How to Choose the Best Gas Patio Heater
Gas patio heaters use propane instead of electric patio heaters which require electricity and are expensive to operate. They can also explode during hot days or take a tank over a long period of time.
Look for heaters with a pyramidal design that connect to standard propane tanks and that can produce an impressive 40,000 Btu. These are usually used to provide more heat to larger areas and colder temperatures than tabletop or dome-top patio heaters.
1. Infrared
Infrared heating technology is a good option for patios as it's efficient and warms people and objects and not just the air. It is also safe to touch. This is essential when you're spending time outside in winter and want your outdoor seating to last as long as it can.
When you're looking for a patio heater, pay attention to the Btu output. This is a typical measurement that determines how much power a heater draws. A greater Btu output generally means that the heater will be able to heat your outdoor space quicker and more efficiently. If you are in a colder area or plan to host guests, look for models that can produce more than 40000 Btu to ensure you keep everyone warm. Pyramid-shaped or dome-shaped patio heaters typically have the most Btu output which allows them to heat larger spaces and keep more people comfortably.
The top infrared gas heaters for patios have a wide range of options, including remote controls and automatic shut-offs for tip-overs, that make them easy to operate and long-lasting. Some come with a cover to protect them from the elements. If you want to upgrade your outdoor space an infrared heater equipped with LED lighting is the ideal option. It will enhance the mood and make the space more inviting.
If you're not interested in investing more money in an infrared gas patio heater there are plenty of options that are affordable to choose from. For instance, our Top Pick for Best Value, the Bromic Heating Tungsten Infrared Patio Heater, is a reliable and cost-effective model that can produce a huge amount of heat. The high, tilted head is great for directional heating, which directs the heat to your patio seating area. The patio heater is equipped with wheels at the base of its stand that will let you easily move it around your yard when needed, and it operates using both natural gas and propane.
gas flame patio heater OHP34S48 is a stand-alone gas infrared heater with two heat settings as well as 360deg oscillation. It is also built with strength. This model is perfect when you have a natural gas line in your backyard. It can be connected directly to the gas supply at your home, ensuring that you never run out of.
2. BTU
A majority of gas patio heaters have the capacity to produce a lot of heat, making them perfect for large outdoor areas. The amount of heat that a patio heater produces depends on the location, size and other aspects. It is crucial to consider these variables before choosing a heater.
One way to gauge a patio heater's power is through its BTU rating, which stands for British thermal units and represents how much heat it will generate in an hour. BTU ratings, which are often listed by the manufacturer, refer to how much space a heater will be capable of heating comfortably 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.
Natural Gas and Propane are the most popular outdoor heaters as they generate a lot of heat quickly. This makes them an excellent choice for large outdoor spaces in commercial buildings or homes for residential use. These heaters are more expensive than electric ones, and they may need to be refilled or replaced regularly. However, they are convenient because propane tanks can be purchased at convenience stores or gas stations.
Some gas patio heaters are equipped with safety features to keep you and your guests safe when using them. Some models have an automatic shut-off valve to prevent the unit from overheating, and an electronic lighter that makes it easier to ignite. Others include a protective guard around the flame to prevent accidental contact, thus reducing the risk of burns.
Certain models of gas patio heaters have attractive designs, in addition to their security features. Certain models feature an elegant design with intricate details that are perfect for a stylish outdoor setting. Others have a more rustic aesthetic that emphasizes natural materials and earthy tones perfect for a relaxing backyard setting. Some of our top models also emit the flickering flame which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.
3. Coverage
It is important to think about the coverage of a gas patio heater when choosing one. For instance, if plan on entertaining guests outdoors often, you may want to consider a model with a larger coverage area so that everyone can take in the warmth and conversation without being too close.
The size of the heater on the patio is another aspect to consider when determining its coverage. Larger propane patio heaters are more efficient than shorter ones because they can radiate heat in a variety of directions. Thomas Bonfiglio of Triple T Hospitality stated that this was one of the main reasons his New York and New Jersey restaurant chose dome-top and pyramid-top heaters to warm their outdoor dining areas. He said that the heaters are ideal to heat the space and keeping the table warm.
The heat output of larger propane patio heaters could be affected by the weather. It is essential to choose one that is wind-resistant.
Other aspects to consider when choosing a gas patio heater are its power source and the installation method. Some models require a permanent connection to a gas line, whereas others depend on a propane tank.
The type of fuel used influences the cost of maintenance and maintenance of the heater. Electric heaters are more affordable to run than propane models. However, they take longer to heat and lack the power required to cover large areas of patio. They should also be kept away in areas that are flammable and cannot be left unattended.
Propane models are more expensive to operate than electric heaters, but they have a much higher temperature output and can cover up to 215 square feet. They require an expert to install them and must be kept out of the reach of combustibles. They require a larger initial investment than electric ones but they can be controlled remotely or on a timer.
4. Safety
It's important to consider the safety factor when you are shopping for an outdoor heater. Many models come with anti-tip features like a weighted bottom and a tilt shutoff valve to stop the heater from tipping and creating a fire in your backyard. Certain models include an alarm for carbon monoxide and detector that can turn the heater off if there is an issue with the leak. For the ultimate in peace of mind, opt for a patio heater that has CSA certification, which indicates that it has been independently tested by a third-party and meets certain safety standards for outdoor use.
Another thing to think about when choosing a patio gas heater is its overall style. There are a variety of styles to choose from, including umbrella and pyramid models for standing heaters, as well as wall-mounted versions which are smaller and more discrete and blend seamlessly into your deck or yard. You can also pick from different finishes such as black and stainless steel being the most popular shades, but certain brands provide a variety of colors that will fit your preferences.
Gas patio heaters are more affordable in terms of fuel, and can provide more heat in more space. However they need an amount of natural ventilation in order to function safely, and they aren't suitable for tight or enclosed areas. Some manufacturers produce propane models that don't require a gas line in order to operate and can be powered by standard 20-pound tanks, just like your grill.
The top propane patio heaters have an easy, yet robust design. They can withstand harsh weather. One model we tested can withstand wind speeds that can reach 60 mph. Its easy assembly took less than a half hour with only a few hand tools. It can hold any propane tank that weighs 20 pounds. The automatic tip-over shutdown makes sure that it stops working when you fall over.
Other models in our list include additional safety features, like a flame failure sensor that shuts the gas flow if the flame has been extinguished. Based on your area, you may also prefer a propane patio heater that's approved by the local fire department or has a certified safety rating from UL.