How to Choose the Right Patio Heater: Gas vs. Electric (2026 Guide)

The right patio heater can add months to your outdoor season — turning chilly evenings into the reason everyone wants to be in your backyard. But the first question trips up almost every buyer: gas or electric? This guide breaks down the real differences so you can choose with confidence.

The short answer

• Open, breezy, or large patios → lean gas. More heat, wider coverage, no outlet needed.
• Covered patios, pergolas, balconies, enclosed spaces → lean electric. Instant, silent, fume-free, easy to mount.

Gas patio heaters: maximum heat and reach

Gas heaters put out the most warmth and fight wind best, ideal for large, open areas. They run on propane or natural gas, so no outlet is required. The trade-off: they need open airflow (not for enclosed rooms) and you manage fuel. Running a hospitality space? See commercial & restaurant patio heating.

Electric patio heaters: instant, clean, built-in friendly

Electric heaters deliver warmth the instant you flip the switch — no warm-up, no fumes — perfect for covered patios and pergolas. Sleek models mount on a wall or ceiling. A great example is the Bromic Platinum Smart-Heat (electric), or the versatile Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat. No gas line? Browse electric heaters that need no gas line.

How to size your heater

A small two-person nook needs a compact unit; a medium covered patio wants a higher-wattage electric or mid-size gas heater; a large open patio calls for a powerful gas heater or several zoned electric units. When in doubt, size up — under-powering is the most common regret.

Placement & safety basics

• Mount overhead electric heaters ~8 ft high, angled toward seating.
• Follow the manufacturer's minimum clearances.
• Enclosed space = electric only. Never run a combustion heater in a sealed room.
• Confirm the unit is rated for outdoor/exposed use if not fully covered.

So which should you buy?

Covered or open (covered → electric, open → gas)? Outlet nearby (no → gas, yes → electric)? Want it to disappear or make a statement (recessed → electric, freestanding → gas)?

Still not sure? We will help you pick.

The Back Home team will match the right heater to your exact space — no cost, no pressure. Shop Bromic patio heaters and message us your patio details for a personal recommendation.