Outside Patio Heaters come in a variety of sizes and styles to work with your porch, deck, garage, restaurant or backyard area
Outdoor patio heaters come in an array of shapes, sizes, styles and designs, to give you options no matter how your space is laid out. Each of the styles has sizes that can fit into various outdoor settings. Some of the most popular styles of patio heaters include:
- Freestanding Patio Heaters: These tall, standalone models emit heat in a 360-degree radius. They often resemble a lamppost or a mushroom shape and are commonly used in larger spaces.
- Tabletop Heaters: Compact and portable, these heaters are suitable for small spaces. They are either electric or propane-fueled.
- Hanging Patio Heaters: These are mounted overhead, providing a good heat source without taking up floor space.
- Pyramid style Heaters: Known for their unique design, these heaters are often gas-powered and ideal for restaurants or stylish settings.
- Portable Patio Heaters: These Patio Heaters are designed to be more mobile, so they can be moved around the area to give heat where it is needed. Some of these portable patio heaters come with attached wheels to make them easier to move.
An important factor when choosing a Patio Heater is the quality of the heating element as well as the overall heat output
The quality of the heating element and the overall heat output are vital when choosing a Patio Heater unit. High quality elements are efficient, durable, and perform optimally under various conditions. They are often made from materials like infrared bulbs, quartz tubes, or ceramic plates.
The heat output, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), indicates the amount of heat a Patio Heater can produce. A higher BTU number means a greater heat output. It's crucial to choose a heat output suitable for your space. For example, a patio heater with 45,000 BTUs can heat an area of approximately 15 feet.
- High-quality heating elements: Ensure efficient and consistent heating
- Overall heat output (BTUs): Determines the heating capacity of the unit
Consider these factors in line with your specific needs, such as the size and layout of your outdoor space. Some areas will require multiple units to be able to heat the space completely.
There are Patio Heater models that run on either natural gas, propane, and electric which gives you heating options for your specific space
When choosing a Patio Heater product, the fuel source is an essential factor to consider as it affects the heat output, portability, and safety. The three common fuel type options for Patio Heaters are:
-
Natural Gas Patio Heaters: These products are directly connected to a natural gas line, providing continuous heating without the need for refilling. They offer high heat output but lack portability due to the fixed line connection.
-
Propane Patio Heaters: Ideal for larger spaces, these models are portable as they run on propane tanks that can be replaced or refilled. However, they can be more expensive over time due to the recurring cost of propane and the need to refill propane tanks.
-
Electric Patio Heaters: The electric patio heater product are powered by electricity and emit heat through infrared bulbs. Electric heaters are suitable for enclosed spaces and offer a safer and more environmentally friendly option. However, their heating range is generally smaller than gas heaters.
Each fuel type of patio heater has its own strengths and weaknesses, so your choice should be based on your specific needs and circumstances. You should choose an option that you have the most access to. If it is hard to get propane tanks filled in your area, then maybe choose an electric or natural gas option.
Northline Express offers Patio Heater models from some of the best manufacturers on the market including AZ Patio and Fire Sense
At Northline Express, we take pride in offering models from top rated manufacturers like AZ Patio Heaters and Fire Sense Patio Heaters. These brands are renowned for their high quality, durable, and efficient patio heaters.
AZ Patio offers a range of heaters, from tall models with glass quartz tubes that produce up to 40,000 BTUs of heat to freestanding, mounted, and tabletop models. They are well regarded for their elegant designs, adding a touch of class to your outdoor space while ensuring comfort.
On the other hand, Fire Sense offers robust and reliable heaters, popular for their Commercial Patio Heater range. They are well-loved for their high heat output and innovative features such as electronic ignition systems and portable designs.
These brands offer heaters that utilize a variety of fuel sources including propane, natural gas, and electricity. This ensures that you can find a model that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.
Remember, the right heater for you will depend on your specific needs, size of the space, and preferred fuel source.
Check out our full line of Patio Heaters.
Patio Heaters are only one outdoor heating option as you can also consider adding a fire pit, fire table or other products to upgrade your outdoor living area
While patio heaters are a popular choice, there are also other outdoor heating options you can explore. Fire pits are a great alternative for a more natural, cozy feel. They come in various shapes and sizes, and can use charcoal or firewood as fuel. Fire tables, on the other hand, are a combination of a dining table and a fire pit. These can also act as a centerpiece for your outdoor setup.
For those looking for a unique option, fire columns and fire bowls are worth considering. Fire columns provide efficient heat output and add a stunning visual element to your outdoor space. Fire bowls, however, offer a portable solution for outdoor heating.
Remember, the best choice is one that suits your individual needs and the layout of your outdoor space.
Check out our full line of Outdoor Living Products.
FAQ - Patio Heaters - Outdoor Patio Heaters
How do patio heaters work?
