#1: What is a BTU?

A British Thermal Unit — or BTU for short — is the amount of energy needed to heat one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. One BTU is equal to the energy produced by one matchstick, or about 1.06 kilojoules.

Patio heater power is measured in BTUs. That means, the more BTUs a heater produces, the higher the heat output will be. However, two patio heaters that produce the same amount of BTUs can have varying heating ranges, depending on their design and overall efficiency.

#2: What Size Heater Do I Need?

You can use this simple equation to find out how many BTUs you’ll need to heat your space:

Cubic feet of area x desired temperature rise = BTUs needed

Keep in mind, if you live in an area with high winds, the constant inflow of cold air can affect the heater’s overall efficiency and performance.

#3: What Types of Patio Heaters are Available?

There a several different types of patio heaters to choose from. The best option depends on the fuel type you’re going to use.

• Propane patio heaters are typically freestanding, portable, and able to store a propane tank in the base.
• Natural gas patio heaters are permanent installations and are available in ground-mounted, ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, and hanging styles.
• Electric models — available in ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, and recessed styles — are best for covered patios and indoor spaces.

Explore our Patio Heater Buying Guide for in-depth information on each heater type.

#4: How Much Does It Cost to Use a Patio Heater?

After your initial purchase, the cost of operation depends the fuel type you’re using.

Propane gas is generally the most expensive, Natural Gas is typically the least expensive, and electricity falls in the middle.

• Natural Gas: A typical 40,000-BTU patio heater that heats an area of 314 square feet will cost an average of 48 cents per hour to use.
• Electric: The average cost for a 4,000-watt electric patio heater is 60 cents per hour (15 cents per kilowatt hour).
• Propane: A typical 40,000-BTU patio heater will cost about $1.70 per hour to use.

Gas and electricity rates may vary depending on where you live and the efficiency of your patio heaters.

#5: How Much Room Do I Need Around My Patio Heater?

Always check the owner’s manual before installing your patio heaters to find out how far it needs to be from flammable materials. This will help you to determine the safest location.

Generally, portable patio heaters that produce between 35,000 and 50,000 BTUs will need at least 30-inches of clearance to combustibles on all sides of the reflector and emitter screen.

Smaller patio heaters that produce 10,000 to 35,000 BTUs need at least 24-inches of clearance to combustibles on all sides of the reflector and emitter screen.

#6: Can I Use a Patio Heater in an Enclosured Space?

Gas patio heaters cannot be used indoors. They should only be used in an open outdoor space with plenty of air flow.

Electric patio heaters are safe for indoor and outdoor use. They don’t produce carbon emissions or greenhouse gases, making them the safest and most environmentally conscious choice.

#7: Can I Put a Patio Heater on Grass?

Though most modern freestanding patio heaters come with advanced anti-tilt safety features, they should only be placed on solid, stable surfaces — especially if you live in a windy area.

When used on uneven ground, like grass or gravel, your patio heater is much more likely to tip over and may not perform at full capacity.

#8: Will My Patio Heater Get Too Hot While I'm Using It?

No — the base of the patio heater doesn’t come into direct contact with the heat source, so it won’t get hot during operation.

However, the emitter screen and dome will get hot.

#9: What is a Safety Tilt Switch?

Most patio heaters have a safety tilt-switch or tilt shut-off valve. This automatic safety feature shuts off the heater if it gets knocked over or if it’s tipped past a certain angle.

#10: What is Infrared Heat?

Much like sunlight, infrared heat warms people and objects directly, rather than heating the surrounding air.

Outdoor spaces are constantly affected by wind and cold air. Electric infrared patio heater deliver instant, targeted warmth that isn’t easily blown away, making them more efficient and comfortable than traditional convection heaters.

How Do Patio Heaters Benefit Your Business?