One of the main advantages that a portable heater has is
the fact that it's portable. You need to consider how much and how often
you will be moving it from place to place. Think about how much it will
be used and how often you will have to move it. If you are planning on
leaving it in the same location all the time then this want affect you.
While these types of portable heaters are normally used
in garages or workshops, they can also be used in more industrial areas
or during recreational activities, such as camping. Read on to find out
which unit is best for you.
Kerosene
Kerosene heaters are the largest and heaviest of all portable
heaters. They use fuel grade kerosene that can be expensive.
These heaters generally have a high or low setting. The heat
normally radiates out from the heater, so it can take quite a
bit of time to heat the assigned space. Once that space is
heated, there is no thermostat to signal the unit to quit
producing heat.
The biggest negative for a kerosene heater is the smell. The
safety factor is such that most state and local governments urge
some sort of outside ventilation to insure there's no buildup of
fumes. These units come with the standard automatic shutoff in
case of tip over. However, tipping over is unlikely due to the
unit being bottom heavy.
Radiant Heat
These
electric heaters look and function much the way old
style radiators worked. Most of these heaters have a thermostat
that allows you to control the room temperature.
The positives of these
portable garage heaters include being quieter
than forced air heaters, lighter and less expensive than a
kerosene heater, both in terms of initial and sustained cost.
The negatives are that these heaters can take quite a bit of
time to heat even a small space.
The safety factor is very good on radiant heaters, as they all
come with automatic shutoff in the event of a short, electrical
surge or tip over.
Forced Air
Forced air heaters are the most popular of all
portable
space heaters. They are inexpensive to own and operate. They can
heat a space is a short period of time and most have a
thermostat that allows for better control of room temperature.
These units are by far the lightest of all portable heaters.
Many also act as fans during the warmer months by shutting off
the heating element.
While their safety rating is very good, according to U.S.
product Safety Commission, like other portable heaters, they should not be
used as a primary heat source. And they should never be left
unattended.
Heater FAQ
Portability
One of the main advantages of a portable heater is that it's
portable. It can move around to suit you rather than you
reshifting to suit it. In the case of a garage heater, with a
portable unit you're not limited to only using it in the garage.
You can use your unit during chilly backyard BBQ, outdoor party,
or even while camping.
Energy Source
Depending on which type of unit you decide to go with,
you'll need either
fuel or an
electric outlet. If you're going
to use your heater where electricity is available, then a corded
electric heater will work well.
However, if you are going to be using it where there is no
electricity then you will need to consider a propane or other
source of power heater. Make sure the heater you choose will
work where and when you need it to, and that the cost to keep it
running won't break the bank.
Set Up
After you have figured out which heater will best serve your
needs you need to figure out how easy it is to set up. Some
heaters are place where you want it and turn on but many require
some type of mounting etc.
You need to figure out how much trouble it is to set up for
operation based on the fuel source, physical size of heater,
mounting (if needed), time to get heater started and how long it
takes before you are producing heat.
Heat Production
Make sure the heater you have chosen is the right size for
the job. Most heaters have recommendation on how much area they
will heat. You need to consider BTU rating. In general, the
higher the BTU the more heat it will produce.
Storage
Take in to consideration where you will store the heater
during the times of the year it will not be needed. Make sure
you have enough room in a garage or storage shed to put it and
also where it will not get damaged during this storage time
before it's pulled out again next season.
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