If you want to enjoy your outdoor space into the winter months, an outdoor heater makes sense. So, what are the options?
- Freestanding heaters are a good option if you want portability. Keep in mind to allow about 12 inches of space between the ceiling and your heater.
- Overhead heaters come in wall, ceiling, and umbrella-mounted options, which are great if you are space-conscious or concerned about burn injury.
- Firepit heaters look like a fire, minus the hassle, and some double as a coffee table.
Outdoor heaters are fueled three different ways:
- Electric – Easiest to install if you have an outdoor power outlet but doesn’t create as much heat as its counterparts.
- Propane – Be aware you need to refill the tank when empty.
- Natural gas – Requires a dedicated gas line, which can be expensive.
- Note the latter two options cannot be used in enclosed patios because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Note the latter two options cannot be used in enclosed patios because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Side notes:
- Ensure the heater covers the square footage of the area you want to heat.
- Check for recognizable safety certification.
- Good safety features to look out for include a safety tilt switch for freestanding heaters (powers off if it tilts too much), automatic turn-off if it gets too hot, or cool touch glass to prevent burn injury.
- If you live in a condo, check if there are rules about using outdoor heaters.