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Patio Heater Buying Guide

by Bill Ferris Leave a Comment

Patio Heater Buying Guide

Table of Contents

  • Choose the best patio heater
    • Advantages of outdoor heaters vs traditional fire pits & fireplaces
  • Determine heat requirements
    • BTU to Watts
    • Estimated BTUs & Watts by outdoor space size
  • Evaluate fuel types
    • Outdoor Propane Heaters
    • Natural Gas Deck Heaters
    • Electric Patio Heaters
  • Review different design styles of deck heaters
    • Freestanding – Portable heaters
    • Fixed – Mounted or Hanging Heaters
  • Safety – you can never be too careful
    • Safe space heater placement
    • Outdoor heater safety features
  • Maintenance – keep them working safely
  • Accessories – enhance the performance
  • Select your outdoor radiant heater

The weather may have turned colder but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy spending time on your screened-in porch or hardwood deck year-round. Adding a patio heater is a great way to warm the area so you don’t have to go inside when the sun goes down or temperatures drop. Outdoor heated settings allow you to relax in the fresh air, soak in some vitamin D and sit comfortably for a cozy alfresco dinner despite the chill in the air elsewhere. Unlike the convection heating used indoors, such as furnaces, boilers and HVAC systems that warm the air and then circulate it, outdoor space heaters utilize radiant heating that heats nearby objects and people more efficiently [Hitchings (2007)].

Helpful Article

Read our article Patio Heaters – Radiant vs Convection Heat for more information.

Choose the best patio heater

So, how do you pick the right space heater for your backyard? There are many types of heaters from which to choose. Are they your only choices for heating your outside space? What about fire pits or fireplaces with open flames?

Advantages of outdoor heaters vs traditional fire pits & fireplaces

  • Ignition – Fireplaces that burn wood require kindling and attention while most space heaters turn on via a switch or button
  • Temperature Control – Fires need rearranging or adding logs to change the temperature while outdoor heaters adjust easily and quickly
  • Heat Generation – A fire pit only heats the immediate area whereas a patio heater can efficiently accommodate a larger space
  • Air Quality – Wood-burning fire features, unlike heaters, generate a lot of smoke that can irritate eyes and affect people with allergies
  • Safety – Wind-blown ashes and sparks can be fire hazards and dangerous for small children and pets, while a deck heater can be hot to the touch
  • Aesthetics – Outside heaters tend to be industrial looking and favor function over form, whereas fireplaces and fire pit tables create welcoming focal points of dancing light that suggest coziness and warmth
  • Convenience – Firepits, in contrast to heaters, can take a lot of effort to light and clean up

Once you’ve established that one or more patio heaters make the most sense, you need to figure a few things out. This buying guide outlines a number of important criteria that you should understand when investing in these essential heating devices.

Patio Heater Buying Guide - Heat Requirements
Calculate the heat required for your space before looking for the best outdoor space heater

Determine heat requirements

First, calculate how much heat you need to make your outdoor setting more comfortable. Do this before evaluating heaters. The size of your space, its covering and the climate all affect the required heat. Uncovered settings in colder environments will require more heat to warm the same-sized covered area in more temperate zones.

BTU to Watts

British Thermal Units are the standard measurement of heat output. BTU is typically referenced with gas outdoor heaters, while Watt is associated with electric heaters. A BTU represents the thermal energy required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit at sea level. A Watt is a unit of power and 1 Watt = 3.41 BTUs.

While there are several ways to estimate the heat needed for an outdoor space, a simple rule of thumb is multiplying the square feet by twenty BTUs to calculate the required BTUs.

EXAMPLE – A 25 x 30-foot deck is 750 square feet. So, multiply that by 20 and you get 15,000 BTUs. To convert that into Watts, divide 15,000 by 3.41 which equals ~4,400 Watts. If you live in warmer areas, you may need a little less or in cooler areas a little more.

Estimated BTUs & Watts by outdoor space size

Space in Square FeetEstimated BTUsEstimated Watts
100-150 ft22,000-3,000600-900 w
150-250 ft23,000-5,000900-1,500 w
250-500 ft25,000-10,0001,500-3,000 w
500-1,000 ft210,000-20,0003,000-6000 w
1,000-2,000 ft220,000-40,0006,000-12,000 w
2,000-4,000 ft240,000-80,00012,000-24,000 w

Evaluate fuel types

Next, assess which porch heater fuel best meets your needs, budget and personal preference. Each option comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks in the short and long term. Consider how those characteristics will work in your specific environment before purchasing.

Patio Heater Buying Guide - Propane
Standalone propane heaters conceal their tanks

Outdoor Propane Heaters

Liquid propane tanks are commonly connected to backyard barbecues and fire tables. However, they can also be used to fuel gas heaters.

