Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet morning coffee or entertain guests, having a heater on your porch can make it a cozy spot year-round. But with so many heating options available, how do you choose the best heater for your porch?
In this article, we’ll look at the top porch heater types and what to consider before making your choice, including fuel type, efficiency, safety, and aesthetics.
Electric heaters are popular for porches due to their ease of installation, efficiency, and safety. They come in various styles, including wall-mounted, freestanding, and ceiling-mounted options, allowing for flexibility in placement.
Pros: Quick heat-up, low maintenance, safe for covered porches, and environmentally friendly.
Cons: Typically less powerful than gas heaters and rely on access to electricity.
Propane Heaters
Portable and powerful, propane heaters are often favored for outdoor spaces. These units can be positioned where you need warmth the most and don’t require a direct power source.
Pros: High heat output, portable, and doesn’t rely on an electrical connection.
Cons: Requires regular refilling of propane tanks and may produce slight fumes.
Natural Gas Heaters
Ideal for homeowners with a natural gas line, these heaters provide consistent heat without needing to refill tanks. However, they typically require professional installation.
Pros: Constant fuel supply, powerful, and cost-effective over time.
Cons: Installation may be costly, and placement is limited by gas line location.
Beellen Natural Gas Heater
Wood-Burning Heaters
For a rustic aesthetic and a more natural ambiance, wood-burning heaters are a great choice. Fire pits and wood stoves can add charm and warmth to an open-air porch.
Pros: Provides a cozy, rustic feel, and is ideal for open porches.
Cons: Requires regular wood supply and maintenance, not suitable for enclosed porches.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Porch Heater
Size of the Porch: The heater you choose should match the size of your porch for efficient heating.
Portability: If you plan to rearrange your outdoor space often, a portable option like a propane heater might be more suitable.
Safety Features: Look for safety features like automatic shut-off, especially if you have kids or pets.
Aesthetic Appeal: Many heaters come in stylish designs, so choose one that complements your outdoor decor.
Choosing the best porch heater depends on factors like porch size, location, and intended usage. Electric heaters are great for enclosed spaces, propane and natural gas heaters work well for open areas, and wood-burning options provide a rustic touch. With the right choice, you can enjoy your porch no matter the season.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use an indoor heater on my porch?
No, indoor heaters are not designed for outdoor use and may lack necessary weather-resistant features.
Q2: How much does it cost to run a propane heater on a porch?
The cost depends on the heater’s efficiency and fuel prices but generally costs between $1.50 to $2.50 per hour.
Q3: Is an electric heater safe to use on a covered porch?
Yes, electric heaters are safe for covered porches if they are rated for outdoor use.
Q4: What heater is best for an enclosed porch?
Electric heaters are ideal for enclosed porches, as they produce no fumes and are safer in closed spaces.
Q5: How much heat output is ideal for a porch?
Heaters with 1,500 to 5,000 BTUs are typically sufficient for smaller porches, while larger areas may require higher output.
Beellen More product recommendations
Portable and powerful, propane heaters are often favored for outdoor spaces. These units can be positioned where you need warmth the most and don’t require a direct power source. 
Ideal for homeowners with a natural gas line, these heaters provide consistent heat without needing to refill tanks. However, they typically require professional installation. 
