heating power depending on the size of your outdoor space, temperature, and how much heat you need to stay comfortable.2.1 Tip #2 Example:
One example of a tabletop outdoor heater with excellent heating power is the Fire Sense 61322 table top patio heater. It can generate up to 10,000 BTUs of heat, enough to warm up an area of up to 75 square feet. It comes with a variable control valve that enables you to adjust the temperature accordingly. This device is capable of producing comfortable warmth even in chilly and windy environments.
Important Tip #3: Type of Fuel
When it comes to tabletop outdoor heaters, there are three types of fuel options: propane, natural gas, or electrical energy. Each type of fuel has its benefits and downsides, making it crucial to choose the one that suits your needs. Propane heaters are ideal for outdoor heating since they have a high heating power and are portable. You only need to connect the device to a propane tank, and you're good to go. However, propane tanks require regular refilling, and you need to ensure there's enough gas to last your outdoor entertainment. Natural gas heaters are more convenient and cost-effective compared to propane. They are mainly used for permanent installations and require codes and permits to set up. You need to have a dedicated gas line running to the outdoor entertainment area to ensure the heater runs correctly. Electric heaters are less powerful than propane and natural gas heaters. They are portable and come with extension cords, which makes them ideal for outdoor use. They are also cost-effective and eco-friendly, unlike gas heaters. They can be plugged in anywhere since they only require an electrical outlet.3.1 Tip #3 Example:
One example of an outdoor heater that uses propane as its fuel source is the AZ Patio Heaters HLDS032-CG. It has a variable control valve that allows you to adjust the heat output accordingly. It's portable, making it easy to move from one place to another. Another example is the Fire Sense 60262 stainless steel table top patio heater that uses electricity as a source of energy. It's ideal for indoor and outdoor use since it doesn't emit hazardous gases.
Important Tip #4: Portability and Mobility
Mobility and portability are crucial factors to consider when choosing a tabletop outdoor heater. If you like to rearrange your furniture, it's essential not to limit yourself with a fixed outdoor heater. Portable heaters allow you to place them in any position to suit your outdoor entertainment needs. You should also check for the weight of the heater since some heaters are heavy and can be strenuous to move around.4.1 Tip #4 Example:
One example of a portable indoor/outdoor heater is the Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B propane heater. It's easy to move, weighing around 9 pounds, making it convenient to install your preferred entertainment spot. Similarly, the Well-Traveled Living 60763 hammered bronze heater has a weight capacity of around 20 lbs, allowing you to move it to any spot of your liking.
Important Tip #5: Ease of Assembly and Use
When selecting a tabletop outdoor heater, you should consider how easy it is to assemble and use. No need to buy complicated systems that will require an instruction manual and tons of tools to put together. Look for a device with simple assembly instructions that will take you a few minutes to set up. You should also ensure that it's easy to operate, with simple controls like a switch, thermostat, or timer.5.1 Tip #5 Example:
One example of a heater that is easy to assemble and use is the Legacy Heating CAPH-7-S table top heater, which takes less than 20 minutes to put together. It has simple controls that include an ignition button and a knob that controls the heat. An additional example is the Firefly 2KW freestanding patio heater, whose design allows for quick setup because the device comes pre-assembled.