Enjoying your outdoor space doesn’t have to be limited to warm weather. With the right patio heater, you can extend the use of your patio, deck, or backyard well into the cooler months. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a quiet evening, or simply want to keep warm while relaxing outdoors, a patio heater can make all the difference.
Understanding Types of Patio Heaters
There’s a variety of patio heaters available, each with its own set of characteristics, advantages, and drawbacks. Let’s explore some of the most common types:
Propane Patio Heaters
Self-contained free standing pillar units combust liquid propane fuel stored internally to create substantial warmth suited to heating broader areas. Tank compartments integrate seamlessly into pole builds for compact all-in-one designs movable around properties.
Electric Patio Heaters
Instead of combusting fuel, electric models utilize heating elements powered by electricity to emit heat. They save periodically refilling propane tanks but require access to adequately wired outdoor power outlets installed to code within reach via extension cords to supply ample current.
Natural Gas Patio Heaters
Similar concept to propane units but instead links directly to existing exterior homes or building natural gas lines, eliminating refilling tanks. Provide unlimited runtimes and economic consistency for permanent installations once infrastructure connects. Require professional help tying into gas networks.
Tabletop Patio Heaters
Compact portable models designed sitting directly on patio tables, bars, or countertops, directing warmth straight downward around seated groups in tighter spaces better than smaller zones. Lower BTU heat output capacity suits smaller gathering areas. No mounted permanent installation is necessary.
Mounted Patio Heaters
Permanently ceiling-mounted overhead pole units with heating elements oriented downwards to blanket covered spaces evenly and commonly seen mounted providing warmth across full restaurant patio areas, allowing year-round alfresco dining. Require professional installation but free up floor space below the heating coverage zone.
Infrared Patio Heaters
Generate warmth using Infratech heaters akin to natural sunlight rather than heating surrounding air, which rises and escapes, leaving chilled floors. Infrared locks in heat directly around bodies while using less electrical energy compared to powerful forced air varieties. Newer technology is gaining adoption for energy efficiency and personal comfort.
Choosing the Right Patio Heater
Matching model output size, fuel options, and mobility level to intended warming needs ensures the best backyard heating solution:
Heat Output
Measure unit heating ability in BTUs/hr (British Thermal Units per Hour), indicating maximum warmth intensity capacities across operational square footage coverage ranges. Size appropriately for intended spaces, avoiding undersized units failing to warm or oversized units wasting unused heat.
Fuel Type
Self-contained propane tank-fed heaters offer completely portable convenience that can easily be wheeled around right where needed most for events and gatherings. Electric heaters save you from periodically having to refill propane tanks but require properly grounded high-voltage outdoor outlets installed within reach via cords to supply power. Natural gas links to household lines allow for endless heating without refueling as long as home integration to these pipelines exists.
Size and Style
Freestanding pillar tower units take up usable floor space but position freely wherever wanted using built-in wheels. Wall-mounted overhead heaters preserve open movement below coverage areas but require professional installation in fixed locations. Tabletop compactness provides private warmth to tight seating spots. Larger commercial scale emitters cover community spaces like full restaurant patios hosting bigger mingling crowds.
Safety Features
Advanced models integrate tilt/tip auto shut-off protection cutting propane/gas flows plus shutting down electric models if accidentally knocked over preventing leaks, explosions, or fires. Look for sufficiently weighted bases with lower center-of-gravity improving freestanding stability.
Additional Features
Handy add-ons include adjustable pole mounts controlling heating direction, remote controls, decorative lighting, motion sensors triggering operation only when occupants are present to conserve fuel, and lockable wheels for securing positioned units not requiring frequent relocation.
Safety Tips Using Patio Heaters
While patio heaters can provide warmth and comfort, it’s crucial to use them safely to prevent accidents and injuries. Here are some essential safety tips:
Read the Manual
Review guidance to understand unique model procedures, warnings, specifications, and local code requirements before initial use.
Mind Placement
Position heaters far from flammables on fireproof sturdy bases in open spaces with ample airflow ventilation.
Supervise Operation
Children and pets don’t understand the dangers. Adult supervision is mandatory for safety. Never leave the heater area unattended even briefly while powered on.
Create Heating Zones
Establish clear perimeter safety zones that kids/pets cannot breach to avoid burns from hot surfaces. Disabling or removing heaters in highly rambunctious company situations is better safe than sorry.
Ensure Ventilation
Indoor safety depends completely on maintained cross ventilation and continually balancing combustion byproduct removal. Never run in tightly sealed spaces lacking generous make-up air entry flow.
Inspect Frequently
Check propane connections for leaks before/after winterization storage using soap solution to observe bubble trace formation. Confirm stability, ignition function, and wiring condition frequently for damage issues needing attention.
Maintenance Best Practices
Proper maintenance and care can extend the lifespan of your patio heater and ensure it operates safely and efficiently. Here are some maintenance tips:
Clean Surfaces
Keep exterior metal, glass, and composites clean routinely removing grimy grease, winter salt/chemical accumulations, and cobwebs which risk electrical shorts if heavily built up across insulators.
Inspect Fuel Lines
Examine propane/natural gas links and valves routinely seeking cracking damage, loose fittings, or corrosion needing replacement to avoid dangerous leaks.
Replace Damaged Parts
Don’t jury rig or patch clearly faulty elements hoping for extended usefulness. Replace damaged wiring, cracked ceramic heating elements, or degraded components immediately fully restoring original safety.
Store Safely
Place upright in protected spaces through harsh weather months safe from external physical blows. Use weatherproof padded heater cover bags guarding finishes from dings, UV damage, and pests building nests when housed outdoors under patio covers lacking controlled environments.
Conclusion
Patio heaters are a valuable addition to any outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors even when the temperatures drop. By choosing the right type of heater and following proper safety guidelines, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for yourself and your guests.
The key to selecting the perfect patio heater is to consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you opt for a portable propane heater, a sleek electric model, a permanent natural gas installation, or a charming wood-burning fire pit, a patio heater can transform your outdoor space into a year-round haven. With the right patio heater, you can extend your outdoor season and increase your comfort.
