Did you know that you can install a wood burning stove in a smoke-free zone? Yep, if you get the right product and operate it properly, no smoke will come out. Amazing, isn’t it? You’ve come to the right place. You get to see the best wood stoves on the market today and an extensive user guide on how to run them correctly.

Our experts have compiled a guide in order to give a quick heads up! Wood stoves nowadays cover all the regulations when it comes to fumes and emissions. Burning wood doesn’t pollute the air and you get 10 times the effectiveness of electrical heaters.

See which products stand out and then make sure to become familiar with the right way to kindle a fire and maintain a wood burning stove at home. Read away and have fun!

 

Best Wood Burning Stoves of 2019

1. US Stove Company 2000 Wood Stove

Almost any wood burning stove can be used as a main source of heat and this is the case here as well. The US Stove Company 2000 Wood Stove is a mid-sized product which will be just enough for most common households. It has a 2 cubic foot firebox. 21-inch logs are the longest pieces you will be able to fit in there but this should be quite enough. Thus re-stocking the stove happens rarely and more heat is obtained. The BTU ratings of wood stoves are unmatched by other heating products and here we have a BTU of 89,000. It is not recommended that cooking takes place on the stove. However, a kettle can easily rest there and warm some water or use it as a humidifier. The stove blower is a convenience and the ashtray is huge making the stove easy to maintain. This product should not be installed in a fireplace.

2. Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove

This wood stove features two materials. The body is made out of galvanized steel and the door consists of sturdy cast iron. There are hinges for extra convenience. The whole product is built for a convenient outing and the set contents show it. There are detachable legs and assembly hardware. All of this will make storing and transporting easier. The 5 pipes which come with the stove are easy to mount as they fit in one another without any problems. There is also an adjustable air vent on the cast iron door. Additionally there 2 tools included. An ash rake and a fire poker. The fire poker is also used as a door opener for safety. A key factor here is that the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove cannot be used indoors and even when used outside, proper ventilation should be present. It can heat up to a 1000 square feet.

3. Pleasant Hearth Wood Burning Stove

This next stove we have on our wood stove reviews list falls in the “large” category and the price correlates to that. This heavy-duty product is excellent for heating large spaces namely a space of 2200 square feet. Once it is fully stocked up, it will burn continuously for at least 8 hours. Nothing needs to be used as a door opener as there is a chrome handle. In terms of other materials used, the firebox has brick layering while the ash lip is made out of stainless steel. The glass window of the cast iron door is in fact made out of ceramic. Among the cool perks, we can list an air wash system and the sliding draft control. Another important component is the variable speed blower. The emissions rating is quite good as it stands at 3.6 grams/hr. The stove comes with a 5-year limited warranty. Cooking on it is not recommended.

4. Vogelzang Colonial EPA Wood Stove

The Vogelzang Colonial EPA Wood Stove is one of the more massive products we are reviewing. It is so popular because its main feature is to be a fireplace insert. It will truly change the look of any existing hearth. The cast iron door has cool touch wooden handle making it easy to interact with. There is a 16 x 9 –inch ceramic window which allows you to enjoy the burning inside. There is no extra exhaust pipe and the hole on top needs to be used. Pipes are not included in the set and it is recommended that it is connected to an at least 12-foot chimney. The reinforced plate steel body will give you security while the firebrick lining inside the firebox is rather easy to clean. The hearth needs to have dimensions of about 31 x 44 inches in order for this wood burning stove to fit properly.

5. Drolet High-Efficiency Wood Stove

Here we have a model with an impressive, for its size, firebox. It gives us almost 4 cubic feet of space and that means we can get at least 10 hours of burning. Additionally, you will be able to fit not one but 2 21-inch logs and enjoy heat for longer. The emissions are 3.8g/h which is definitely a good rating. The 5/16-inch steel plate on top of the stove can be used to warm some water. Another convenience is that the water can be vaporized and thus a humidifying effect will be achieved. Cooking is not recommended. The efficiency rating is 78% which is definitely not the best one on our list. It is pretty good, though. The handle of the cast iron door is adjustable. The air control on top is not hard to operate. Bear in mind that the BTU rating depends on the purity and dryness of the wood used.

6. Hi-Flame Shetland Wood Stove

This is a small wood burning stove but will be just fantastic when used in the right room. The product will heat up space of about 800 square feet. Not very big logs can be fit in there as the depth of the firebox is about 17 inches. The retailer suggests that 12-inch logs are used. The handle on the cast iron door is made out of wood so it will be safe to touch at any time. With the proper cordwood, one will have the chance to get about 21,000 BTU from the Hi-Flame Shetland Wood Stove. The presence of the top flue is crucial as it shoots all the smoke and emissions directly upwards. There is an option to also have the flue on the back, though. The unit is also 100% EPA certified. Unfortunately, there is no air control with this wood burning stove.

Operating A Wood Burning Stove

We now kick off our wood burning stove tips and tricks by talking about how to actually operate one. This process shouldn’t be overlooked as there is actually a proper way to light your fire at home. It doesn’t matter whether you are using a wood burning stove for the first time, you have to learn to do it right straight from the start.

You know what they say “If there’s smoke then there’s fire”. Well, it actually should say “there’s a badly started fire” because if you do it properly there will be no smoke coming from your chimney. We will talk about that more below as it is directly related to maintenance but let it sink in for now.

So here we will go through the 6 main steps which will show you how to operate a wood burning stove correctly. You will also see a number of other useful wood burning stove facts.

1. Use the right wood

What you need is very dry and well-seasoned wood. If it is green or somewhat alive, it will not yield good results at all. Fresh logs will dramatically reduce the heat output and will cause excessive smoking without starting a flame. Getting it just right typically requires time and patience.

You need to store your logs for at least 6 months in order to let them dry really thoroughly. Keep your pieces of wood away from rain and moisture. It is recommended that you buy a moisture meter (they sell them everywhere) and monitor the levels of moisture. You are aiming at values of 20% or less. Anything greater than that is virtually unusable.

2. Start small

You shouldn’t expect to have a huge fire in that firebox right off the bat. You need to put some smaller pieces and fire starters initially. Don’t just throw in the big log. This is because a high temperature needs to be generated before the “big boys” enter the game.

A small fire can get pretty hot and that’s your goal. Put in small pieces of paper and keep feeding it little pieces of dry wood. Pine is simply great for this endeavor. Keep the door open for about 1 minute when you are doing this. Oxygen is vital (pun intended) for fire as well.

3. Go 1 by 1

Once you are happy with the temperature of the stove start putting in larger logs. Do it 1 by 1, though. You want the whole body of the stove to become hot. The high temperature will definitely aid flaming those big logs you are trying to put in there.

If you pile up wood inside the firebox you will practically “strangle” the stove as no oxygen will be able to pass through. Don’t get frustrated and simply take it easy.

4. Maintain the kindle

So in order to keep the whole thing going, you need to be both careful and active with the air control. This is a feature which every good wood burning stove has and it is imperative that you use it. Don’t shut it off completely as your fire will like to be put off.

If you overload your stove you will start seeing a lot of smoke. Excessive smoking doesn’t mean you are doing a good job. On the contrary, it will likely create creosote which sticks to the pipes and the chimney. It will be troublesome in the long-term.

5. Keep the door closed

These cast iron doors are there for a reason. Once you close the door of the stove, keep it that way. If it stays open you run the risk of having things jump out of there which is a fire hazard. But that’s not all. If oxygen is freely flowing through the firebox, it will direct your heat to the chimney. You want it in your room.

6. Don’t burn garbage

This is actually a very important topic. Burning trash is, in fact, illegal in many states and countries. It will never do you any good as it will just clog your stove, pipes, and chimney. Not to mention that it will smell awful for you and your neighbors.

Burning garbage is also incredibly harmful to nature and the environment. Those fumes and emissions must never be released into the air. Yes, little amounts of paper can be used in order to start a fire but that’s it. Make sure you stick to using firewood, fire starters, and manufactured fire logs.

Maintenance Makes All The Difference

Even the most efficient burning wood stove will have a hard time functioning properly if maintenance is overlooked or plain bad. Poor maintenance also bears a number of fire hazards and this is why no corners should be cut and no aspects should be overlooked when cleaning your wood stove.

Below we will describe the two main reasons why extensive care for your wood stove is imperative. We will start with effectiveness and then will move on to safety. You need to be ready to fully devote to the preservation of your stove if you are going to buy one.

Effectiveness

Similar to most things, proper maintenance will prolong their shelf life and will allow them to perform better. This goes for cars, vacuum cleaners, all sorts of domestic heating and cooling devices, and is especially true for a wood burning stove.

Did you know that if your whole installation is clean, you might reduce the amount of wood you use by 1/3? This is mind-blowing. You can spend 33% less money on heating if you only pay good attention to the stove you use.

The best sign you haven’t done a good job is the presence of smoke. If your stove is functioning properly, it will not blow any smoke. This is beneficial to you, your neighbors and the environment. Maintaining a wood burning stove results in less harmful emissions making that process even more vital.

In addition to always keeping the stove clean, you also need to make sure you use proper fuel.

Fire Safety

This reason, of course, is just as important especially when we look for ways how to keep a wood stove burning all night. Knowing what is safe and what isn’t is simply crucial for any wood burning stove owner. There are 3 things that might cause fire problems and you want to stay on top of all 3.

• The chimney isn’t clean
• There are combustibles too close to the stove
• Something Flammable falls on the stove

The first one is directly related to proper wood burning stove maintenance and we will go over it before talking about the bottom 2 as well.

1. Cleaning the whole system

Chimney fires are bad because they are pretty sneaky. Many people do not even realize what happens between their stove and the end of the chimney. This is what we are here for. We will now take you through the full procedure of keeping your stove, pipes, and chimney clean. Failure to do so will result in excessive smoking and might even lead to a fire hazard in the long-term.

Your chimney needs to be swept annually. Creosote and soot are generated in there and they can become quite dangerous. Once a year you need to call a wood heat professional who will check and inspect your whole installation. You will see a pattern here. The higher you go in the heating system, the less often you will need to clean it.

Once you get down to the piping and the actual stove, your interference needs to be more and more frequent.

• Dealing with the Firebox

Many households keep their wood stoves working 24 hours a day for a few days. While this is alright, you will also need to put down the fire once in a while so that you can actually clean the firebox. The best products have brick lining in there meaning that combustion happens easily but so does the cleaning.

Once you are sure the ash is cold make sure to scoop it up using a metal trowel. If you have an ashtray then that’s great. Clean it every few days before you notice any build-up. Hot ambers are not your friends. Use caution and make sure it’s all cold and dead.

