Which patio heaters give off the most heat?
Propane patio heaters tend to put out more heat than electric heaters—about eight times as many BTUs on average. This radiant heat does more to warm the ambient air, instead of heating you directly. As the name suggests, this type of heater requires a propane tank.
What outdoor heater works best?
Our Top PicksBest Overall Patio Heater: Hampton Bay 48,000 BTU Stainless Steel Patio Heater.Best Budget Patio Heater: Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater.Best Electric Patio Heater: Briza Infrared Carbon Heater.Best Propane Patio Heater: AZ Patio Heaters 87″ Tall Outdoor Patio Heater With Table.More items...•
Which is better the propane or electric patio heaters?
If you want to get the most heating from the energy consumed, your best bet is to go electric. That being said – propane tends to give a much more powerful amount of heat. So even though it's not the most efficient, it's often better for those colder nights.
What's the difference between infrared and electric patio heaters?
The main difference between infrared heaters and most other heating products is that infrared heaters heat purely through radiation. Most forms of heating deliver the majority of their heat through convection: spreading heat around the room by warming up the air. This is a much less direct form of heat than radiation.
What is the best way to heat a patio?
Instead, your options include natural gas, propane and electric heaters designed to focus heat on a certain area. Infrared heaters — also known as radiant heaters, are the best option; these electric heaters only warm the objects — such as people and furniture — beneath them.
Is it worth buying a patio heater?
Patio heaters are essential if you want to enjoy your outdoor space during the cooler months. They make sitting in the backyard with family and friends a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. Most patio heaters are designed to warm the immediate area and some even have wheels for easy mobility.
How long does a 20lb propane tank last on a patio heater?
10 hoursA 20lb propane tank can last up to 10 hours and costs between $15 - $20 to fill up, making the average cost per hour between $1.5 - $2. A typical 40,000 BTU patio heater will cost about $1.70 per hour to use. A 20 lb Propane tank holds approximately 430,000 BTUs of liquid Propane.
Which is cheaper to run a gas or electric patio heater?
While operation costs depend on utility costs in your area, natural gas is cheaper than electricity in most parts of the country. Since we're all home now more than ever, being prepared for unexpected home repairs with a plan from HomeServe is important.
Are patio propane heaters worth it?
Propane patio heaters are a great option as well, as they heat quickly and can be easily moved from one spot on the patio to another. However, propane tanks are more expensive than natural gas and tanks do require replacement.
Which is better electric heater or infrared heater?
An infrared heater is better than an electric heater in terms of energy efficiency. These heating units use 100% of the heat produced compared to 80-90% for electric heaters. Infrared heaters also offer various power source options, such as propane, natural gas, and electricity.
What is better infrared or ceramic heat?
Quartz infrared heaters offer very fast heat-up and cool down times. Ceramic heaters, however, require more time to heat circulating air and warm up the room via convection.
Which is better radiant heat or infrared heat?
The truth is Infrared heaters and radiant heaters are in fact the same. The term “radiant heater” specifies that the heater is generating heat using radiation while the term “infrared heater” indicates the primary type of radiation being used by the heater to transmit that heat.
Do outdoor patio heaters really work?
Yes, patio heaters really work, although they are not miracle workers. The most important thing to remember is that how well your patio heater works depends on the size, BTUs, location, and temperature of the area that needs heating.
What is the best outdoor heater for a covered porch?
Top 10 Patio Heaters for 2022Infratech WD-Series Electric Infrared Patio Heater.Lynx Electric Infrared Patio Heater.Cuisinart Propane Freestanding Patio Heater.DCS Natural Gas Infrared Patio Heater.Solaria Candel Electric Patio Heater.RADtec Designer Electric Infrared Patio Heater.More items...
How can I heat my outdoor space in the winter?
How to Heat an Outdoor Space and Winter Proof Your Patio!Adding Some Spark. One of the “hottest” trends for outdoor living is the fire pit. ... Outdoor Fireplaces. ... Fire Up The Table! ... Heaters with a Decorative Appeal. ... Large Propane Heaters. ... Hanging Heaters. ... Keep Heat in Place. ... Cozy Up Your Space.More items...
