Choose Outdoor Patio Heaters Based On Throw Radius, Fuel Source & Style

Even though outdoor heaters play a crucial role in maximizing the usability of patios and decks, many homeowners overlook their potential benefits. Common concerns revolve around safety, outdated designs, and uncertainty about selecting the appropriate type of heater. These worries often result in underutilized outdoor spaces.

It’s somewhat contradictory to invest in creating an outdoor area only to limit its use. How often do you find yourself retreating indoors during chilly spring or autumn evenings? And how many months do you spend without using your outdoor living space because of temperature fluctuations? By understanding how to pick the right propane, electric, or natural gas heater, you can fully enjoy your outdoor environment year-round.

Choosing the Ideal Fuel Type

Before delving into the best fuel sources for warming your deck or patio, it’s vital to debunk a common misconception about propane heaters. Older models might still employ open flames to generate heat. However, modern patio heaters utilize advanced infrared technology instead.

The primary distinction lies in how these heaters distribute warmth. Infrared heaters radiate warmth directly onto objects within their range, rather than just heating the surrounding air. This means that even if a breeze passes through, the heat remains stable and effective. Additionally, infrared heaters are safer since they don’t produce exposed flames, eliminating fire hazards.

There are three main fuel options available for residential heaters:

• Liquid Propane: Portable propane heaters are very popular due to their flexibility. Typically fueled by tanks located in the base, these heaters can easily be relocated whenever needed. This makes them ideal for temporary setups or events. Unlike electric heaters, propane units don’t require any special wiring or installation—just replace the tank at a nearby gas station.
• Natural Gas: Permanent installations such as fixed-position mushroom heaters or overhead box heaters connected to a natural gas line offer convenience and efficiency. While installation requires professional assistance, once set up, these heaters provide consistent performance with features like programmable controls and automatic shut-off mechanisms to save energy.
• Electric Heaters: High-quality outdoor electric heaters differ significantly from standard indoor space heaters sold at retail stores. These commercial-grade units need dedicated power lines but are economical for long-term use. They’re commonly mounted overhead or attached to walls and often include user-friendly interfaces with built-in timers to optimize usage.

When deciding on a fuel type, consider factors like portability requirements, existing infrastructure (such as natural gas lines), and future plans for modifying outdoor spaces. For instance, if your deck layout frequently changes depending on guest numbers or seasonal activities, portable propane heaters might be preferable. On the other hand, those who already have established connections for natural gas or electricity may benefit from installing fixed-position models that integrate seamlessly into their architectural design.

Understanding Throw Radius

To ensure maximum comfort across your entire patio or deck, it’s important to strategically place heaters according to their effective coverage area—or “throw radius.” Each model has its own unique range based on factors like height above ground level and mounting method.

For example, top-tier brands like Sunglo offer high-efficiency propane heaters capable of projecting infrared rays up to 12 feet outward from their central axis. Therefore, covering a 24-foot wide patio would typically necessitate at least two units placed strategically along opposite ends. Depth should also be considered; deeper layouts may require additional heaters spaced evenly throughout the space.

Similarly, overhead-mounted electric heaters provide extensive coverage areas depending on their positioning relative to seating areas. Many businesses prefer positioning such systems directly above dining tables or lounging zones where guests spend most of their time outdoors. Proper placement ensures optimal thermal distribution while minimizing energy consumption.

Design Meets Functionality

Gone are the days when outdoor heaters were purely functional yet aesthetically bland additions to backyards. Contemporary manufacturers recognize that consumers desire both practicality and style when enhancing their homes’ exteriors. As such, premium patio heaters now boast sleek designs, customizable finishes, and innovative concealment options tailored specifically for modern lifestyles.

• Patio Comfort: Known for their iconic mushroom shape, these versatile heaters work equally well with liquid propane tanks or integrated natural gas supplies. Newer iterations feature enhanced BTU outputs along with elegant color schemes including stainless steel, jet silver, antique bronze, and even retro-inspired patterns that complement various architectural styles.
• Sunglo: Offering a contemporary twist on traditional aesthetics, Sunglo heaters combine functionality with minimalist elegance through matte black accents paired alongside polished stainless steel frames. Their robust construction ensures durability against harsh weather conditions while maintaining visual appeal. Fixed models stand tall atop sturdy poles offering impressive 50,000 BTU outputs over a 12-foot diameter zone.
• Sunpak: Ideal for commercial settings like restaurants or cafes, Sunpak heaters are designed primarily for ceiling attachment but can also be wall-mounted securely. Available in both brushed stainless steel tones and subtle blacks intended to blend discreetly into architectural details, these units cover expansive regions efficiently without detracting attention away from surrounding decor elements.
• Sunstar: Popular among coastal dwellers seeking rugged reliability combined with sophisticated looks, Sunstar heaters incorporate marine-grade materials resistant against saltwater corrosion. Mounting possibilities abound thanks to flexible configurations allowing horizontal or vertical orientations depending upon individual preferences and site constraints.
• Infratech: Those favoring electric alternatives tend towards Infratech solutions which offer slimline profiles ranging between 39 inches and 61 inches long. Customizable hues encompass whites, creams, browns, grays, coppers, plus classic blacks ensuring seamless integration into existing color palettes while delivering superior thermal output.

Without adequate heating solutions, any outdoor living area remains underutilized regardless of size or location. Investing in quality equipment allows homeowners to fully capitalize on their investments in fresh-air environments regardless of seasonal variations. Carefully evaluating throw radii alongside personal tastes regarding appearance alongside preferred power sources ultimately leads to selecting the perfect outdoor heating solution tailored specifically for individual needs and circumstances.