Best Gas Patio Heater: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

How to Choose the Best Gas Patio Heater

Gas patio heaters utilize propane instead of electric patio heaters which require electricity and are expensive to run. They also can sputter out on hot days or burn through a tank quickly.

Look for pyramid-style heaters that can be connected to propane tanks that are standard and produce 40,000 Btu or more. These heaters are more likely to warm larger areas and in colder climates.

1. Infrared

Infrared heating technology is an excellent option for patios since it's efficient and can warm objects and people as well as the air. It is also safe to touch. This is essential if you are spending time outdoors in winter and want your outdoor seating to last as long as it can.

When you're looking for a outdoor heater, pay attention to the Btu output. It is a common measurement unit that determines the amount of power a heater uses. A higher Btu rating indicates that the heater is able to warm up your outdoor space faster and more efficient. If you live in a colder climate or plan to host guests, consider models that produce more than 40,000 Btu to ensure you keep everyone comfortably warm. The most efficient Btu output is usually located in pyramid- or dome-shaped patio heating units. This lets them heat larger spaces and ensure that multiple people are comfortable at the same.

The best infrared gas patio heaters offer a wide range of features, including remote controls and automatic shut-offs for tip-overs that make them easy to use and long-lasting. Some come with a cover to shield them from the elements. If you're looking to update your patio with the most luxurious of features can opt for an infrared gas heating system with an integrated LED lighting system that provides an enhanced mood and makes the area more welcoming.

If you're not interested in spending extra on an infrared gas patio heater, there are still plenty of options that are affordable to pick from. Bromic Heating Tungsten Infrared patio heater, for instance is a low-cost and reliable model that can produce plenty of heat. Its high, angled head is perfect for directing heat towards your backyard seating area. The patio heater is fitted with wheels at the bottom of the stand, which means you can easily move it around. It operates on both natural gas and propane.

Another good alternative is the Modine freestanding OHP34S48 gas infrared patio heater, which has two temperature settings with 360deg oscillation and a sturdy construction. This model is perfect when you have a natural gas line in your backyard. It can be connected directly to the gas supply of your home, so you'll never be unable to refill.

2. BTU

A majority of gas patio heaters have an impressive output of heat, which makes them perfect for large outdoor areas. However the amount of heat that a patio heater produces is dependent on its size, location, and other elements, so it's important to take into account all aspects before selecting one.

The BTU rating of a patio heater is a great method to determine its power. BTU stands for British Thermal Units and shows how much heat the heater can produce per hour. BTU ratings are given by the manufacturer and usually refer to how many square feet of area a heater can comfortably be able to heat in ideal conditions. You can also determine the number of BTUs required for a patio heater by multiplying the size of your patio with the desired temperature increase.

Natural gas and propane are the most popular fuels for patio heaters. kinds due to the fact that they can provide a substantial amount of heat quickly and efficiently, making them an excellent option for commercial or outdoor areas for homes with ample space. These heaters are more expensive than electric ones and may require refilling or replaced regularly. However they are a good choice because propane tanks are available at gas stations or convenience stores.

Certain gas patio heaters come equipped with safety features that will keep you and your guests safe when using them. gas patio heater sale have an automatic shut-off valve to prevent the heater from overheating and an electronic lighter to make it easier to ignite. Some include a safety guard around the flame to prevent accidental contact, reducing the risk of burns.

Certain models of gas patio heaters feature attractive designs in addition to their safety features. Some are classic designs with intricate details, perfect for a sophisticated outdoor setting. Others have a more rustic aesthetic that emphasizes natural tones and natural materials which are ideal for a warm backyard setting. Some of our favorite models emit a flickering fire that can increase the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.

3. Coverage

When considering a gas patio heater, it is crucial to consider the area it covers. If you frequently entertain guests outdoors, you may want to consider a model with a larger area of coverage. This will allow everyone to take advantage of the warmth without being too close to each other.


The height of the patio heater is a different factor to consider when determining its coverage. The taller propane patio heaters are more efficient than shorter ones due to their ability to radiate heat in a variety of directions. Thomas Bonfiglio of Triple T Hospitality said that was one of the main reasons why his New York and New Jersey restaurant chose dome-top and pyramid-top heaters to heat their outdoor dining areas. "They're fantastic at heating the entire space and keeping the tables warm," he says.

The power of taller propane patio heaters is affected by windy conditions. That's why it's important to select a model that has an anti-wind design.

When choosing a gas patio heating system you should also think about the power source and installation process. Certain models require a permanent connection to a gas line while others depend on propane tanks.

The type of fuel also influences the cost of maintenance and maintenance associated with the heater. Electric heaters are generally less expensive to operate than propane options however, they take longer to heat up and typically aren't powerful enough to cover a large area. In addition, they need to be kept away from flammable materials and shouldn't be left unattended for prolonged periods of time.

Propane heaters cost more to run than electric models however they provide more heat. They can cover an area of up to 215 square foot. If installed by a professional they must be kept away of combustibles. They require a higher initial cost than their electric counterparts but they can be controlled remotely or on the basis of a timer.

4. Safety

When looking for a gas patio heater it's crucial to think about safety. Many models have anti-tip features such as a weighted bottom and a tilt shutoff valve to stop them from tipping and burning your backyard. They may also have an integrated carbon monoxide detector and alarm that turns the heater off in the event of an CO leak. If you want to be sure that your patio heater is safe, search for CSA certification. This means it has been independently tested by an independent third party and has met the safety standards for outdoor use.

When you are choosing a gas heater for your patio, you must take into consideration the overall design. There are many styles to pick from. These include umbrella and pyramid models, as well wall-mounted models that are smaller, more discrete and easily blend into your deck or yard. There are also different styles to pick from. Steel in stainless and black are the most popular, but some brands have various colors that match your style.

In terms of the fuel used gas patio heaters are often more affordable to run than electric ones and provide more heat for a larger area. They require natural ventilation in order to operate safely, which is why they are not suitable for tight or enclosed spaces. Fortunately, some manufacturers make propane models that don't require to be connected to a gas line and can run off the standard 20-pound tanks, just like your grill.

The best propane patio heaters come with an easy-to-assemble design that is able to withstand tough weather conditions. One model we looked at is, for instance, capable of withstanding winds of up to 60mph, and its simple assembly took less than an hour with only basic hand tools. It can be used to hold any propane tank that weighs 20 pounds. The automatic tip-over shutoff ensures it will stop working when you fall over.

Some models on our list have additional safety features such as an alarm for a failed flame that stops the flow of gas when the flame is extinguished. Based on the location you live in you may also prefer a propane patio heater that's certified by your local fire department or has a UL-listed safety certification.

Public Last updated: 2024-10-19 11:27:02 AM