Electric vs. Propane Infrared Patio Heaters: Which Is Best?

Creating a comfortable outdoor space allows you to enjoy your patio or deck throughout the year. A quality patio heater can extend your outdoor season, providing warmth on cool evenings. When choosing an infrared patio heater, you might wonder if electric or propane is the better power source for your space.

Both electric and propane infrared heaters effectively supply warmth, but they operate differently. Evaluating each design’s convenience level, heat output, and installation method will help you select the ideal heater.

Overview of Electric Infrared Patio Heaters

Electric infrared heaters convert electricity into radiant heat. Unlike forced-air heaters that warm the air, infrared technology heats objects and people directly in its path. The process mimics the way the sun provides warmth. The result is consistent heat that isn’t affected by wind.

The heaters pass an electric current through a heating element, which then emits infrared waves. The waves travel through the air until surfaces absorb them, efficiently transferring warmth. Common applications for electric infrared heaters include residential patios, restaurant terraces, and semi-enclosed spaces where a reliable power source is available.

Advantages of Electric Infrared Heaters

Electric models have gained popularity for several reasons, offering benefits that appeal to many homeowners and business operators.

Environmental Friendliness

One of the primary advantages of electric infrared heaters is their environmental performance. Since they run on electricity, they do not produce any direct emissions or greenhouse gases during operation. This makes them a clean alternative for people who value an eco-conscious lifestyle or business operations.

Cost Efficiency

While the initial purchase price can vary, electric heaters generally have lower operational costs compared to propane models. Electricity is typically cheaper than propane on a per-BTU (British thermal unit) basis, and electric heaters are highly efficient at converting energy into heat. When you use the heater on a regular basis—whether it’s for residential or commercial purposes—there will be noticeable savings on your utility bills.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Electric infrared heaters are very convenient. They typically require a simple installation, and users can turn them on and off with the flip of a switch or a remote control.

Maintenance is also minimal. There are no fuel tanks to refill or ignition components to inspect. An occasional wipe-down to remove dust is usually all that is necessary to keep electric infrared heaters operational. This is a great features for homeowners and business owners who don’t have the time to constantly worry if the unit is in working condition.

Overview of Propane Infrared Patio Heaters

Propane infrared heaters operate by combusting propane gas to heat a ceramic or metal emitter. The emitter radiates infrared heat outward, warming the surrounding area. They function similarly to electric models in how they deliver heat but use a portable fuel source.

These heaters are well-suited for large, open outdoor areas where electrical outlets are not easily accessible. They are commonly found in commercial settings like restaurant patios and event spaces. Nevertheless, some homeowners enjoy these heaters mounted on the walls around their patio area for year-round warmth.

Advantages of Propane Infrared Heaters

Propane heaters offer their own set of benefits, particularly in terms of flexibility and heating power.

Portability and Flexibility

The most notable advantage of propane infrared heaters is their portability. Since they aren’t tethered to an electrical outlet, you can move them wherever warmth is needed. This flexibility is valuable for reconfiguring outdoor seating arrangements or for use in spaces without convenient power sources.

High Heat Output

Propane heaters provide a high heat output. For instance, Calcana’s High Output Series can deliver up to 75,000 BTUs, making them effective at heating larger, more exposed outdoor areas. This makes them a preferred choice for commercial venues that need to keep many patrons comfortable.

Independence From Electrical Outlets

The self-contained nature of propane heaters means they can operate independently of your home’s electrical system. This is a great feature for outdoor events, camping, or any situation where electricity is unavailable or unreliable. You have a dependable heat source as long as you have propane.

Comparing the Downsides of Each Heater

To make a comprehensive decision, it is important to consider the drawbacks of each type of heater.

Operational Costs and Convenience

Propane tanks need refilling and replacing from time to time, which adds to the operational cost and requires effort. Running out of propane during an event can be inconvenient.

Electric heaters eliminate this concern. As long as the system’s connected to a power source, there will be a continuous heat output.

Heating Area

Electric heaters, like the Calcana Electric Patio Heater with its 4 KW output, are excellent for targeted zones. Additionally, our gas-powered infrared heaters have high BTU ratings that cover a vast area. Whether you’re heating an outdoor patio or an event space, both heaters will bring a considerable amount of warmth to spaces.

Installation

Propane heaters offer great flexibility and portability. Users can mount the heaters on walls to keep them out of the way and optimize space. This versatility allows them to be easily repositioned to meet the owner’s needs, whether heating a particular area or relocating to a new space entirely.

Electric heaters typically require professional installation as they need hardwiring into the building’s electrical system. The process ensures efficient and safe operation. Once installed, electric heaters are generally fixed to one location. It’s always helpful to contemplate the heater’s placement in great detail before installing the unit to maximize results.

Find Your Ideal Heating Solution With Calcana

Choosing between electric and propane infrared patio heaters comes down to your priorities. If you value minimal maintenance and a constant heat supply, an electric heater is an excellent choice. If you need portability, high heat output for a large space, and independence from electrical outlets, a propane heater might be more suitable.

Both of Calanca’s high-quality infrared heaters thrive in commercial and residential spaces. From our efficient electric patio heater to our powerful high-output propane series, we provide reliable solutions for all outdoor settings. Explore our product line to find the perfect heater for extended outdoor enjoyment.