3 Popular Types of Patio Heaters

For many homeowners, their patio is a literal extension of their home complete with areas for relaxation and socializing. Getting the most use out of this space is a culmination of effort to make it more comfortable no matter the season, environment, or current temperature. One great way to make this space more enjoyable is to invest in heating.

Specially made patio heaters come in a variety of forms and can be utilized to match the exterior of your home, provide warmth, and enhance the experience for your family and guests. Here is a brief breakdown of the types of patio heating available and the different fuel sources including natural gas, electricity, and propane.

Understanding BTU

BTU is an acronym for British Thermal Unit which is a number indicating the level of heat (or air conditioning) a device can produce. Factors influencing the outcome of this number include size and type of heating devices. Put simply, lower BTU’s mean less heat is emitted, and large BTU’s mean heat will cover a larger area.

Depending on the purpose of your heating device, it is crucial to pay close attention to this number to determine the placement and number of products you wish to purchase.

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Types of Heaters

Patio heating comes in a variety of forms including tabletop lamps, free standing heaters, and even wall mounted options. Deciding which one to choose is really a matter of personal preference and the overall purpose you wish to serve. Each varies in price, style, BTU, and size so realizing these characteristics can be a great way to make a decision about which product(s) you wish to purchase.

Tabletop

Tabletop heaters are refreshingly stylish and can be a great appendage to your current décor. Due to their smaller size, the BTU level is often lower which means less area will be covered by the emitted heat.

This outdoor heating option is fantastic if you wish to create a more intimate setting. Conversations between guests and family members can be made more comfortable with the presence of an efficient tabletop lamp between them. It also keeps your floor-space clear, allowing you to have more room.

While this type of heating device can operate off of electricity or propane, the majority of these heaters will be electric.

Free-Standing

Free-standing devices are an excellent option for homeowners seeking to cover a wider area with warmth. They are compact and narrow which means they can fit conveniently even in smaller spaces. Before considering this option, it is important to survey the height of your deck to determine a free-standing lamp will fit comfortably in the place you have in mind. This product can be fueled from propane, electricity, or natural gas.

The parts that make up a free-standing lamp include:

• Base:
  the base enables the device to stand uprightly without tipping over or causing a potential safety hazard. It is wide enough to enable safe use, without being so wide it cannot easily fit in a compact area.
• Pole:
  The pole is tall to allow the heat to travel upward towards the reflector which is responsible for emitting the heat.
• Heat Source:
  This is the actual component that creates the heat which is then dispersed throughout the area.
• Reflector:
  A reflector helps circulate the heat throughout the area so the space stays warm and comfortable.

Wall-Mounted

For homeowners concerned about giving up space to accommodate a heat device, wall-mounted options serve their purpose best. Because they can be easily attached to a wall, they are out of the way, but still provide heat in an efficient manner.

With the purchase of your wall-mounted heater, you can expect brackets and the necessary appendages to safely secure the device to your wall. Depending on your desire to have it facing downward or upward, you can adjust the vent to meet your requirements. These lamps are electric.

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Types of Fuel

Fuel is necessary for any outdoor heater to operate and provide the intended output; heat. Fortunately, there is more than one available fuel option depending on your preference.

1. Natural Gas

The most uncommon source of fuel for patio heaters is natural gas partially because it isn’t as common to come by. Some homes (particularly newer models), have natural gas outlets that provide the homeowners with an easy and convenient connection to this kind of power.

Free-standing heaters are usually the most common lamp fueled by natural gas. Once the ignition switch is activated, there is a never ending flow of power to your heater.

2. Electricity

The easiest method of fueling patio heaters is electricity. Many homes have outdoor outlets that are within close proximity to the deck. Electric options simply require that you plug them into a power source. It is important to remember that electrical outlets that are exposed should be protected from moisture to eliminate the dangers of shock.

Also, electric options aren’t capable of emitting as much heat as those powered by natural gas or propane. Because of this, it is generally better to use electrically powered devices for smaller, more intimate settings where not as much heat is required.

3. Propane

Propane is perhaps the most commonly used fuel source for this kind of product. Homeowners can take empty propane tanks to most gas stations to have them filled. These tanks are then stored in the base of the heat lamp which means they are not visible to your guests.

Additionally, for people who aren’t interested in taking the time to get their empty tanks refilled, a majority of suppliers will take an empty tank off of their hands in exchange for a full one at a sometimes discounted price.

If you desire to get more use out of your patio space on an annual basis, your decision to invest in patio heating is an excellent way to achieve this objective. Due to the variety of styles, options, and fuel aids, you can choose a device that is perfect for your home and the needs of your family and guests. Not only are many patio heaters relatively stylish and well hidden, they are also an efficient means to heat up your outdoor living space to get the most use out of it.

Learn More:

• Shop for an Outdoor Heater
• How to Build an Outdoor Fire Pit
• 5 Must-Have Outdoor Appliances
• How to Put Your Patio To Good Use This Fall