Don’t remove all the ash, though. Leave about ½-inch of ash on the bottom of the firebox. This creates sort of an insulating layer. It will help you start your next fire. Use a metal container. Don’t dispose of ashes in your household garbage!

Once you are happy with the amount of ash left, make sure your stove is at room temperature. This is where a can of fireplace glass cleaner will come in handy. It is sold virtually everywhere. Help yourself to a soft cloth and clean the window of the stove.

It is important to do this next step the first time you light a fire after a cleaning session. Leave the air control wide open for about 10-15 minutes as the fire is burning. This will help reduce the amount of creosote generated. Feel free to do this for a whole week during the winter season.

• Keeping the pipe clean

Start by popping the pipe out from both the stove and the wall or ceiling. When you are kindling the fire is when this area sees the most action. Flames usually get up into the pipe. That’s how creosote is generated. In time, it piles up and every next kindling worsens it.

These little “fingers” of soot and creosote constantly catch fire and get deeper in the chimney. Once you have the pipe out, take a look at the hole in the wall with a flashlight. You will see these wispy things hanging down like stalactites. You don’t want them there. Scrape them off using a brush or a metal stick. You need to do this maybe every 5-6 weeks. This area simply a critical factor and needs to be addressed.

A quick tip from us here is to maybe even inspect your whole chimney from here. Grab a small mirror which fits in your palm. Stretch your arm inside the pipe in the wall. Adjust the mirror so that you can see daylight. You should be able to see the 4 walls of the chimney. If you are satisfied with the amount of creosote or lack thereof then your chimney doesn’t need cleaning immediately.

Now grab the pipe you just pulled out and go outside. It is pretty obvious what needs to be done here. Scrape off all the build-up from inside the pipe and once you are satisfied with it, have it re-inserted.

• The chimney job

If you have a chimney cleanout underneath your house then we got news for you. You have to go down there periodically as well. This doesn’t need to be done after every pipe cleaning but you don’t want to leave soot sitting there for too long.

Rainfalls happen and water makes it through the chimney. It just might turn that soot into a mush and then into concrete after it dries out. Scoop it up in a bucket once every 2-3 months. As far as cleaning the actual chimney goes, you ought to do that at least once a year (preferably once every 9-10 months). This procedure, however, is best carried out by a professional.

So before we move on to talking about the other wood burning stove precautions we will quickly recap the information above. As you see, it is not so hard to learn how to use a wood burning stove to heat a house when you clean the installation. Did you notice a trend there? The further up the pipeline you go, the less often you will need to clean it.

The most effort takes place down there in the firebox and the actual stove – that’s a couple of times a week. Then every several weeks your pipes need to be clean. Eventually, it takes months for your chimney to actually become dangerous. Learning such useful wood burning stove fast facts is actually going to make your life way easier.

2. Combustibles

These next 2 categories are rather easy to handle but we can’t stress enough how important they are. Accidents happen because things are in the wrong place at the wrong time and it is your job to prevent that from happening.

In short, don’t leave anything easily flammable around the stove. Expect the unexpected when you are burning wood. You open the door when the fire is burning, oxygen enters, things start moving, little sparks might pop out – it’s easy for things to go wrong. Be ready to handle this sort of thing.

Have a little shovel and a poker right under the stove along with fireproof gloves. The first 2 tools you can use if a small amber jumps out and you need to scoop it up and pop it back in the fire. The gloves are useful if a burning log falls on the ground. Grab it and throw it in.

Make sure there are at least 4 feet between the wood stove and something which is lying around. *Electric wall heaters, for example,* (anchor to the wall heaters page) require at least 2 feet of distance but their power cannot be compared to the force of a wood burning stove.

3. Flammable objects

Fires are caused not only if something ends up inside the stove. As long as an easily flammable object touches the stove or the pipe and remains there, you are running the risk of having a dangerous situation.

This is especially important if you have children or pets. Any pillows, tablecloths, plastic toys are not welcome around the wood burning stove. What you want to have nearby is a fire extinguisher. In fact, having such a device is one of the main wood stove insurance requirements. Another useful thing is a jar full of soda.

While extinguishers require more presence of mind in a critical situation, everyone can throw a handful of soda on the flames.

Pros Cons Of The Wood Burning Stoves

Before we let you go, we will recap the wood burning stoves advantages & disadvantages. It has perhaps already become pretty clear what is convenient and what is left to be desired about them but in the name of punctuality we will list the following:

Pros

• Fuel is cheaper – imagine having *your space heater running for 24 hours non-stop* (anchor to the space heaters page). Logs and dry wood do not cost as much and give you by far the most heat from a unit.
• You get enormous amounts of heat – the BTU ratings of wood burning stoves are light years ahead of all sorts of other heating systems. The best part is that you won’t use an excessive amount of electricity.
• Can be used to humidify the room – leave some water on top and let it vaporize.

Cons

• Requires constant maintenance – not only that you need to often clean your stove but you need to do it properly.
• Can be harmful to the environment – If you do not clean the stove regularly it will start smoking and will emit harmful particles into the airspace around your home. This is not only unpleasant but can be dangerous and illegal.
• Fire hazard – It’s tough to have a peace of mind when your stove is running 24/7. Make sure that nothing can get easily ignited around the stove. Take all the safety precautions needed.

Best Wood Stoves Comparison Chart

PRODUCT	PRICE	DIMENSIONS	WEIGHT	HEAT COVERAGE	MATERIAL	BTU's
US Stove Company 2000 Wood Stove	$$	24.5 x 27 x 30"	275 pounds	2,000 sq. ft.	Plate Steel	up to 89,000
Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove	$	21 x 14 x 11"	50.3 pounds	1,000 sq. ft.	Galvanized Steel Body / Sturdy Cast Iron Door Consists	up to 60,000
Pleasant Hearth Wood Burning Stove	$$$$	29 x 30 x 38.8"	358 pounds	2.200 sq. ft.	Stainless Steel / Ceramic	up to 77,000
Vogelzang Colonial EPA Wood Stove	$$$$	20 x 26.5 x 21.5"	265 pounds	1,800 sq. ft.	Plate Steel	up to 69,600
Drolet High-Efficiency Wood Stove	$$$$$	29.4 x 28.1 x 34.4"	555 pounds	2.400 sq. ft.	Steel with cast iron door	up to 95,000
Hi-Flame Shetland Wood Stove	$$$	17 x 18 x 24"	174 pounds	800 sq. ft.	Primary Metal	up to 21,000

Wrapping Up

It is only normal that we have come to the realization that wood burning is by far the most energy-efficient warmth your home will ever see. But it is also obvious that a person’s level of day-to-day involvement is pretty big. Even the best wood burning stove requires proper maintenance and if you are fine with that, go ahead and buy one.

We hope that we have provided you with sufficient information on how to choose, maintain and operate a wood stove. In case you want to let us know about something we’ve missed in our wood stove reviews, please comment the article. Share the guide if you liked and thanks for reading. See some of our articles on domestic heating and as always – stay put.

 

Did you know that kerosene has been known to humanity for about 12 centuries? It looks like only now folks started realizing how useful this fuel can be for domestic heating. Here’s an opportunity for you to become acquainted with the best kerosene heaters available.

Read through our guide below and see a lot more information than just best kerosene heater reviews. Our crew has put together an article highlighting the types of kerosene heaters, their features as well as differences, and similarities. We can’t skip giving you a few comparisons and of course – safety tips.

 

Best Kerosene Heaters (The Top List)

1. Mr. Heater Forced-Air Kerosene Heater

Garage work is made easy with this effective kerosene heater by Mr. Heater. The brand stays true to its reputation and puts only the finest components in this product. The strength is remarkable as you will be able to heat up more than 4000 square feet of space with one of these units. Additionally, the tank comes with a capacity of 14 gallons. This means that the approximate maximum time for which the heater will function is about 10 hours. Any job site will be way better with the otherworldly 175 000 BTU of heat which are emitted from the unit. Of course, there is a built-in adjustable thermostat because maximum heat isn’t always desired. Since this is an air-forced heater the high-output fan will ensure smooth operation without any visible flames. The convenience factors are enhanced by the presence of cord storage, a power indicator light and pneumatic wheels for easy transportation.

2. Sengoku KeroHeat Portable Kerosene Heater

This is a portable kerosene heater and it really got good after an upgrade that took place. The Sengoku KeroHeat Portable Kerosene Heater is easy to ignite because this process is automated. When it comes to safety, it hardly gets any better than that. It does have a protective grid in front so that nobody can get burned. Additionally, you get a tip over- switch-off and an automatic thermal shut-off. When used indoors, fire alarms will not go off. Doesn’t need to be vented. Efficiency is also not an issue. This portable unit comes with a 1.2 gallon tank. This will last for about 14 hours. The estimated heated area is somewhere about 400 square feet – maybe slightly less. When used outdoors, you need to keep in mind that the unit is not waterproof and that the batteries are not protected. Also, make sure you use kerosene only .No other fuel is compatible with this heater.

3. Dura Heat Indoor Kerosene Heater

Now we are going to look into a portable kerosene heater made by Dura Heat. This neat little gadget will not require any electric cords, no sockets and no connections in order to function. Its BTU cannot be compared to the one of the “bigger boys” as it is “just” 23 800. The efficiency rating of this unit, however, is completely off the charts. If you connect it to a 1.9 gallon tank you will be able to keep the heating going for at least nine hours. On a good day, you might even get 12. Filling is done through a squeeze pump tool. There is safety switch-off and a protective grid all over the unit. It is important to note that some states in the US prohibit the use of such products indoors. When used for the first time, it is best if the heater is left outside for about 30 min so that it can burn off oils.

4. Master MH Kerosene Forced-Air Heater

This is one of the more powerful units on our list and even though it comes at a price it will definitely be of outstanding help top any construction site. The huge output of 215 000 BTU will warm a space of at least 2500 square feet. The design on this one is also not to be underestimated. You will find two useful handles along with steady wheels for easy transportation. The front side also has a stand so that the heater doesn’t point downward. It runs on both kerosene and diesel. A little setback is that you can only plug into a 120V circuit. An adapter would have to be purchased separately if you have a 240V circuit. The tank’s capacity of the Master MH Kerosene Heater is 13 lb. The fuel expense is about 1.63 gph. This will give you 8 hours of heat with 1 tank. Fumes can get stronger at times.

5. Pro-Temp Kerosene Forced-Air Heater

The size on this next product is quite convenient and it can easy be relocated using the easy-lift handle on top. There is, of course, a correlation between size and power and the Pro-Temp Kerosene is not going to be the most powerful unit on our list today. You still get 70 000 BTU with it and this will definitely suffice for a 2-car garage or a medium-sized workshop. In other words, the total space you will be able to cover should be about 1700 square feet. Efficiency is also not absent here as you have this thing running for 9 hours straight by using just one 5-gallon tank. Some other components worth mentioning are the built-in pressure gauge and the easy-grip fuel cap. The thermostat works in a pretty self-explanatory fashion and doesn’t require a lot of attention. A great benefit is the fact that the unit works not only with kerosene but also with Jet A fuel, Fuel Oil, and Diesel.

