Whether you like sitting outside and enjoying the peace and quiet on your own, or you like sharing a couple of beers with your family and friends, staying out during autumn and winter evenings can be uncomfortable in the cold. But not necessarily when you have trendy gas patio heaters to back you up. They allow you to make the most of your outdoor space, even in chilly weather. They are a quick and easy way to create a pleasant ambiance and keep the party going.
The wide range of heaters provides an aesthetically pleasing heat source and makes your outdoor experience enjoyable, while adding to your patio decor as well. They can be surprisingly powerful and efficient, yet stylish. With sturdy constructions and materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, gas heaters are a cost-effective and practical solution for warming up outdoor areas.
The Working Mechanism of Outdoor Gas Heaters
These heaters work on a simple principle: they burn propane or natural gas to produce heat, which is distributed through the surrounding air. The process begins with the gas source, either a propane tank or natural gas line, connected to the heater. The gas is then ignited by a pilot light or an electronic ignition system, causing the gas burner to produce a flame. This flame heats a metal or ceramic element that radiates warmth to the surroundings.
Types of Gas Heaters for Outdoor Use
What type of gas patio heater is best? That depends on the size of the space you want to heat, as well as any preferences you would like, such as portability, or directed heat. If you want lots of warmth and a cosy feel, then natural gas heaters for patio are the best options for well-ventilated outdoor spaces. Since they don’t require an electrical outlet, you are free to place them anywhere outside as long as there’s good ventilation.
1. Patio Heaters
- Freestanding Patio Heaters: These are standalone units with a tall, slender design, often equipped with a mushroom-shaped or pyramid-shaped top. They are suitable for heating large areas and offer 360-degree heat distribution.
- Tabletop Patio Heaters: Designed to sit on tables, these gas heaters for patio are ideal for providing localized warmth for smaller groups or individual sitting areas.
- Hanging Patio Heaters: Suspended from ceilings or overhead structures, these heaters save floor space and offer effective heating for covered patios or gazebos.
2. Wall-mounted heaters
These heaters are fixed to walls and offer space-saving solutions, making them perfect for small patios or balconies. They can be directed to target specific areas, providing focused heat distribution.
3. Infrared gas heaters
They emit infrared radiation that directly warms people and objects in their path, rather than just the surrounding air. This results in efficient and instant heating without wasting energy on warming unused spaces. Infrared heaters are available in different designs, including wall-mounted, freestanding, and tabletop models.
Advantages of Outdoor Gas Heaters
- Effective heat output: Gas heaters provide instant and consistent heat, creating a comfortable and cosy atmosphere in outdoor spaces, even in cold weather.
- Versatility: They are available in various sizes, designs, and styles, allowing users to choose a heater that complements their outdoor décor.
- Convenience: The gas heaters for patio are relatively easy to operate, with simple ignition systems and adjustable heat settings for personalized comfort.
- No smoke or odour: Unlike traditional wood-burning heaters, gas heaters produce minimal smoke and odour, allowing for a cleaner and more enjoyable outdoor environment.
- Long operating hours: Gas heaters can run for extended periods, making them ideal for commercial establishments that require continuous heating during outdoor events or dining.
What To Consider When Buying a Patio Heater?
Heat Output and Fuel Types
The first feature you need to know is whether you want the heater to be connected to the gas main in your home or whether you will be using gas tanks. Propane heaters offer portability, while natural gas heaters require a fixed gas connection.
If you want the convenience of moving it around then a portable gas tank heater such as the patio models will be the best option. The size of the heater is another important consideration. The larger the unit, the more heat output, and consequently higher amounts of used fuel. Make sure the size fits the space you want to warm up.
Safety Features and Ignition Type
Safety should be a priority when operating with gas in any environment, including outdoors, and especially for spaces where there are children or pets. This is why most gas heaters include safety features that are crucial to prevent any accidents. Look for automatic shut-off mechanisms, anti-tilt switches, and flame failure sensors.
Even with all these precautions, never put the heater in a tiny space, or anywhere close to objects. Leave more room around it. Most heaters have manual ignition systems, which require a match or a lighter to start the flame. Alternatively, some models feature electronic ignition for convenient and safe operation.
Materials and Weather-Resistance
The outdoor gas heater should be built with weather-resistant materials, capable of withstanding the elements to ensure durability and longevity. Depending on the environment where you live, you can choose from different materials that would be more suitable. Stainless steel patio heaters are appropriate for humid, coastal conditions, as they will last longer without significant damage. For drier weather conditions, you can opt for powder-coated steel.
In Summary
The gas outdoor heaters provide a practical and enjoyable way to stay warm in outdoor spaces, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere for gatherings, parties, or quiet evenings under the stars. With various types, designs, and available features, finding the perfect outdoor heater to suit individual needs and preferences is easier than ever.
They come with many advantages and some disadvantages, such as fuel costs, safety concerns, and environmental impact. However, the numerous benefits, including effective heat output and convenience, make them a highly functional way of maintaining comfort and warmth in outdoor spaces.
