Do Patio Heaters Work in Winter?

Yes, patio or backyard heaters work fine and efficiently in the winter. You can always rely on patio heaters for more safe enjoyment and operations for chilly evenings or winter. Among different types of heaters, the propane or gas type radiates a good amount of heat, while electric heaters produce less heat than gas types.

How Does the Patio Heater Heat?

Patio heaters heat in two different mechanisms; convection and radiant heat. Propane or gas heaters burn the fuel and traditionally produce heat. Furthermore, most electric heaters use radiant heat technology. However, some use the convection way.

Radiant Heating

When a material is heated to a certain degree, radiant heat results, then the heater releases heat via electromagnetic waves. In this method, radiating heat covers a vast region uniformly. You can also say the heat is being pushed into the air in this system.

Convection Heating

Electricity is transported through a resistor or other substance that blocks an electrical current in a convection patio heater. Finally, it is converted into heat energy and circulates throughout the space.

What Types of Patio Heaters are Suitable for Winter?

Patio heaters come in different types and shapes. It is better to go for a gas or propane heater for the winter, as electric patio heaters do not produce as much as they advertise. All it comes down to the BTU and heat output of the heater you choose. Propane or gas heaters burn gas and produce fire, the heat source. About 50,000-60,000 BTU gas heaters are suitable for winter use. However, many people use multiple wall-mounted electric heaters on the gazebo, canopy, or standing infrared heater for the patio. You can also go with the numerous strategies if you are planning to purchase electric heaters only.

How Effective are Patio Heaters in Winter?

Patio heaters are efficient for winter but are less effective than fire pits, chimneys, or fireplaces. Heaters raise the air temperature by 15-25 degrees and can radiate the heat for better safety. Propane or gas heaters are more effective for better warmth than electric infrared heaters.

You can read a detailed article on the topic here.

Few Recommended Patio Heaters for Winter

1. EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater

With the 50000 BTU heat output, this patio heater is a customer-heart winner due to its lovely design and coverage. Also, it has excellent performance, portability, and ease of use.

Pros of the EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater;

Cons of the EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater;

2. Amazon Basics Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

An extraordinary performing propane heater that not only gives an excellent amount of heat output but also provides a broader coverage with other facilities

Pros of the Amazon Basics Outdoor Propane Patio Heater ;

Extreme heat output and heat coverage
It provides instant heat
It has a safety shut-off in case of emergencies
Durable and sturdy
Included two wheels for smooth mobility
Adjustable temperature knob

Cons of the Amazon Basics Outdoor Propane Patio Heater;

3. All Seasons Gazebos 500W x 4 Bulb ( 2,000W ) Electric Gazebo Heater

An electric-powered infrared heater with multi-dimensional heating and excellent lighting; puts up a long-lasting, durable performance.

Pros of the All Seasons Gazebos Electric Gazebo;

Cons of the All Seasons Gazebos 500W x 4 Bulb ( 2,000W ) Electric Gazebo;

[On a side note: How long does a 20lb propane tank lasts in a patio heater?]

4 Tips to Keep Your Patio Warm During Winter

While it is chilly outside, enjoying a warm patio time with family and friends is a must. Also, if you plan to have a s’more, however, it might ruin the mood if the patio needs to be better equipped with warming facilities. Here are some excellent tips on how you can keep the deck warm during winter;

Place a Firepit

Firepits are the most resulting option for a lovely warm evening in a cold evening. You can go for portable types or even fixed ones. There are mainly three types of fire pits; propane, gas, and wood-burning fire pit. One should choose the one that is convenient for the budget, easy, and safe. Firepits tend to provide 50,000-1,00,000 BTUs and excellent heat coverage. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety precautions while using a fire feature.

Use a Heater

Patio heaters are more safe and easy to operate on a chilly evening. Gas, propane, or electric patio heaters can be used under a gazebo, pergola, or canopy. You can even use standing heaters on the patio for a nice warm-up. Also, wall-mount heaters are a good option if you have a covered porch or canopy.

Heated Flooring

This is a modern and expensive takeover but it comes up with many incentives. You can be built the patio with a heated flooring system. With this, you will get warmth in the winter, and you won’t have to clean the snow; it will melt on its own.

Using Chiminea

If you have a small garden or little space in the backyard, you can use a chiminea to warm up the area. It works fine while directing the smoke upwards and increasing the backyard’s beauty.

You may also like: How to choose the best electric patio heater?

Can I Use a Patio Heater During Snowfall?

During snowfall, you should never use propane, gas, or electric patio heaters under the open sky. But you can safely use a heater in a gazebo or canopy, even if it’s a snowfall. A gas or electric heater can get damaged if it gets wet. If you leave your heater outside in the rain or snow, check it at least once a month to ensure it is still operational. The best approach to preserve an outdoor heater in good working order during the winter is to store it indoors. If you must leave it outside, ensure it is well covered. You can get a detailed article on if you can leave you patio heater in snowfall here.