Greenhouse Heaters and Polytunnel Heating

Greenhouse Heaters For Improved Growing Conditions

As temperatures begin to drop at the advent of autumn and winter, plant growth begins to suffer due to conditions. The use of a reliable greenhouse heater helps to improve these conditions and promote healthier, faster growth.

At National Heater Shops, our curated range of suitable greenhouse heaters help to maintain a suitable temperature for greenhouses, polytunnels or allotments. Featuring models from reliable brands such as Elite, Master and Eden, these heaters are designed to maintain and operate safely during winter months.

Types of Greenhouse Heaters

There are multiple types of greenhouse heater that are appropriate for allotments, greenhouses and polytunnels. Each type of heater has its benefits depending on size, power supply and desired temperature.

Electric Greenhouse Heaters

An electric heater is capable of providing both fast and effective heat to a polytunnel or greenhouse. Many electric heaters feature a thermostat control, allowing the area to maintain the required temperature. In addition, the warm air that these units produce is clean and safe in enclosed spaces so they can be used with little to no ventilation.

Electric heaters are cheaper to buy, but can be expensive to run over a long period. There are models available to run on 240v power supplies, 400v supplies or 3-phase power supplies depending on the size and how demanding the job is.

Gas Greenhouse Heaters

Gas heaters, also known as propane heaters, are a cheap option for warming greenhouses. Many small options are fully portable and do not require a plugged in power supply, whilst others feature an internal fan to distribute warm air which needs to be plugged into a power supply in order to run. Additionally, some models also feature a built-in thermostat to provide extra control.

Gas greenhouse heaters are best used in larger areas or areas with ventilation due to the buildup of CO2 emitted from the heater. Whilst CO2 can be beneficial to plants, a safe level should always be maintained.

Cold weather can affect the performance of butane, as at around -0.4°C (31.28 °F) its evaporation slows, making it unusable. If where you live tends to reach freezing temperatures in the winter, you might consider using propane as a fuel source instead.

Paraffin Greenhouse Heaters

We offer both small specialist paraffin heaters are also available, ideal for hobbyists maintaining a small space and large paraffin heaters for commercial greenhouses and polytunnels. These heaters can be fueled using diesel, paraffin or kerosene, and they produce only clean, fume-free warm air.

Greenhouse Heater FAQs

Why do I need a greenhouse heater?

A greenhouse heater helps to maintain optimal temperatures inside a greenhouse or polytunnel, protecting plants from frost and ensuring consistent growing conditions. They help to extend the season and are a valuable piece of equipment whether you are a hobbyist or a commercial grower.

What’s the difference between a greenhouse heater and a polytunnel heater?

Greenhouse heaters and polytunnel heaters serve the same purpose and many heaters can work effectively in both environments. Generally speaking, polytunnel heaters may prioritise airflow and moisture resistance, whilst greenhouse heaters are often suited for glass of rigid structures. For advice, contact us or speak to our friendly sales team.

Are greenhouse heaters energy efficient?

Modern heating equipment is designed with energy efficiency in mind, especially electric and gas powered models. Many heaters feature thermostat controls allowing for both waste reduction and efficiency.

Do I need a thermostat with my greenhouse heater?

Many models naturally include a thermostat to prevent overheating and maintain an appropriate and effective temperature. It is advisable to have a thermostat with your greenhouse heater.

Can a greenhouse heater be used year-round?

Greenhouse heaters can be used year round, not just in winter. They help to regulate temperature during cold nights in spring and autumn, ensuring stable growing conditions. Commercial growers often rely on them throughout the year for consistent crop production.

Related Guides and Articles

• How to use a greenhouse heater

• Space heater fuel guide

• What is a space heater?

• Understanding energy efficient heaters and running costs