It’s easy to stay inside when the temperature drops and make yourself forget you can have fun outdoors. But with the right outdoor heater, it’s possible to spend long hours in your backyard or patio, even when temperatures cool down.
Whether you are hosting a get-together, want to stay warm on a quiet evening, or just maximize your outdoor space, the right heater is important to your comfort and convenience.
A propane heater is a common choice for a lot of homeowners, but there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting the right outdoor heater for your needs.
Also read: How to Prepare Your Home For Winter
Understand Your Heating Needs
Before you shop for an outdoor heater, you’ll want to evaluate your heating needs. For all these factors, the size of the space you want to heat and how often you will use it?
Dine-in spaces can be anything from small balconies and patios to expansive decks or gardens. A small propane heater may be enough for a smaller patio or balcony while a larger, more powerful heater is needed to service larger spaces.
To get an idea of the size of the area, measure your outdoor space to figure out how much heat you need to keep everyone comfortable. As an example, if you want to heat a small seating area, a portable propane heater or tabletop model may be enough.
It’s likely that larger areas, such as a large deck, will need a more substantial solution, such as a freestanding propane heater or a wall-mounted model.
Consider the Fuel Type
There are basically three kinds of fuel sources you can use for outdoor heaters: propane, natural gas, and electric. Each has its pros and cons so select one that matches your preference and lifestyle.
Propane Heaters
Portable, effective, and relatively inexpensive, propane heaters are a common choice. They don’t need a permanent installation, which makes them perfect for people who want versatility or who transport their heating solution throughout their outdoor areas.
They also supply a steady stream of heat and are effective in places that don’t have access to a natural gas. But you will have to swap out or refill the propane tank when it is drained, so monitor usage during long sessions.
Natural Gas Heaters
If your home is outfitted with natural gas lines, then a natural gas heater may be a better option for convenience. These versions are mostly more powerful and provide nonstop heating without a tank refill.
However, they need a professional installation and are less portable than propane heaters.
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are another option, but they are not used as often to heat outdoors because they are less powerful and require electricity. These heaters are best for small outdoor spaces and are easy to operate but may not provide sufficient warmth in larger spots.
Select the Proper Style of Heater
There are many styles of outdoor heaters, and styles are made to cater to all of your needs. Depending on your outdoor space and how you’d like to use the heater, here are some popular options:
Freestanding Propane Heaters: This is probably the most common type of outdoor heater, with a tall, slimline design and large coverage area. Freestanding models are versatile and provide the ability to cook with direct and indirect heat. Most of these have adjustable temperature settings and a wide heat radius, making them suitable for bigger areas like patios or decks.
Tabletop Propane Heaters: A tabletop may be the right solution if you have limited space for entertaining outdoors. These portable heaters are placed on tables or other flat surfaces, providing localized warmth for small parties. They’re also suitable for cozy dinners or lounging outside with a cup of coffee.
Indoor Propane Heaters: While some propane heaters are designed for portability, others are made for permanent installation. These units are more efficient because they can be positioned where it distributes heat best. This is perfect for homeowners with more extensive outdoor areas who still want to keep warm while still conserving floor space.
Fire pits: While they are not technically a “heater,” outdoor fire pits can also heat you and set the mood. Fire pits are social elements, providing warmth and the meditative aspect of a natural flame.
Look for Safety Features
When trying to keep warm outside propane heater safety is a consideration for any outdoor heating solution. Characterized as a fan-forced heat source, propane heaters should have in-built safety measures to avoid accidental issues. Look for heaters with:
- Tip-Over Protection: If you accidentally knock the heater over, this feature will turn it off automatically.
- Oxygen Depletion Sensors: To avoid carbon monoxide buildup, these sensors turn off the heater if oxygen levels in the nearby environment drop too low.
- Anti-Overheating Features: As the name suggests, this feature prevents the unit from overheating, so it doesn’t overheat or malfunction upon excessive use.
Consider Design and Aesthetic
But while functionality is important, don’t neglect style. The perfect outdoor heater can also add to the aesthetic appeal of your space. The propane heaters listed above vary in design, from modern, sleek heaters to rustic, traditional heaters.
Pick a style that fits in with the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space, whether that’s minimalist, industrial, or a cozy cottage feel.
With conquering the cold and enjoying outdoor spaces; choosing the right heater for your home is an exercise in efficiency; style; and comfort.
Propane heaters are probably the most common and versatile form of heating, as they allow you to heat different areas without permanent installation being necessary.
So, by you factoring in space size, fuel type, style, and safety features, you can have a warm and inviting outdoor space, year-round. No matter which option you choose, the right outdoor heater can help you enjoy your backyard, patio, or deck even when temps cools off.
