Patio Heaters Guide: A Brilliant Idea to Spend More Time Outdoors

An outdoor heater extends the time of year when you can enjoy your home’s outdoor spaces comfortably. You and your family or guests can comfortably enjoy time on the patio without getting too cold for a few more months. However, there are various types of outdoor heaters to choose from, and they all have their distinct features. 

Natural Gas Heaters
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Fuel Types for Outdoor Heaters

Natural Gas Heaters

Outdoor gas heaters usually require professional installation because they must be connected to your gas line. As a result, they can cost significantly more upfront than other types of outdoor heaters, both for the heater itself and for installation. However, you should still opt for outdoor gas heaters Australia made units because they are the most cost-effective option to use once installed and are incredibly simple to maintain.

Propane Heaters

Propane heaters are simple to install. They don’t usually require professional installation, so all you have to do is put them together, connect the gas tank, and turn them on. Unfortunately, they are more expensive in the long run than the outdoor gas heaters Australia homeowners prefer. You should plan to replace the gas tank regularly. 

Electric Heaters 

Electric outdoor heaters are a common and convenient option. Except for the hanging and wall-mounted models, they do not require any installation and can be simply plugged in. The main disadvantage is that you must keep your electric heater close to an outlet. Electricity is more expensive than gas and wood in the long run, but electric heaters are very simple to use and maintain, and they are the only type of outdoor heater that can be used in an enclosed or covered space.

Electric Heaters 
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Wood Heaters 

What makes the wood heaters a popular option is the atmosphere they create. People enjoy the ambience of sitting by a fire and the smell of wood as it burns, although it requires more upkeep- you must constantly add more wood to keep the fire going and clean out the ashes afterwards. Furthermore, a fire pit or chiminea may be more difficult to light than other heating options, especially on a windy day. You’ll also have less control over the heat level than you would with something you can easily turn down or set to a specific temperature. Still, the look and feel of a wood fire are worth the trade-offs for many people.

Different Outdoor Heaters’ Styles

Floor Standing Heaters 

Floor standing heaters are a popular choice and one of the most common types you’ll encounter if you go with an outdoor gas heater. These heaters are usually tall and thin, producing a lot of heat. This type of outdoor heater you’ll most often see in places with patios, such as restaurants or coffee shops. With these options, you’ll find a wide range of prices that vary depending on the type of fuel they use and their size and power.

Hanging and Wall-Mounted Outdoor Heaters

Those who want to save floor space on their patio prefer hanging and wall-mounted heaters. The heater provides enough heat to keep you comfortable while remaining out of the way as you use the area. They can vary significantly in price and size, are almost always electric, and will almost always necessitate some installation time from you. It’s unlikely that you’ll need to hire someone to install this heater on your patio, depending on your level of handiness. The majority of people find it simple enough to do on their own.

Tabletop Patio Heaters 
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Tabletop Patio Heaters 

Tabletop heaters are the tiniest heaters on the list and will typically only heat a very small space. However, they’re an incredibly cost-effective option. They are typically electric, but there are also some gas models available. Many of them appear to be miniature versions of floor-standing patio heaters – the same design, just small enough to sit on top of a table. If you spend most of your patio time sitting around a table, this may be the most practical option.

Fire Pits and Chimineas

Last but not least are the fire pits and chimineas. These types of heaters are ideal for those people who enjoy the wood-burning ambience on their patio. These heaters are generally affordable, although fire pits can become more expensive if you choose larger or fancier models. They require more maintenance than other outdoor heaters, but the atmosphere they provide is unbeatable for many people. 

Essential Factors to Consider Before Purchasing the Right Patio Heater

The Purpose 

Defining and considering the size and shape of your patio, the situations you’ll use it in, and how many people will typically be in the space using the heater are all crucial factors when selecting an outdoor heater that will meet your needs.
For instance, if your outdoor space is limited and you and your friends tend to congregate around one table or area when you’re outside, a tabletop heater will suffice. If you have a covered or enclosed space that you want to keep warm, you must rule out all options except electric outdoor heaters. On the other hand, a fire pit makes the most sense if you want the heater to be a focal point rather than something functional and in the background.

Patio Heater
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The Power 

The amount of space heated by your outdoor heater is determined by its power. Heater power is typically measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The greater the BTUs, the more heat your heater will produce. In some cases, the manufacturer will state in their marketing materials how much space their model heats, but keep in mind that how far that heat goes will depend on various factors, such as how cold it is outside.

The Weather 

The typical climate in your area will influence how much heat you require and what type of heater is most appropriate. A fire pit won’t get much use if there are frequent drizzles in your area. If you frequently experience strong winds, a floor-standing patio heater may be difficult to keep upright.
Consider the weather patterns during the times of the year when you’ll most want to use your outdoor heater, and choose a model that’s appropriate for your climate.