If it gets chilly where you live during the Winter, you might have thought about getting a patio heater for your backyard. These heaters can be relatively inexpensive and can expand the use of your patio into the chilly Winter months, or make it easier to stay outside on chillier Spring nights.
Are patio heaters worth it? That often depends on your own outdoor space and your needs.
Advantages of Patio Heaters
Heaters can range in price from around $50 to $200 or more, and some models require propane tanks while others rely on electricity. If you have a large patio or deck, or if you like to spend a lot of time outside, a patio heater can be a great investment. They can quickly heat up a space, making it more comfortable to hang out outside.
And if you have a covered patio, a heater can be a great way to extend your outdoor living space into the colder months if you get a professionally-installed, wall-mounted model. Just make sure that your patio isn’t enclosed, as carbon monoxide is a big hazard with gas and propane models. Never use a gas or propane patio heater indoors or anywhere with inadequate ventilation.
Another reason patio heaters could be a great investment for you is if you entertain outdoors often – a heater can help keep your guests warm while they’re chatting and enjoying a glass of wine.
If you’re not sure whether a patio heater is right for you, consider how you’ll use it. If you’re just looking for a little extra warmth on a cool night, a smaller, electric model might be all you need. But if you want to really heat up your space, a propane-powered heater might be a better option.
When Heaters Aren’t a Fit
If you don’t have a lot of outdoor space, or if you don’t use your patio very often in the Winter, a patio heater might not be worth the investment. They can be a little bit of a nuisance to set up and use, and they can also be a safety hazard if not used correctly.
Also, if you opt for a propane model, you’ll need to swap out the cylinder often. Another downside is that patio heater can only heat a relatively small area. That means if you have a large patio, you might not be able to take full advantage of the heater. You might need your guests to cluster under the heater for warmth, which can be annoying.
Overall, though, patio heaters can be a great way to extend your outdoor living space and make it more comfortable to use during the colder months. They’re a relatively affordable investment, and they can be a lot of fun to use. Just be sure to consider your needs and how you’ll use the heater before you buy one.
Which Patio Heaters Are Best?
Wondering which patio heater is the best fit for your lifestyle and space? Check out our picks for the four best patio heaters for your Winter patio. You can also read more about choosing and using a patio heater.