What type of patio heater is right for me?

While patio heaters are generally very versatile and just about any could work in most situations, you definitely want to try to select the unit that will work best for you.  If you neglected to do your research, it would be very easy to over or under buy for your needs leaving you disappointed in your purchase.  Some of the things you’ll want to consider before making your selection are listed below.

• Size – Patio heaters come in table top, wall mounted, and full-sized freestanding versions ensuring that there is one that can be placed in most outdoor spaces regardless of the square footage of the space.  Calculating the amount of space you want to dedicate to the unit itself will help narrow down your choices.
• Heat output – Perhaps one of the most important factors when choosing a patio heater is calculating the amount of space you’re going to want to warm.  It would be unfortunate to purchase an insufficient unit and have no choice but to buy another unit or to find you've overspent on a unit you just don’t need.
• Fuel type – You can purchase heaters that operate using liquid propane, natural gas, or electricity.  When choosing which type is best for you consider the cost of running the unit with each type of fuel and the placement of the unit.
• Location – Are you planning on using the heater near an awning or tent or in an open outdoor area; close to a building with natural gas or electrical hook-ups or further into the yard?  These factors will easily eliminate some patio heaters from the running.
• Finish – Available in a variety of finishes such as copper, stainless steel, painted, and powder coat; there is a look to fit in any décor.  Not all finishes are created equal so it is wise to consider how they will wear over time.
• Style – Whether you are looking for a piece that will blend into its surroundings or something that provides more visual appeal – there are certainly a variety of options available to pick from.   Perhaps you want the look of a lamp sitting on a table, a streamlined stick type design, a traditionally styled unit, or something in between – whatever your style it’s likely out there for you.
• Features – Many units are available with extra features you may want to consider when making your decision.   Look for features such as a remote, push start button, weighted base, anti-tilt switch, added wheels for portability, or a table top attached to gather around.  If any of these are important to you, you’ll want to make sure they’re on the unit you’re considering.
• Accessories – Consider the possibility of available accessories for the heater you choose.  One of the most common add-ons is a cover (usually sold separately and often generic) for added protection.

While it may seem like a lot to take into consideration the decision is ultimately an easy one.  Whatever you choose, you will certainly spend substantially more time in your outdoor space with the addition of a fabulous new patio heater.

Product Review: Fire Sense Stainless Steel Pyramid Patio Heater

Most people, when picturing a patio heater, would think of the traditional lamp (or “mushroom”) style design with a long base and a warming apparatus on the top.  While that is certainly a classic, effective design that will fit in with just about any decor, not all patio heaters are created equal.  Those who have a flare for the original might be more inclined to look for something more like the FireSense Stainless Steel Pyramid Patio Heater.  

An incredible example of high quality workmanship and exceptional design, this pyramid shaped patio heater brings a unique look to the myriad of traditional looking fireplace heaters.  It’s attractive, solid, stainless steel construction and additional steel varnish coating for protection against surface corrosion ensure it will be able to stand up against the elements. The artistic construction allows for incredible visual appeal in what is otherwise normally a standard mold.  In addition, the open sided pyramid shape allows for a full range of heat all around the heater as opposed to a standard patio heater which disperses heat from the top.

The Pyramid Flame Heater comes complete with a weighted base with safety tilt on and off protection, a BTU rating of 40,000, electronic ignition, and wheels for easy portability.  This patio heater runs off of a standard 20 pound propane tank and measures 20.5” long, 20.5" wide, and 88.3” tall and weighs in at about 67 pounds.

Patio Heater Styles

Patio heaters are a great way to ensure your family stays warm while enjoying cooler outdoor weather. The type of patio heater you select really depends on the space you have and the amount of heat output you’re looking for.

Full Size (or tall) patio heaters are the most common type of patio heater you’re going to see. They are a great, universal type of patio heater and fit well in most outdoor spaces. They come in a variety of styles and finishes to coordinate with any décor. While they are going to vary from model to model, generally they measure around 87” to 111” tall and produce a heat output of about 34,000 to 41,000 BTU’s which approximately covers a 10 to 20 foot diameter.

Table Top patio heaters are great for smaller outer spaces or areas in which you only wish to heat the main seating area. They can easily blend into any décor, some even look similar to a table lamp making them almost unnoticeable. They are usually 35” to 45” tall, produce a heat output of about 10,000 to 12,000 BTU’s and cover a range of about 4 to 12 feet in diameter.