6. Kero World Indoor Portable Convection Kerosene Heater

The ignition on that unit is something that really adds convenience to the operation. It is matchless meaning that it won’t bear any danger to the user. As far as the most important specs go, they are pretty much standard for any indoor kerosene heater. You get 23 000 BTU allowing to heat up an area of about 1000 square feet. The built-in tank isn’t huge (1.9 gallons) but it is pretty efficient. One full tank will be good for about 12 hours. It is suggested by the manufacturer that only clean kerosene is used as fuel. Diesel isn’t a good idea for indoor heaters because of the fumes. What’s good about those little heaters is that they give you convection heat. Unlike forced-air heaters, these will warm up a room gradually and evenly. The unit is manufactured in South Korea. Comes with a wick – just unpack and use.

Different Types of Kerosene Heaters

By reading about our top picks above, you have perhaps realized that there is one major difference between kerosene heaters. In the first category are the forced-air units and among them, you might find your best kerosene heater for the garage. The second type are the convection, also known as portable, kerosene heaters. These are used inside homes more often than not.

We are not going to take a deep dive into the anatomy of each type but we still need to outline some of the main differences in order to help you make an easier selection.

Purpose

So we already mentioned that the main difference comes from the purpose of your kerosene heater. Upon a careful inspection of the units in the previous section, you will notice that the forced-air ones are somewhat more powerful. This is because they are good for larger areas, construction sites, garages, and workshops. Their whole build-up is aimed at warming up a large well-vented area.

The second type is the indoor kerosene heater. Not that the forced-air ones can’t be used indoors but these portable ones are also good for residential use. The convection heating process is a silent one and it doesn’t blow anything around. These are not heavy duty heaters.

Power Supply

Another look at the forced-air kerosene heater reviews shows us that these “big boys” also require electricity to run. They have a fan and a number of other electrical components which cannot be powered by kerosene alone. Their main feature except for heating is blowing the heat around. This cannot be achieved without an electric fan and a generator.

The domestic kerosene heaters can simply stand in the middle of your room and will emit heat at 360 degrees. They are very similar to how the finest regular propane heaters work. No electrical input is required for these devices to operate. They simply need to be ignited and that’s it.

Heat Distribution

A fan is the main source of heat distribution when we talk about those larger forced-air kerosene heaters. They still have a flame in there but it wouldn’t be enough for such large areas regardless of the astronomical number of BTU that they might have.

On the other hand, convection heating is the bread and butter of a mini kerosene heater. They don’t have a fan and nothing is blown around. Actually, in order to even start the heater, you will need to have a wick. Kerosene gets soaked up in there and only then it is being ignited. Thanks to this mechanism, the temperature rises evenly in the room.

Portable Kerosene Heaters

Let’s start by outlining some of the crucial phases during the use of each portable kerosene heater. We are going to become familiar with how to start up your unit, how to clean it and how to change the wick. So let’s go and raise the temperature around here.

Starting Up

Most heaters will come in already assembled. The will have a metal grid all over the body. It serves as protection, accommodates the handle and will also help provide residual heat. D-batteries should be included for the igniter. Matches can also be used.

A quick tip from us is to use something that manufacturers rarely will tell you about. Get a little bottle of kerosene fuel conditioner. This treatment will improve the overall performance of the heater, will prolong the life of your wick and will make the unit more efficient.

Reading the instructions is crucial. Get them online in case you don’t have them on paper. It is best if you also build a little “kerosene kit” so to say. Get a plastic box and maybe add the following:

• Rubber gloves – you shouldn’t touch any of the components barehanded.
• Kerosene can – don’t ever keep your kerosene in any other container. Otherwise, it will confuse you or your family members and can lead to very unwanted consequences.
• Battery-powered siphon pump – no need to pour fuel directly into the unit. Stick one end of the hose to the fuel intake tube of the heater. The other part goes into the can and kerosene is sucked through it right inside the device. All portable kerosene heaters for the home should be filled that way.
• Kerosene conditioner

Always use nice and fresh kerosene. This type of fuel start decomposing and degrading in about 30 days. This means that you can’t have any of it just lying around. Wait for 60 minutes after filling the unit up. The wick needs to absorb the kerosene very well.

Turn the knob all the way to its limit, press the button below it and you will see that the heater lights up. Unlike a propane heater, here we do not have a Piezo ignition because we do not require a spark. Grab the little metal burner in the opening of the heater and move it back and forth rapidly a few times. In about 5-7 minutes you will enjoy a full flame – one that you can actually control by adjusting it down if needed.

 

Maintenance of Portable Kerosene Heaters

There are two important aspects to keep in mind when we talk about maintenance of indoor kerosene heaters. None of the two procedures is very hard but both need to be properly done in order to ensure not only an efficient operation but a safe one as well. They are:

• Cleaning the unit
• Changing the wick

There are three signs that your kerosene heaters require imminent sanitation. It will start smelling more. Smell is generally an unusual occurrence with kerosene heaters. This sort of fuel and its consequential combustion should not give off a lot of smell if any.

Next, the flame will start looking more and more yellowish. The kerosene flame is more in the white gamma. When the unit’s tubes and body get dirty, the flame becomes somewhat polluted. This leads to the yellow color. Obstructed tubes also mean that the flame will not burn as high.

Finally, the wick will get dirty. It needs to be regularly replaced but we will look into that procedure in a minute.

Start by removing the screws on the side of the lid and remove the whole thing. The heater is now basically split into two parts. Use the handle on top and move the upper body to the side. Take a look at the tube in the middle.

Raise the wick and you will quickly see that there will be some fibers and soot around the burner. This is the part which needs to be cleaned. The wick needs to be soft and pliable. There shouldn’t be any hard black spots there. So get a soft cloth, dampen it and commence cleaning.

Finally, scrape the wick with a toothbrush. You have to do everything in your power in order to remove all the particles and other bits from there. Just make sure you do not get excessive moisture inside. If none of the above helps, then you need to replace the wick of your kerosene heater.

Changing The Wick Of Your Portable Kerosene Heater

So let’s go back to the step where you disassembled the top part of the heater. This time we will also need to remove the base in order to properly change the wick. This is achieved by also taking the batter compartment off (you just unscrew it), removing the fuel cap and also pulling the control knob out.

Now you should be able to pull out the whole wick adjuster assembly. The gasket should remain there untouched. Remove the wick cover – simply rotate it a little. The wick will be right there in the middle of the can or slot. Well, no need to wait any further – remove it.

The new wick should be folded first and then its studs are supposed to go into the assembly. Press it so it sticks. Everything else now has to happen in the reverse order. The wick holder is put back but before you re-install the assembly, make sure to turn the knob a few times in order to raise the wick.

Before you put the cover of the heater back, test the wick raising mechanism. This will also allow you to confirm that the safety shut-off device also functions properly. Until you are convinced that everything is in order, keep re-installing the wick.

Taking Care Of Your Forced-Air Kerosene Heater

Our not so smooth transition takes us to the second type of kerosene heaters. The forced air kerosene heater reviews above are not detailed enough to paint a good picture regarding those units. There is the finest regular propane heaters work you should perform on a regular basis in order to ensure a long-lasting use of your heater.

1. Inspect the photocell

That’s an important procedure and it needs to be done at least twice during the heating season. It won’t hurt if you check more often than that. Gently pull the cell out of the mouth which holds it in place. Dip a cotton swab in alcohol and carefully remove the dust from inside the photocell. Lens cleaner also works just fine. Make sure the sensor is straight after you put the photocell back in its assembly.

2. Clean the fan blades

All of the best garage heaters on the market regardless of their heating mechanism will feature a fan. The blades need to be free of debris. Make sure nothing impedes the movement of the blades. A damp cloth is your best ally here – just make sure you do not bend any of the blades.

3. Check the fuel filter

That’s another component which needs to be cleaned at least twice every heating season. The fuel line must be purged and the tank has to be empty. The filter can be rinsed only with kerosene and never with water. The air pressure also matters so here’s what has to be done.

Before you start operating the heater check the model number and the corresponding pressure setting for it. There should be a chart in the instruction about the correct setting for your unit. Be sure to locate the pump set screw. It would be typically right next to the pressure gauge at the back side of the heater. Rotating it to the right increases the pressure and of course, rotating it to the left will result in a decrease of pressure.

If any flames are extending outside of the heater’s front then you must decrease the pump pressure. Problems with ignition or the presence of smoke typically call for an increase of the pressure.

4. Clean the fuel nozzles

Before the start of the heating season is your time to clean the fuel nozzle. If this part isn’t clean then you are likely to get all sorts of ignition problems. Typically, it should be enough to simply clean it by blowing compressed air through it. If that doesn’t help, soak it in kerosene in order to decompose any dirt particles.

5. Maintain the air-intake

His filter should either be replaced or washed in a soapy water. This needs to be done every 500 hours of operation – preferably less than that.

6. Flush the fuel tank

After 200 hours of operation, you should flush your fuel tank. Water is not to be used here. No water should ever make its way inside the fuel tank. Use only kerosene for these purposes. Also, don’t ever leave any kerosene just sitting there for weeks. It will degrade and will not only be useless but can also be dangerous.

Propane vs. Kerosene

Comparisons are inevitable between all sorts of cooling and heating systems and this section makes no exception. This is especially true when we consider products which are somewhat similar in the way they function. At first glance, a propane and a kerosene heater are identical but are they really?

• Efficiency

The price per gallon is very similar and the difference is less than 10% in favor of Kerosene. But what really matters in our case is how many gallons are used per BTU. In other words, the potential energy of the fuel matters and kerosene has a clear advantage here. Propane should give you about 91 000 BTU per gallon while with kerosene you get 135 000. That’s a difference of about 38%. The tricky part is that prices vary and in time this comparison might change.

• Availability

Kerosene is not hard to buy but more often than not, it comes in very little tanks. They are mostly sold by home improvement stores and this is not a reliable scheme. You want to get to a kerosene pump at a gas station. Those can be rare to stumble upon and are straight prohibited in some states. The problem is that stocking up is also not the finest option as kerosene has to be fresh when used. It goes bad if it stays in a tank for a long time. You can overcome this but you are looking at a huge investment in special drums and containers.

Propane is easy to get and there are readily available tanks in almost every town. This makes the access to propane exceptionally easy and not time-consuming at all. This is clearly advantaged propane.

