A well designed and stylish patio is every homeowner’s dream. A patio can extend your living space and make your home feel larger. However, the chilly weather can chase you and your family indoors after dinner. The cold weather can also stop you from reading your favorite newspaper on your front porch. This is why you need to invest in a patio heater.
Patio heaters are specially designed to extend your pleasure as you enjoy its heat and relaxing ambiance during those chilly nights while you sip a glass of wine. If you are in the process of looking for a patio heater, reading patio heater reviews will help you compare and choose the best heater for your home.
Here are 3 features to look for in a patio heater.
- Power Source
Probably the most important feature to look for in a patio heater is the power source. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity, propane, or natural gas. Propane gas-powered patio heaters can offer you a powerful heating capacity which can run for up to 10 hours. They also have the advantage of being stand alone since they are not connected to a power grid.
If you are looking for an affordable option then consider the natural gas patio heater. Since it can be connected to a natural gas line, you can enjoy continuous heating without having to worry about refilling your tank.
Electric patio heaters require a connection to a mains power supply. The heat is transmitted through a process known as infrared radiation. This means that the closer you are to the heater the warmer you feel. One great benefit of the electric patio heater is that they are fumeless making them the best option for indoor use as they will not cause any health risks.
- Design
The overall design and style of the patio heater you choose should be both functional and attractive to suit your home’s needs. You can choose from a freestanding, tabletop, hanging or a wall mounted patio heater.
Free Standing patio heaters are the most preferred for outdoor use. They are more stable and most of them have wheels to facilitate their moving around.
If you have small children and prefer to have a clear floor, then consider a wall mounted electric patio heater.
A tabletop patio heater is the most ideal for small settings and you can use it while having dinner at your pool deck to add a touch of style and elegance.
- Type of Material
Check the material used in the overall construction of the patio heater. The materials used to construct patio heaters include; stainless steel, powder-coated steel, all-weather wicker, and aluminum. Stainless steel is mostly used in high-end patio heaters and these heaters are the most preferred in wet and seaside areas due to their anti-rusting properties.
Cast aluminum patio heaters are sturdier as compared to the other types. This heater will guarantee you an infrared heating and its external beautiful finish will increase your porch’s elegance and identity.
If you are looking for something economical then a powder coated steel patio heater will be most ideal. As the name suggests, steel powder is used to coat the heater making it rust resistant while providing you with an attractive finish. You can also choose a powder coat color that matches your patio furniture as well.