Types of Greenhouse Heater Kits for Sale
If you live in the northern latitudes, a greenhouse alone will be insufficient to shield the plants from freezing cold, this is why you need a greenhouse heater.
Another significant risk is that of sudden temperature plunges that can destroy the leaf and the root system of the plant.
- So, it would be prudent to include greenhouse heaters in the set up whether you are an amateur gardener tending to his prized possessions or a large commercial facility with several plants in hand.
Here is a look at some of the popular greenhouse heaters.
Kerosene greenhouse heaters:
If power outages accompany a downpour or even a snow storm in your area, it would make sense to use a rudimentary device to keep the plants safe like the kerosene heater.
- As a matter of fact, if you have to face a sudden drop in temperature, the good ole kerosene heater may provide all the protection you need till you can get a more sophisticated device.
The units come with a fuel reservoir which can offer steady heat for several hours; kerosene heaters can take up quite a bit of space and often occupy 150 square feet. The primary advantage of using this unit is that it can provide heat to the plants in an emergency.
Non vented greenhouse propane heaters:
These devices are ideal for a free standing greenhouse; however the unit will require the installation of a fresh air intake pipe.
- This means that the heater will necessarily have to be installed against the wall.
- One unit may suffice for small greenhouses but for larger structures, multiple propane heaters may be needed.\
One of the primary advantage of using the non vented propane heaters is that they can be fed by any source of propane including handy, mini cylinders. This also eliminates the need for installing a permanent gas line.
Natural gas greenhouse heaters:
As the name suggests, these heaters are powered by natural gas.
- These units are ideal for larger green houses.
- A vented natural gas heater can produce as much as 400,000 BTU.
- The units have convenient features like pilot-less ignition, thermostats, automatic timers and even blow fans that assist in air circulation.
- One of the advantages of using these units is that natural gas is significantly cheaper than any other fuel source including propane and kerosene.
Electrical greenhouse heaters:
These units are surprisingly portable which makes them the ideal choice for small backyard greenhouses.
- A small electric greenhouse heater is perfect for household that cannot access natural gas or propane.
- Electrical heaters are capable of heating small spaces no larger than 150 square feet.
- Some units come equipped with a thermostat and multi speed fans.
The benefit of using electric heaters is that it takes up minimal space and can be easily stored away when not in use. These units are well suited for hobby gardeners who do not have to tend to more than a dozen or so plants. Electric heaters can fit easily even in homemade greenhouses that are nothing more than plastic tents.
Oil-fired greenhouse heaters:
Another option is to use an oil-fired heater.
- These unis work well in areas that are not served by natural gas and/or propane lines.
- Oil-fires heaters are practical heating alternatives. However, they do need a permanent heat intake duct and also an exhaust pipe to keep the fumes from polluting the inside environment.
- Most units come with an ignition system but a fuel tank has to be additionally installed.
- Oil-fired heaters can offer 185,000 BTU heat and are a steady and reliable source of warmth.