PROS

  • Low short-term cost
  • Easy set-up
  • Warms space quickly
  • Portable options

CONS

  • Tanks must be stored
  • Limited tank capacity
  • Need a ventilated uncovered area
Patio Heater Buying Guide - Natural Gas
Plumbed natural gas heaters are cost-effective in the long run

Natural Gas Deck Heaters

Plumbed natural gas often fuels fireplaces and other permanent fire features. It can also be used for deck heaters.

PROS

  • Lowest long-term cost
  • Never runs out (unlimited capacity)
  • Easy to maintain
  • More sustainable than propane

CONS

  • High short-term cost for installation of gas line
  • Not portable
  • Strong fumes require ventilation
Patio Heater Buying Guide - Electric
Electric outdoor infrared heaters are energy-efficient and can be used anywhere

Electric Patio Heaters

Indoor and outdoor space heaters can be powered by electricity.

PROS

  • Easy installation
  • Relatively portable
  • 98% energy efficiency
  • Eco-friendly
  • No emissions
  • Safest option
  • Low maintenance

CONS

  • Long-term electricity costs can be expensive if utilities are high
  • Must be near an electrical outlet
  • Take time to warm up
  • Generate less heat than alternatives
  • More frequent equipment replacement

BUY ELECTRIC HEATERS

Bromic Platinum Electric Patio Heater
Bromic Platinum Electric Patio Heater
Heatscope Pure 3000 Watt Radiant Heater
Heatscope Pure 3000 Watt Radiant Heater

Review different design styles of deck heaters

While considering different fuels, factor in how the characteristics of your outdoor setting might impact your design choices. Some outdoor patio lamp heaters work well in large spaces, while others are ideal in small ones. The location of your gas lines and electrical outlets matters as well. Outdoor heating appliances fall into two design categories: those that can be moved and those that can’t after installation.

Patio Heater Buying Guide - Freestanding
Outdoor portable heaters provide flexibility for changing settings

Freestanding – Portable heaters

Mobile heating units vary in their intended placement and degree of portability. Standalone propane heaters have enclosed compartments. They store and conceal their gas tanks and can be placed anywhere. Outdoor electric heaters are limited in their mobility by the outlet position and cord length. A key benefit of these space heaters is the ease of set-up.

Floor or stand-up heaters

Most standing heaters are large (6-8 feet tall) and have wheels. These tower, mushroom or pyramid heaters are often used on restaurant decks and patios. They provide warmth for diners within a 5 to 10-foot radius. Smaller versions of this outdoor heat lamp have squared designs and are placed under tables or to heat smaller spaces.

BUY PORTABLE HEATERS

RADtec Pyramid Flame Patio Heater
RADtec Pyramid Flame Patio Heater
Bromic Eclipse Electric Portable Patio Heater
Bromic Eclipse Electric Portable Patio Heater

Tabletop heaters

These small heaters sit on tabletops and often mimic the look of larger floor models. Typically 3 feet or shorter, they’re easy to move and store when not in use.

Patio Heater Buying Guide - Fixed
Mounted natural gas and propane space heaters require professional installation

Fixed – Mounted or Hanging Heaters

Immobile outdoor space heaters are permanently attached to walls or ceilings. They’re perfect when there is little floor space. A professional electrician or gas plumber may be required for the installation. Commercial or high-use residential locations often connect to existing propane or natural gas lines. However, most mounted heaters tend to be electrical units. The safest mounted set-ups are far enough away that people cannot burn their hands on hot metal. This type of heater is great when you have static seating and warm the same areas.

BUY MOUNTED HEATERS

Bromic Platinum Gas Patio Heater
Bromic Platinum Gas Patio Heater
Calcana High Output Patio Heater
Calcana High Output Patio Heater

Wall Mount Outside Heaters

Uncovered settings with limited floor space (or when you want inconspicuous heating) are perfect for wall-mounted heaters. Gas lines and electrical wiring can be hidden in walls. This enables you to conveniently position the heat without ruining the ambiance. Cross beams of pergolas and gazebos also offer ideal surfaces for mounting as they are high up and less noticeable.

Patio Heater Buying Guide - Fixed - Recessed
The best outdoor electric heaters can be recessed into ceilings for a streamlined look

Ceiling Porch Heaters

Mounting an outside heater on the ceiling is sensible when you have limited usable wall space – like a screened-in porch with mesh or glass walls. Some models are affixed to the surface while others are flush-mounted into the ceiling. The latter are less conspicuous and direct attention to the decor. Electric outdoor heaters can be recessed into ceilings while gas versions cannot. Radiant infrared heaters directed toward the floor are much more efficient than heating fans. The latter blows warm air that rises to the ceiling and away from where it’s needed [Roth, Dieckmann & Brodrick (2007)].