• Safety

Propane definitely bears more dangers as these heaters work under pressure and there’s the threat of explosion. This shouldn’t scare people away but it is obvious that knowledge regarding safety is crucial. The whole ignition procedure of propane is somewhat dangerous if not done properly.

Kerosene needs a wick in order to create a flame. This doesn’t happen under pressure. Instead, the wick is soaked in the fuel and that’s how the magic happens.

Kerosene Heater Safety

Here are the most important safety aspects to bear in mind when operating a kerosene heater at home:

• Kerosene must be stored in a container strictly for kerosene. This way you will not have contaminated fuel and diminish the possibility of confusion.
• 1-K grade kerosene is your “go-to” fuel. Don’t ever think about replacing it with gasoline. Also, when at the station, you are to use only the kerosene pump. Mixing kerosene with any other fuel must never happen.
• Purchase your fuel from a certified dealer.
• The way you refuel your unit also matters greatly. Never do it at home, do it outside. Keep the tank away from combustible objects. Make sure the unit is not turned on and that it is not hot. Don’t ever go above the “full” mark of the tank.
• In case you see any exposed flames or flare-up don’t ever move the heater. Switch it off or use a fire extinguisher on it. Call the fire department and have everyone leave the house.
• Proper maintenance and regular cleaning are a must. There’s no way around that.
• Operate your unit according to instructions and aerate the premises often. Install a carbon monoxide detector for your own peace of mind.

Best Kerosene Heaters Comparison Chart

PRODUCT	PRICE	DIMENSIONS	WEIGHT	BTU	HEATING AREA	FUEL CAPACITY	FUEL CONSUMPTION
Mr. Heater Forced-Air Kerosene Heater	$$$$$	18.1 x 40.1 x 22"	9 pounds	175,000	up to 4,250 square feet	14 Gallon	up to 10 hours
Sengoku KeroHeat Portable Kerosene Heater	$	20 x 12 x 19"	20 pounds	10,000	400 square feet	1.2 Gallon	up to 14 hours
Dura Heat Indoor Kerosene Heater	$$$	18.8 x 18.8 x 27"	27.3 pounds	23,800	up to 1000 square feet	1.9 Gallon	9-12 hours
Master MH Kerosene Forced-Air Heater	$$$$	43 x 26 x 24"	63 pounds	215,000	5375 square feet	24 Gallon	8 hours
Pro-Temp Kerosene Forced-Air Heater	$$$	30 x 12 x 15"	28 pounds	70,000	up to 1700 square feet	5 Gallon	9 hours
Kero World Indoor Portable Convection Kerosene Heater	$$	18 x 18 x 22.2"	20 pounds	23,000	up to 1000 square feet	1.9 Gallon	up to 12 hours

Wrapping Up

This is the part in which we conclude our guide hoping that we have assisted you in selecting the best kerosene heater for your needs. Undoubtedly, there is a lot to digest but we simply cannot give you only half of the useful information. Our goal is to have our readers prepared and ready for every challenge that their heater might present.

Leave a comment about our kerosene heater reviews article in case you have found it useful and interesting. Feel free to advise us on anything that you think we’ve missed or have portrayed inaccurately. Share the guide with your friends or others who might find it useful. Thanks for reading and as always – stay put!

Care of the environment and efficient and cheap domestic heating can go hand in hand. You get to warm up your home and still utilize absolutely clean energy if you opt for the best propane heater. It’s no secret that these devices are by far one of the most effective ones. But lack of knowledge on how they work and how to operate them, fool people into thinking they shouldn’t buy one.

That’s why our crew has compiled this thorough guide on how to utilize propane energy for residential heating. Not only that we will educate you on the most important aspects but we will also provide you a list of the top available propane heater reviews. See our safety tips and discover how to maximize the effect of your brand new heater. Don’t waste any more time, scroll down.

 

Best Propane Heaters (New List)

1. Mr. Heater Buddy Portable Propane Heater

Perhaps the best domestic propane heater out there is a portable one. The Mr. Heater Buddy is a propane heater which has its own tank. The capacity is just 1lb. but this will be enough to keep it going for about 4 hours. At the lowest setting, you will be able to get about 4000 BTU and at the highest one, the BTUs are 9000. The maximum space you will be able to heat up is 225 square feet. This goes to show that if you want portability, you simply cannot get an enormous, powerful heater. Going camping isn’t a challenge as you get piezo ignition – easy to start. You also have a folding handle so that moving the unit can be easy. It is somewhat an advantage that you can connect the unit to a large 20 lb. propane tank, but the filter and the hose are sold separately.

2. Dyna Glo 18,000 BTU Propane Heater

This can easily be your “go-to” domestic propane heater as it will likely tick all the boxes. The Dyna-Glo Propane Cabinet Heater will be able to take care of an above average sized room. With its 18 000 BTU, the unit can heat up a room of up to 600 square feet. Similar to most propane heaters, this one also requires a 20 lb. tank which is not included in the set. There will be no struggles to light the device as it features a Piezo ignition – just press the button. There are three burners – 6000 BTU each. At the lowest setting, you have just the middle one running. It is best if you use the heater at a properly ventilated place. It does, however, have an Oxygen Depletion Sensor so your safety won’t be compromised indoors. There are handles on the side and along with the casters, you can easily move the unit to your RV, camp or workshop.

3. Dura-Heat Propane Convection Heater

This last product on our list looks deceivingly negligible but it actually isn’t. The cylindrical shape of the unit allows it to emit heat at 360 degrees and not only forward. Even though we are talking about a gadget which has dimensions of 11 x 11 x 13 inches it can give you the incredible 25,000 BTU. The efficiency is also not anything to be overlooked as a 20 lb. propane tank will be good for about 28 hours. The base of the unit also accommodates the dial and the button for the pilot light. Auto safety shut-off is a key feature and the unit will switch off if it tips over. You get a 10-foot hose included in the set. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the heater needs to be used at well-vented places. It will be a nice tabletop patio heater.

4. Mr. Heater Portable Propane Heater

When you want to get efficient heavy duty heating at your garage or workshop, you should be prepared to use two sources of power. The Mr. Heater Portable Propane heater is a forced-air heater which is also fueled by a gas tank. This means that you will require both a 110V circuit and a 20 lb. propane tank in order to run it. Efficiency is truly the name of the game here as you can keep the machine going for about 14 hours using just one tank. At 60 000 BTU which is the maximum output of the unit, you will be able to heat up to 1500 square feet of space. Safety isn’t an issue here. The appliance has thermoelectric safety valves and some high limit switches which will prevent it from overheating. Such a powerful device, as it is one of the best propane garage heaters available in the market, simply cannot be silent although you will be happy to find out that the noise levels are rather low in comparison to other models in the same class.

5. Dyna-Glo Liquid Propane Forced Air Heater

This great propane garage heater will also require an outlet in order to work. The Dyna-Glo Liquid Propane Forced Air Heater comes with an important convenience feature. It is the adjustable heat angle. You can not only aim the unit wherever you want but you can also adjust the height and the angle of the airflow. This will let you get some spot heating which can be much needed at a workshop. The 10 ft. hose and the propane filter are both included in the set. You only have to decide on the capacity of the heater. Your options vary from 40 000 BTU units to 300 000 BTU. Enormous spaces can be heated with just one unit if you opt for the most expensive option. More specifically, up to 7000 square feet. You will struggle to find a more powerful propane heater. The thermostat and the tip over switch-off will take care of your safety while working.

6. Dyna-Glo Liquid Propane Tank Top Heater

The design of this heater is definitely not the most important part because it is all about functionality. You basically get a propane spot heater (or two of them with the 30 000 BTU version) which is then attached to the propane tank below. This is an excellent portable option for your workshop but you need to keep in mind that the ignition is manual if you do not opt for the more expensive version with Piezo ignition. Furthermore, the flame isn’t really hidden behind a thick grill but is instead rather exposed. All of these reasons render the heater unusable inside a home. The mesh burner is double-layered and it is pretty strong and long-lasting. If you get the double-burner version, you actually get 2 independent burners for you to aim wherever you wish. The radius you will be able to heat is about 25 feet which should be sufficient for most garages. There is an overheat protection but no tip over switch-off.

Safety is Always Crucial with Propane Heaters

We simply cannot start talking about efficiency, money saving and popular characteristics before we extensively cover how to safely use your indoor propane heater. Our crew has compiled this section below especially for your own peace of mind.

All the cool benefits of the best-vented propane heater mean nothing if you run it wrongly and dangerously. The things to be careful about are more than a dozen and right now we will try to cover all your bases. Things can always be added to the list, of course.

If Your Propane Tank Is Outside

1. The tank needs to stand on a very stable ground. That’s the short explanation. It is an important thing to keep in mind because a tilted tank is a pretty dangerous occurrence. The hose and the regulator might come undone and that definitely bears plenty of dangers. Furthermore, realistically keeping track of how much gas you have left is pretty hard if the liquid isn’t laying evenly inside that tank.
2. Make sure you are familiar with the local regulations regarding distance and tank placement. You want your propane tank to be located at a proper distance from property lines and other structures. Consult experts if you have to.
3. Place the outdoor tank in such a way that it is protected from any sort of collisions or impacts. You can’t have vehicles driving right by it. Use plastic or wooden covers if you want to prevent any objects from falling on it.
4. Rigid pipes should be used between the tank and the building. Once the installation moves indoors flexible tubes can be used – but never outside. With all the unpredictability related to climate, weather, domestic animals, people etc. you simply cannot have flexible gas connections outside. They are too soft.
5. Look for a certified technician to verify that all the connections are done properly. It is not only about tightness. It’s also about rules you might not be familiar with.
6. It is imperative that nothing combustible is left within 10 feet of the propane tank. The problem isn’t that stuff might catch fire because of the gas but it’s the other way around. Combustible things may turn out to be the reason why fire reaches the tank. No need to explain further.

If Your Tank Is Indoors

1. Propane tanks or cylinders have to be transported in the upright position. While this is not directly linked to the use of propane heater at home, you will need to change the tank every once in a while. Taking good care of it when transporting it shows your overall attitude.
2. Smaller tanks are the way to go when we are talking about indoor storage. Don’t ever think about putting a 100 lb. gas tank inside of your home. Go with a smaller one – maybe 20 lb. In the event of an accident, the damages and the aftermath will be far less significant.
3. Make sure there are no dings and dents on the gas tank. We can’t stress enough how important the integrity of this item is. Any little visible damage might lead to catastrophic consequences and it is completely up to you to make sure that the body of the tank is intact. Areas such as workshops are often heated by similar units. Getting a propane heater for your garage is a great idea as long as you are careful when swinging those tools around it. This goes for all items which function under pressure.
4. How you connect your manifolds also matter greatly. If you are relying a 100% on liquid gas heating for your home then this means that you will require more than one manifold. Make sure to keep them separated by at least 20 feet of space. Another important tip concerning this type of installation is to never connect more than 3 100-lb. tanks to one manifold.
5. Although checking for leaks can be done by a professional, you can do it as well. Just make sure to never use water and soap. They have a corrosive effect and this will be detrimental to the gas system, the tank, and the connections. There is a special leak detector solution which is designated to, obviously, locate gas leaks.

