Propane heaters provide much more heat than electric heaters. But they require fuel source and may run out any time during use. They also emit carbon monoxide gas. On the other hand, electric heaters are easy to operate, cost less energy and more eco-friendly. In the following article, we have discussed in details.
Main Differences Between a Gas and an Electric Patio Heater:
Topic | Propane/ Gas patio heater | Electric patio heater |
Safety | A gas or propane patio heater is less safe than an electric patio heater. | The electric patio heater is The safest from fuel and smoke production aspects. |
Types | Propane patio heaters are usually standing, or tabletop style and gas heaters are fixed. | They can be wall-mounted, hanging lamps, tabletop, or Standing. |
Portability | Gas patio heaters are usually fixed, and propane heaters are the most portable type. | Electric patio heaters are portable, but you’ll need an electric connection. |
Ease of use | Easy to use but requires some setup. | Electric types are easier to operate than gas ones. |
Maintenance | Gas heaters need a moderate level of maintenance. | Electric heaters need very little maintenance compared to other types. |
Operation Cost | Gas or propane is Costly | Affordable |
Product Price | Expensive | Affordable |
Aesthetics | Adds enough aesthetics to the backyard | Excellent aesthetics due to different types of design. |
Longevity | It lasts for one or two decade | Lasts more than two decades. |
Location | It can only be used outdoors or patio. | It can be used under a covered porch, patio, and backyard. |
Heat output | Satisfactory | Electric heater’s heat output is low considered to propane or gas patio heaters. |
Differences in Details:
Safety:
Electric patio heaters are safer than gas or propane patio heaters. This is because electric heaters require no ventilation and emit no carbon monoxide. Apart from producing toxic gases and carbon monoxide, gas patio heater runs on non-renewable energy. And, if safety clearance is not maintained correctly, anything flammable may catch fire. You must also ensure sufficient weight on the bottom to prevent propane patio heaters from tipping over.
Types
Gas or propane patio heaters are standing and tabletop designs due to the placement of the tank or fuel.
On the contrary, the electric patio heater comes in various convenient formats, such as standing, wall-mounted, tabletop, hanging, etc.
Portability
Propane heaters are best when it comes to portability. While natural gas heaters are fixed, and electric heaters need an electric connection. Propane patio heaters can be conveniently relocated throughout the yard or patio.
On the other hand, electric patio heaters require a grounded electrical outlet and hanging, and wall-mounted models are often permanently installed. However, gas heaters require adequate ventilation. Without sufficient ventilation, these heaters may be deadly and poisonous. Therefore, try to use something other than the gas patio heater in an enclosed space.
Ease of Use
Though the ease of use depends on the product’s build-up rather than categories yet; electric patio heaters are more accessible to operate than propane heaters as you will not have to refill a tank whenever it gets finished. Also, you will not have to use multiple regulators or switches in an electric patio heater.
Instead, you have to plug in and enjoy the heat with a remote controller in your hand.
Maintenance
Maintaining and cleaning gas patio heaters is a moderately challenging task. In addition, gas-fueled fire features are susceptible to water and snow.
For example, the cleaning-up process of a gas patio heater is much more complex than an electric one.
Operation Cost
An electric patio heater has less operation cost than a gas or propane heater. Usually, propane or gas-fueled fire gadgets are way more costly than their alternatives. An electric patio heater is your best buddy if you are on a low budget.
Product Price
Electric patio heater also wins over propane or gas patio heaters in this section. As a propane or gas patio heater requires multiple expensive parts with metal finishing, their price can be costly to many people. At the same time, electric patio heaters are affordable regardless of the brand and quality.
Aesthetics
Both electric and gas patio heaters add enough ambiance and beauty to the backyard. And the choice depends on you. An electric patio heater is excellent if you love lamps or hanging heaters. At the same time, standing and tabletop heaters can be both gas fueled or electric.
The longevity
The lifespan of a heater depends entirely on how you maintain and take care of the gadget you are using. However, research says propane or gas patio heater has lesser durability than electric ones. But, if you properly take care of a propane or gas patio heater, it will last more than two decades. While electric heaters need less maintenance and are easy to use, they usually last for many years. Remember, electric heaters can also regularly malfunction if poorly manufactured.
Location
The most critical point before buying a heater is to finalize where you want the heater to use. Ga or propane patio heater can only be used on the patio or under a gazebo or pergola with enough ventilation. They can not be used under a covered porch. In contrast, electric patio heaters are good to go under a covered porch, gazebo, or patio.
Heat output
If you’re searching for the best heat output, consider the propane patio heater, which emits significantly more BTUs. And the gas patio heater places second when it comes to heat output. However, since electric heaters are not fuel-powered, you will always have access to heat as long as you have electricity. Likewise, since propane heaters require a propane tank, so does the heat when the fuel runs out. But remember, if you live in a chilly area and tend to have temperatures around freezing point, an electric patio heater will not do a satisfactory job for you.
Pros of Gas Patio Heaters Over Electric Patio Heaters
- Gas Patio heaters does not require electricity (I mean obviously!)
- No tension of power outages
- Heat production capability is much higher than electric patio heaters
- Not limited by power cord, you can move it anywhere
Pros of Electric Patio Heaters Over Gas Patio Heaters
- Safe to Use, Less chance of fire hazard
- More cost-effective than gas patio heaters
- Easier to maintain
- Quiet Operation
- No Carbon Monoxide Production
- No need of ventilation
Which One Should I Buy?
You must buy a propane or gas patio heater if:
- You live in a freezing area and want an excellent heat output
- Your sole target is to use the patio heater in the backyard or under a pergola
- You have a medium or luxurious budget
- You love to enjoy genuine fire warmth with safety.
- You plan to take the heater in other outdoor or camping activities.
You should buy an electric heater if:
- You want to use the heater under a covered porch
- You have a good electrical connection on the patio or covered porch
- You have a minimal budget.
- You do not have enough time or do not want to spend time on maintenance.
Final Verdict
No matter what type the heater is, a patio heater is an excellent option for warmth and safety. If you are planning to choose the perfect kind of patio heater for your backyard, make sure you list your requirements on usage location, budget, maintenance, and area temperatures. And before buying any particular type of patio heater, check the manufacturer’s instructions and safety details.
