Choosing between an Electric or Propane Patio Heater

There is no question that patio heaters are both enjoyable and useful. They allow you a far greater use of your outdoor area and are just an all around good item to have in your possession. Then only real problem is deciding exactly which patio heater to purchase. There are a wide range of models that can fit a very wide variety of needs. Some heaters run more efficiently but do not heat as large an area, while other heaters may heat a very large area but could cost more to operate. In the end each home owner has different needs for their patio heaters. However, the most basic choice is whether to select a propane or electric patio heater.
Advantages of Propane patio heaters
The most common reason people choose propane heaters is because of the amount of heat generated, their efficiency and they can watch the flames of some models. Nothing beats sitting outside during a cold winter night drinking a hot beverage while being kept toasty warm by your outdoor patio heater. Settings like this produce feelings of nostalgia, romance, and contemplation very similar to those while on vacation.
Disadvantages of propane patio heaters
The largest disadvantage of using a propane heater is the act of having to provide the fuel for the heater to burn. While propane is inexpensive, it still requires taking the time to purchase a propane tank and then exchange them once they have run empty. While some people can connect their heater to the propane lines in their home, this process can be quite expensive and beyond most peoples budget.
A smaller concern is the danger of having a live flame burning. While those flames are fun to watch, if the heater is too close to something flammable, there is a chance of starting a fire. This danger can be largely prevented by using a little caution and as well as common sense. The good news is today’s heaters are equipped with a tip sensor which shut off the heater if they are tipped over.
Advantages of electric patio heaters
Electric patio heaters provide their own advantages. While it is true that you cannot see the flames dancing, it also means that you do not have the same restrictions as using gas. There are also many restrictions against using propane heaters in many condo associations and apartment complexes and some people simply don’t like using gas. Electric patio heaters only require a plug in the wall to operate meaning saving time and money from refilling propane tanks and do not need the same ventilation requirements of gas. Also electric propane heaters create very little if any pollution, so if even the minor amount of pollution created by burning propane is something you are concerned about, and electric patio heater is going to be something you want.
Disadvantages of electric patio heaters
The biggest knocks against electric patio heaters are that they are not as powerful as propane and produce only a boring glow. Most of them do have some kind of electric light that is meant to provide atmosphere, however they just don’t match the quality of living flame.
In the end, choosing a propane or electric heater may not be the single most important decision you will ever make. Yet, do not think that it is not worth considering. Both propane and electric patio heaters have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. The important thing is the end result of owning a patio heater, no matter what kind of power source it may have.