As the winter months approach, you, like many homeowners, are probably looking for ways to stay comfortable outdoors as the temperature drops.One solution: outdoor heaters.These handy appliances are finding their way onto restaurant patios and backyard decks everywhere.

A sight once reserved for ski lodges, a patio heater can be a great way to get even more use out of your favorite outdoor spaces.Here’s what you need to know before you buy a patio heater.How Does a Patio Heater Work? Unlike an outdoor fire pit, you don’t have to huddle around a patio heater to get warm.

They’re specifically designed to radiate heat outward where people are gathered.To generate heat, Patio heaters have different fuel sources – usually propane, electric or natural gas.(Keep reading to find out how to choose which one is right for you.) Where Can I Use a Patio Heater? Because natural gas and propane heaters use an open flame to generate heat, they can be used in well-ventilated outdoor spaces like patios, terraces, gardens, and outdoor porches or decks.

For safety, don’t use a patio heater in an enclosed area like a building or garage, or too close to the ceiling of a covered deck or patio.Using your patio heater in a poorly ventilated area could be a fire risk, or lead to suffocation or poisoning from toxic carbon monoxide fumes.Experts recommend keeping at least a three-foot clearance around your heater, unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer.

How Much Does a Patio Heater Cost? Like other household appliances, the price you’ll pay for an outdoor patio heater will vary depending on its size and quality.A small electric tabletop heater can be purchased for as low as $100, while large commercial-style gas heaters can cost $500 or more.What Size Patio Heater Do I Need? The heat output of a patio heater is measured in “British Thermal Units,” or BTUs.

The technical definition of a BTU is this: the amount of energy that’s required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.Confused? In common terms, a BTU is just a uniform way to measure heat output.More BTUs = more heat.

It really is that simple.And every patio heater on the market will have a BTU rating that’s supplied by the manufacturer.To calculate the right size heater for your space, try this quick math formula: Just multiply the size of your space (in cubic feet) by the desired temperature increase.

For example, raising the temperature of a 10-by-10 foot patio by 40 degrees Fahrenheit – assuming an 8 foot heater height – would require a 32,000 BTU heater (10x10x8x40=32,000).Hint: if you’re not great at math, a square footage range is often provided by the heater’s manufacturer.What Type of Patio Heater Should I Buy? When it comes to purchasing an outdoor patio heater, you’ll choose from three main fuel sources.

There’s no right or wrong choice, and each fuel source has its pros and cons.Here’s some information to help you choose a patio heater for your home.Are Patio Heaters Safe? When used correctly, patio heaters offer a safe way to heat your favorite outdoor spaces.

But like any home heating source, they can be dangerous if not used correctly.Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and never leave a patio heater unattended.Here are some tips to ensure your patio heater is being used safely: Be Ready in Any Weather Just like the weather, life is rarely predictable.

For whatever’s in store, we’re with you on the journey.We’re flexible when circumstances change, steady when the unexpected happens, capable when help is needed and optimistic about what the future holds.To learn how we can help protect your home with the right homeowners insurance, contact us today.

ERIE insurance products and services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York).  The companies within the Erie Insurance Group are not licensed to operate in all states.Refer to the company licensure and states of operation information.The insurance products and rates, if applicable, described in this blog are in effect as of July 2022 and may be changed at any time.  Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog.

The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions.  The insurance products and services described in this blog are not offered in all states.  ERIE life insurance and annuity products are not available in New York.  ERIE Medicare supplement products are not available in the District of Columbia or New York.  ERIE long term care products are not available in the District of Columbia and New York.  Eligibility will be determined at the time of application based upon applicable underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.A better insurance experience starts with ERIE.

Haven’t heard of us? Erie Insurance started with humble beginnings in 1925 with a mission to emphasize customer service above all else.Though we’ve grown to reach the Fortune 500 list, we still haven’t lost the human touch.Contact Drake Insurance today to experience the ERIE difference for yourself.