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. cheap patio gas can sputter out on hot days or burn through a tank quickly.
Look for pyramid-style heaters that hook up to propane tanks that are standard and produce 40000 Btu or more. These heaters tend to be more efficient in heating larger areas and in colder climates.
1. Infrared
Infrared heating is a fantastic choice for patios, as it is efficient and warms both objects and people. It's also safe to touch, which is important when you're out in the sun in the winter and you want to extend the comfort of your outdoor seating space for as long as you can.
When shopping for a gas patio heater, make sure to pay close attention to the amount of heat it produces per hour in Btu which is the most common unit of measurement that determines how much energy a heater uses. A higher Btu rating indicates that the heater will be able to heat your outdoor space faster and more efficiently. If you live in an area that has a colder climate or you plan to entertain guests, you should search for models that can generate more than 40,000 Btu. This will ensure everyone is kept warm. The most efficient Btu output is usually located in pyramid- or dome-shaped patio heating units. This allows them to provide greater heat and keep multiple people comfortably at the same time.
The best infrared heaters for patios include a range of features, including automatic tip-over shutoffs, as well as remote controls, making them easy to operate and long-lasting. Some come with a cover that protects them from the elements. If you are looking to enhance your outdoor space by installing an infrared heater that has LED lighting is the ideal option. It will improve the ambience and make the area more inviting.
If you're not keen on investing in an expensive infrared gas patio heater, there are still plenty of affordable options to pick from. For instance our top pick for Best Value, the Bromic Heating Tungsten Infrared Patio Heater, is a reliable and affordable model that produces an impressive amount of heat. Its high, angled face is perfect for directing heat to the seating area in your backyard. The patio heater is fitted with wheels at the base of the stand, so you can easily move it around. It operates on both natural gas and propane.
Another good option is the freestanding Modine OHP34S48 gas infrared heater for patios that comes with two temperature settings with 360deg oscillation and strong construction. If you have an natural gas line that runs through your backyard, this model is a smart choice because it can be connected directly to your home's gas supply so that you never have to worry about running out of fuel.
2. BTU
Many gas patio heaters provide the capacity to produce a lot of heat, making them ideal for large outdoor areas. The amount of heat that the patio heater produces is dependent on the location, size and other elements. It is important to consider these variables before selecting one.
The BTU rating of an outdoor heater is a good way to determine its power. BTU stands for British Thermal Units and shows how much heat the heater produces per hour. BTU ratings are provided by the manufacturer and typically refer to how many square feet of area a heater can comfortably be able to heat in ideal conditions. You can also figure out the number of BTUs a patio heater needs by multiplying the area of your patio by the desired temperature increase.
Propane and Natural Gas are the most sought-after heating fuels for patio heaters due to the fact that they produce a large amount of heat quickly. This makes them an excellent choice for large outdoor spaces in commercial establishments or homes that are residential. They are generally more expensive than electric heaters and may require frequent refills or cylinder replacement, but they're convenient because you can find propane tanks at most gas stations or convenience stores.
Some gas patio heaters have safety features to keep you and your guests safe when using them. For instance, some have an auto shut-off valve to prevent the unit from overheating, and an electronic lighter for easy lighting. Some models have a protective shield around the flame which reduces the risk of burning.
Some models of gas patio heaters come with attractive designs, in addition to their security features. Some are classic designs with intricate details, ideal for a sophisticated outdoor setting. Others have an earthy style with earthy tones natural materials and a rustic feel. They are ideal for a cozy backyard. Some of our top models even emit an emitted flame that can enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor space.
3. Coverage
It is important to think about the coverage of gas patio heaters when choosing one. For instance, if you are planning to host guests outside on a regular basis it is possible to consider a model with a greater coverage area to ensure everyone can enjoy the warmth and conversation without being too close together.
Height is another important factor when determining the extent of coverage of a patio heater. In general taller propane patio heaters provide more heat than shorter options due to their ability to radiate heat from multiple directions at the same time. Thomas Bonfiglio of Triple T Hospitality said that was one of the main reasons why his New York and New Jersey restaurant opted for pyramid-top and dome-top heaters to heat their outdoor dining areas. "They're really great at heating the entire area and keeping the tables warm," he says.
Although taller propane patio heaters generally provide greater coverage but they also require more space, and the heat output could decrease in windy conditions. It is important to choose one that is wind-resistant.
Other aspects to consider when choosing a gas patio heater are the source of power and the installation method. Some models require a permanent connection to a gas line while others depend on propane tanks.
The type of fuel affects the maintenance and cost associated with the heater. Electric heaters are more affordable to run than propane models. However they are more difficult to heat and don't have the power required to cover large areas of patio. They must also be kept away any flammable material and should not be left unattended.
Propane heaters are more expensive to operate than electric heaters, but they have a much higher heat output and can cover up to 215 square feet. They require an expert to install them and must be kept away from combustibles. They also require a higher upfront cost than their electric counterparts, but they don't need to be replenished during use and can be switched off and on remotely or on a schedule.
4. Safety
It's important to consider the safety factor when you are shopping for an outdoor heater. A lot of models come with anti-tip features such as an adjustable bottom that is weighted and a tilt shutoff valve that prevents them from tipping and burning your backyard. They may also have a built-in carbon monoxide detector and alarm that turns the heater off in case of an CO leak. If you want to be sure that your patio heater is safe, look for CSA certification. This means that it has been tested independently by a third party and meets the safety standards for outdoor use.
Another feature to consider when selecting a gas patio heater is its overall style. There are a variety of styles available to choose from. They include umbrella and pyramid models, as well as wall-mounted models that are smaller, more discreet, and can easily blend in with your deck or yard. You can also choose different finishes, with black and stainless steel being the most popular colors, but some brands provide a variety of colors that will fit your preferences.
In terms of the fuel used, gas patio heaters are generally cheaper to run than electric models and provide more heating for a larger area. However, they require a certain amount of natural ventilation to function safely, and they're not suitable for cramped or enclosed spaces. There are some manufacturers that make propane models that don't require to be connected to a gas line and can run off regular 20-pound tanks like your grill.
The most effective propane patio heaters come with simple, yet robust design that can withstand harsh weather conditions. One model we looked at can withstand wind speeds of up to 60mph. Its simple assembly took less than an hr using only basic hand tools. It can be used with any standard 20-pound propane tank, and the auto tip-over shutoff ensures that it won't work if it falls over.
Some models on our list have additional safety features like a flame failure detector that shuts off the gas flow when the flame has been extinguished. Based on the location you live in, you may also prefer a propane patio heater that's approved by the local fire department or has a certified safety rating from UL.