Wall Mounted patio heaters mount to the side of your house and warm your outside space equivalent to a traditional patio heater. They vary greatly in heat output depending on what you’re looking for, producing somewhere between 2500 and 34,000 BTU’s.

Sunmaster Table Top Patio Heaters

As the weather begins to cool off and fall and winter being to approach people have a tendency to head inside to stay warm. It can be so disappointing to miss out on that cool, crisp fall weather but it can be uncomfortable to stay outside and freeze. Don’t take your family time indoors just because the weather drops below 70 degrees; add a table top patio heater to your outdoor living space and keep the party going outside a little longer.

Sunmaster Table Top Patio Heaters are perfect for smaller outdoor patio spaces or for families with younger children who want to keep their patio heater out of easy reach of little hands. Their built in safety features ensure maximum safety; including a weighted base and anti-tilt switch that automatically shuts off the heater if it is knocked over.

Measuring a modest 35” high and weighing in at just 19 pounds, a table top patio heater makes an excellent center piece on an outdoor table. However, don’t be fooled by its petite size, the patio heater emits heat up to a 3 foot radius and produces up to 12,000 btu’s of heat. Using just a one pound propane tank hidden under the base of the unit, it remains very lightweight and easy to transport (depending on your fuel source).

The energy type you choose to heat your outdoor space via patio heater is a combination of personal preference and practicality depending on what you have set up in the area already. All patio heaters use infrared heat to create infrared energy which rises to the top of the patio heater and creates a warm orange glow. That energy is then directed down by a reflector that puts off ambient heat causing a rise in temperature approximately 10-25 feet around the patio heater. The primary difference between the types of energy sources for patio heaters is the fuel you choose to use to power it with.

Propane patio heaters are the most portable variety of heater. While electric patio heaters require an electrical outlet and natural gas heaters require a line to be run to them, propane patio heaters require only a propane tank. This allows them to be placed just about anywhere and even transported around depending on where they are needed. They work much like a propane grill In that they use a propane tank which is usually stored right underneath.
Typically lamp post in style and available in a range of finishes including stainless steel, copper, and bronze, they are constructed of a base which usually holds a propane tank, a post attached to the patio heater head which houses the emitter screen, and reflector and gas components.
Please note that as with a gas grill, propane patio heaters should only be used in wide open outdoor space and have proper ventilation.

Generally, patio heaters function similarly by providing a ring of heat to the outdoor area in which it is placed. They are available in many finishes, fuel types, sizes and designs but what sets them apart the most is the fuel type that powers them. While there are significant differences between these fuel types that must be considered before making a decision, remember that you will get comparable warmth from each type.

As with any product, natural gas patio heaters have pros and cons and these positives and negatives are something to consider  when deciding what type of fuel you want to use in your space. For instance, natural gas patio heaters do not require a propane tank to operate allowing parties to continue for extended periods of time without having to refill your propane tank. Due to not needing a tank they usually have a sleeker, streamlined design. However, since they are hooked up to a gas line they lack the convenience of portability. They should be hooked up by a professional and must remain in the same location once placed or they require further adjustment by a professional. Also, natural gas patio heaters typically require a higher initial investment since they cost slightly more and require hiring a professional for installation. However, they are considered the least expensive type of patio heater to run. In addition, having these heaters permanently attached to a gas line makes them safer with less risk of tipping over.

Regardless of the fuel type you choose to power your patio heater, there will be pros and cons. What’s most important is what will work best for the space you’ll be spending those cool nights enjoying the outdoors by your warm patio heater.

Sunmaster Natural Gas Patio Heater - Stainless Steel

Linger outside just a little longer and enjoy a few more of the cool summer nights and refreshing fall evenings you’ve been longing for by adding the cozy warmth of a patio heater.

If you are on the market for a natural gas patio heater, the Sunmaster Natural Gas Patio Heater is the best out there. Sure to keep you nice and toasty when the weather cools off, this patio heater emits heat up to a 15’ to 20’ radius and produces up to 41,000 BTU’s. Complete with an easy-lite push button start system, the patio heater ignites quickly and easily with the push of a button. Measuring 87” tall and weighing in at 41lbs, it also includes side mounted wheels for easy mobility.

Fully constructed of stainless steel, this patio heater will stand the test of time. Generally, natural gas patio heaters are considered more secure since they are tethered by a gas line; however, as an added safety feature the Sunmaster Natural Gas Patio Heater features a weighted base to prevent it from being accidentally knocked over. To ensure maximum safety, it is also complete with an anti-tilt switch, which means in the event that it is knocked over it will automatically shut off.