A tall patio heater is a great addition to any home. But if you live in an apartment or condo, there are limitations on what you can add to your patio that would be acceptable. Even if your house has an outdated heating system, adding a portable heater could make the difference between feeling comfortable and feeling like you need to curl up in the fetal position.
There are many different materials that make up a patio heater. The heater most often is gas, though propane, oil, and wood are also available. What they have in common is that they are all extremely effective, however they all have drawbacks as well. Gas makes for a cheap heating source, but it can be hard to move around a small unit and it has a relatively short range.
Propane units may seem to be easier to transport, but when placed near the house, you may find it difficult to get them down into the attic for use. As you know, having enough fuel for a camping trip or a night out of the house can prove challenging to most people. Propane units also require more maintenance than the other options.
Wood burning models are definitely one of the more popular options. They are easy to set up and move around. However, they do require a little bit of maintenance in order to keep them burning properly. You can hire a landscaper to come out once a year to clean out the ashes and to refill the wood, or you can do it yourself.
If you prefer an easy alternative to propane and wood, then you may want to consider an oil burner. These uses no fuel at all and they run off natural gas. They are not only very efficient, but they are also environmentally friendly. However, they do not provide any heat in their own right.
You can still find outdoor air conditioners that work as patio heaters. You will have to have them hooked up to the main house power supply, but they are often hooked directly to your outdoor bathroom exhaust. If you have a decent sized outdoor bathroom, this can be a great option. Of course, if you do not have a bathroom in your outdoor space, the portable option may be your best bet.
When choosing a patio heater, you may find it hard to choose between these three options. Gas and wood are both effective options, but they are not exactly the cheapest to operate. If you do not mind paying a little more, you may enjoy the warmth that wood and propane can provide. And if you are able to afford a propane unit, it is nice to know that you can purchase it anywhere.
Instead of trying to find a warm place where you can curl up on a rainy day, why not find a place where you can turn on the actual heat source that you need to feel comfy. Whether you are looking for a tall patio heater, a wood burner, or an oil heater, your choices are out there.