Determining the size of the salamander heater you need depends on its use. For example, salamander heaters are often used in the wintertime to keep a small greenhouse warm to protect plants from freezing.
In this case, typically, much smaller salamander heaters are used so as not to completely heat the greenhouse and lose much of the temperature overnight.
If you do not need a heater large enough for a greenhouse but want one for your home or small building, you will need a larger unit.
Here, we answer your questions related to what size salamander heater you need.
What is a salamander heater?
A salamander is a small, portable heater used for various purposes, including supplemental heating in greenhouses, garages and other spaces where a larger heater might not fit. They are also typically used in workshops and building sites for temporary warmth.
It provides localized heat by burning propane or natural gas.
Salamander heaters are different than baseboard or other types of space heaters because they are designed to provide targeted warmth. Not widespread, general heating. Often, they are considered the best option for greenhouses because they will warm only one space, providing a more controlled temperature.
Salamander heaters can also be placed outside to provide supplemental heat for a building. In this situation, they can use natural gas or propane as a fuel source instead of requiring electricity like a portable heater.
What are the types of salamander heaters?
There are several different types of salamander heaters available, and they range in model sizes. Different models include:
Floor-mounted model
These heaters are typically the largest type. They attach directly to the floor and may be wall-mounted, as well, for ease of installation.
Under-bench heater model
This type of salamander heater mounts under a bench or workstation. It can be used in commercial settings like garages, cafes, food trucks and warehouses, but it is also suitable for use at home for supplemental heating during cold weather. Some under-bench models also include rubber feet to ensure safety if used on other surfaces like wood or tile.
Wall-mounted model
Salamander heaters designed for wall mounting will include leg stands so they can stand freely without requiring wall studs for support. This type tends to provide more focus than other options because it is designed to heat a specific area.
Baseboard heater model
Baseboard heaters combine the flexibility of both under-bench and sidewall-mounted units as they can be mounted either beneath a bench or inside a cabinet/workbench. Baseboard models remain in one place, heating panels along the walls. Because they are often smaller than other types, they are also more energy-efficient.
U-shaped or U-line heater model
This type of salamander heater mounts on the wall like other wall-mounted models, but it is generally U-shaped so that it can provide heating for multiple workstations at once. Often, this option is used in commercial settings where several people are working nearby.
Salamander heaters are available in different output ranges depending on your needs, and they should come with an adequate cord length for reaching outlets safely. Depending on the model you choose, you may have options for hanging pendant cords or placing caps over unused outlets–so they don’t expose live wiring during installation.
There’s also a difference in the type of energy they use, including electric and gas heaters.
Electric salamander heaters
These come with electric fans to distribute the air around them heated by electricity. Electric units can be plugged into any standard outlet but tend to lose some efficiency as they get hotter due to the higher resistance of heating elements over an open flame. These require regular maintenance, such as changing wicks or replacing elements.
Gas salamander heaters
Gas units rely on propane or natural gas that burns at high temperatures and heats a metal element within the device. These burn fuel more efficiently than electric models and do.
How do salamander heaters work?
A salamander heater has a metal cage containing an open flame. The airflow inside the cage helps distribute heated air to the environment while also heating interior surfaces like walls and floors. A fan draws in outside air for combustion purposes before distributing it throughout the room or building.
Salamander heaters are typically not used as your main source of space heating. They’re more suited to supplement existing heating systems during colder months. Since they only cover small areas at a time, you may need several units to warm the space enough.
Where can I use one?
Salamander heaters are used for warming greenhouses and on construction sites, garages and workshops. Basically, any small space that needs high levels of heat.
The great thing about them is that they can be used in any application you need temporary heating. Meaning, they are an ideal way to warm up your winter growing area until your main system kicks in.
What size do I need?
Three main factors to consider when choosing a salamander heater for your needs include wattage, size and insulation.
Wattage is the measurement of power consumption in an appliance, so the higher the wattage on your salamander heater means that it has more power and can heat larger areas slightly faster than lower wattage ones.
The recommended wattage for medium-size greenhouses is 500 watts per 100 square feet or five watts per square foot. So, for example, if you have a 1,000 square foot greenhouse, you should use a minimum of a 1,000-watt salamander heater when temperatures drop below freezing.
Size refers to the diameter or length of the heating element being used. It is the most important factor in determining how fast an area will be warmed up.
Insulation is the amount of protection your greenhouse has from outside temperatures. So, if you have more insulation, it will take longer for the salamander heater to warm up the space.
If you’ve decided you’re ready to rent or buy a salamander heater, contact Preferred Climate Solutions today.
