If you are considering a gas space heater, it is first important to understand the spaces in which a gas space heater should be used. If you are considering warming an enclosed space, a gas space heater is probably not the best choice unless the space is extremely well-ventilated. The gas from the heater can lead to carbon monoxide build up in the room, which is toxic and potentially deadly. Gas heaters are great for well ventilated spaces or outdoor applications, but they should be avoided for indoor use in tightly insulated rooms.
Determine the size of the space you need to heat with the gas space heater. If the area is an outdoor patio space, the size should be measured in terms of proximity of chairs and tables to where the heater will sit. if you plan on using the gas space heater in a well-ventilated garage, consider how large the garage is and how quickly and efficiently you need the garage heated. This will determine the size of the gas space heater you choose, as well as the possible placement of that heater. Consider, too, any external hazards that may interfere with safe use of the heater within any space.
For outdoor applications, consider purchasing a propane gas space heater that attaches to a standard propane tank, such as the ones used to power outdoor grills. These units are portable, easy to install, and easy to move around a patio or deck space. They are radiant heaters, which essentially means a heating element is lit and heated up, and no propulsion method is used to direct the heat. The heat is felt in the near vicinity of the heating element instead. Be sure to choose a unit that attaches securely and easily, and one that features a regulator of some sort to raise or lower the temperature of the heater quickly and easily.
Forced air heaters feature a propulsion system that pushes warm air outward away from the heating unit. Such a design is useful for larger spaces because the heat can spread through larger areas easily. These heaters will more than likely consume more gas more quickly, because the heater will be working harder to spread heat throughout a room. Check to see what kind of power output the heater features; the measurement will be noted in British Thermal Units, or BTU. The higher the number, the more heat the unit will be able to pump out.
