14 Savvy Ways To Spend Leftover Best Gas Patio Heater Budget
How to Choose the Best Gas Patio Heater In contrast to electric patio heaters, which require electricity and are expensive to operate gas models make use of propane. On hot days, they may also explode or burn through the tank quickly. Look for pyramid-style heaters that connect to standard propane tanks and produce 40,000 Btu or more. These will typically warm larger areas and more cold 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 objects and people as well as the air. It's also safe to contact, which is crucial when you're hanging out outdoors in winter months and want to extend the comfort of your outdoor seating space for as long as is possible. If you are looking for a patio heater, pay close attention to the Btu output. It is a common unit of measurement that determines how much power a heater uses. A higher Btu rating indicates that the heater will warm up your outdoor space faster and more efficient. If you live in an area that is colder, or you plan to entertain guests, you should look for models that can produce more than 40000 Btu. This will ensure that everyone stays warm. The pyramid-shaped or dome-shaped patio heaters typically have the highest Btu output that allows them to warm larger areas and ensure that more people are comfortably. The best infrared gas heaters for patios have many options, including remote controls and automatic shut-offs for tip-overs that make them easy to use and durable. Some models even have a cover for extra protection from the elements. If you're looking to update your patio with the most luxurious of features can choose an infrared gas heating system with an integrated LED lighting system that provides mood-enhancing illumination and makes the area more welcoming. If you're not keen on investing more money in an infrared gas patio heater, there are many affordable options to choose from. For example our Top Pick for the Best Value, which is the Bromic Heating Tungsten Infrared Patio Heater, is a reliable and cost-effective model that generates a remarkable amount of heat. Its high, tilted head is ideal for directional heating that focuses the warmth to your outdoor seating area. The patio heater comes with wheels at the base of its stand, which will help you easily move it around your yard as needed, and it operates on both natural gas and propane. Another alternative is the Modine freestanding OHP34S48 gas infrared patio heater, which has two settings for heat as well as 360deg oscillation. It also has an extremely durable construction. If you have an gas line that runs through your backyard this model is a smart choice because it can be hooked up directly to the gas supply of your home so that you will never run out of gas. 2. BTU A majority of gas patio heaters have an impressive output of heat, making them perfect for large outdoor spaces. However the amount of heat a patio heater provides is contingent on its size, location, and other aspects, so it's important to take into account all variables before choosing one. One method to assess the power of a patio heater is by its BTU rating which is British thermal units and indicates the amount of heat it can produce in an hour. BTU ratings, which are often provided by the manufacturer refer to how much space a heater can be capable of heating comfortably in ideal conditions. You can also calculate the amount of BTUs needed for a patio heater by multiplying the size of your patio with the desired temperature increase. Propane and natural gas are popular heaters for patios of all kinds due to the fact that they can offer a large amount of heat quickly and efficiently, which makes them an ideal choice for commercial venues or outdoor areas for homes with ample space. They tend to cost more than electric heaters, and they may require frequent refills or replacement of a cylinder however, they're a good choice because propane tanks can be found at all gas stations or convenience stores. Some gas patio heaters are equipped with safety features that will ensure you and your guests are safe while using them. Some have an automatic shut-off valve to prevent the heater from overheating and an electronic lighter that makes it easier to ignite. Some include a safety guard around the flame to protect it from accidental contact, reducing the risk of burns. Certain models of gas patio heaters feature attractive designs in addition to their security features. Certain models sport a classic look with intricate details that make them perfect for an elegant outdoor setting. Others have an edgier style that is characterized by natural materials and earthy tones, ideal for a cozy backyard setting. A few of our favorite models emit an emitted flame that can add to the visual appeal of your outdoor space. 3. Coverage When considering the possibility of a gas patio heater it is crucial to consider its coverage. For instance, if you intend to entertain guests outdoors regularly, you may want to invest in an option with a larger coverage area to ensure everyone can take in the warmth and conversation without being too close. The height of the patio heater is a different aspect to take into consideration when determining its coverage. In general taller propane patio heaters provide more heat than smaller models due to their ability to radiate heat from multiple directions at once. 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 heat their outdoor dining areas. “They're fantastic at heating the entire area and keeping the tables warm,” he says. While larger propane patio heaters typically offer more coverage, they also require more space, and the heat output could decrease in windy conditions. It is important to choose a model that is wind-resistant. When selecting a gas patio heating system, you should also consider the power source and installation method. Some models are permanent fixtures that need to be connected to a natural gas line, while others are portable and run off of a propane tank. The type of fuel used influences the cost of maintenance and repairs related to the heater. Electric heaters are typically less expensive to operate than propane options however, they take longer to heat up and usually do not have the power to cover a large area of patio. They must be kept away from any flammable material and should not be left unattended. Propane heaters are more expensive to run than electric models however they provide more heat. They can cover an area of up to 215 square foot. They require an expert to install them and must be kept away from burning combustibles. They also require a greater upfront investment than their electric counterparts, but they don't need to be recharged every time they are used and can be turned on and off at any time or according to a schedule. 4. Safety When shopping for a gas patio heater it is important to be aware of safety. Many models are designed with anti-tip features, like an adjustable base that is weighted and a tilt shut off valve, to stop the heater from tipping and potentially setting your backyard on fire. They may also have an integrated carbon monoxide detector as well as an alarm that turns the heater off in the event of an CO leak. If you want to make sure that your patio heater is safe, look for CSA certification. This means that it has been independently tested by a third party and meets safety standards for outdoor use. When choosing a gas heater for your patio, you must also consider its overall appearance. There are commercial gas patio heaters of styles to pick from, including umbrella and pyramid models for standing heaters, as well as wall-mounted versions that are smaller and more discreet and can easily blend into your deck or yard. You can also pick from various colors including stainless steel and black being the most popular colors, however some brands provide a variety of colors that will fit your style. Gas patio heaters are more affordable in terms fuel and offer more heat for an area. However, they require an amount of natural ventilation in order to operate safely, so they aren't suitable for tight or enclosed spaces. Certain manufacturers make propane models that do not require a gas line to operate and can be powered by standard 20-pound tanks just like the grill you use. The top propane patio heaters have simple, yet robust design that is able to withstand tough weather conditions. One model we tested for instance, is able to withstand speeds of up to 60mph and its easy assembly took just under an hour with just hand tools. It can hold any 20-pound propane tank. The automatic tip-over shutoff makes sure that it stops working in the event of a fall. Other models in our list include additional safety features, like the flame failure sensor, which stops the flow of gas if the flame is put out. Depending on where you live, you may prefer a propane patio heat that is endorsed by your local fire department or carries the UL safety certificate.