Safety Tips On Indoor Propane Heaters

Now that we discussed safety measures related to gas tanks, we will share a few words on how to take care of your heater. More often than not, people go for ventless propane wall heater with a blower. This is exactly the type of heater we also encourage you to consider for your home but that doesn’t mean there aren‘t any hazards.

1. What do we say about *all heating and cooling systems* (anchor to the home page) which we review? Size matters. Surely this is the case here as well. The size and the power of the heater should correspond to the size of the room you are having heated. This is an important safety aspect because a very powerful propane heater will turn out to be dangerous for the surrounding objects. Besides, a larger indoor propane heater with thermostat will force you to keep objects at a bigger distance from it. This isn’t possible if your room is just 100 square feet.
2. This brings us to the second point here – don’t keep any potentially flammable materials close to your propane heater. Let’s not forget that *all quality infrared heaters* (anchor to the infrared heaters page) will first heat up objects and only after that the air. Combustibles should be kept away from the direct.
3. The finest vented propane heaters also should have a safety shut-off valve. This component switches off the intake of gas if the hose is loose or if the heater is tilted.
4. Ventilation matters. Yes, they tell you that those high-class infrared propane heaters are completely ventless but you can always stay on the safe side. Make sure you open the windows regularly and ensure there’s enough air when changing the gas tank. Ventilation is also important when looking to prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide.
5. Since we mentioned carbon monoxide, it is important to note that it can be quite dangerous if you are a sloppy owner. A carbon monoxide detector is a device you want to buy. It will monitor the levels of the substance and will alert you.
6. Repairs shouldn’t be attempted by just anyone. If anything goes wrong with your heater, simply call a specialist and allow them to work their magic. Unless you are certified, you shouldn’t try and troubleshoot your domestic propane heater.
7. It is important that when you want to move the heater or switch the tank to shut off the tank first. Stop the whole gas supply and only then turn the heater off. This will ensure cleaner tubes and pipes as all the residual propane will have left the system. You want completely clean and empty pipes when you are doing any sort of relocations or substitutions.

Getting The Most Out Of Your Propane Heater

When you have a gas tank running almost entirely 24/7 you perhaps have questions about its efficiency. Some of these tricks you probably already know. However, we will list a few tips on how to increase the efficiency rating of your propane heater and to end up getting more heat for less money.

• Maintain your heater or heaters often and do it properly. It is best if you get a contractor to do that for you. The difference between a licensed technician and a contractor is that the latter will do that year round and you will end up getting a better price.
• Speaking of better prices, ask your propane supplier whether you can get an annual plan. Companies will offer great prices to homeowners who are also regular clients. This way you will avoid the higher bills in the winter and will enjoy a steady price for your propane.
• Sealing your home properly is one of the key reasons to why you will get efficient heat. This literally goes for every type of heater regardless if it is a typical bathroom heater or a garage heater. Hire professionals to seal your windows, baseboards and even maybe insulate your walls. These investments will go a long way when we talk about domestic heating with propane.
• Control not only your heater but also yourself and family. You do not need to crank up the thermostat all the way up. Make sure you get a comfortable temperature and there’s no need to go over it. Additionally, just put on a sweater and lower the temperature controller by a degree or two.
• Ventilation and fans are useful but they also have one drawback. Fans will refresh the air and will prevent moisture from spreading but they will also suck the warmth out. Make sure you use as much venting as needed. Once you are out of the kitchen or the bathroom, turn the ventilation off.
• Furniture should be rested on the outside walls. This way you will not feel that many cool drafts. The furniture will absorb it.
• Heat also dissipates through windows and glass. What you can do to prevent it is to get shades, blinds, curtains etc. The more things and decorations you have on your windows, the warmer the room will remain.

Important Propane Heater Features

Now that you have extensive knowledge on how to safely and effectively use your domestic propane heater it is time to actually find out which characteristics will fit your needs. This section will guide you through the process of selecting the unit which will help you the most. While many other properties can also be mentioned, the ones which we have highlighted are the difference makers. Heating house with propane doesn’t need to be a challenge at all.

• Size And Portability

We already mentioned that the size of your room matters. This will also determine the power and the size of the heater you should get. There is somewhat a correlation between how much heat you will get and how big the unit is. Keep in mind that you must not have any objects within a few feet from any heater you select. For tighter spaces, go with something smaller.

Portability is both a blessing and a curse when we talk about pros and cons of propane energy. You do not require any cables or cords to run your heating but you do require a connection to a gas tank. This will, of course, limit you when looking to move your heater. If you have a central system and a number of gas outlets and pipes around your home, then you can perhaps switch the location of your unit.

This all goes out of the window in the case of propane wall heaters. Unless you are willing to go through dismounting it and mounting it again, then you must forget about relocating a wall heater. Some models have feet and are freestanding. Others, such as the propane patio heaters have a slot for a propane tank meaning that they can go anywhere because the connection isn’t an issue. Those are exclusively for outdoor use only, though.

• Location

Indoor propane heaters are best mounted near a window. This will ensure a warmer draft and less heat dissipation through the window. Putting the unit there will also make it easier to vent. Tightly closed areas are not recommended when using such a device. You want to have quick and easy access to air and the window is your best shot.

Now, infrared propane heaters are not so pretentious because in general, they are ventless meaning that no fumes are emitted and that you don’t need to aerate the room all the time. These can be put anywhere but you still might feel the smell of gas once in a while.

Outdoor heaters simply must be used where their name tells us to be used – outdoors. Anything else you do with them is a safety hazard.

• Ignition

There are two main types of ignition when we talk about portable propane heaters. The first one is the manual ignition and it is pretty much obsolete. It requires that you start the gas regulator and then light the flame manually using a lighter or a match. The best brands and manufacturers nowadays avoid making such units. This process can be dangerous and you want no part in it.

The second type is actually the right way to light a propane heater and it is far safer. The so-called Piezo ignition is a mechanism thanks to which the user doesn’t need to interact with fire, flames, sparks and other cool sounding but dangerous phenomena. This process consists of pressing a knob and pushing a button. It all happens inside the tube and is practically invisible to our eyes. The Piezo ignition uses a small electric charge to ignite the gas. The only downside is that this automatic mechanism will wear down in time and might need repairs.

• Functions

Easiness and comfort are crucial when it comes to people’s domestic heating. You want to have control and convenience. This is why the best heaters out there should have some of the following:

• Built-in fan – while it is great to have radiating heat, it is also nice to have something to blow it around. This way an infrared propane heater will heat up not just the objects and people but also the air. A great addition to any unit
• Thermostat – If it comes with the heater then great. Not a lot we can add here. Use it to control the amount of heat you get out of your unit.
• More burner tiles – it’s not only about having more and more heat. It is also about deciding how much you want at any one time. The finest models will not have all burner tiles turned on if you don’t want them to be on. This means you get the right amount of heat and also save on fuel.
• Piezo ignition – we already covered that in the previous paragraph.

• Safety

Safety is typically the number one priority of all propane heater users. If you missed our extensive safety tips above, we strongly recommend that you go back and read them before commencing to buy a liquid gas heater. Especially for your peace of mind, a device should have some of these safety components:

1. Low oxygen shut-off – this function is pretty self-explanatory. If the area is tight, if oxygen is low, the unit will be smart and will not blow up. Pretty useful.
2. Tip over switch-off – again, a measure preventing disaster. This time it is about the unit not making a mess in case it falls over.
3. Swivel regulator – this is a great addition as it takes care of the connection. You want the fuel hose to be as tight and as safe as possible. That’s what this gadget does.
4. Fuel compartment isn’t visible – this part should be hidden and no one should have direct access to it.
5. Protective grid – infrared heaters as well as natural gas heaters should have a few metal pieces separating the flames from the outside world. Reaching in and touching these parts isn’t the best of ideas.
6. High-temperature switch-off – pretty simple, heat goes out of control – unit shuts off.

Best Propane Heaters Comparison Chart

PRODUCT	PRICE	DIMENSIONS	WEIGHT	BTU	HEATING AREA
Mr. Heater Buddy Portable Propane Heater	$	9 x 14.2 x 14.4"	9.5 pounds	4,000-9,000	200 sq. ft
Dyna Glo 18,000 BTU Propane Heater	$$	16.1 x 17.5 x 23.2"	20 pounds	18,000	600 square feet
Dura-Heat Propane Convection Heater	$$	11.8 x 11.8 x 13"	7.8 pounds	15,000 - 25,000	600 square feet
Mr. Heater Portable Propane Heater	$$$$	18.2 x 11.5 x 14.2"	2 pounds	30,000 - 60,000	1500 square feet
Dyna-Glo Liquid Propane Forced Air Heater	$$$	20.1 x 10 x 14.8"	16.8 pounds	30,000 - 60,000	1350 square feet

Wrapping Up

This was quite a lot of synthesized information we brought you but you can’t have it any other way when you want to get the best propane heater for your domestic convenience. We hope that we’ve assisted you greatly in your hunt to purchase the best unit available. Also, don’t forget any of the safety tips we shared as they are really the most important aspect of this type of heating.

In case you think we missed a point in our propane heater reviews, please feel free to let us know either via email or by commenting on the article. If you suggest that the guide was useful, share it and make sure to also see our input on other forms of heating and cooling. Thanks for reading and as always – stay put!

An Air-conditioner with heat isn’t the only thing that you can hang on your wall to keep you warm. A more convenient and hassle-free option would be to look for the “little brother” of the AC. Check out the piece we have prepared for you and become familiar with how to pick one of the best electric wall heaters on the market.

In our comprehensive electric wall heaters reviews and guide, you will quickly find out that a wall heater will save you space, money and time. It will give you enough heat to keep you happy and warm but without the gruesome installation ordeal and maintenance costs.

We have divided our article into sections where you will see our handpicked choices, some pros & cons as well as comparisons.

