How to Choose the Best Gas Patio Heater
Gas patio heaters make use of propane instead of electric patio heaters that require electricity and are expensive to operate. They also can sputter out during hot days or take a tank over a long period of time.
Look for heaters with pyramidal designs that connect to standard propane tanks and that can produce 40 000 Btu. These heaters are more likely to heat larger areas and are more effective in colder climates.
1. Infrared
Infrared heating technology is a good option for patios as it's efficient and can warm people and objects, not just the air. It's also safe to touch. This is important for those who spend time outside in winter and want your outdoor seating to last as long as it can.
When looking for a gas patio heater, make sure to be attentive to the amount of heat it releases per hour in Btu, which is the standard measurement unit that determines how much energy a heater uses. A higher Btu rating means that the heater can heat up your outdoor area faster and more efficiently. If you live in a colder climate or are planning to entertain guests, choose models that produce over 40,000 Btu to ensure you keep everyone comfortably warm. The pyramid-shaped or dome-shaped patio heaters usually have the highest Btu output which allows them to heat larger areas and make more people feel comfortably.
The best infrared patio heaters come with a variety of features, including automatic tip-over shutoffs and remote controls, making them easy to operate and long-lasting. Some even have a cover to provide additional protection against the elements. If you want to upgrade your patio space, an infrared heater with LED lighting is the best option. It will enhance the mood and make the space more inviting.
There are a variety of affordable options available for those who do not want to spend a lot of money on an outdoor heater. For example, our Top Pick for the Best Value, which is the Bromic Heating Tungsten Infrared Patio Heater is a reliable and cost-effective model that generates a remarkable amount of heat. The high, angled head is ideal for directing heat to the seating area in your backyard. The patio heater is equipped with wheels on the base of the stand, meaning you can easily move it around. It is powered by natural gas and propane.
Another good option is the Modine freestanding OHP34S48 gas-infrared patio heater with two temperature settings as well as 360deg oscillation. It also has an extremely durable construction. If you have an natural gas line that runs through your backyard this model is an excellent choice as it can be hooked up directly to the gas supply of your home so that you will never run out of gas.
2. BTU
Many gas patio heaters offer a high temperature output, making them ideal for large outdoor spaces. However the amount of heat a patio heater provides is dependent on its size, location, and other elements, so it's important to take into consideration all aspects before selecting one.
The BTU rating of the patio heater is a good way to determine its power. BTU stands for British Thermal Units and shows how much heat a heater produces per hour. BTU ratings, which are often provided by the manufacturer refer to the amount of space a heater can be capable of heating in ideal conditions. You can also calculate the number of BTUs the patio heater requires by multiplying the square footage of your patio by the desired temperature increase.
Propane and natural gas are popular heaters for patios of all kinds due to the fact that they can offer a large amount of heat quickly and efficiently, making them a good choice for commercial venues or large outdoor spaces for residential use. They tend to cost more than electric heaters and may require frequent refilling or a cylinder replacement however, they're a good choice because you can find propane tanks at all gas stations or convenience stores.
Certain gas patio heaters include safety features to keep you and your guests secure while using them. For instance, some have an auto shut-off valve that can prevent the unit from overheating, and an electronic lighter that allows for simple lighting. Other models include a guard around the flame to protect it from accidental contact, thus reducing the risk of burns.
Some models of gas patio heaters come with attractive designs in addition to their safety features. Some are classic designs with intricate details, ideal for an elegant outdoor setting. Others have an unpretentious style that emphasizes earthy tones and natural materials, ideal for a cozy backyard setting. A few of our favorite models even emit a flickering flame that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.
3. Coverage
When looking at a gas patio heater, it's important to think about its coverage. If you frequently entertain guests outdoors, you might think about a heater with a larger area of coverage. This will let everyone take advantage of the warmth without being too close to one another.
Height is another important factor when determining the extent of coverage of a patio heater. In general taller propane patio heaters will provide more heat than shorter models due to their ability to radiate heat in multiple directions at the same time. Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO of Triple T Hospitality, said that's among the reasons his New York and New Jersey restaurants have chosen dome- and pyramid-top heaters for their outdoor dining areas. The heaters are great for heating the area and keeping tables warm.
The power of taller propane patio heaters could be affected by the wind conditions. This is why it's essential to choose a model with wind-resistant features.
Other aspects to take into consideration when choosing the best gas patio heater is the power source and the method of installation. Certain models are permanent fixtures that must be connected to the natural gas line while others are portable and run off of a propane tank.
The type of fuel also affects the maintenance and cost of the heater. Electric heaters are generally less expensive to run than propane models, but they take longer to heat up and often lack the power to fully cover a large patio area. In black gas patio heater , they need to be kept away from combustible materials and shouldn't be left unattended for prolonged periods of time.
Propane heaters are more expensive to operate than electric heaters, but they provide a higher temperature output and can cover as much as 215 square feet. When installed by a professional, they must be kept away of fire hazards. They require a higher initial investment than their electric counterparts but can be controlled remotely or via an alarm.
4. Safety
It is crucial to consider safety when shopping for an outdoor heater. Many models have anti-tip features such as a weighted bottom and a tilt shutoff valve that prevents them from tipping over and creating a fire in your backyard. Some models are equipped with an alarm for carbon monoxide as well as a detector that will turn the heater off if there is a leak. For security, look for a heater for your patio that has CSA certification, which signifies that it has been independently tested by a third party and has met specific standards of safety for outdoor use.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a gas patio heater is the overall style. There are a variety of styles to pick from. These include umbrella and pyramid models, as well as wall-mounted models which are smaller, more discrete, and can easily blend in with your backyard or deck. There are also different colors to pick from. Steel in stainless and black are the most commonly used but there are some brands that offer a variety of colors that match your style.
Gas patio heaters are more affordable in terms fuel, and can provide more heat in more space. However they need a certain amount of natural ventilation to function safely, and they're not suitable for small or enclosed spaces. Fortunately, a few manufacturers offer propane models that don't need to be hooked up to a gas line, and can run off regular 20-pound tanks like your grill.
The top propane patio heaters have an easy-to-assemble design that can withstand harsh weather conditions. One model that we reviewed can withstand wind speeds that can reach 60 mph. Its simple assembly took less than a hour using just a few basic hand tools. It can be used with any standard 20-pound propane tank, and the automatic tip-over shutoff ensures that it'll stop working in the event of a tip-over.
Other models on our list have additional safety features, like a sensor for detecting a failed flame that will shut off the gas flow when the flame is put out. Based on where you live you may choose a propane patio heat that is endorsed by the local fire department or carries the UL safety certification.