As temperatures drop, enjoying outdoor space becomes more difficult. If you want to enjoy your outdoor space even in winter, a patio heater can be a saviour. There are different brands of heaters available for outdoor spaces, and you may get confused when selecting the best one among the multiple options. In this article, we review several popular outdoor heaters and guide you through key factors to consider before buying one for your home.
Key Factors to Consider Before Purchasing
The Size of the Space
The type of heater you need depends on the specific area you want to keep warm.
If you need to heat a large space, installing gas or electric heaters can be a good choice. These heaters can be attached to a wall beam or the ceiling, helping the heat spread throughout the patio.
If you need to heat a small space where you want to dive into a storybook or drink some beverages, a portable unit can be the best option.
Budget
Various brands offer many budget-friendly options. But a few things, like the size of the space, the amount of wattage, and additional parts like mounting brackets, can add up to the final budget. Here's a table showing the average cost of different types of heaters and the factors that affect their cost.
| Heater Type | Average Cost | Consideration |
| Portable Heater | $100-$800 | Depends on material |
| Electric Heater | $500-$1000 | Depends on size, wattage and style |
| Gas Heater | $800-$1500 | Depends on size, rating and material |
Power Options
If you're installing a gas or electric heater, you must know what type of power it uses.
A properly plumbed gas line is needed if you're using natural gas for the power unit.
If you're installing an electric heater, you must consider its voltage requirements.
Electric heaters operate efficiently at 208 volts or a bit higher.
Weather Conditions
If you live in a windy area, gas heaters may not be the best solution because the flame may be blown out. Given these weather conditions, it would be best to go with electric units or a gas heater with a higher wind-resistance rating. Therefore, it's important to consider the typical weather of your area before purchasing a heater.
Control Capabilities
Control Options depend on the budget you allocate for a heater. Heaters offer control capabilities ranging from simple to sophisticated. The price of the heater with more features will be high.
Here Are a Few Widely Known Patio Heaters
Free-Standing/ Portable Heaters
Free-standing or Portable Heaters are also called ‘mushroom heaters’ for their appearance. These types of heaters are mostly installed in restaurants for their affordability and easy installation. These heaters are tall and slim, providing focused light in specific spots. These heaters provide 3 fuel options: Liquid Propane, Natural Gas, and Electric.
Here are a few of the best options:
Better Homes & Gardens Electric Patio Heater
Pros
This water-resistant patio heater comes with three heat settings.
It is easy to operate thanks to its rocker switch.
You can feel the heat even from about 4 feet away, making it a great option for decks, small patios, and semi- enclosed areas.
It provides 5,100 BTUs.
Cons
It doesn't have a remote control.
There's no option for height adjustment.
Tiki Customisable Fire Pit Heater
Pros
It provides the best features of a heater and a fire pit in one unit.
It features a propane gauge.
It offers a slide-out tank tray.
It can produce 40,000 BTUs.
Cons
Attachments are not included and are to be purchased separately.
Hampton Bay Stainless Steel Patio Heater
Pros
This patio heater starts up easily and heats up quickly.
It feels sturdy when the base is filled with sand.
It has a timeless look.
It works efficiently even in windy weather.
Cons
It is difficult and time-consuming to assemble.
It has complicated parts that are not clearly labeled.
East Oak Patio Heater With Table
Pros
It delivers strong heat performance even in high winds.
It has a flat tip at the top, designed for a water-weight option.
It is very easy to set up.
Cons
The top part feels heavier when moving.
The surface of its built-in table is a little warped.
Wall / Ceiling Mount
Wall/Ceiling-Mount heaters are good options if you want to install them permanently. If you don’t want to occupy your floor, installing a wall/ceiling Mount heater could be an ideal option. These heaters come in multiple colours, with all fuel options (Liquid Propane, natural gas,, and electric). Also, they work well in both spot heating and heating larger spaces.
EnerG+ Hanging Electric Outdoor Heater
Pros
It requires no setup.
It provides a remote with two heat levels.
It works efficiently even if it's too cold.
It can produce 5,100 BTUs.
Cons
It has dim light.
The auto shut-off function is confusing.
EnerG+HEA-21288LED
It is a hanging heater that works best in covered patios or gazebos. It has a canopy at the top that pushes the heat downward, so it reaches you efficiently.
Recessed Mount
Recessed-mount heaters work best on flat ceilings. These heaters need to be mounted in the ceiling, just like a can light. The only fuel option for this kind of installation is an electric heater, as this requires safety clearance from combustibles.
Dr. Infrared Heater Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater:
Pros
-
It eliminates tripping hazards.
-
It produces quick Infrared heat.
-
It comes with a remote control.
-
It can produce 5,200 BTUs.
Cons
-
It needs a wall for mounting.
-
The process of installing a Recessed Mount Heater is complex.
-
It offers limited heat output.
How to Maintain Your Patio Heater?
Even though many Patio heaters are water-resistant, it's always a good idea to keep them covered. This will help keep the dust out of your patio heater. Covering your patio heater also protects it from mildew, rust, and malfunctions. The patio heater cover will help to protect the heater’s appearance and will keep it functional for a long time.
