What Is The Best Way To Heat An Outdoor Space?

Summer may be the best time to enjoy the outdoors, but just because the cool breezes of autumn start sweeping in doesn't mean you have to stop doing so and just spend the rest of the year snuggled up inside your home.

As long as you keep your outdoor spaces warm, you can still have a spontaneous get-together with friends or family on your patio, or spend quality time alone on your deck with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa while enjoying the golden sunset.

We've come up with the best ways to keep your patio, deck, front yard, or backyard toasty so you can enjoy your outdoor space and spend more time outside during the cooler months.

Fire pits

Fire pits are multifunctional centerpieces that are used to heat outdoor spaces such as your garden or patio. They instantly create warmth and ambiance in the comfort of your backyard, making it ideal for gatherings and romantic date nights.

Outdoor fire pits come in a variety of styles, including wood-burning fire pits, propane fire pits, and natural gas fire pits. They can be built-in or mobile. They are also available in a variety of shapes and sizes – table firepits, fire bowls, and solo stoves – the possibilities are endless.

Round fire pits have a softer, more organic shape and are reminiscent of the classic round campfire. Since they resemble a campfire, you will surely have a great time hurdling around the fire, telling stories, and toasting marshmallows or sipping hot chocolate with your family and friends.

Outdoor fire pit

Linear fire pits are long and narrow which can be used as a divider or act as a focal point. They fit better with modern and sophisticated backyard designs.

Linear fire pit

Outdoor Fireplaces

An outdoor fireplace is a terrific way to bring not just warmth but also atmosphere to your outdoor space. They don’t necessarily require a chimney and can be placed in other areas of your home such as your deck, outdoor kitchen or patio bench seating.

Outdoor fireplace

The types of outdoor fireplaces: Electric fireplace, gas fireplace, and wood-burning fireplace – come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your space. They are often built of stone, brick, concrete, slate, stainless steel, tile, and stucco to match the color and materials of your backyard or patio.

They vary from the most basic DIY fireplace kit to the most luxurious structure with extra functionalities such as grills, refrigerators, and even sinks. Outdoor fireplaces are permanent, freestanding structures so if you plan on installing one for your outdoor space, you’ll need to make a huge decision that requires careful planning and financial preparation.

Outdoor Heaters

Outdoor heaters, also known as patio heaters, are by far the best option for outdoor heating because of their versatility. They are used to heat the outside areas of your home, as well as commercial spaces. They are also a lot safer than using an open fire and you can control or adjust the temperature (on some models). Outdoor heaters vary in different styles such as wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, freestanding, and tabletop.

There are 3 types of outdoor or patio heaters, however, they differ in terms of the power supply needed to operate them.

Natural gas patio heaters – offer adequate warmth in well-ventilated outdoor spaces. They are more likely to be deemed permanent fixtures because they connect to a natural gas line. This is the best option if you already have an existing natural gas line.

A natural gas heater has a lower operating cost than other outdoor heaters since natural gas is typically a less expensive power source.

Propane patio heaters – can warm up spaces swiftly by simply connecting them to a propane tank. These outdoor heaters are easy to operate and provides direct heat in a matter of seconds.

This type of heater is often portable and generally comes with wheels, making it easy to set up and maneuver. They take up minimal space and require no electricity because they are simply powered by propane.

Electric patio heaters – are typically infrared, they radiate heat when powered by electricity, which is excellent for keeping your outdoor areas warm during the autumn/winter months. They often have power cords so you must have at least one outdoor electrical outlet.

Electric outdoor heaters are a great alternative for outdoor spaces that lack the adequate ventilation required for natural gas or propane heaters.

Outdoor Kitchen

Keep the fires going in your outdoor kitchen even when summer is over by adding some outdoor cooking appliances that help in warming up the area.

Outdoor grilling is not just a summer activity. If you enjoy grilling, you probably do it regardless of the season. Outdoor grills can be a great addition to your outdoor kitchen, as long as the grates are cast-iron or stainless steel. Food tastes so much better when it's cooked on the grill, and you deserve a tasty grilled meal for your winter dinner.

A brick pizza oven is another option. You can use it to make delicious roasts, stews, pies, and bread in addition to pizza. You and your friends would also love spending long hours on your deck or patio, sipping wine, and gathering around the oven that also serves as a fireplace.

Make your space warm and cozy

To top it all off, create a nice, inviting atmosphere in your outdoor space by throwing in warm blankets and cozy cushions for added warmth and comfort. The warm fabric placed on benches and chairs will shield your body from coming into contact with cold surfaces. Plus, if your home appears to be cozy, it will feel cozy.

portable propane gas outdoor heater

It's all a matter of personal preference. We hope that this article has enlightened you to decide on the best way to heat an outdoor space. No matter what type of heater you choose, you will be pleased with the transformation, comfort, and warmth it provides.

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