Gas Patio Heaters for Longer Evenings Outdoors
A gas patio heater gives you both warmth and a real flame, so you can stay outside for longer in spring, late summer and autumn. Unlike an infrared heater, a gas patio heater creates a visible flame that becomes a natural gathering point on the patio, the decking or a restaurant terrace. Here you will find gas patio heaters in many different styles, from compact tabletop models to tall freestanding heaters and fire tables with a built-in burner. To see our full range for outdoor living, browse our outdoor fires and patio heaters.
LPG, Natural Gas or Bioethanol: Which Fuel Is Right for You?
Most of the patio heaters in this collection run on LPG from a standard gas bottle. LPG is the most flexible option, because the heater is not tied to a fixed connection and can be moved to wherever it is needed. Many models have a concealed compartment for the gas bottle, so all you see is the heater and the flame.
LPG is sold as either propane or butane. Propane works well in cold weather, which makes it the better choice for outdoor use in autumn and winter. Butane vaporises poorly at low temperatures and is better suited to milder conditions. Always check which gas type and pressure your heater is approved for, and use the matching bottle and regulator.
Some models, including several of Planika's outdoor gas fireplaces, are also available for natural gas. Natural gas requires a fixed connection, which is ideal if you want a permanent installation on your patio and would rather not change bottles. The choice between LPG and natural gas is made when you order and cannot be changed afterwards, so make sure you know which gas supply you have before you buy. A fixed natural gas installation must always be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
If you would rather avoid gas altogether, outdoor bioethanol fires are another option. They need no bottle, hose or connection, but they have their own requirements for safety distances and fuel handling. Read more in our guide to bioethanol fireplace safety distances and fire risk.
Gas Bottles, Regulators and Hoses
A gas patio heater is connected to the bottle with a regulator and a hose. The regulator reduces the pressure from the bottle to the working pressure the heater is designed for. Some models come with a hose and regulator, while others require you to buy them separately. Read the product description carefully and check that the regulator suits both the heater and your gas bottle.
The size of the bottle determines how long you can enjoy the fire. Smaller heaters and tabletop models often take a small gas bottle, while larger freestanding heaters can hold a bottle of up to 11 kg inside the base. One example is the Planika Lighthouse, which according to the manufacturer can burn for up to 55 hours on a low flame and around 17 hours on a high flame with an 11 kg bottle. Gas consumption is often around half a kilo per hour for a medium-sized heater, but it varies with the model and flame height.
Heat Output and Flame Control
Heat output is stated in kilowatts (kW) and tells you how much heat the heater gives off at full flame. A higher output gives more warmth, but also uses more gas. Most gas patio heaters have a control that lets you adjust the flame, so you can match the heat to the weather and the number of guests. More advanced models have automatic ignition, a remote control or app control, which makes it easy to light and adjust the flame without walking over to the heater.
Keep in mind that the warmth from a gas patio heater is felt most by those sitting close to the flame. In strong wind, some of the heat is quickly carried away, so a sheltered spot gives you more warmth for the same amount of gas.
Using a Gas Patio Heater Safely Outdoors
The patio heaters in this collection are designed for outdoor use and must not be used indoors. Burning gas produces combustion gases, and without a flue the air in an enclosed space can become unhealthy. These models cannot be connected to a flue system.
Gas patio heaters without a flue can be used under a partial roof and in garden rooms, provided that the open wall area is at least a quarter of the total wall area of the space. This ensures enough fresh air. Use common sense and always follow the manual for your model.
A few basic rules for safe use:
- Check the hose and connections before lighting, and replace the hose if it is cracked, stiff or damaged.
- Do a leak test with soapy water on the connections whenever you change the bottle. If bubbles form, there is a leak and the heater must not be used.
- Close the valve on the gas bottle when the heater is not in use.
- Never leave a lit heater unattended, and keep children and pets away from the flame.
- Store spare bottles outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, never in a cellar or below ground level.
Placement: Where Should Your Patio Heater Go?
Place the patio heater on a flat, stable surface so that it cannot tip over. Many freestanding models have wheels, which makes it easy to move them between the patio and the shed, or to wherever the sun set first.
Keep a good distance from combustible materials such as parasols, awnings, shrubs, cushions and fabrics. Pay particular attention to anything that can move in the wind. There must also be clear space above the flame, so do not place the heater under low branches or a low roof. Always check the manufacturer's recommended safety distances in the manual, as they vary between models.
Choose a spot sheltered from strong wind if you can. This gives a steadier flame, less risk of the flame going out and more warmth where you are sitting. If you plan to use the heater on a balcony, check what your building's management or landlord allows before using LPG.
Types of Gas Patio Heaters
Which model to choose depends on how you want to use your outdoor space:
- Freestanding gas patio heaters are tall heaters that often hide the gas bottle in the base, with the flame enclosed in a glass tube or glass box. They are well suited to warming a larger group. See our range of freestanding gas patio heaters.
- Gas fire tables combine an outdoor table with a built-in burner, so you can gather around the flame while keeping space for glasses and plates. Explore our gas fire pits and fire tables.
- Tabletop models and lanterns are small and easy to move. They use smaller gas canisters and suit compact patios and balconies.
- Gas burners for building in are for those who want to build their own garden fireplace or integrate the flame into an outdoor design.
If you want warmth without an open flame or a gas bottle, an electric heater may be a better choice. It can be mounted on a wall or ceiling and heats up instantly. See our range of electric patio heaters.
Care and Storage
Most gas patio heaters are made from materials that can be left outdoors, but they will last longer if protected when not in use. A protective cover keeps out rain, dirt and leaves, and in winter the heater is best stored somewhere dry and sheltered. Clean the glass with a mild cleaning agent once the heater has cooled completely, and check regularly that the burner is free from dirt and cobwebs. You will find protective covers, decorations and side tables that hide the gas bottle among our accessories for outdoor gas fires.
Finding the Right Gas Patio Heater
To find the right model, start with a few simple questions: How large an area do you want to heat, how many people usually sit outside together, and should the heater be easy to move or stay in a fixed spot? Do you want a decorative flame as the focal point, or mainly as much warmth as possible? If you have questions about gas type, regulators or placement, we are happy to help you find a patio heater that suits your outdoor space.
