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Patio Heater Cost of Operation

Patio Heater Propane Patio Heaters Natural Gas Patio Heaters Electric Patio Heaters

Propane vs. Natural Gas vs. Electric Patio Heaters

Below is a comparison of heating the same approximate area with patio heaters outputting compatible BTU's (measurement of heat) for Propane Patio Heaters, Natural Gas Patio Heaters and Electric Patio Heaters. For these examples, 40,000 BTU's will be used for heat output (the most common for residential use).

The following should only be used as a guideline based on averages and costs may vary within your area.

Natural Gas Patio Heaters

Natural Gas allows for a constant supply and has the least cost of operation. Natural Gas Patio Heaters may be less mobile due to the requirement for a plumbed natural gas connection. In some cases, installation may require a contractor or qualified service technician.
Natural Gas Patio Heaters
  • 40,000 BTU Natural Gas Patio Heater will heat up to a 20' diameter (314 sqft.)
  • Constant Gas Supply, use when desired, no up front fuel costs
  • Average Cost of Natural Gas Usage per Hour = $.476

Natural Gas has the lowest cost of operation and outputs the least amount of carbon emissions. Natural Gas may not be available in all areas and may require a service technician for installation and plumbing to desired locations.

Propane Patio Heaters

Propane Gas is available in most areas, mobile and does not require the need for special plumbing. Test Use = Standard 5 Gal (4.8 gal fill), 20 LB Cylinder. These are the most common patio heaters for residential and mild commercial use.
Propane Patio Heaters
  • 40,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater will heat up to a 20' diameter (314 sqft.)
  • Average Cost of filling Propane Cylinder (5 gal) = $16.00
  • Average usage from (1) Propane Cylinder (5 gal) = 10 hours
  • Average Cost of Propane Usage per Hour = $1.60

Propane Gas has a greater fuel cost of operation than than Natural Gas and Electricity, but does not require special plumbing, wiring or related technical service charges.

Electric Patio Heaters

Electric Patio Heaters utilize a radiant heat element (no open flames) making them a perfect choice when considering clearance to combustibles and zero carbon emissions, for both indoors and outdoors. Electricity is readily available, yet may require a qualified service technician for installation. Also, (3) 4000 Watt units are required to obtain the same 40,000 BTU measurement and heat distribution.
Electric Patio Heaters
  • Requires (3) 4000 Watt (4KWh) for 40,000 BTU's (300 sqft.)
  • Directional Spot Heat so heat is not lost to undesired areas
  • Constant Electrical Supply, use when desired, no up front fuel costs
  • Average Cost of Electrical Usage Per Hour = $1.316

Electric Patio Heaters are environmentally friendly, producing no emissions. Many cities and municipalities only allow the use of Electric Patio Heaters. To obtain the 40,000 results, a 240 Volt electrical conduit must be connected to the heaters.

When considering your purchase of a patio heater, it is important to not only evaluate the cost of operation, but cost of the product, cost of installation and associated technical service fees.

Information referenced from: the Energy Information Administration - Official Energy Statistics from the US Government.

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