Adding a Bit of Luxury to Your Backyard: Gas Patio Heaters

grex22 | Jul 9, 2010 |

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Most of us are used to seeing gas patio heaters in luxurious outdoor restaurant areas and or outside trendy clubs. Thankfully, it's easier than ever to bring these luxurious heaters to your own home due to recent price drops and more efficient units.

Heating your patio, especially in the chilly fall months, just got a bit easier with these gas patio heaters. Their large domed heating element effectively disperses heat over a large area, and can warm an outdoor eating area, patio table, or poolside area. Typically, patio heaters heat radiantly. Radiant heat warms objects surrounding the heater rather than warming the air. Radiant heat allows the heaters to focus warmth where it's needed the most, and doesn't waste energy warming air outdoors.

While you're probably familiar with the large, free standing gas patio heaters, smaller and more portable table-top models are also available. Because they are usually fueled by the smaller 1 lb. propane cylinders, they are lighter and more portable, and don't require a separate fuel line to be installed.

Since they have a lower BTU output, these smaller heaters will produce less heat. However, if you only need to heat a handful of guests at a patio table, the table-top style will be perfect.

Nearly every patio propane heater uses a large bowl or reflector on the element to focus warmth. However, if you need to further focus the heat, some heaters feature an adjustable reflector to direct heat where you need it. For a good example, take a look at the Sahara model, manufactured by Calor.

If you need to warm your guests at a BBQ or party, patio heaters are a fantastic option. But a quick word for safety -- since they burn propane, these heaters give off exhaust gases that can be dangerous in enclosed spaces. Be sure to only use these heaters outdoors or in a very well-ventilated area such as a patio or porch. Please be sure that you follow all safety instructions for your heater model.

For safety reasons, we'd recommend being sure your patio heater features a tip sensor. As typically found in smaller indoor heaters, these tip sensors detect if the unit has been knocked over and automatically shut off the heater. If children or pets may be playing nearby, this can be an extremely valuable feature.

For an inexpensive, entry-level patio propane heater, we recommend the 89" stainless steel patio heater from Living Accents. You can pick this unit up for under $300 at Amazon, which is a fantastic deal considering its stainless steel construction and safety features. Unlike many heaters in its price range, it features wheels built in to the base for easy moving and repositioning.

Patio heaters are an inexpensive, efficient way to heat an outdoor area. But what's even more amazing about gas patio heaters is how they can make your backyard the envy of all of your party guests!