How to choose an outdoor heater: main characteristics of the device
While these products have not gained great popularity in our country, many buyers do not know the criteria for choosing such devices and their functionality. Which is the best outdoor heater to buy in 2021 can be easily decided by paying attention to the following parameters.
Power
This is the first thing to consider when purchasing an outdoor heating product. The greater the power of the device, the larger the area around it can warm. For example, a model with 12 kW is capable of increasing the air temperature within a radius of 7 meters.
The price of the heater also depends on the power. The hotter the device heats, the higher its price. However, you should not purchase a product for a larger area so that it can be used in other areas. It is better to accurately calculate the required power for a specific veranda.
On average, 1 kW is capable of heating 4 sq.m., so when calculating, you simply need to divide the area of the terrace or other required outdoor space by 4, thereby obtaining the required power.
For very large areas, preference should be given to several heating devices. This way the space will warm up more evenly than when using one powerful device.
Material
Most often, outdoor thermal products are produced in a stainless steel case, which is resistant to any weather conditions and retains its original appearance for a long time.
Some manufacturers create devices from simple metals with a special coating. Such products are significantly inferior to steel appliances, since their casing is corroded by constant exposure to moisture. When purchasing such models, you should buy special protective covers for them or install the heater only under the roof/canopy.
Safety
Device safety is one of the most important criteria. Almost every such device has a built-in automatic shutdown system that stops the gas supply if there is no flame.
An important parameter is automatic shutdown when the outdoor device tilts or falls. However, such a system is installed only on high-quality and expensive models. In terms of security, such devices are the most reliable.
Preference should be given to devices with a removable reflector, which allows you to protect the heater from adverse weather conditions. It is advisable to purchase products with the ability to strengthen the base (for example, with sand). This will allow the device to withstand strong gusts of wind. The very wide base also gives the heater stability.
Appearance
The market is now filled with a wide variety of outdoor heaters for every taste: point, suspended, mushroom-shaped or pyramid-shaped. Each buyer will be able to choose a device for all types of placement.
If space allows, you can install a floor-standing device in a stylish case in your backyard. This will not only create warmth for cozy outdoor meetings, but also decorate the area in an original way.
When every meter counts, wall-mounted thermal products will come in handy. Some manufacturers also produce unusual solutions - for embedding into a table or bench. Their disadvantages include a short range and a fairly high cost.
Mobile devices are now becoming increasingly popular. They have removable casters that allow you to move the device with ease. This will be beneficial for those who are going to use the heater in different places, move the product from zone to zone over a large area, or use it in a garage.
Fuel type used
All existing outdoor heaters are divided into 4 categories based on fuel type:
- Gas. Among them are the most powerful devices, so they are suitable for use over large areas. Most often, such products are used in industry and business. For gas models, butane or propane is used. When fuel burns, heating is carried out due to infrared rays. To prevent them from going up, the bottled gas device is equipped with a special “cap” that reflects them down. Fuel consumption in such devices is more economical.
- Electrical. These are the most convenient heater models. They simply charge, have no odor during operation and do not emit hazardous substances. Electrical appliances have better efficiency and can be used at low temperatures. With high electricity rates, the device is only suitable for infrequent use.
- Kerosene. Most Chinese and Russian heaters operate on this fuel. Some manufacturers make these products multifunctional by combining them with cooking stoves. Such devices are ideal for a summer cottage or a camping trip.
- Solid fuel appliances. They usually come in the form of heating stoves. Their design is quite simple, so these devices represent the budget segment. However, fuel for this type of outdoor heating products is quite expensive, so they are not profitable for constant heating. In the long term, purchasing such a heater is completely unprofitable.
The first and second options for heating devices are the most common. Here the choice depends on personal preferences and the availability of electricity in the place where you plan to use this device.
This rating of the best outdoor heaters in 2021 consists of popular models that are in greatest demand among buyers. With its help, you can easily select inexpensive devices, find out which company is better to purchase the device and how much a specific model of thermal product costs.
Infrared outdoor heaters
Star Progetti Heliosa 11
Heliosa, of Italian origin, is a leader in the field of infrared heaters, combining elegant style and high technical performance that provide more thermal output while consuming a small amount of electrical energy resources. The product is available in white and black plastic casing, which allows it to fit into any interior.
The device belongs to the short-wave type of heaters, the heat of which is similar to that of the sun, but it does not contain ultraviolet, microwave and x-ray radiation. Widely used outdoors in open gazebos/verandas. It is important that wind and drafts have virtually no effect on infrared rays. The device turns on only when it is really necessary, since it heats up instantly (approximately 2 seconds).
The case is protected from dust and moisture (IPX 5), so it is not afraid of difficult weather conditions such as rain, snow or fog. It is equipped with a removable protective grille, which is installed when the heater is at a height below 2 meters, in cases where there is a high probability of people touching the heating element or falling into flammable objects.
The optimal service life of the product is 6-7 thousand hours.
