How to Choose the Best Gas Patio Heater
In contrast to electric patio heaters, which require electricity and can be expensive to run gas models make use of propane. They can also sputter out on hot days, or take a tank over a long period of time.
Find pyramid-shaped heaters that hook up to standard propane tanks and produce the equivalent of 40,000 Btu or more. These are usually used to warm larger areas and more cold temperatures than tabletop or dome-top patio heaters.
1. Infrared
Infrared heating is a fantastic choice for patios, as it is efficient and warms people and objects. gas flame patio heater 's also safe to touch, which is important when you're outside in winter and you want to extend the comfort of your outdoor seating area for as long as is possible.
When you are looking for a gas patio heater, ensure that you pay close attention to the amount of heat it releases per hour in Btu which is the standard measurement unit that measures how much energy a heater requires. A higher Btu output generally means the heater will be able to heat your outdoor space quicker and more effectively. If you are in a colder area or are planning to host guests, look for models that produce more than 40000 Btu to ensure that you keep everyone warm. The highest Btu output is typically found in dome or pyramid-shaped patio heating units. This allows them to provide greater heat and keep multiple people comfortable at the same.
The best infrared gas patio heaters come with an array of options, including remote controls and automatic tip-over shut-offs, that make them easy to operate and long-lasting. cheap patio gas come with a cover to shield them from the elements. If you are looking to enhance your patio space by installing an infrared heater that has LED lighting is the ideal option. It will improve the ambience and make the space more inviting.
If you're not keen on investing in an expensive infrared gas heater for your patio, there are plenty of affordable options to choose from. For instance our top pick for the Best Value, the Bromic Heating Tungsten Infrared Patio Heater, is a dependable and cost-effective model that generates a remarkable amount of heat. Its high, tilted head is great for directional heating that focuses the warmth to your backyard seating area. The patio heater is equipped with wheels at the bottom of its stand that will let you move it around your yard as required, and it runs with natural gas as well as propane.
Modine OHP34S48 is a freestanding gas infrared heater that has two heat settings and 360deg oscillation. gas patio heater amazon is also built with strength. If you have an gas line that runs through your backyard this model is a good choice since it can be connected directly to the gas supply of your home to ensure that you never run out of fuel.
2. BTU
Many gas patio heaters have the capacity to produce a lot of heat, which makes them perfect for large outdoor spaces. The amount of heat that the patio heater produces is dependent on the location, size and other factors. It is important to think about these aspects prior to selecting one.
One way to determine a patio heater's power is to look at its BTU rating which stands for British thermal units and indicates how much heat it can generate in an hour. BTU ratings are given by the manufacturer and typically refer to the number of square feet of space a heater can comfortably warm in ideal conditions. You can also determine the number of BTUs required for an outdoor heater by multiplying the square footage of your patio with the desired temperature increase.
Propane and Natural Gas are the most sought-after outdoor heaters as they produce a significant amount of heat quickly. This makes them a great choice for large outdoor areas in commercial establishments as well as residential homes. They are more expensive than electric ones and may need to be refilled or replaced regularly. However they are convenient since propane tanks are available at convenience stores or gas stations.
Some gas patio heaters have safety features that keep you and your guests secure while using them. For example, some include an auto shut-off valve that can keep the heater from overheating and an electronic lighter for quick ignition. Some include a safety shield around the flame to avoid accidental contact, reducing the risk of burns.
In addition to safety features, certain models of gas patio heaters look attractive. Certain models sport an elegant design with intricate details that are ideal for an elegant outdoor setting. Other models have a more rustic aesthetic that highlights earthy tones and natural materials perfect for a relaxing backyard. A few of our favorite models emit a flickering flame that can add to the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.
3. Coverage
When looking at a gas patio heater, it is important to consider its coverage. If you frequently entertain guests outdoors, you might want to consider a model that has a wide coverage area. This will let everyone enjoy the warmth without being close to each other.
The height of the patio heater is another aspect to consider when determining its coverage. The taller propane patio heaters are more efficient than smaller ones due to their ability to radiate heat in different directions. Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO of Triple T Hospitality, said that's one of the main reasons his New York and New Jersey restaurants have chosen pyramid- and dome-top heaters for their outdoor dining areas. He says that the heaters are great for heating the space and keeping tables warm.
While taller propane patio heaters usually provide greater coverage but they also require more space and their heat output will decrease if they're in windy conditions. This is why it's essential to select a heater with an anti-wind design.
Other factors to consider when selecting the best gas patio heater is the power source and installation method. Some models are permanent fixtures that must be connected to a natural gas line, while others are portable and run off a propane tank.
The type of fuel used impacts the maintenance and cost associated with the heater. Electric heaters are generally less expensive to run than propane models however, they take longer to heat up and often lack the power to fully cover a large patio area. They must be kept clear of combustible material and cannot be left unattended.
Propane models are more expensive to operate than electric heaters, but they have a much higher heat output and can cover as much as 215 square feet. They require the expertise of a professional to install them and should be kept clear of the ignition of combustibles. They also require a larger upfront investment than their electric counterparts, but they don't need to be refilled during use and can be switched off and on remotely or in accordance with a timetable.
4. Safety
It's important to consider the safety factor when you are shopping for a patio heater. Many models are designed with anti-tip features, like an adjustable base that is weighted and a tilt shut off valve to stop them from tipping over and possibly setting your backyard on fire. They may also have an integrated carbon monoxide detector and alarms that turn the heater off in the event of an CO leak. To ensure the absolute security, look for a patio heater that has CSA certification, which indicates that it has been independently tested by a third party and has met certain safety standards for outdoor use.
When you are choosing a gas heater for your patio, it is important to take into consideration the overall appearance. There are a variety of designs to choose from, such as pyramid and umbrella models for standing heaters and wall-mounted models that are smaller and more discreet and blend seamlessly into your yard or deck. There are also different colors to pick from. Steel in stainless and black are the most popular, but some brands have many colors that will suit your personal style.
In terms of the fuel used, gas patio heaters are generally cheaper to run than electric models and provide more heating for a larger area. They require natural ventilation to work safely, and are therefore not suitable for tight or enclosed spaces. Certain manufacturers make propane models that do not require a gas line in order to operate and are powered by standard 20-pound tanks similar to your grill.
The top propane patio heating units have an easy, yet robust design. They are able to withstand the harshest weather. One model that we reviewed can withstand wind speeds that can reach 60 mph. Its assembly was simple and 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 ensures it will stop working if you fall over.
Some models on our list have additional safety features like the flame failure detector which will shut off the gas flow when the flame is extinguished. Based on where you live, you may choose the propane patio heater that is endorsed by your local fire department or carries a UL safety certification.