Patio heater coverage can reach up to 300 square feet of an uncovered area. However, if your patio area is enclosed and covered, expect the heater to heat up to 2000 square feet.
A patio heater enables outdoor entertaining in your garden.
The patio area can become uninviting as the temperature drops when entertaining guests outside at night.
Adding a patio heater to your outdoor space will allow you to enjoy it for extended periods of time.
A patio is an excellent extension of the home, but how big of an area does a patio heater heat?
To help you decide whether adding a patio heater is a good idea, read on as we detail the best type of patio heater for your space.
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Related Reading: How to Choose a Patio Heater
Which Type Has Optimum Patio Heater Coverage?
Gas and electric patio heaters are both great for adding heat to your patio, and each has unique benefits.
Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of each and determine their heating capacity.
Gas Patio Heater
A gas patio heater is often the only portable option if you lack an outdoor power source; electric heaters become impractical.
A gas heater can be fueled by propane or butane from refillable tanks or one-use canisters.
A gas patio heater produces instant heat from an open flame and generally has a reflective surface to intensify the heat.
Gas heaters typically provide patio heater coverage for an area of approximately 215 square feet.
Using a heater in a confined, covered area improves heat dissipation and coverage. However, gas heaters emit fumes, so only use them indoors if you have an outside vent.
Gas heaters can be cumbersome, produce a smell, and emit dangerous carbon monoxide. Keeping these heater types in a well-ventilated area is most important.
A gas patio heater requires an ignition source and sometimes can become a problem if there is a breeze, or the ignitor is faulty.
Electric patio heater
Electric patio heaters are a safer option for heating outdoor areas, with no open flames and an instant on/off switch, making them a more desirable choice over gas heaters.
Electric heaters are now much more efficient and only consume around $0.13 of electricity per hour, which is significantly less than a gas patio heater.
When using an electric heater, it can provide heat coverage of around 300 square feet in an outdoor area that is not enclosed.
In a covered patio, you can enjoy up to 2000 square feet of heat. That’s pretty impressive patio heater coverage.
Using an electric patio heater in a wet uncovered area is unsafe as water and electricity don’t mix.
If you must use an electric heater outdoors, be prepared to remove it from the environment quickly should there be any chance of rain.
You should also consider the need for a power supply, which may not be available in every patio area.
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When installing your electric patio heater, be sure to securely tape down the cable or cover it with anti-trip mats.
Be sure to check if the power cable is permitted to be placed under a mat or other surface.
Related Reading: Electric or Gas Patio Heaters: Which One is Better? A Comprehensive Comparison
Best Position for a Patio Heater
Correct positioning is key to maximizing the efficiency of your patio heater, regardless of whether you choose a gas or electric one.
Your patio heater should be placed where people often sit, such as a seating area or over a table.
Both heaters have a specific heat coverage. The temperature decreases as you move further away from the heater.
If you have a huge area to heat, it may be advisable to consider adding another heater.
This should be placed within the heat range of your first heater, where the heat begins to drop off, to achieve optimal patio heater coverage.
Is a Patio Heater Safe on a Wooden Deck?
A patio heater on a wooden deck is often needed, especially if you live in an area where the temperatures can drop below comfortable.
You can use a patio heater on a wooden deck or any wooden area, provided you use it in a safe manner.
When using a patio heater on a wooden surface, never leave it unattended in an area that could become flammable.
If you use a gas patio heater or one with flames, be extremely careful as a stray ember can be dangerous to you and others.
It is advisable to have a source of water or a fire extinguisher nearby when using this kind of heater.
If an electric heater is erected or fitted correctly, the chance of fire is reduced.
Fitting an electric heater too close to flammable materials can cause combustion. Do not use water to extinguish the fire.
There are fire extinguishers rated for electrical fires at a reasonable price.
Make sure to use your patio heater according to the instructions in the provided handbook.
Related Reading: Best Tips for Safely Using a Patio Heater Under a Gazebo
Continue Reading: Pellet Patio Heater Vs Propane [WHICH IS BETTER?]
Conclusion
It is surprising how much patio heater coverage you can receive in an area, but the effectiveness depends on factors such as size, time of day, weather, and enclosure.
Remember to be safe when choosing and placing a patio heater outside. Be sure the heater is made for outdoor use, and consider limitations depending on gas or electric heaters.
If your patio area is enclosed, it is recommended to use an electric patio heater as they are safer, despite not being the most visually appealing. You can always mount the heater above so as not to be so conspicuous.
With the many options available, you will certainly find the best heater for your outdoor use.
As always; be safe!
Enjoy living the outdoor life!!!