Things To Know Before Buying a Patio Heater

When the temperature starts dropping and the chill takes over, the garden and patio become unused outdoor space. But, fret not because this is when patio heaters come in handy.

These mini space heaters can be placed anywhere on your patio to keep the space all warm. Even though you may not be able to spend a lot of time outdoors in the chilly weather, you can still enjoy some of the comforts by having heating. Here are the top things you should know when buying a patio heater:

1. It Adds Functionality To Your Patio

They come in all types and sizes, so you can find one that suits your space best. Patio heaters are normally suited for spaces that are covered but it depends on the manufacturer’s specifications. They can be wall-mounted, floor-standing, hanging or placed on table tops.

2. The Heaters Come in Four Forms

Natural Gas Patio Heaters

These heaters need to be professionally installed to your gas line for you to use safely so it makes them less portable. This makes it more expensive upfront but the natural gas heater is easier to maintain and it does burn cleaner than wood.

Electric Patio Heaters

These heaters are another popular choice as they are easy to set up, safe to use in small spaces and more portable than other heater types. However, they will need to be near a power outlet and the electricity bills may be more because of them.

Propane Patio Heaters

These heaters heat up very quickly and are very portable. Although, they cost more than gas heaters and you’ll have to replace them when they run out. They are also not recommended for spaces that are covered but you’ll have to check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Wood-burning or Pellet Patio Heaters

These heaters are the most affordable out of all the options but they will require more maintenance and they produce embers and sparks which should not be left unattended.

3. You’ll Have To Calculate How Many Patio Heaters You’ll Need

You’ll only need one patio heater to heat a small space to a reasonable degree but you’ll have to work out how many you need if you have a bigger space.

The patio heater output is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). One BTU measures how much energy is required at sea level to heat or cool a pound of water by one degree. Heaters will normally have an output of BTUs around the thousands or ten-thousands.

You’ll need to work out how many BTUs are needed to heat your patio by multiplying the cubic are of your patio by how many degrees we want to increase the temperature. Once that’s calculated, you’ll need to work out how many heaters you’ll need by dividing the BTUs required by the BTUs of a patio heater model.

6. They Extend Your Time Outdoors

If you are someone who doesn’t like spending time outdoors in the chilly temperature, you can get yourself a portable patio heater. This can help you stay warm outdoors for longer. They have a wide range of applications, so you can use them for a variety of purposes. They come in all sizes and shapes, so you can choose the one that suits your space best.  These heaters are also portable, so you can take them with you whenever you want to spend more time outdoors, without getting cold.

5. Consider If They Are Environmentally Friendly

There are very few heaters that use clean energy but there are some types that are cleaner than others. You could try to purchase eco fire logs for your fire pit but they will still create air pollution.

It is cheaper, more efficient and takes less energy to use electricity than to buy gas and they are typically the most environmentally friendly patio heating option. Obviously, it helps if you wear more layers and blankets when you’re outside if you want to be more eco-friendly.

4. Decide What Is Best For You: Patio Heater or Fire Pit