Having an electric or propane patio heater is an undeniable advantage for patio owners. Extending the summer on your patio becomes child’s play, even when the temperature cools off. Thanks to these outdoor heating devices, you can enjoy pleasant—and above all, comfortable—moments on your patio, even in the fall.
If you’re looking for accessories to arrange your patio for the fall, a patio heater is a must-have. With the right device, you will be able to avoid blankets and sweaters and continue enjoying your patio in the evenings. However, whether you want to heat an open space or install a patio heater under a patio awning, choosing the right model is crucial.
To determine whether an electric or propane patio heater is best suited to your patio, we invite you to check out our handy guide. Discover the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each of these devices thanks to the patio layout experts from Groupe Bellon Prestige.
Electric or propane patio heater: the features of gas heating
When the time comes to choose between an electric or propane patio heater, it’s important to fully understand the differences between these devices. In addition to the power supply, each of these devices has its own unique characteristics.
Gas-powered heaters are also called umbrella heaters. They are usually more popular for commercial patios and spaces, but they are also popular with homeowners.
Heating area
The heating area of a gas-powered device is larger than that of an electric device. They can easily heat an area of 20 to 30 metres, so it’s easy to heat a very large patio with a propane patio heater.
Mobility and aesthetics
In addition to an expanded heating area, gas-powered heaters are also mobile. Mounted on casters, you can therefore move them anywhere on your patio according to your needs. Certain models are also equipped with tables, which gives you the possibility of having a complete piece of furniture in addition to the heat. These devices are often aesthetically appealing and blend in easily with your exterior design.
Electric vs. propane patio heater: the downsides of propane
Unfortunately, there are many downsides to propane heating. One of the main disadvantages is that it dries out the canvas and the curtains. A dried-out canvas is vulnerable to tears. In addition, gas heating heats the ambient air; a slight breeze will make you lose your heat.
That’s not all. These devices are also:
- Smelly: gas fumes;
- Heavy: even with casters, their weight makes them hard to move;
- Difficult to assemble and unstable, so you have to make sure to place them on a flat, even surface;
- Noisy;
- For outdoor use only;
- Energy-consuming: you will have to replace your tank frequently or connect it to a gas outlet.
Now let’s discover all the advantages of choosing an Infratech electric patio heater.
Electric outdoor heating
The Infratech electric patio heater is a very high-quality device. This electric patio heater uses an infrared radiant heating system to heat your outdoor space. Although they aren’t mobile, these devices are easy to install on a wall or ceiling at an angle adjusted for optimal heat diffusion.
In addition, radiant heating heats the elements, not the air. In case of wind, you will stay warm.
Electric or propane patio heater: the versatility of electric models
While the main advantage of gas models is their mobility, electric models, for their part, are versatile. They can be installed on all types of patios and are ideal for heating a space under an awning or a fixed roof. They also don’t take up much space and can even be recessed.
Economical and environmentally friendly
Electrical power is less expensive than gas, since there are no cylinders to buy. The device connects directly to your electrical outlets, and the maintenance is minimal, since there is no tank. This is also an eco-friendly solution, since the energy consumed is supplied by Hydro-Québec, which is clean energy, unlike propane.
Electric vs. propane patio heater: a question of safety?
Since they are often installed up high, electric patio heaters are out of reach of children and therefore safer. They are also quiet, odourless, and don’t give off any flue gas, unlike propane devices.
As for the disadvantages? They are quite minimal. The biggest problem related to electric patio heaters is that you will have to replace the bulbs every 2 to 3 years depending on your usage and shell out to get help from an electrician for the installation. You will need an electrician if the installation is more complex or if you don’t have access to an electrical outlet.
In conclusion, if you have to choose between an electric or propane patio heater, we strongly recommend an electric model. Radiant heating is a safe, reliable, long-lasting solution that lets you save money and stay comfortable on your patio, even in case of wind.
If you have any questions about electric patio heaters, contact us. The patio layout specialists from Groupe Bellon Prestige will be pleased to help you choose the right device.