 

Best Electric Wall Heaters (Top List)

1. New Age Living Phantom 10 Wall Panel Heater

With its size, this convection heater can really give you a bump when we talk about heating a room. The clean design allows you to place the New Age Living Phantom 10 in any sort of premises. Since the main heating mechanism is convection, you will not hear a sound at all. The maximum power output is only 750W which makes this perhaps the most efficient product on the list. However, bear in mind that the lower output paired with convection means that your room will be slow to heat up. Once you are satisfied with the temperature, though, you will enjoy heat for cheap. There is a double safety thermal cut-out and there’s also IP24 water resistance. Thanks to these two characteristics, you can also place the unit in a bathroom. Use the built-in thermostat for maximum control over the temperature. Doesn’t have a remote control. Also, the body of the unit can get quite hot.

2. Stiebel Eltron Wall Mounted Convection Heater

The top end design is what really sets the Stiebel Wall Mounted Heater from all other products. It has a slim body and will lie nicely on any wall. While it does have a thermostat included you can also attach it to an already existing one. A little setback is the presence of just the 120V output. If you have only 220V sockets, then you will need to buy a converter/adapter. The maximum temperature which the heater will give you is 86 degrees. However, this temperature is achieved at the expense of only 1000W making the unit a pretty efficient one. The product does not feature a fan but it is really not that much needed. Since heating is achieved through convection, you will still enjoy warm premises for extended periods of time. The only thing is that heating up typically takes a little longer. It weighs just under 10 lb.

3. King Electric Wall Heater

This wall heater will provide you with an excellent array of options as it can be purchased in different packages. You can decide not only on the maximum power output of your product but can also select the voltage. Basically, all sorts of combinations are possible and this will just slightly alter your price. The maximum power output you can get is 1500W. The craftsmanship of this wall heater is truly impressive. It features an aluminum fan and a beautiful white front panel. In fact, the whole design and functionality are patented and it is called Smart Limit Technology. As you place your order, you will also be asked to choose between a 1-Pole and a 2-Pole Thermostat. In short, you see that versatility is the main property of this wall heater. A little drawback is that the product cannot be installed vertically on a ceiling but this possibility is rarely sought for.

4. Heat Storm Deluxe Indoor Infrared Wall Heater

In case you are looking for directional heat from a wall mounted appliance, this is your thing. The Heat Storm Infrared heater does not have a fan as it features the infrared heating technology. It will warm up you and your objects without wasting any energy on heating the air. Not only that it is a compact appliance, easy to clean and efficient, but it also comes with a remote control. Ultimately, your convenience is taken care of. You can also use the LED display on top in order to control the temperature or program the timer. However, upon a power outage, you will need to restart it manually as it won’t remember the settings. Thanks to the Cool Touch feature, the unit will never get too hot to be touched by a family member. The presence of the fan will definitely boost the heating capabilities of the heater. Comes with a 1-year warranty.

5. Broan 174 Wall Heater

We are now coming back to earth with a little bit more common wall heater which is, by all means, a very nice one as well. The main feature here is that you can alter between 120V and 2W0V. This brings you a lot of energy efficiency because the 120V mode goes with a 750W of output. The 220V one is paired with 1500W of heating power. The front panel grill is also designed in such a way that it blows the hot air downwards. It is made out of heavy 20-gauge steel which will give you warmth for longer. There is only one dial for you to operate and it sets the temperature from “high” to “low”. The motor is permanently lubricated. This is a huge advantage as you won’t need to regularly unmount and take apart your wall heater for maintenance. You do not need to install it in a cutout in the wall. Surface mounting is also an option.

6. VonHaus Flat Panel Heater

The thinnest wall heater on our list is the VonHaus Flat Panel Heater. When they say “flat” they mean 0.4 inches flat. According to some, the design is revolutionary but according to others, it is just a white tile sitting on your wall. This is why the designers made the heater completely paintable. You can put any color of paint over the device without compromising its integrity and functionality. The body is ceramic and even if you paint it, no smell will come out when it is working. The thermostat is built-in and the user has no power over the adjustment of the temperature. The heater features only an “on/off” button and that’s it. Installation is made simple thanks to the fact that all fittings are included. Don’t worry about burning hazards as the heater has a cool touch edge. An important safety note to mention here is that you must not install this heater in the bathroom.

Upsides of Having a Wall Heater

A wall heater doesn’t have to be the primary heating device in your house in order for it to be useful. What it does is provide you with some warmth and it does it fairly quickly. Such a gadget needs around 2-3 minutes to start radiating heat and depending on the model, it might also include a fan. This is a common feature of most top brands on the electric wall heater market.

Quickness Is A Convenience

So quickness is definitely one of the major upsides of a wall heater. You don’t want your heater to start wasting all this electricity and give off warmth only after 10-15 minutes. The portability of this device allows it to start functioning quickly and it yields fantastic results.

It is great when you want to heat just one room or several rooms separately. Smaller homes typically do not have central heating. What you can do is maybe buy 1-2 of these wall heaters and distribute them around the premises of your home.

Temperature Control

If you could get some electric wall heaters with thermostat then you even do not have to monitor the temperature yourself. The temperature control is automatic and most products will feature just a button or two. So in other words, simplicity and functionality go hand in hand when we talk about wall-mounted electrical heaters. Some more complicated and advanced devices might also include:

• ALCI plug (for bathroom use)
• Digital display
• Manual thermostat

Don’t Get Crowded

One of the most distinguished and unique qualities of wall heaters is that they will save you plenty of space. The floor has only this much square footage and you cannot put countless things on it. Furnishing is demanding enough and often times there’s not enough room for a heater.

Attaching it to a wall will basically turn the electric heater into a picture or a poster. The best part is that people will rarely notice it as it truly blends in with your environment. Take advantage of your floor space fully by obtaining a wall heater.

Detaching And Installation Are Not Challenging

Mounting the gadget onto a wall or removing it afterward is also not something which is very challenging. There are those models which require a cutout in the wall to be made initially. When it comes to them, a DIY installation might not be the brightest idea. Still, such heaters aren’t hard to mount but they definitely require some knowledge and proper tools. If you aren’t sure how to exactly cut a hole in the wall and connect all the wirings, then look for a professional.

The same goes when it is time to remove an electric wall heater. It is especially important to have professional help when detaching the wiring. There’s electrocution hazard when doing this and it can threaten your life if you aren’t careful. Again, all of these procedures are rather simple when you know exactly what you’re doing.

Warmth Stays

Thanks to the materials out of which wall heaters are made, they can retain some of the heat even after you turn them off. We aren’t going to dabble in the topic of how do electric wall heaters work but will only mention a few things.

Convection allows the room to get warm evenly. This also allows the heat to remain there even after you plug the heater off. Yes, it takes longer for the temperature to rise but it doesn’t go down as easily as well.

Another reason is the body of the wall heater. Some panel heaters are made of aluminum or specialized steel only to retain as much heat as possible. The metal body of the device stays warm and keeps radiating heat even after the flow of electricity stops.

Downsides of Wall Heaters

There aren’t many disadvantages that we are going to outline here but we still have to mention a few in order to really call this guide a complete one. These drawbacks are really not deal breakers but you should keep them in mind before swiping your credit card.

• They Cannot Be Your Primary Home Heaters

A regular wall heater will hardly solve all of your heating needs during the winter. Yes, if you live alone in a dorm such a device might suffice but a family of four will need more than that. A wall heater is a great addition and it is nice to have it playing the role of a complementary heater but not a primary one.

It just isn’t that powerful and even though there is some efficiency related to it, the amount of heat provided is not going to be outstanding.

• Wall Heaters Are Stationary

You can’t move them. Once you attach them to your wall you will need to also take out the whole frame if you want to install the heater somewhere else. Not to mention that the ones which require a cutout in the wall are practically impossible to relocate.

Once you put a wall heater somewhere it sort of becomes part of the infrastructure of your home. The lack of mobility is definitely a drawback as electric radiators or floor heaters are easy to move from room to room.

• Electric Connections Are Tricky

Depending on how you want your wall heater to turn on and off, you will need to decide on the connection. If you install it during a renovation then you will have the opportunity of having a separate switch especially for it.

Otherwise, you might have to connect it to one of the light switches. This means that there will be a dependency between your domestic lighting and the wall heater. Every time one is turned on, the other one will also be operational and vice versa.

Comparison To An Air Conditioner

Most things related to domestic heating are all about preference but money definitely also matters. However, we cannot skip talking about other aspects of these two heating devices. Here’s what our research and common use show us.

Space

In terms of space, the wall heater definitely wins. These machines are smaller than an air-conditioner and they are not as bulky. True, some panel heaters are just big squares basically, but their body is rather slim.

That’s not the case with an AC. It possesses a longer rectangular shape and even has an outside unit. The outside unit makes noises and water leaks from it. It will take up space on your porch if you have one and you will constantly need to go out and wipe some water off the surface.

A little downside of the wall heater is that you should have any furniture near it. You should have at least 3 feet of distance between your heater and upholstered units or electrical devices. After all, safety always comes first. The AC won’t give you such spatial limitations.

Maximum Output

Without a doubt, an Air- Conditioner is significantly stronger in terms of power. Wall heaters will rarely give you anything more than 1500W. The amount of heat and the speed by which it is provided is in favor of the AC.

Expense

Now, this is where the wall heater really shines. It is a device which will give you nice, efficient heating options. Both the initial sum and the monthly electrical bills that you will pay should be lower than using an AC.

The initial sum that you have to pay for an air-conditioner with heating is at least 6-7 times bigger than what you will pay for a wall heater. It is believed that over an extended period of time this initial investment is worth it because of the “efficient heat” that you get from your AC. In short, people suggest that you will end up paying less for electricity and this is why spending $700 for an AC is alright.

This statement is somewhat wrong because you will struggle to find a significant difference in favor of the AC when it comes to your monthly electrical bills. A wall heater works at lower wattage but still gives off a fairly decent amount of heat. Thanks to this property, even if you pay 10% more monthly for electricity in comparison to using an AC, you will still save more money because of the retail price difference between the two.

Installation & Maintenance

This category is another example of how practical a wall heater is. Not only that, but it will also save you money as most AC retailers also charge a fee for installation. This alone goes to show you that mounting an Air-conditioner is an endeavor which requires technical skills and time.

To make matters worse, you also need to have an outer unit attached in front of the room in question. The two units are interconnected and this means a hole in the wall needs to be drilled for the connecting tube. Typically a stand is also required for the outside unit along with noise reducing rubber tips. You need to be prepared to pay an additional 10% of the price of the AC for installation.

You do not have such hassles when we talk about one of the energy efficient wall heaters. Mounting this device can be considered to be a DIY project as it requires a screwdriver and elementary knowledge in electrical connections.

Now when we talk about a complete wall mounted heater which requires being built-in the wall, you should, of course, get a handyman.

Maintenance is also tougher if you possess an air-conditioner. Not to mention that it requires annual checks by technicians. There are certain parts which require changing and that will force you into additional expenses.