Patio Heater Buying Guide - Fixed - Pole Mount
Pole-mounted commercial heaters are great for crowded open-air restaurants

Pole Mount Heaters

In some large commercial spaces, mounting outdoor heaters on poles may be a good solution. This is especially true if there’s high traffic, seating is tightly packed and it’s an open-air setting without a ceiling. Portable heaters might get bumped into, so fixing the heat lamps high up on poles makes a lot of sense.

Hanging Outside Heaters

If you have a high or vaulted ceiling, a hanging heater might be your best bet. Whether dangling by a sturdy cord or held in place by chains or rigid metal tubing, these deck heaters bring warmth closer to where you need it. Gas lines can be a bit unwieldy (and eyesores), so most hanging outdoor heaters are electric-powered.

Safety – you can never be too careful

Keep your deck or porch warm and cozy when the temperature drops to enjoy outdoor dining and lounging year-round. However, it comes with great responsibility. Focused heat and gaseous emissions can threaten health and damage or destroy property.

Patio Heater Buying Guide - Safety
Freestanding outdoor heat lamps need ample space to be safe

Safe space heater placement

Natural and propane gas heaters produce harmful carbon monoxide. They can only be installed in well-ventilated uncovered or open spaces [Whitmyre & Pandian (2018)]. Infrared deck heaters aside, most heaters are hot to the touch. Place them away from flammable materials such as foliage, fabrics and furniture to minimize fire hazards (at least 3 feet on all sides). If possible, keep them more than an arm’s length from where people (especially children) can reach. Avoid setting floor heaters on uneven surfaces or in high-traffic areas where they can be knocked over.

Outdoor heater safety features

The best deck heaters have many features to make them as safe as possible and qualify for CSA certification or UL approval.

  • Accessible On/Off Switch or Remote – Turning the unit on and off or adjusting temperature should not be difficult or put you at risk of touching a hot surface
  • Automatic Shutoff – The heater turns off if it gets too hot or becomes a fire hazard
  • Tip-Over Switch – If the heater is knocked over, the heating element will automatically turn off (very important for tall standing towers or tabletop designs)
  • Cool-Touch Glass – Many heaters have shielding glass tubes or screens to prevent someone from directly touching the heating element and are cooler to the touch
  • Protective Cover – Inclement weather, dust and critters can damage heating components and weaken connections if units are not covered when not in use

Maintenance – keep them working safely

Patio heaters are built to handle the elements in mild conditions. However, they maintain performance and last longer if protected from harsh weather. Store portable heaters in dry spaces and cover fixed-mounted units when not using them to minimize exposure. Secure or weigh down tabletop and standing heaters if you reside in areas with windy conditions to prevent them from tipping over. Clean heaters at the beginning and end of every season and follow manufacturer guidelines for the proper process and appropriate cleaners for your unit. Replace damaged parts immediately and check electrical and gas connections regularly.

Patio Heater Buying Guide - Maintenance
Weatherproof covers help to protect porch heaters and maintain performance

Accessories – enhance the performance

Some outdoor heaters have optional remote controls for turning them on, adjusting the temperature or setting their timing. If you have a commercial alfresco dining area with multiple heaters you may be able to customize the warmth based on each table’s location or patron preference. Directional joints or deflector panels help focus heat where it’s needed.

Select your outdoor radiant heater

After you review these criteria and determine your needs and preferences, you can begin your patio heater search in earnest. The right selection will ensure your outdoor space is warm and welcoming throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions – Patio Heaters

What are the best high-end patio heater brands?

Patio heaters vary greatly in price and quality, depending on their heat output, fuel/power source, design and aesthetics. High-performance outdoor heaters may have a sleek look for residential settings or more of an industrial one for commercial installations. Here are a few of the manufacturers of the best quality heaters in the industry:

  • Bromic
  • Infratech
  • Sunpak
  • Heatscope
  • Kindle Living
  • Solaira
  • RADtec
  • Lynx
  • Italkero
  • Calcana
  • Sunglo
  • IR Energy

References

  • Hitchings, R. (2007). Geographies of embodied outdoor experience and the arrival of the patio heater. Area, 39(3), 340-348.
  • Roth, K., Dieckmann, J., & Brodrick, J. (2007). Infrared radiant heaters. Ashrae Journal, 49(6), 72.
  • Whitmyre, G. K., & Pandian, M. D. (2018). Probabilistic assessment of the potential indoor air impacts of vent-free gas heating appliances in energy-efficient homes in the United States. Journal of the Air & Waste Management Association, 68(6), 616-625.

Filed Under: Guides, Outdoor Patio Heaters

Avatar for Bill Ferris

About Bill Ferris

Bill Ferris is the president of Decor Outdoor and founded the company in 2007. He's been quoted on patio furniture by Living Cozy and on home improvement by Realtor.com. When not writing posts for the website, he's a frequent guest contributor on the subject of online marketing and an interior design enthusiast.

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