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The best natural gas patio heater can be the perfect solution for providing warmth, comfort, and even elegance to your backyard.
Ahhhh, the great outdoors.
There's nothing like enjoying a few drinks and appetizers outside with your family and friends, whether it's the middle of summer or a crisp autumn night.
Unfortunately, as the sun sets and the temperature drops, it can get a bit chilly out there.
But don't worry....you don't need to head indoors just yet.
A patio heater fueled by natural gas might just be the perfect solution to keeping you warm on your back deck or covered porch regardless of the outdoor temperature.
So, what is a natural gas patio heater - and is one of these devices right for you?
Let's take a closer look.
A natural gas patio heater, as the name implies, is simply an outdoor heater that uses natural gas as its heating source.
It has a gas burner at the top that's covered with a reflector, typically either a stainless steel or aluminum hood.
Natural gas patio heaters come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and styles, from free-standing models to tabletop burners.
Depending on the size and type of outdoor area you want to heat, they can be as simple or as elaborate as you'd like.
One of the main reasons to choose a natural gas patio heater is its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Natural gas is an affordable fuel, and the outdoor heaters that use natural gas require minimal maintenance.
Moreover, natural gas heaters produce no smoke or ash, making them more environmentally friendly.
Since natural gas is a clean-burning fuel, it
does not release harmful emissions in the atmosphere, as other fossil fuels
might.
And because you don't have to plug it in, this kind of heater is more convenient for backyard spaces that don't have easy access to outlets.
The heat produced from natural gas heaters mimics the warmth of natural sunlight, which feels gentle and soothing on the body.
Natural gas heaters produce radiant heat, meaning that they warm the objects in their paths, not the air.
Therefore, it is an exceptional choice for colder climates as it can heat up the entire space faster than electric heaters.
Whether you're throwing an outdoor party or simply relaxing on your patio, a natural gas patio heater is an excellent addition to your outdoor space.
But what sorts of features should you be looking for?
Here's a quick primer.
Heating Capacity
The first thing to consider when purchasing a natural gas patio heater is its heating capacity.
You want a heater that's strong enough to warm up your whole outdoor space, regardless of whether you have a large or small area.
Heating capacity is almost always measured in BTUs, or British Thermal Units.
Look for a patio heater with a high BTU rating to provide sufficient heat output.
Durability
Your patio heater will be exposed to the elements, so it's essential to choose one that's durable.
If you can, try to find a patio heater made from rust-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or aluminum, to ensure it will withstand harsh weather conditions.
Some heaters may also come with a weather-resistant cover to protect them when not in use.
Safety Features
Safety should be your top priority when it comes to selecting a natural gas patio heater.
The heater should have a sturdy base to prevent it from tipping over, and check if it has an automatic shut-off feature in case it overheats or tips over.
It's also important to keep the heater away from flammable objects, such as curtains or bushes.
Design and Style
A patio heater can also be an attractive addition to your outdoor space, so you'll want to choose one that matches your décor.
There are several designs and colors to choose from, so take your time and find one that fits your style.
You can opt for a sleek and modern look, or go for a more classic style that complements your garden.
Warranty and Customer Support
Finally, take a close look at the warranty and customer support when selecting a patio heater.
Make sure the company offers adequate customer support and repairs if needed.
Check if the warranty covers parts and repairs or if you have to pay for them out of pocket.
One common question patio heater users what to know is whether or not you can convert a propane patio heater into a natural gas patio heater, or vice versa.
There are conversion kits on the market to change the fuel source, but many times installing a conversion kit will void your warranty and if it's not installed correctly, it could be dangerous.
If you're in the market to replace your existing patio heater, or you're buying one for the first time, here are several choices you are sure to love.
Fire Sense Natural Gas Patio Heater
The Fire Sense patio heater is made of heavy-duty stainless steel and boasts an output of 45,000 BTUs.
The electronic ignition system provides instant heat, so you can start enjoying your outdoor space right away.
The CSA approval is enough to tell you that the unit is safe, and the tip-over protection system adds an extra layer of safety for windy conditions.
One of the most impressive features of this patio heater is the durable stainless steel burners and double mantle heating grid.
Fire Sense Natural Gas Patio Heater
The natural gas fuel source provides a consistent and steady heat source, so you never have to worry about running out of propane.
The heavy-duty mounting plate allows for permanent installation, making it a long-term investment in your outdoor space.
The 76" hose for the gas travels all the way from the head unit to the base, with 15" exposed at the base.
This gives you flexibility in choosing the perfect location for your heater.
Plus, the 2.5" pole diameter ensures stability, even in windy conditions.
With just the push of a button, you can enjoy your outdoor space year-round, thanks to the efficient design of the Fire Sense natural gas patio heater.
When it comes to outdoor patio heaters, this model by Fire Sense stands out above the rest.
Its powerful output and durable construction make it a favorite among homeowners and commercial establishments alike.
Lava Heat Natural Gas Stainless Steel Patio Heater
Though pricey, it's worth your consideration, especially if you're looking for a large, commercial-grade heater.
The Lava Heat triangle natural gas stainless steel patio heater is not only stylish but also durable.
Lava Heat Natural Gas Patio Heater
It is constructed with solid steel, aluminum, and “304” grade stainless steel, making it resistant to rust and corrosion.
The design of this heater enables it to emit heat in all directions, providing warmth to every corner of your patio.
This patio heater has a high power rating of a whopping 56,000 BTUs, making it suitable for use in areas of approximately 36 sq ft.
Your safety comes first when using the Lava Heat patio heater.
It has a tilt switch auto-shutoff, which means that if the heater tips over, it switches off, keeping everybody (and everything) perfectly safe.
Adjustable Height Patio Heater From VQQ
Next on the list is the VQQ Store natural gas patio heater.
This heater has a durable and reliable iron steel construction, which is not easy to melt, burn off, or damage in any other way.
What I like about this natural gas patio heater is the fact that the height is adjustable, making it easy to accommodate a variety of different applications.
Adjustable Height Patio Heater From VQQ
It has a heat output of 46,000 BTUs, which is perfect for larger outdoor spaces such as restaurants, cafes, and gardens.
Plus, it's not too hard to assemble (although the instructions could be a bit more clear) and comes with sturdy rolling wheels at the bottom that make it easy to move around your outdoor space.
The heater has an automatic shut-off tilt valve and safety auto shut-off when the gas runs out, making sure you stay perfectly safe while cozying up to the warmth.
HQQ Outdoor Natural Gas Patio Heater
The fourth pick on our list belongs to the hammered bronze, 46,000 BTU natural gas patio heater by HQQ.
With radiant heating coverage up to 175 square feet, this adjustable height patio heater is definitely one to consider.
One drawback to this unit seems to be how warm you actually feel while sitting next to it.
Aside from being a little tricky to assemble, you have to sit pretty close to this heater to feel its effects.
So the heat output is just.....okay.
Plus, if it's a windy day, it makes matters worse.
However, the hammered bronze looks really nice and like other patio heaters, it includes several safety features and a 12 foot long natural gas supply hose for operation.
Choosing the best natural gas patio heater can be a little difficult because there's not a lot of options to pick from.
Unlike propane patio heaters that have lots of styles and models to choose from, natural gas versions are a little harder to find.
However, natural gas is an affordable option and you never have to worry about changing out a propane tank, or ending your night early because you ran out of fuel.
So take a close look at the options listed above to choose the best natural gas patio heater for you!