Patio heaters operate on a simple principle of converting energy into heat. They work by utilizing either a fuel source such as propane or natural gas, or electricity. For fuel powered patio heaters, the fuel is used to generate a flame which emits heat. The heat is then directed upwards and out of the heater, warming the surrounding area. On the other hand, electric patio heaters are equipped with infrared bulbs that emit heat when powered.
These heaters generate radiant heat, which directly warms objects, including people and pets, in its path instead of heating the air. This method is similar to how the sun heats the Earth, making it an efficient way of providing warmth in an outdoor setting.
For both types of patio heaters, the emitted heat is spread out over a broad area, allowing it to cater to larger spaces.
What is the best type of heat for a patio?
Determining the best type of heat for a patio depends on various factors such as your space size, heating needs, and personal preferences. Broadly, there are four main types of patio heaters to consider:
- Propane patio heaters: They are portable and offer high heat output, making them ideal for large spaces. However, they require regular tank refills.
- Electric patio heaters: These are simple to use with a plug-and-play setup and don't require any fuel refills. But they may require a dedicated circuit to avoid overloading your electrical system.
- Natural Gas patio heaters: While they require a gas line for operation, these heaters offer a steady heat source and are economical in the long run.
- Infrared patio heaters: These heaters offer efficient heating by warming objects directly instead of the air. They're ideal for windier areas as the heat can't be blown away.
Each type has its own pros and cons, so it's crucial to consider your specific situation before making a decision.
How big of a patio heater do I need for my patio/porch area? How many patio heaters do i need?
Determining the right size and quantity of patio heaters that you need for your area depends on several factors including the size of your patio or porch area, and the number of people you plan to accommodate. Typically, a patio heater's output is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), and more BTUs means that the units will produce a higher heat output.
To calculate the needed size, first measure your patio's length and width, then multiply these to get the total square footage.
For example, for a covered patio, you'll generally need one heater for every 1,500 to 2,000 square feet. For an uncovered patio, a 40,000 BTU heater can heat a 20 foot area, whereas a 60,000 BTU heater can cover a 25 foot area. If you plan on having a larger area or more people, an even higher BTU heater may be required.
Remember, the best patio heater combination will depend on your specific needs and conditions. Always take into account factors such as wind conditions, which can affect the efficiency of your heater.
Are patio heaters safe on covered porch?
Using patio heaters on a covered porch can be safe when certain precautions are taken. The type of fuel the heater uses, such as propane, natural gas, or electricity, is a factor to consider when determining safety in a covered space.
- Propane heaters are portable and convenient, heating quickly and effectively. However, they require careful handling due to the combustible nature of propane.
- Electric heaters are considered the safest, as they don't involve fumes, carbon monoxide, or flammable gases.
Regardless of the type, it's crucial to maintain adequate clearance between the heater and the ceiling or other objects. This prevents overheating and potential fire hazards. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for safe use and clearance distances.
Another safety feature to consider is an automatic shutoff mechanism, which turns off the heater if it's tilted or falls over. This can help prevent accidents and damage.
However, it's essential to remember that not all patio heaters are waterproof. Prolonged exposure to elements can lead to wear and tear, affecting the performance and safety of the heater. Always cover the heater when not in use to extend its lifespan and maintain its safety features.
Which patio heaters are most efficient?
When it comes to efficiency, several types of patio heaters stand out. Propane heaters are often cited as the most powerful and efficient due to their high heat output and simple operation.
Electric heaters are also efficient, especially those using infrared technology. Infrared heaters heat objects directly rather than heating just the air. This makes them a more effective choice, especially for areas that suffer from windy conditions.
Remember, the most efficient patio heater for you depends on your specific needs, including your available space, power source, and personal preferences.
How effective are patio heaters?
Patio heaters can be a highly effective option for extending the season of your outdoor patio area. They work by generating radiant heat, which directly warms the people and objects in its path, making it an efficient way of providing warmth in an outdoor setting. They are good at raising the patio area's overall temperature by a few degrees.
The effectiveness of patio heaters can be influenced by several factors:
-
Type of fuel: Patio heaters can be powered by electricity, propane, or natural gas. Each fuel type has its advantages and limitations. For instance, electric heaters are easy to operate, but may not provide as much heat as propane or natural gas heaters.
-
Heat output: The heat output of a patio heater, usually measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), determines how much heat the unit can produce. The higher the BTUs, the greater the heat output.
-
Weather conditions: Windy conditions can affect the effectiveness of a patio heater, as wind can disperse the heat, making the surrounding area feel cooler.
In general, patio heaters are an effective solution for extending the outdoor season, allowing you to use your patio, deck, or backyard during cooler months. However, it's important to note that Patio Heaters are mainly a source of supplemental heating. You may have to add other considerations to block wind and the elements.
Where can I go to learn more about Patio Heaters and Outdoor Living Projects?
Northline Express has created a Resource Center that is full of helpful articles and how to instructional articles on a wide variety of home heating projects. Here are some articles that you can check out that are related to Patio Heaters:
