Outdoor Patio Heaters for Restaurants: A Buying Guide
Outdoor patio heaters extend usable dining season and hours, letting restaurants keep patio seating profitable into cooler months. Choosing between propane, natural gas, and electric heaters depends on your patio’s utility hookups and how much heat coverage you need.
Propane vs. Natural Gas Heaters
Freestanding propane heaters offer flexibility since they don’t require a gas line and can be repositioned as needed, while natural gas heaters cost less to run over time but require a dedicated gas line installation.
Coverage Area and Heat Output
Heaters are rated in BTUs, and matching output to your patio’s square footage and typical outdoor temperatures prevents both under-heating on cold nights and wasted fuel on milder ones.
- Estimate patio square footage before choosing heater BTU output
- Check local fire code for required clearances around heaters
- Consider mounted or tabletop heaters for smaller patios
- Factor in fuel costs (propane refills vs. gas line) for ongoing budget
Patio Heater Types
| Type | Fuel Source | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Freestanding propane | Propane tank | Flexible placement, no gas line needed |
| Natural gas post | Gas line | Permanent installations, lower running cost |
| Electric infrared | Electricity | Covered patios, quick installs |
| Tabletop heater | Propane or electric | Small patios, individual tables |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much space does one patio heater typically cover?
Coverage varies by BTU output and heater type, but a standard freestanding propane heater generally warms a radius of roughly 10-15 feet under normal outdoor conditions.
Are propane or electric heaters cheaper to run?
Running costs depend on local utility and propane prices, but electric heaters are often more predictable in cost while propane offers more portability and doesn’t rely on outdoor electrical outlets.
What clearance is required around a patio heater?
Clearance requirements vary by heater type and local fire code — check manufacturer specifications and confirm with your local fire marshal before final placement.
Do patio heaters need to be covered or stored in bad weather?
Most outdoor heaters are weather-resistant, but manufacturers generally recommend covering them during heavy rain or storing them during off-season to extend their lifespan.