Choosing an Electric Pyramid Patio Heater

Patio heaters are great for outdoor spaces that require of warmth and atmosphere. Consider the heat output of the model and how warm you want your space to be.

Electric models are safe and easy to use in enclosed spaces like patios or garages. They require a corded source of power and aren't quite as powerful as propane models.

Safety Features

Patio heaters can add a cozy touch to outdoor areas, but it's important to think about the safety. Propane- and natural gas-powered models emit harmful chemicals as well as carbon monoxide, and should be used in an area that is well ventilated in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. Electric heaters do not emit pollutants and are safe to use in tight areas.

Look for a model with an erect base to stop it from tipping over. Some manufacturers offer an option to shut off the heater when the unit is tilted over an amount. This minimizes the risk of fire or injury to anyone around, particularly when you're drinking a drink and chatting with your buddies.

The GH Institute's testers looked for models that were simple to set up and operate. The Member's Mark patio heater required one person to install it. It also features wheels on its base, which makes transporting it easy. This model is easy to read and move around the deck. It also has a good amount of heat, up to 10 feet in a circle. It also comes with a propane tank.

Another key factor to consider is the size of the area you're trying to warm. You may need a bigger heater to heat a larger area. Many manufacturers list their heating capacity in British thermal units (Btu) and the greater the Btu rating, the greater the heating capacity.

It is also possible to determine if a certain model is safe for use on a wood deck. The majority of freestanding patio heaters can be used safely on most decks, however it's always a good idea to read the instruction manual thoroughly and follow any specific precautions that might apply.

If you're considering buying an electric patio heater pyramid, steer clear of the ones that have cords that cross walkways. These cords could pose the risk of tripping to those who aren't paying attention and also increase the risk of accidental contact with heating elements.

Heat Output

The heat output is measured in British Thermal Units (Btu). A higher Btu rating means that the heater can provide more heat to a larger area. A 40,000 btu heater can warm up to 2,000 square feet, which is large enough to accommodate several people. For larger spaces and colder climates it is recommended to have a higher Btu rating is required to keep everyone comfortably.

Electric patio heaters plug into electrical outlets and produce infrared heat that warm not in use.

Portability

It is crucial to think about whether outdoor heaters can be moved easily from one place to another. This is especially true with freestanding models. Some of the top ones are able to fold up and be taken inside to store when not being used. This makes them great options for porches that are regularly used, or for people who like to move their furniture around and make use of various outdoor spaces all through the season.

The patio heaters of the pyramid design that we tested included covers designed to protect them from the harsh elements. We found the Member's Mark pyramid heater to have a cover that was quick and easy to use, that protected the unit from rain and snow yet still accessible. It was also easy to move from one location to another making it an ideal choice for people who wanted the comfort of a warm, cozy spot but also needed to be in a position to move the heat source as needed.

Whether you're looking for a propane or electric patio heater, you need to think about how much power you'll need to keep your outdoor heater for patio electric space warm. Many of the best-rated patio heaters we've reviewed have a capacity of 40,000 Btu's that can comfortably warm up to 220 square feet. If you have a larger space that requires heating, we recommend choosing one with more Btu's.

You should also think about whether your patio heater will be powered by electricity or propane since each has its own benefits. Propane-powered patio heaters tend to be more efficient than electric models and require less maintenance. They should be kept in a cool space all the time, which can make them less appealing to homeowners.

When choosing an electric patio heater, you'll need to choose models with safety feature that has tip-over protection as well as adjustable heat settings. Think about the ease of moving and assembling the patio heater as well as its appearance. In the end, it is best to choose a patio heater that has been certified by a reputable independent testing organization, such as Underwriters Laboratories or Underwriters Laboratories of Canada.

Aesthetics

Contrary to a freestanding infrared heating system which uses heat radiation to warm the air, dome and pyramid patio heaters run on propane and emit an electric flame to create a warm fire effect. They are typically triangular with a central column with flames that run along the middle. They offer the greatest coverage. These models generally have less efficient heat output than infrared units, however they still offer enough warmth to keep diners warm while dining outdoors according to Thomas Bonfiglio, CEO and founder of Triple T Hospitality.

Most of the outdoor heaters we tested came packaged in boxes and required some sort of assembly, with different levels of difficulty. Some, like the Dura Heat Tank Top, were extremely easy to put together, while others took hours for assembly, such as the Member's Mark pyramid heater, which was the most difficult to put together of all the models we tried.

These units are made for outdoor use and need to endure harsh weather conditions. Durability is an important aspect to consider. The stainless steel of the Member's Mark unit is better in enduring snow and rain than units with glass tubing, which can easily break or crack. This particular model also comes with a cover that protects against wind, which can be useful during stormy conditions.