By opting for a wall heater you basically have no further headaches related to changing any parts. As long as you keep it clean by dusting it and make sure it doesn‘t short circuit, you will be all set. Dust it once in a while and make sure it doesn’t interact with any water or upholstery. Yes, that’s it – not very hard, right?

Operation

What an AC does is take the outside temperature and then invert it to the one you want indoors. This is why the outside unit blows cold air and the indoor unit spreads heat. However, this comes at the cost of a lot of energy. Yes, you will enjoy decent temperature in your house and it will be tailored to your liking.

However, an AC constantly blows the air around. Many people find this to be rather inconvenient as a non-stop draft has a number of negative aspects to it. More often than not, it can turn out to be detrimental to one’s health.

If you check out our wall mounted convection heater reviews above you will quickly find out that the principle of operation is totally different from the one an air-conditioner has. Convection heaters will warm up a room gradually and evenly. While you might need to wait just a little bit longer than other typical floor heaters, you will be happy with the results.

Furthermore, once you turn off an AC, you are losing all hope of retaining any warmth. The aluminum body of a wall heater gives you residual heat.

The Most Common Properties Of A Wall Heater

Now that we have seen all the advantages and disadvantages of electric wall heaters it is time to outline their most important characteristics. You will notice that some aspects are pretty much the same as most energy efficient space heaters but there are some niche features inherent only to energy saving wall heaters.

Size and Dimensions

Thickness rarely matters when we talk about wall heaters. Their bodies are usually slim and that means that the only dimensions you should be careful about are width and height. The models which require being built-in the wall are the exclusion to this rule because you need to know how deep it needs to go in the wall.

You should also plan your furnishing accordingly. That’s because nothing should interact with the heater or be close to it than 3 feet. This is rather important as otherwise, you will have some safety risks. Another aspect as to why dimensions matter is related to your wall decorations. You don’t want to have just the heater there on an empty wall. Make sure you have some decoration around it but make sure everything is in compliance with the safety instructions.

Power output and functions

When you take a look at most heating and cooling systems out there you will definitely notice some similarities in energy consumption. That doesn’t mean that you should just rush and get the first available product.

Think about the size of your room. The larger it is, the stronger wall heater you will need. A 2000W one is pointless in a 100 square feet room. In this case, you should aim at getting something smaller which will end up using very little electricity and will still provide you with a lot of heat.

Check how many different power output settings you have. The best wall heaters will have at least two – high and low. Some other products directly have degrees written on the dial. They rarely let you know anything about the wattage but give you certain temperature depending on the setting.

Another popular function is the timer. It is a convenience which shouldn’t be neglected. Yes, you will likely have to pay a little bit more than average for such a wall mounted heater but it is completely worth it. A timer gives you more control and lets you sort of forget about the wall heater.

The Effect of the Design

The design is usually directly linked to the way a wall heater functions. Some of them feature infrared technology and others are efficient space heaters. The composition determines the functionality to an extent.

The simpler metal wall heaters feature a clean design with very few things and dials on the panel. This way the whole body gets heated and when you turn them off you get heat for extended periods of time.

Thermostat Matters, Or Does It?

It is not 100% obligatory for a wall heater to have a thermostat dial. Most products will have that component built-in. This means that your interference is not required in order for the wall heater to shut down after reaching a certain temperature.

In other cases, you will have a dial on the front panel allowing you to set the temperature or at least the intensity at which the device will shut off. Many people find this the more convenient option as it gives you total control over the duration of which the wall heater works.

It’s Nice to have a Fan

Who doesn’t like a machine which blows hot air around during winter nights? A fan will definitely make a difference as the feel of warmth will be easily spread around the room. Furthermore, it will feel like the temperature is higher than it actually is.

If you can live with the slight noise, then get a wall heater with a fan. You can even dry clothes around it or even deal with unwanted moisture on the ceiling. Just know that it might increase the electrical usage of your heater.

Best Electric Wall Heaters Comparison Chart

PRODUCT	PRICE	DIMENSIONS	WEIGHT	HEATING AREA	POWER
New Age Living Phantom 10 Wall Panel Heater	$$$	26.2 x 2 x 11"	10 pounds	up to 300 square feet	750 Watts
Stiebel Eltron Wall Mounted Convection Heater	$$$$	4 x 17.5 x 18"	9.7 pounds	up to 200 square feet	1000 Watts
King Electric Wall Heater	$$	16 x 11.9 x 5.1"	3.94 pounds	up to 200 square feet	2000 Watts
Heat Storm Deluxe Indoor Infrared Wall Heater	$$	13 x 3.6 x 16.5"	8 pounds	up to 500 square feet	500 / 1000 Watts
Broan 174 Wall Heater	$	15.1 x 11.4 x 6.1"	5.97 pounds	100 / 150 square feet	500 / 750 / 1000 / 1500 / 2000 Watts
VonHaus Flat Panel Heater	$$	26.5 x 26.5 x 3"	16.8 pounds	up to 250 square feet	450 Watts

Wrapping Up

This brings us to the end of the buying guide we prepared for you on the topic of the best wall heaters. We believe we have highlighted all the important elements of getting the most suitable product for your needs. Please feel free to point out any aspects that we might have overlooked in our electric wall heater reviews post.

If you think our research was useful and sufficient please comment and share the article. Go through the whole thing again if you want to be reminded of certain details and only after that, buy the heater you like the most.

Read our other guides as well and as always – stay put!

They say that warming a room is far easier than heating outdoor spaces. Well, did you know that the best patio heaters can raise the temperature of an outside area by about 10-30 degrees in a matter of minutes? That’s right, you can have a drink with a friend outside even in February without having chattering teeth.

Since you are already reading this, then you perhaps would love to learn more about best outdoor heaters, their types, characteristics, and advantages. We have handpicked the 10 best units and have compiled short reviews on them especially for your convenience. Before you rush to the store, make sure you learn everything there is to learn about patio heaters from our article below.

Best Patio Heater Reviews (Top List 2019)

 

1. Sunglo Stainless Steel Liquid Propane Patio Heater

A top end option for every home or restaurant is brought to us by Sunglo. This portable propane patio heater includes a number of decorative and safety characteristics and they truly set it apart from others. If you have 18 inches of clearance on the top side and have at least 12 feet of distance between units then you are ready to. The propane tank is located on the bottom and it is hidden by a stainless steel frame. The tank is sold separately (recommended capacity is 20 lb). The total height of the unit is 93 inches and the diameter of the reflector is 34 ½ inches. The Sunglo Patio heater will give users a massive 40,000 BTU of heat and will cover a diameter of about 12 feet. No electric power is needed, the unit has a safety shutoff and it also works quietly thanks to the aerated burner.

2. Thermo Tiki Deluxe Propane Patio Heater

We now come back to the propane patio heaters type as we focus on this Thermo Tiki unit. At a medium price, you are getting a stylish product which combines steel and aluminum. Your guests will remain impressed as the flame is actually visible in the vertical tube when the device is turned on. The heater is also pretty sturdy as it will resist rust and corrosion. The coverage is not bad at all with is 15 feet in diameter. This also gives you realistically about 38,000 BTU. Non-electric units rarely feature a tip-over safety switch off but this one does and it’s definitely an advantage. Portability is also not impossible as the Thermo Tiki Patio Heater also has wheels making it easy to move outside. Not only that the heater is easy to turn on but it is also simple to operate through the control knob. It will let you select the desired temperature.

3. Palm Springs Bronze Patio Heater

The range of this next product is quite nice as it will be able to cover about 115 square feet outside. This is about 10 x 12 feet and should be sufficient for an average patio. The whole ignition process boils down to just one single press of a button, comfortably located under the reflector. The hood also helps some heat dispersion and with the 41,000 BTU that we have here, this is simply too useful. The powder-coated hammered bronze allows the body of the patio heater to withstand not only weather but also its own pressure. A regular 20 lb. propane tank is sufficient to power the heater but it is, of course, sold separately. This will give you about 10 hours of continuous use. You have the complete ability to adjust the power output anywhere between 5000W and 13000W. There are also wheels to improve maneuverability. The heater weighs only 35 lb.

4. AZ Patio Heaters Tapered Stainless Steel Heater

Here the options when it comes to the base of this model are simply endless. Some of the AZ Patio Heaters’ units have rather large steel bases for bigger propane tanks while others will resemble a small coffee table. A great niche option is the one which looks like a basket as it is made out of interwoven strips. This might be one of the most powerful patio heaters you will encounter. It is marketed at 48,000 BTU but even if you can get 42,000 out of it, it would be still amazing. You are free to regulate the strength of the heater through a special dial right under the reflector. There is also a burner cover included. The propane tank is sold separately and you will need to assemble your patio heater yourself. The safety devices include a thermocouple and the anti-tilt switch off.

5. Belleze Propane Patio Heater

One of the key traits of this model is the stability which it has. The Belleze Propane Patio Heater features a broad base resting on a round stand. The fact that you can install a 30 lb. propane tank adds to the weight and the stability of the unit. There’s a weight bladder which you can fill with sand as well. The fact that you can get about 48,000 BTU out of it speaks for itself. The dome reflector is satisfyingly wide with its diameter of 32 inches. An area of about 180 square feet can be covered. With a favorable wind, this area may expand. The unit is completely CSA certified and also has a number of important safety features. The piezo ignition system will shut off automatically if the product is tilted. You get dependability from the steel construction and mobility from the wheels on the bottom.

6. XtremepowerUS Floor Standing Outdoor Patio Heater

This patio heater will give you excellent value for your money. There is nothing absolutely mind-blowing about it. But since it is in the lower price range and the quality is still fantastic, you will get a good bang for your buck. In fact, the heating radius of the XtremepowerUS patio heater is larger than average – 200 square feet or 15 feet in diameter. The consumption of gas is rather good – 10 hours at about 45,000 BTU. Another advantage is that the box also includes the necessary tools to assemble the unit. The propane tank is, of course, not included. On the downside, the design is a little bit “too clean”. The unit looks too much like a telephone post. It is also pretty tall – 8.5 feet. In terms of safety, we won’t surprise you by saying that there is a tip over instant switch off. Should be used in well-vented areas.

The Two Main Types of Outdoor Heaters

What powers your patio heater really matters. If you paid close attention to the patio heater reviews above, you have surely noticed that we talked about two main types:

• Infrared patio heaters
• Propane patio heaters

The most interesting thing is that these devices actually differ in so many ways except for the fact that they provide you with some outdoor heating. It will be pointless to simply list or analyze all the contrasting characteristics of infrared and propane heaters. This is why we will have 2 separate section in which we will outline the most important things related to both.

