Which Heater Should I Get for My Pergola? A Guide to the Best Options

Which Heater Should I Get for My Pergola? A Guide to the Best Options

Introduction

Pergolas are perfect for unwinding and catching up with family and friends, but they can be chilly, especially during the cooler months. So when it comes to extending the use of your outdoor space, a pergola heater is an excellent solution.

When considering the best heater options for an outdoor pergola, several factors should be considered: heat transfer type, functionality, safety, energy source, and cost.

In this article, we'll guide you through the process of choosing the right patio heater for your pergola and provide you with information on the different types of heaters available. We'll give a breakdown of the top options, the pros and cons of each, and what might work best for your space.

Understanding Heat Transfer: What Works Best Outdoors?

There are three primary ways that heat transfers: conduction, convection, and radiation.

Conduction heating doesn't work well for outdoors, because it requires direct contact physical with the heater, so it doesn't really work for heating open spaces.

Convection is the more common type of heating. This is heat travelling through the air. This is the type of heat you get from a campfire or a space heater.

For outdoor heating, radiation (or infrared heating) is ideal because it warms objects and people directly, rather than heating the air. This is particularly important outdoors, where wind can easily carry heat away if it’s not directed effectively.

Choosing the Best Heater for Your Pergola Space

There are three main types of heaters we'll be going over in this article: Electric, Propane/Gas, and Open Flame.

Electric Patio and Pergola Heaters are great if you’re looking for a clean, easy-to-use option with minimal setup; but, they are typically more expensive to run. Electric heater can also be infrared, which are more likely to effectively heat an outdoor space.

Propane Heaters are cheap and simple, but require regular refueling.

Fire Pits and Open Flame Heaters are great for ambiance and high heat output. They are perfect for those who enjoy a traditional feel, but they do require maintenance, attention, and a larger open space for safe use. Small firepits require less space, but won't put off very much heat.

Electric Patio Heaters

Electric patio heaters offer several benefits compared to propane and natural gas alternatives, such as cleaner operation, easier installation, and energy efficiency. Additionally, the convenience of using a remote control for managing heating systems is very sought after, allowing for easy temperature adjustments and sometimes even Wi-Fi integration for smartphone operation.

For these reasons, electric heaters are a very popular choice for pergolas. They use convection or infrared heat to warm objects and surfaces directly, providing effective and immediate warmth. These heaters are available in various styles, including wall-mounted and freestanding options, making them versatile for different setups. You can even get in an electric pergola heater specifically designed to mount to outdoor structures.

Propane Heaters

Propane heaters are another popular choice for pergolas and outdoor spaces. They are very portable and can have a powerful output, making them an excellent choice to provide efficient heat for a covered patio.

Available in various styles, including tabletop and freestanding options, propane heaters use propane tanks to fuel the heater, making them ideal for areas with limited access to electricity.

Fire Pits and Open Flames

Fire pits and open flames provide a toasty ambience that's hard to match with any other type of heater. They are difficult to control in small space however, so they are not ideal for enclosed or small covered patios.

Outdoor Heater Safety Tips

Heat can be a dangerous thing if not properly respected. Here are few tips to make sure you stay safe while extending the use of your patio space:

• Proper Installation: It's a good idea to hire professionals for any permanent installation, especially when you're dealing with gas lines or complex electrical work.

• Tip-Over Switches: Make sure any freestanding heaters have tip-over switches, which will shut them off automatically if they’re knocked over.

• Ventilation: Any heater that involves gas, propane, and/or an open flame needs to have plenty of ventilation. Never use these in fully enclosed spaces.

Choosing the Right Electric Patio Heaters for Your Pergola

Consider the Size of Your Pergola, Heat Output, and the Number of Heaters Needed

The size of your pergola and the number of heaters needed will depend on the size of the space and the desired level of heat. A single patio heater can be sufficient for a small pergola or a simple layout. However, for larger pergolas or more complex layouts, two or more patio heaters may be needed to ensure adequate heat coverage. Infrared heat is felt when directly under the heater, so it’s essential to consider the placement of the heater to ensure maximum coverage.

By understanding each outdoor heater type’s pros, cons, and safety requirements, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best heating option for your pergola space, keeping it warm and enjoyable year-round.

Choosing the right heater for your pergola can be daunting, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. Proper mounting techniques and safety precautions are crucial when using wall brackets for patio heaters to ensure secure and adjustable positioning for optimal heat distribution. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a heater for your pergola.