Cooler weather doesn’t necessarily have to end the patio season. Extend your time spent outdoors —- to enjoy the crisp, beautiful days of fall and the chilly, grey days of winter —- by adding a patio heater to your balcony.
Ready to drink up every ounce of splendor that fall and winter offer? A well-designed and warm outdoor space is what you need, and we’ve got all you need to make that possible!
How to Choose a Patio Heater for Your Balcony
You can’t just grab a few space heaters and plug them in. The heated air will rise and disperse. Instead, you need a designated patio heater — ideal for making your balcony cozy and keeping you warm and toasted.
Patio heaters are available in electric, propane, and natural gas options. Let’s weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each type to make it easier for you to decide.
Pros:
- Do not produce dangerous gases like nitrous oxide
- Require little warm-up time and provide instant heat
- Available in a variety of styles, including, free-standing, tabletop, and hanging models
Cons:
- Require electricity
- Limited placement as they can only be installed near electrical outlets
Natural Gas Heater
Pros:
- Greater heat output compared to electrical heaters
- Their stylish designs allow them to blend in with the outdoor decor.
Cons:
- Require professional installment
- Need to be placed in well-ventilated areas
Propane Patio Heaters
Pros:
- Easy placement
- Portable
- Do not require any electricity
Cons:
- A 20-pound propane tank is required
- Professional installation is needed if connecting to an existing gas line
What to Look For in Patio Heaters
Apart from the power above sources, here are two other essential factors to consider when purchasing.
Heat Output
The actual heat of a patio heater is measured in BTUs. The higher the number, the more the heat is given off by the unit. Natural gas and propane give off more heat but do not last as long as electrical heaters.
Range
Patio heaters typically provide heat in a space around 9 feet in diameter. And so, you need to consider the layout and size of the area you want to heat.
Want a tip? Enclose your balcony (or patio) with privacy walls to retain the heat and offer protection from wind and snow.
All in All…
With social distancing becoming the new normal during the pandemic, gatherings have been drastically reduced. So this year, let’s bring back the get-togethers and peals of laughter by completely winterizing your balcony and promoting outdoor meetups.
Have any queries? Contact us today!