Do outdoor electric heaters work well?
Electric patio heaters are extremely effective outdoor heating appliances because unlike gas patio heaters, they use radiant heat to directly warm the people and objects surrounding them. Electric patio heaters provide instant heat and require very little warm up time.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To compile this list, Katie considered the power, heat output, and space that would work best for each product. Within each category, she made sure to consider style and overall effectiveness to create a warm and inviting space in any season. For added insight, she also spoke with design expert Tim Bakke .
How many BTUs does a patio heater use?
This is generally measured as BTUs for gas-burning patio heaters and watts for electric heaters, and the average output for patio heaters is 40,000 BTUs. To compare how well two units will heat your space, compare the BTUs or watts of each model to find the one that will fit your temperature preferences and space.
What is the best fuel for a patio heater?
Patio heaters are available with a variety of fuel or power source options. Propane is the most popular fuel source for a patio heater, but if you don’t want to deal with propane tanks, then an electric-powered patio heater may be a better fit.
How far can a patio heater heat?
Are you looking for a personal-sized patio heater that will keep you and a friend or two warm or a larger unit that can heat things up for a small crowd? Larger patio heaters generally have a greater range—up to 18 feet or more—while small, tabletop models will only radiate heat for a distance of a few feet.
How many square feet can a Hampton Bay stainless steel patio heater heat?
You can’t go wrong with the popular Hampton Bay Stainless Steel Patio Heater ( view at Amazon ), a powerful option that’s reasonably priced and can heat up to 200 square feet. However, if you want something more budget-friendly, we recommend the Mr. Heater Portable Heater ( view at Walmart ), a tabletop option that can be used anywhere.
What is Hampton Bay patio heater?
The Hampton Bay Patio Heater has a piezoelectric ignition, similar to the type used on many gas grills, and an adjustable heat control system that lets you set its warmth to the perfect temperature. The heater is crafted from durable stainless steel, and its powerful heat is sure to keep you and your guests toasty, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space for longer each year.
What is a stainless steel heater?
The stainless steel heater features a piezoelectric ignition system, as well as a double-mantle heating grid. Its wide base provides stability, and there’s also an automatic shut-off valve for safety. The heater runs on 20-pound liquid propane tanks that you store in the base, and the unit is even mounted on wheels, allowing you to easily move it around your patio.
What is the best heater for a patio?
Either electric or propane, they offer the advantage of portability but tend to be less powerful, making them well suited to smaller gatherings. Mounted heater: Available in wall- or ceiling-mounted options, these patio heaters are typically infrared (they radiate heat) and are electrically powered.
How many watts does a Dr infrared heater use?
For delicious warmth in an enclosed patio or three-season room, check out the Dr Infrared Heater that runs on electricity and emits up to 1,500 watts of infrared heat. The unit measures 35 inches long by 8 inches tall and weighs just 8 pounds, making it well suited for installation on a wall or ceiling (mounting brackets included).
How high is a propane pyramid flame heater?
Flickering flames dance up and down the transparent glass tube at the center of the PAMAPIC Pyramid Flame Patio Heater. This propane heater stands 89.4 inches high and provides a variable heat output setting. The base of the pyramid features a solid cabinet designed to conceal a 20-pound propane tank.
Why is it important to have a heat source in an outdoor area?
Having a heat source in an outdoor area offers the ability to entertain comfortably when the temperatures drop. For those thinking of buying a patio heater, some questions are to be expected.
How much does a propane patio heater weigh?
The largest propane patio heaters can weigh 60 pounds or more —and that’s not including the weight of a 20-pound propane tank—so carrying one can quickly become cumbersome.
What is the purpose of a patio heater?
While the main function of a patio heater is to maintain a comfortable outdoor temperature, many go the extra mile to help create a cozy or romantic feeling. Some tabletop styles incorporate glass rocks that reflect various light colors, while others produce flickering flames that add a dreamy feel.
Why is it important to have an outdoor heater?
