Moodboard #005 | Home and Garden
Introduction
It's a beautiful summer night; the guests dance the night away, and laughter fills the air. One problem is starting to arise, and the first warning sign is you are getting chills and goosebumps on your arms. A cool breeze threatens to cut the evening short by forcing everyone back inside, or worst, people go home. As the party host you have been planning for a couple of weeks, you don't want all your hard work to be for nothing. Before it gets to this point, let's rewind to keep the party going with one simple fix: Patio Heaters. Which are to bring comfort and heat to you and your guests anytime during a chilly morning, evening, or night. A quick Google search of "Patio Heaters" will yield many results, and we want to ensure you consider the right heater for the perfect occasion. It's important to consider the type of heat used and, most notably, how much area is covered by each patio heater? So, luckily for you, we got you covered with a few selections that are sleek in Design, keeping your party ambiance warm and inviting with a touch of luxury and a modern vibe. With the right patio heater, you can transform your backyard for special occasions or personal use to enjoy for a more extended period of time. Even during the winter, which makes your backyard accessible now all year long.
Types of Patios Heaters
The most common heaters on the market are Propane Patio Heaters. Propane is a hydrocarbon gas, and it's colorless, odorless that has been compressed and stored as a liquid in propane tanks. Regarding sustainability, propane is a clean burning fuel that is widely available, making maintenance easier. Another fuel source is natural gas heaters. That is connected from a gas line, ensuring a constant fuel supply, which can be cost-effective and potentially cost-saving. Compared to a Propane gas heater that requires regular replacements of propane tanks. The second is oil-filled electric heaters. The oil within the unit is heated with electricity and then radiates the heat into the space.
The last type of patio heater is not a product created by a manufacturer but another method that could heat your outdoor space for comfort: wood-burning fire pits. Having fire pits is additionally great for cooking, roasting food and marshmallows. The one downfall compared to all the patio heaters devices described is that wood-burning fire pit produces smoke and ash that can overtake the space.
Factors to Consider When Selecting an Outdoor Patio
These factors are understanding the heating capacity of the unit and the size. Is it a large-sized unit that can only produce a limited heating coverage? If so, you may end up with an overpowering present taking up a lot of space. As described in the last section, it is important to under the fuel source needed for the units. This will later tie in with maintenance and the longevity of the devices. The different fuel sources, such as propane, natural gas, and Electric, have other safety considerations.
Most importantly, the Design! There are freestanding patio heaters, wall-hung or tabletop versions. Does it blend nicely into your space design, or is it sticking out like a sour thumb? Some heaters can be designed into the architectural structure; for example, a freestanding patio heater can be cloaked as a structural column. However, this requires more thought and collaboration in designing your outdoor space.
Our Selections:
Our selections of Patio Heaters
We selected a few items you can consider incorporating into your space. We also pointed out some beneficial specifications. We have not personally used any of these devices, but I have experienced a few. Or seen in usage at night out in DC, which is popular outdoor restaurant ants and rooftop parties.
01 Heatsail Disc Infrared-Pendant Heater
By: RH
The Heatsail Heater comes in four colors, Bronze, Slate Iron, and white. The method of heating uses ceramic heating, which produces far-infrared heat. The coverage area is 6-8 people seating area. This heater is Ceiling Mounted, so it is essential to have the correct clearances at a minimum 7’-11" ceiling height to a maximum of 11’-10. Note that it is a powerful unit requiring a licensed electrician for installation; it has 3 different switches and weighs 93 pounds. So let the professional install it. The company states it takes about 30 minutes to warm up the area. Another thing about this product is that it cannot be used over baths, jacuzzis, showers, or swimming pools. I would suggest that you have an outdoor gathering area around the dinner table and the structural form of a pergola to mount the heater; this is an excellent option to keep your guest comfortable.
O2 Tungsten Smart-Heat Gas
By Bromic
The Tungsten Smart is available in matte black. This model looks small but has a heat coverage of 215 square feet, with a wind resistance of 8 mph, so if that cool breeze comes through, you will still be warm by your unit. It has two options for selecting energy sources natural gas or propane. This is also a unique model because its wall mount accessories can be directional tilted, so more control of the target area. From observation, what I like about Tungsten Smart-Heat is that it is wireless for the remote controller and gives a nice warm "glow" once turned on.