Infrared Patio Heaters

The most important characteristic here is that these are actually electric patio heaters. This means that such outdoor heating solutions come with a wide range of heaters, controls and mounting options. At the end of the day, you want a system that best works for you and your family or business. So without getting into much detail on how infrared heaters work, we will take a look at the 3 main focal points you need to consider when purchasing an infrared patio heater.

1. The nature of the space
2. The exact unit you need
3. The controls

Our experts in HomeClimate have talked long and hard about plenty of great heating and cooling systems and in all fairness, the list we just mentioned is true for most devices. This still doesn’t eliminate the fact that you have some particular pros and cons of infrared patio heaters to consider.

• First things first, the initial step to heating your outdoor space is actually measuring it. In order to know how powerful a patio heater you want to purchase, you first need to become familiar with the dimensions of the area you are going to be warming up. No, this is not an oxymoron because outdoor spaces can also be measured.

There are surely some natural boundaries such as walls, trees or some sort of a canopy that will affect the range of the heater. Height also matters because not all infrared patio heaters are freestanding. Some of them need to be mounted and that’s one more thing to think of. If the heater is mounted too far or too close to where people generally sit or stand then this might be a problem.

After you’ve received a general idea of the length, width, and height of your porch, patio or deck, then move on to the next step.

• Never forget to go for both functionality and aesthetics when selecting your outdoor heater. Low-intensity infrared heaters come in three main categories. They are divided by the number and size of the heating element (tube) of the device. This is rather important when we talk about patio heating.
• Single element
• Dual element
• Thick single element

After you’ve decided on the size and number of tubes now you need to think about how the device is mounted. Some people go for the best wall mounted patio heaters but there are more options. You can have your infrared heater ceiling-mounted, flush-mounted, and pole-mounted. The last category is pretty popular as it gives you mobility and portability.

Environmental factors also matter as windy areas are not easy to heat. On the other hand, a building will provide some extra sheltering and you should take advantage of that. Just make sure there’s enough venting if your patio is too tight or somewhat closed.

Next, think about the coverage area. For instance, a 3000W unit will likely be able to heat an area of 8×8 feet. This is 64 square feet. You shouldn’t put such a heater higher than 7-9 feet. If you double the power output (6000W) now you can heat up about 130 square feet of space. What’s more is that the heater can be mounted higher as well.

Verify the correct voltage and amperage. This is the last aspect you want to take care of when determining which exact infrared unit you want to buy. Consult a certified electrician if needed. Bear in mind that most US products will require a 120V circuit.

• The third factor which helps you decide on an electric patio heater is the controls. Freestanding infrared heaters will usually have a built-in thermostat. Mounted outdoor heaters will require remote controls.

One of the most interesting and useful switches is the duplex stack switch. It offers half power and full power capabilities thus making things simple when looking to heat your patio. Additional functions to look for are heat intensity, zone heating, and timer options. Controlling through a mobile device is also a fantastic idea and convenience.

Propane Powered Heaters

These are actually the more popular patio heaters and interestingly enough, their mechanics are completely different than the ones of infrared heaters. Here we have a propane tank which shoots gas up a tube. The gas is then ignited through a spark ignition and the radiant emitter grid distributes some heat around. In general, these outdoor heaters do not differ a lot from your regular domestic propane heaters.

When we talk about the best natural gas patio heater or any propane heater, we do not need to mention anything about power cords, wattage or thermostats. In our case, BTU is the measuring unit we need to pay attention. Additionally, maintenance and safety are two very important topics.

We will now talk about two of the essential actions concerning the proper use of any propane patio heater:

• Igniting
• Maintenance and troubleshooting

Once we clear out how to start a propane patio heater, we will clarify what problems might occur. We will give you pointers on what needs to be looked at and possibly cleaned in case your patio heater won’t start.

1. The ignition process is complicated from a physics standpoint. But what the user sees and does is rather simple. So here’s what needs to be done if you want to have a warm patio using a propane heater.

Safety always comes first you need to plan your space when using one of those devices. So pay attention to some fine outdoor heater instructions if you can find them. Even if you opt for smaller versions and try to get a hold of the best tabletop patio heater, you will still need to keep a safe distance from it.

You need at least 1 ft. of clearance on the top side so that you do not burn the paint or the canopy of your patio. 10 feet is the lateral distance you should keep in mind. Now that you have placed the unit where you want it you will need to connect the tank to the device.

Lift the metal case on the base of the pole. It will go up the tube and should be able to just rest there without falling. Slide the tank in the designated slot underneath the heater and connect the hose. Now, this part is important! Tighten the hose really well. It isn’t supposed to be loosely attached. Next, open the valve similar to a water faucet. Slide the case back over the tank.

Now take a look at what you have on the panel right underneath the reflector. You should see a dial or a knob with some settings on it. It will light the pilot heater. Push the dial in and flip it to “pilot”. Keep holding it pressed for at least one minute.

Now press the red button to light the pilot. Don’t let the knob go yet. If the pilot doesn’t get lit immediately, try again. Once you see a spark and are sure that the pilot has been lit, just turn the dial all the way and the heater will start. That’s it – enjoy your time on the patio!

 

2. In case no spark gets ignited, you want to keep pressing until you see your pilot light. If your heater is new, you will have a lot of air in the pipes, in the regulator and all the way up to your burner valve. So igniting the pilot might take longer.

If it still doesn’t work then you should check the hose and see how tight it is attached to the tank. If the regulator is loose, simply tighten it. An unexpected tip here would be to take off the regulator and tap it onto the propane tank a few times. It sounds strange but this might just get rid of any excess air trapped inside the regulator.

If the problem persists then there are two more possible reasons. First, sometimes a spider web might get stuck in the pilot tube. This is actually a common problem because the smell of gas attracts insects and spiders in particular. The best way to check the pilot tube a.k.a the Venturi tube is to put it in water and actually see bubbles coming out. That’s how you know it’s not clogged.

The second reason is again related to this very tube but this time the obstruction might be caused by debris or some sort of small rust amounts. What needs to be done here is to clean the tube manually. The orifice holder is the part that you need to unclog.

Remove the component and inspect it for debris. Sticking something in the top of the orifice holder will virtually do nothing. You need to use a screwdriver or a similar object and drive it through the wider opening of the orifice holder. Scrape the walls completely and make sure that whatever is in there gets out.

All in all, troubleshooting your propane patio heater is a broad topic and needs to be addressed separately.

Comparison Between The Two Patio Heater Models

Now that you have become fully familiar with the characteristics of electric and propane patio heaters it is time to summarize the information and make deductions accordingly. Here are the pros and cons of patio heaters of the two types.

Benefits Of Infrared Patio Heaters

• Simple to use – just plug it in and enjoy some heat. There’s no special preparation required in order for you to use your infrared outdoor heater. No tubes to attach, no supplies to carry.
• Not hard to maintain – besides the occasional dusting you do not have much else to worry about when it comes to cleaning. The unit consists of heat resistors and wires. Nothing will obstruct its components.
• Not so dangerous in covered spaces – Fumes are not to be expected here. Even though there are safety requirements, they are far more lenient here than when we have a propane patio heater on our hands. Many people suggest that infrared heaters are universal as they can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Downsides Of Infrared Patio Heaters

• Not mobile – you get limited maneuverability when using an electric patio heater. You always need to have a socket range and even if you get an extension cord, the issue still remains. And that goes only for freestanding units. Most infrared patio heaters are mounted making them completely immovable.
• Not so efficient – the amount of heat is definitely lower with electric heaters. You are limited by the wattage of the unit. On the other hand, you will end up spending a certain amount of electrical energy. In the long run, an infrared heater might prove to be more expensive on a monthly basis.
• Heating up is not very quick – you need to give the device some time before its presence is felt. When warmth is radiated, it takes longer before it heats the area as the objects and people are the primary recipients of this type of heating.

Benefits Of Propane Patio Heaters

• Quick to heat up – the moment you see a flame, you instantly get some heat. Maximum temperature is instantly reached.
• No mounting – all propane patio heaters are freestanding
• Easy to move – the wheels on the bottom will help a lot. Also, there’s no power cord to reduce the distance the unit can travel.

Downsides Of Propane Patio Heaters

• Preparation is key – you need to cover certain steps every time before you actually start the heater.
• The tank needs to be replaced – you need to remember to replenish the gas every once in a while. This might turn out to be time-consuming especially if you cannot have a tank delivered.
• Can’t use it in enclosed spaces – make sure you are outdoors and that venting is sufficient.
• Maintenance and cleaning are much needed – the tubes will get clogged over time. You need to have supplies which help you clean your unit regularly.

Why Not Forced-Air Heaters?

Before wrapping up our article, we simply cannot let you go without telling you why a forced-air heater simply isn’t good enough for outdoor purposes. You have perhaps noticed that all best outdoor heater reviews are related to either propane or infrared products.

Blowing air with a fan doesn’t do you any good in an open space. While you can have a little success at a construction site, such a unit is definitely not a good choice for restaurants or patios. Furthermore, having an air draft of any sort (warm or cold) isn’t a pleasant experience when you have napkins, cups and other things on your table.

Forced-air heaters do not warm a zone and they do not radiate heat. Objects and people are not heated right away but the air is. Unfortunately, when you are not indoors, warming up the air is a tough challenge and this is why people usually stick with heaters with radiant heat.

A fan is not completely excluded from the equation but for reasons stated above, you will very rarely see a patio heater with a fan.

Best Patio Heaters Comparison Chart

PRODUCT	PRICE	DIMENSIONS	WEIGHT	BTU	MATERIAL
Sunglo Stainless Steel Liquid Propane Patio Heater	$$$$$	93 x 34 ½"	N / A	40.000	304 Stainless Steel Construction
Thermo Tiki Deluxe Propane Patio Heater	$$$	54 x 30.5 x 7.5"	54 pounds	38.000	Steel and Aluminum
Palm Springs Bronze Patio Heater	$$$	32 x 32 x 87"	35.2 lbs	41.000	Stainless steel
AZ Patio Heaters Tapered Stainless Steel Heater	$$	32 x 87 x 32"	42.8 pounds	48,000	Stainless steel
Belleze Propane Patio Heater	$$$$	32 x 32 x 86.5"	41 pounds	48,000	Stainless steel
XtremepowerUS Floor Standing Outdoor Patio Heater	$	29.1 x 18.2 x 17.9"	35 pounds	48,000	Stainless steel

Wrapping Up

It is time we concluded our article devoted to showing you the best patio heaters on today’s market. These units will surely make your life more pleasant as they heat up an unusual area – the outside deck or porch.

Your feedback is important to us so shoot us a comment if you liked the guide or if you wanted to have something added. Share the piece so that we can help more people get informed on the matter and don’t forget to check out our other guides to getting the finest heating units. Thanks for reading and as always – stay put!