Cannabis prefers a specific temperature range to thrive, which varies depending on the plant’s growth stage. Younger cannabis prefers warmer temps, flowering cannabis can tolerate a cooler environment, and all plants prefer a slightly cooler atmosphere at night. Now, young cannabis plants can need temperatures of up to 85°F, and this is difficult to maintain if your grow room isn’t in a naturally warm area. Your grow room’s climate control needs a heater, but what type can you use for cannabis? We explore your best options below to help you decide.
1. Electric Space Heaters
Electric space heaters are the go-to for many cannabis growers. They’re convenient, affordable, easy to control, and work well in smaller grow spaces. However, they do pose a fire risk because they are easy to tip over and catch things on fire this way. If you buy this type of heater, look for ones with safety features like overheat protection and a switch that automatically turns the heater off if it tips over. You might also look for a heater with a ceramic element for efficient, consistent warmth without drying the air too much.
2. Oil-Filled Radiant Heaters
Oil-filled heaters are a great option for several reasons. First, they are the least dangerous when it comes to fire risks. Secondly, they don’t dry out the air, which will keep your cannabis plants happy. Third, they’re relatively quiet and low maintenance. Plus, because they don’t blow out air, they won’t agitate dust or spores in your grow room. Just pair the heater with a fan to gently circulate the heat throughout your grow room. Or, you can choose a mounting kit for your radiant heater to install it on the wall for more effective, even heat distribution.
3. Propane or Natural Gas Heaters
For large grow spaces or greenhouses, propane or natural gas heaters are incredibly effective. They generate a lot of heat and can cover wider areas. Moreover, these heaters release CO₂ as a by-product, which can boost photosynthesis in your plants. However, you do have to make sure CO₂ levels don’t become too high, so your grow room should have enough ventilation.
4. Infrared Heaters
Infrared heaters directly warm objects rather than the air. This mimics natural sunlight, making it an excellent choice for cannabis growing. Infrared heaters are also super energy-efficient and don’t dry out the air. But because they don’t heat the air, you’ll have to position these heaters strategically to avoid hot spots that could damage your plants.
5. Fan Heaters
Fan heaters are another option for growers in smaller spaces. These heaters blow warm air around your grow room. However, while efficient, they are the worst offenders when it comes to drying out the air, so you’ll need to monitor humidity levels closely. You could combine a fan heater with a humidifier to maintain a comfortable environment for your cannabis plants, but other heating methods are better.
Picking the Right Heater for Your Setup
When choosing the type of heater to use for cannabis, always factor in the size of your grow space, your budget, and your climate. Don’t forget to pair your heater with a thermostat so you know when to heat things up and when to cool things down. Additionally, make sure to check your humidity levels regularly to ensure balanced growing conditions.
A well-heated grow space can lead to a bountiful cannabis harvest, so finding the right heater is worth the effort. Your plants will thank you when they’re thriving even in the dead of winter.
