FAQs

What types of heating are available?

There are four main types of heaters available, radiant, forced air, convection, and radiators. Each uses a different method to collect and heat air or objects in the surrounding area. Radiant heaters use infrared radiation to heat the objects around the heater and are especially effective in small areas such as under a table or desk. Forced air heaters use fans to spread warm air that has been heated by ceramic elements; forced air heaters are best for heating medium sized rooms, but can be very noisy. Convection heaters take air from the floor of a room and release heated air from the top of the unit; convection heaters are good for heating medium sized rooms, but can also be noisy. Radiators heat an oil reservoir inside the unit which slowly heats the surrounding air; these heaters are ideal for heating bedrooms.

What is a heater’s BTU? How many BTU do I need?

A heater’s BTU or British Thermal Unit refers to the amount of heat it takes to heat one pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. You can figure out an estimate of how many BTU you will need to heat a specific space by first finding the area of the space (square footage times room height), then multiplying the area by 4 if there is poor insulation, 3 for average insulation, and 2 for good insulation. This is by no means exact, but it will give you a good idea.

What is the best power source for my heater?

There isn’t necessarily an overall best power source, but there may be a best fit for your particular application. Electric heaters are best suited for indoor use; access to electrical outlets is a must and typically these heaters do not have any weather protection.

Gas powered heaters, either propane or natural gas, are best suited for outdoor use because they generally take up more space, are designed to endure unfavorable weather conditions, and can be easily transported to any location. Also, keep in mind electric heaters are more expensive to operate than gas models. To cut down on cost, purchase a heater with a thermostat or add a thermostat kit to regulate heat.



Glossary & Hints



Agriculture Heaters

Agriculture heaters or Livestock heaters are necessary to provide heat for barns, nurseries, and farrowing houses. These heaters are designed specifically for agricultural use and are available in a variety of styles including forced air and direct-fired models.

Direct Fired Heaters

Direct-fired heaters are available in a variety of fuel types including propane, natural gas, and dual fuel models. Some models are equipped with electronic ignitors and can have heat outputs up to 350,00 BTU/hr. Be sure to check the heater’s safety features before buying to ensure it meets your requirements.

Forced Air Heaters

Forced air heaters are designed to accommodate smaller work areas, home remodels and other construction. Models can range from 100,000 to 400,000 BTU/hr and are available in propane, natural gas, and dual fuel models. There are forced air heaters available with weather resistant designs for working outdoors.

Garage and Shop Heaters

These heaters are designed to heat a small portion of a large area and are perfect for creating a comfortable work environment in any garage or shop.

Indirect Fired Heaters

Indirect fired heaters are designed for use in construction heating projects that require vented heat specifically. Indirect fired heaters are available in easily portable versions to make moving from site to site a breeze.

Patio Heaters

Patio heaters are extremely popular for home and business use. Whether out on your deck or on a restaurant’s outdoor patio, these heaters are ideal in almost any social setting. Patio heaters are cost effective and durable enough for any user.

Radiant and Convection Heaters

Radiant Heaters and convection heaters are designed to deliver heat to warehouses, shops and garages. They heat an area by working from the ground up. Heat is absorbed by a building’s concrete floors, fixtures and machinery which re-radiate the energy into the open space in a building. These heaters are the best way to heat your building under various conditions while saving in your heating process.

Tent Heaters

Tent heaters are intended for use at events in temporary outdoor structures. They are thermostat controlled and compact to fit in any space you may have available. Tent heaters are available in propane, electric, and natural gas heating sources.

Heater Accessories

Depending on your application, you may consider adding a thermostat kit, air ducts, gas hoses and regulators to your operation.