Pyramid or Patio Heater: Expert Comparisons to Help You Choose

Whether you choose a pyramid or patio heater, you should consider fuel, heating capacity (BTUs), weather resistance, style, and environmental factors.

You bought your outdoor heater, or are considering one, to heat your little area outside.

That said, it is only apparent that the positive aspects of both will be your deciding factor.

Your specific demands might require one or the other of the two without even leaving room for debate.

If not, read the following tables and decide which is best for you.

Pyramid HeaterPatio Heater
They are completely smokelessCome in propane or natural gas variations
Some of them put off exceptional amounts of heatIt can easily be used during the winter
They are sleek, stylish, and modern in designIt can be left outside in all types of weather
They are portable and easy to movePropane styles are very portable
Many styles can be used as a lanternCome in many different sizes to fit all needs
It can be turned off when done with itIt can be turned off when done with it

The benefits of a pyramid or patio heater can be easily compared, and a decision can be made from there.

It would be best if you also took time to know the disadvantages of each heater, so read on to find out.

This way, you can make an accurate comparison between the two.

Pyramid heater on a patio showing the difference between a pyramid or patio heater.

Related Reading: Best Pyramid Patio Heaters [Buyers Guide]

The Disadvantages of a Pyramid or Patio Heater

With every product with good benefits, they will most assuredly have some challenges to go along with them.

You weigh the product’s benefit against the challenges or risks that may offset the positive experiences.

It’s best to compare the two against each other and then decide.

For now, though, consider the disadvantages of having a pyramid or patio heater.

Pyramid HeaterPatio Heater
Most use non-renewable, expensive fuelThey are top-heavy and can fall over easily
Flammable riskThey are not as stylish or visually appealing
They are only used for heatEasily blown out by the wind
Not environmentally friendlyCreates less ambiance
Less weather resistantFlammable risk

There are not as many disadvantages as benefits; only one thing stands out.

Whether a pyramid or patio heater, they both have combustible risks.

Being combustible does not mean it will catch on fire whenever something goes wrong.

Explosions caused by gas tanks on a heater are low unless the flame isn’t controlled properly.

If you take the time to assess your heater regularly, you can prevent or reduce these risks.

Related Reading: Best Patio Heaters of 2023

Combining the Benefits and Disadvantages

You should be able to see why each type has its specific benefits.

There are some similarities when looking at the benefits of either a pyramid or a patio heater.

However, many differences can help you decide which is best for you.

For instance, if you live in Alaska, have a similarly colder climate, and plan to use an outdoor heater, you would want to go with the patio heater.

Patio heaters are designed for all weather and suitable for use in the winter.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more stylish-looking heater, a pyramid heater is the best choice.

Of course, you must choose exactly what design you want to add to your outdoor décor.

If you already have a specific style you like, matching it will be fun.

The tables presented in the article were there separately for an at-a-glance look at benefits and disadvantages.

The hope was to be a more streamlined approach.

In addition, we have some factors to consider when deciding whether a pyramid or patio heater will be best for you.

  • Type Of Fuel—The patio heater uses a natural gas line from the house or can be hooked to a propane tank. Pyramid Heaters can use propane but are usually designed to work with LPG or butane.
  • Weather Resistance – This is a big one for most people because you want your outdoor heater to withstand Mother Nature. The patio heater can hold up to all weather, including the winter. On the other hand, Pyramid Heaters are not as durable or usable.
  • Portable—Being portable is handy but will not be a top-selling point. Maybe it is, though. Either way, they are portable unless the patio heater is hooked to a gas line from the house.
  • Flammable-– As with anything that deals with gas, fuel, or fire, they are volatile. If the heaters have any issues, they will catch on fire, giving some time before any explosive possibilities.
  • Stylish – Style and eye appeal are significant things in today’s society. Pyramid heaters come in all sizes, shapes, and styles, and patio heaters come in all shapes and sizes, but they do not have the style to match the pyramid versions.
  • Amount Of Heat – Pyramid heaters are designed for one purpose: to heat the area that it is in. Patio heaters put out some heat, but nothing compared to some pyramid ones on the market. If it is the heat you want, there is only one choice.
  • Environmental Impact – Today’s world has put the environment into a special place in their hearts. You have all adopted the need to protect it as much as possible. Propane and natural gas patio heaters put off a small footprint, but the pyramid heater puts out substantial pollution. Hands down, it puts off a bigger footprint than the patio styles.

Combining the benefits and disadvantages makes comparing the pyramid heater with the patio heater easier.

Both have benefits that make them better than the other, but it all depends on your specific needs.

You may not want something that puts off tons of heat because you have a small, partially enclosed porch.

Whatever your needs are, one style of heater will fill the spot.

The most important thing you need to remember is a pyramid or patio heater is designed to work outdoors.

The heater fuel emits an exhaust, making it better left outside while in use.

If your patio is enclosed, you will want to ensure that you vent a door or window.

The fuel needs oxygen to burn; if you do not have a steady supply, the unit can reduce the amount in your space for safe breathing.

Continue Reading: Should You Use an Outdoor Patio Heater in the Rain? Important Information

Final Thoughts

Sitting out on your deck or patio requires ten layers of clothing and gloves as thick as your comforter.

Now, outdoor heaters are designed to cut the edge off the cold, allowing you to sit outside year-round.

Two main types of heaters are designed to push back the cold, each with benefits and disadvantages.

What you need will be unique, and what is good for you may not suit your neighbor.

You can revisit the tables in this article to review the pyramid or patio heater’s benefits and disadvantages once again.

I prefer the pyramid heater since it radiates heat and adds a stylish flair to your outside environment.

Enjoy living the outdoor life!!!