03 Eclipse Smart-Heat Electric
By Bromic
This is another ceiling-mounted unit, but it is an electrical unit this time. Off the bat, I can tell you my favorite feature is that it is a dimmer controller (warm white color) and wireless remote. Comes in matte black. Modern Design with 24" Twin Pole style as five other available pole designs. This alternative pole style has the option to be wall mounted as well. Please note these clearances have a minimum ceiling height of 96 inches, and the heat capacity is 121 sf which can be considered more on the smaller coverage side.
04 WALLE (E-Line)
Now this is a freestanding unit that is also electrically based. Height of 72" and 16" wide, weighing about 43 pounds. The stainless steel finishes can also be wall mounted with alternative accessories. The heat capacity of about 10 linear feet directional. So if you are not in the path of this heater, you are no longer in the zone of heat, so it is great to have this heater around transitional spaces. For example, leaving the patio back into the main house. The path of circulation will be optimal usage.
05 SunGlo Stainless Steel Portable Patio Heater
This stands at 7’-9" with a 34" reflector diameter of 50,000 BTU. Weighing in at 90 pounds. This powerful unit is natural gas based and freestanding. However, this unit does pose a tri[[ig hazard if the hose is not properly secured. One benefit of being freestanding is having multiple units space 12 feet apart. It is awesome that the unit comes in more unique colors, such as black, green, and bronze powder coat finishes.
06 Table Top Outdoor Lantern
Our first tabletop heater from our selections. This tabletop can make those cozy nights more memorable with a soft touch of intimacy and comfort. This unit is 20" tall and 11" wide at the base, weighs about 12 pounds, and has a heating output of 2,400 BTU, which is a nice punch for a tabletop unit. My favorite feature is the delightful flame that dances within Borosilicate Glass Cylinder.
07 HeatSail Disc Infrared Cantilever Heater
By RH
Designed by Piet Boon, a similar unit discussed like item one on this list. The difference is the model is a freestanding Cantilever heater. Also comes in white, Slate, or Iron powder coat finishes. Two heating option settings, 1500W, and 3100W, with heat capacity coverage of 6 to 8 people seating. It can be operated with a remote control that changes the dimmable lights. It also weighs 90 plus pounds. Since it is freestanding, the base has 4 wheels for mobility and then later anchored into the ground. Sold separately, you can order a custom-fitted cover to ensure your heater has the longevity of your outdoor experience.
08 Sunheat Pyramid Stainless Steel
By Sunheat
I have seen this patio heater commonly at outdoor restaurants and a few rooftop outdoor Terrances. The flames within this heater are inviting and perfect for outdoor gatherings. So it stands. The heating capacity is 40,000 BTUs and about 6 feet spread in each direction. To operate, there is a control knob behind the front panel. The company states it can run up to 10 hours on the highest setting, which keep the comfort of guest rocking all night and morning.
09 Tungsten Smart-Heat Portable
By Bromic
I love this unit for its unique style and eye-catching. It's a portable, efficient, modern style that will assist your outdoor décor. Comes in a neutral matte black finish color. The heating coverage is an impressive 215 sf. The area will remain warm even with a breeze of 8 mph coming through because it boasts 38,500 BTU. This propane patio has wheels at the unit's base and stainless steel turning knob to adjust the heat settings.
10 Palermo Pro T-Line Patio Heater
By Lavaheat
I love this one because it has a bronze wicker finish that can complete your furniture collection set with a wicker-based finish. This unit is 87 inches tall and about 23 inches, weighing 56 pounds. It also has a powerful patio heater pushing 44,000 BTU with a coverage area of 100 square foot area. A natural gas line hook-up will need to keep the heat pumping through.
Maintaining your Outdoor Patio Heaters
What is excellent about these few recommendations is that you can always bring comfort heat to your backyard all year with the right maintenance check-ins. Each unit has its own requirements referencing the manufacturer's specifications. Generally, the more powerful the patio heater you should set a routine inspection schedule. Be sure to have regular clean up and remove any debris that may have settled within the heater during off hours of usage. Another tip to ensure longevity is proper storage; if possible, consider moving your heater into the garage or storage shed when not in use. If you do not have an area for storage or cannot move, consider ordering custom covers over the patio heater units.
Conclusion
Good News! You no longer will have to cut your night short. You can enjoy watching the stars with your loved ones or dance late into the night till the morning sun rises. Capture more memories and make more connections with your guest at your next gathering. You can mix and match the different outdoor patio heaters. For example, have a tabletop heater and a couple freestanding for functionality and the perfect ambiance for warm gatherings. Choose what best fits your needs and budget, whether natural gas, propane gas, or electricity. Each has its benefits and energy cost savings associated with it. I encourage you to pin, save, and download my mood board for inspiration to elevate your outdoor space.
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