The patio is often the best part of a home. It’s a space to relax, unwind, and entertain family and friends.
But while it’s absolutely pleasant to spend time in your outdoor living area during the spring and summer seasons, it’s an entirely different story when the colder months set in.
The solution? Outdoor heaters.
Whether it’s the good-ol’ fire pit or one of the latest electric outdoor heaters on the market, outdoor heating appliances allow you to enjoy your patio all-year-round.
Popular Patio Heating Options
Have you been shopping around for a new patio heater? You were probably overwhelmed by the numerous outdoor heating options currently available.
Indeed, patio heating has come a long way. Nowadays, patio heaters come in so many different sizes, shapes, and designs to cater to the varied tastes and requirements.
Here are some of the common patio heating options today:
All-Weather Heaters
For people living in locations prone to high winds and torrential rains, getting an all-weather heater is the most practical choice.
All-weather heaters are made to be very durable and most models are waterproof. With this type of heater in your outdoor space, you can rest assured and not have to worry about bad weather.
Free-Standing Heaters
If you’re looking for a mobile outdoor heater, free-standing heaters are for you! Aside from being convenient to move around, free-standing heaters give off a good amount of heat, which makes them one of the best choices for heating gardens and pool sides.
Come summertime, you can easily keep them in the storage and take them out again when needed.
Wall-Mounted Patio Heaters
This type of heater is commonly found in diners and restaurants, but they’re becoming quite popular among homeowners as well.
Wall-mounted heaters use infrared heat and are electric-powered. They’re perfect for small patios because they release enough warmth to keep you comfortable, but hardly take up any space.
Hanging Heaters
Another space-saving option, hanging heaters give off a pleasant warmth and radiate a nice glow over your patio from above. It’s a great choice for people who want their heaters to also double as mood lighting.
Hanging heaters are available in a range of designs, so you’re sure to find one that fits the theme or aesthetics of your outdoor living space.
Zero-Light Heaters
Most standard outdoor heaters emit a warm glow. And while we often appreciate this added light source, there are situations where they’re not necessary or may even cause distraction.
Zero-light heaters provide heat and warmth, sans the glow. They’re a good choice for outdoor spaces that are already well-lit.
Fire Pits
Want to go old school with your outdoor heating? Try fire pits. They are a decent source of warmth and heat, and they’re incredibly cheap! You and your loved ones can even roast chestnuts and marshmallows while keeping yourselves warm and cozy.
Before you build a fire pit in your backyard, though, make sure to check the local rules and regulations. Some communities prohibit the use of fire pits or ban them during certain times of the year.
Factors to Consider When Buying A Patio Heater
How do you choose the right patio heater for your home? There’s no one right answer to this question because it ultimately depends on your space and needs.
Still, here are some key features and considerations to bear in mind:
Fuel Source
Patio heaters run on one of four fuel sources – wood, propane, natural gas, and electricity.
Wood is an affordable fuel source and provides a great atmosphere. The thing is; wood can take time to ignite and wood-burning fire pits are relatively more difficult to maintain. They can be safety risks, too.
Gas heaters, on the other hand, use either natural gas or liquid propane. They produce clean flames and have a wider heat range, making them ideal for spacious patios and outdoor areas.
If you don’t like the idea of flames burning a few feet from you, electric-powered heaters are your best bets. Aside from being very efficient, electric patio heaters also come in a wide variety of designs, which allows for more flexibility when it comes to placement.
Size and Range of Heat
Of course, you need a heater that suits your outdoor space just right. In some cases, a single large outdoor heater may be enough, while other outdoor set-ups may require several strategically-positioned heating fixtures.
You’ll have to take into consideration the arrangement, size, and orientation of your outdoor area to determine the right size, type, and number of heaters.
Running Cost
Out of all the fuel sources, electric heaters cost less to run by a wide margin. Though they may be more expensive upfront, they tend to have lower long-term/operational cost.
Unlike gas heaters that heat the circumference around them, electric heaters concentrate their warmth so there’s less misdirected and wasted heat.
Aesthetics
Functionality should be top priority when choosing a patio heater, but you can’t deny that looks also matter.
Are you going for cozy and romantic? Fire pits, chimineas, and gas heaters are your best choices for the warm glow they emit. If you want a more subtle and modern aesthetic for your patio, though, electric heating units are the best fit.
Don’t let cold weather stop you from doing the things you love or spending quality time outdoors with the people closest to you. Patio heaters allow you to get the most of your outdoor living space by making it as comfortable as it can be.