When the temperatures drop and a chill is in the air, having a source of outdoor heat will make outdoor activities more enjoyable. Patio heaters are well suited to northern climates, where the mercury plunges as soon as the summer sun drops beneath the horizon. They’re also beneficial in warmer regions, day or night, during the winter months. When shopping for the best outdoor heater, you have several options for the type of power required to operate the unit.
How many sq ft does an outdoor patio heater heat?
According to the manufacturer, it heats up to 500 sq. ft., however in our tests, it wasn’t the most powerful heater out of the bunch, but it kept those closely surrounding it warm. It also has wheels so it’s easy to move around.
How long does it take to put together a propane patio heater?
It also has a control valve to adjust the temperature. We found the instructions easy to follow and assembly was simple, however, it did take about 45 minutes to put together, though this is common in many larger outdoor patio heaters.
How many stars does the Amazon heater have?
Though we haven't tested it in the Lab, over 500 Amazon reviewers gave this 4 stars. This portable outdoor heater is tiny but multiple reviewers commented not to be fooled by its small size, it still produces a good amount of heat. It should be noted most reviewers used it for themselves on their patios or garages and not in a group setting. It also has a fan-only option and extra-long 8-foot cord.
Is a propane heater safe?
Standing propane patio heaters are good for outdoor settings and can be moved to the desired location without having to worry about being limited by an electric cord. If you are using a heater in a partially enclosed space, electric heaters tend to be safer.
Do propane heaters need electricity?
Propane patio heaters do not require electricity so they do not need to be near an outlet. A high BTU (more on BTU below) patio heater also tends to be warmer than electric heaters. Take note though, they are generally not recommended for enclosed spaces and the tanks do require replacement.
Is it safe to use a patio heater outside?
Patio heaters can help eliminate the need to bundle up or use blankets while sitting outside and keep exposed skin warm. They may also be a safer option than alternatives like fire pits if you have children and pets. But shopping for an outdoor patio heater can be overwhelming with so many options to choose — layer on safety concerns and understanding the technical jargon (what is a BTU?!), and you may be wondering if a patio heater is even worth it.
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What Fuels Outdoor Patio Heaters?
According to the official Propane Website, propane gas is clean, American, abundant and affordable, which makes it a good fuel option for outdoor patio heaters.
How many BTUs does a Hiland heater have?
The fan-style heating element is excellent for use with patio umbrellas and parasols, warming up to 15 square feet. The 1500 wattage equates to about 5110 BTUs, which is plenty for small patio areas and small get-togethers.
How tall is a Hiland propane heater?
If you know that you spend most of your outdoor time sitting around a table, you might want to consider a tabletop heater like the Hiland HLDS032-BB. This propane unit sits securely and comfortably on a table surface. It’s very similar to the Hiland HLD-SO1, just much smaller and much more portable. Instead of being 87 inches tall, this one is only 38 inches tall, which is ideal for patio users who want a more compact heating solution.
How portable is an outdoor heater?
Many models have wheels on one edge of the bottom, making it easy to maneuver from location to location. Smaller table top units will be able to be carried. When storing your patio heater, you will want to make sure that you consult with the owner’s manual, as most patio heaters are required to be stored upright to protect the integrity of the product.
What is the cheapest propane heater?
The AmazonBasics brand is all about affordability, so it’s no surprise that the cheapest propane outdoor patio heater is an Amazon product. The AmazonBasics propane-powered heater is considered a commercial-grade product, only without the commercial price tag. Similar to the #1 product, it’s a powerful 46,000 BTU and requires the standard 20-pound LP cylinder.
How much BTU does a patio heater use?
Most free-standing patio heaters operate at 40,000 BTUs, which put simply means that they supply heat to roughly a 20-foot diameter. Looking at this number, it’s obvious that 40,000 BTUs would be ideal for a large deck and would be way too powerful for a small space like a balcony.
What is a free standing patio heater?
Free standing patio heaters comes in different sizes to achieve warmth for your desired space. Based on your preferences, free standing units can be fuelled by propane, electricity, or natural gas. Restaurants often choose free standing patio heaters because they are efficient at covering larger spaces (100-150 square feet of space) by running at 40,000 BTUs (which don’t worry, we’ll get to shortly. A BTU stands for British Thermal Unit.)