Star Progetti Heliosa 11
Advantages:
- Two color options;
- Manufacturer's warranty for 2 years;
- Application in any weather conditions;
- Low power consumption;
- Long service life;
- Safe;
- Reasonable price;
- Highly efficient;
- Small in size.
Flaws:
- Not identified.
The average price is 15,200 rubles.
HUGETT TAKET WHITE (2125/W)
The model is designed for a local heater; it looks like a lamp with a halogen lamp (produces dazzling white light). It can be used both in indoor and outdoor areas. The main task of the device is to heat the entire room from ceiling to floor. You only need to turn it on when needed.
A halogen lamp with enormous power potential provides even light throughout the entire period of operation. The ultraviolet filter is quartz glass with a special coating, thanks to which objects exposed to the lighting device do not fade.
Heat dissipation is carried out by a reflector. Uninterrupted lamp operation – 5000 hours. The area covered by one unit is 10 sq.m.
The Belgian development meets all environmental and safety requirements. Ceiling installation is carried out to a height of no more than 3 meters. Using a 180 cm long cord, the device is connected to the network and provides it with relative independence from the outlet. The structure can be controlled using a remote control, and if necessary, it can be moved to another location. The delivery set includes brackets.
HUGETT TAKET WHITE (2125/W)
Specifications:
- overall dimensions (cm): 32 – height, depth and width – 72;
- net weight – 4 kg;
- power consumption – 0.9-2.1 kW.
Advantages:
- Affordable price;
- Ergonomic design;
- Simple controls;
- Creates a cozy atmosphere;
- High power rating;
- Warms all objects in the area of effect;
- Reliable protection of the housing from precipitation;
- Long service life;
Flaws:
- Only for restaurant business owners.
The average price is 16,500 rubles.
Hugett Floor-R
A floor-mounted infrared heater in the form of a lantern will harmonize with any type of interior. The case has IP44 moisture protection, allows you to adjust the supports/legs in height, which is convenient for heating sitting and standing places. The device operates from the mains (power cord 180 cm). A stainless steel protective grille for heating elements is provided.
Device parameters: heating area 9 m2, maximum distance between two heaters - 4 meters, power adjustment - 1.2/1.8/3 kW, packaged device size (cm): 60/60/41; weight – 16 kg 200 g.
Hugett Floor-R
Advantages:
- Detailed instructions;
- Appearance;
- Safe;
- Possibilities;
- Effective;
- Operation in any weather conditions;
- Low power consumption.
Flaws:
- Price.
The average price is 23,000 rubles.
Heliosa Hi Design 998/999
This infrared heater with a power of 1500 W is suitable for an area of no more than 20 sq.m. It is designed for wall use, and thanks to the flexible bracket, it can be easily repositioned. The weight of the device is 2.2 kg.
Heliosa Hi Design 998/999
Advantages:
- small size;
- presented in two colors.
Flaws:
- cannot be used everywhere, because it can only be placed on the wall.
The average price is 14,690 rubles.
Heliosa Hi Design 11BX5/11FMX5
An infrared halogen heater is suitable for an area of no more than 15 square meters. It is capable of working with power up to 1500 W. The device is controlled fully automatically and is designed for mounting on a wall or ceiling. The device should be installed at least 2-2.3 meters. The dimensions of the heater are 45.5 cm wide, 13 cm high and 9 cm deep. Weight – 1 kg.
Heliosa Hi Design 11BX5/11FMX5
Advantages:
- presented in two colors;
- auto shutdown when overheating;
- The device body is protected from moisture;
- there is a thermostat.
Flaws:
- small heating area;
- there is no timer.
The average price is 11,390 rubles.
Rating of the best models
In our rating, we have collected the top 3 highest quality models of outdoor electric heaters that will help you make the right choice.
ChillChaser NEPTUN
This heater not only warms up the area, but also serves as a light source. It uses energy sparingly and is almost silent in operation. A significant advantage in favor of this device is the motion sensor, which turns on the device only when there are people in its operating area; this function makes it economical. As a nice bonus, the heater has wheels built into it to make it easier to move.
See also -
How to choose the ideal air conditioner for your home and apartment
Kvimol KM05
This heater has a wall mounting method. The main advantage of this device is its IP 65 protection rating, which means that it is resistant to moisture and can work in the rain. Another advantage is the affordable price of the device. The disadvantage is the small heating area, but it can efficiently heat a small veranda measuring up to 15 square meters.
See also -
Which floor-standing air conditioner is better to choose for your home?
Alexander Rose Appollo
This model, just like the previous one, can be purchased at an affordable price. The main advantage of this device is the presence of an emergency shutdown system for the heater if it falls. It also has a motion sensor. An energy-saving lamp is built into the body of the device and the set includes a remote control for the heater.
See also:
- 5 best electric fireplaces and hearths according to customer reviews
- 9 best Electrolux electric fireplaces and hearths according to customer reviews
- 9 best RESANTA heaters according to customer reviews
- 10 Best Electrolux Heaters of 2021
- 10 Best Hyundai Heaters
