If you love entertaining or simply spending time on your patio, a patio heater would be ideal for those chilly nights. A patio heater will keep you warm and cozy even when the temperature starts to drop, thus enabling you to extend your outdoor time. There are many types of patio heaters today, and one of the most popular is a patio heater on wheels.
A patio heater on wheels is a floor-standing heater that has wheels affixed to the bottom. The wheels help to move the heater quickly instead of lifting it or dragging it on the floor. The heater uses fuel to keep the patio warm; electricity and propane are the primary fuels that this heater uses.
In this article, I’ll tell you more about patio heaters on wheels and describe their main characteristics. I’ll also explain why you should go for a patio heater on wheels, what to consider when choosing a patio heater on wheels, and safety and care tips for a patio heater on wheels. Here we go.
About Patio Heaters on Wheels
A patio heater on wheels is a floor-standing heater that comes in different sizes and designs. Some popular styles of patio heaters on wheels include umbrella and pyramid-shaped heaters. A floor-standing patio heater stands on the floor of your patio as it has a stable base that allows it to stand on its own.
A patio heater on wheels has a set of smooth-rolling wheels attached to the bottom. When you buy the patio heater, the wheels are not already attached to the unit; you must assemble them together with the patio heater. When you buy a patio heater on wheels, you’ll find the following in the package:
- Different parts of the floor-standing patio heater (you have to assemble the patio heater).
- A set of patio heater wheels.
- A sturdy wheel mounting bracket.
- A wheel-assembly kit that includes screws, nuts, and bolts.
- Instructions manual.
Characteristics of Patio Heater Wheels
The wheels of the floor-standing patio heater are universal wheels that can fit in different sizes and designs of floor-standing patio heaters. The wheels are easy to install as they come with a wheel-assembly kit and instructions. Other characteristics of the patio heater wheels are:
- They are smooth-rolling wheels that make moving the patio heater easy.
- They are made of high-quality and durable materials to ensure the safety of your patio heater.
- The wheels are compatible with many floor-standing patio heater brands.
- They are easy to remove and replace when they wear out.
- The wheels are easy to maintain.
Why You Should Go for a Patio Heater on Wheels
As mentioned earlier, there are many types of patio heaters on the market. For instance, there are wall-mounted, tabletop, hanging, and floor-standing patio heaters. When choosing a patio heater, it’s best to go for a patio heater with wheels for the following reasons:
- A patio heater on wheels is portable. Occasionally, you may want to move the heater from one part of the patio to another. The wheels at the bottom of a patio heater roll smoothly, making it easy to move around when the need arises. Also, the wheels enable you to avoid that soul-wrenching sound metal makes as it grinds against the floor of a patio.
- A patio heater on wheels protects the floor. Materials such as tiles, bricks, aluminum, and others pave patios in homes. Dragging a heavy heater on your patio floor could damage the floor in the long run. The wheels on a patio heater protect your precious floor from damage as you move the heater from one place to the other.
What To Consider When Choosing a Patio Heater on Wheels
Patio heaters on wheels come in different shapes, sizes, and designs. You’ll be spoiled for choice when shopping for one, and if you are not careful, you may end up with a heater that doesn’t meet your needs. Below is what to consider when choosing a patio heater on wheels.
Consider the Fuel Source of the Patio Heater on Wheels
The fuel source of the patio heater on wheels determines the type of heat the heater will produce. The fuel source also determines the patio heater’s energy efficiency, operating costs, and installation logistics. So, when shopping for a patio heater on wheels, it’s essential to consider the fuel source.
Below are some great patio heaters on wheels based on fuel sources:
Propane Gas Patio Heater on Wheels
Propane gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a gas that is compressed and packaged in liquid form. It is an odorless, colorless, and nontoxic gas that you can use in your patio heater on wheels. One of the great propane patio heaters on wheels is Planika Propane Fireplace Patio Heater (available on Amazon.com). Its sleek design will keep you warm while adding a chic element to your outdoor patio.
Here’s why a propane patio heater on wheels is worth considering:
- Reliability. Propane is readily available. You can rest assured that your propane patio heater on wheels will not run out of fuel so long as you have the money to refill.
- Affordability. Propane’s price competes well with other sources of fuel.
- Easy to install. The propane tank is easy to connect to your patio heater, so you won’t have to incur installation costs.
- Energy efficient. A propane patio heater can heat up quickly. Once you turn it on, it makes your patio warm within a few minutes. This can reduce the total time you have to keep your tank on, making it more energy efficient than alternatives.
Electric Patio Heater on Wheels
As the name suggests, an electric patio heater on wheels uses electricity to generate heat. Such patio heaters have an infrared bulb, lamp, or heating element that heats the object (including humans) without heating the air. You thus feel warm as you absorb the patio heater’s electromagnetic waves.
As the objects near the heater (including you) absorb the heat, the heat is released into the air gradually. Therefore, the air on your patio also becomes warm. For instance, Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater (available on Amazon.com) is a great electric patio heater on wheels; it has caster wheels.
Here are some reasons you should consider purchasing an infrared patio heater on wheels:
- Infrared heating is safe. The infrared heating in patio heaters has no emissions, radiation, or bright light. The infrared patio heater is therefore safe to use, especially if you have small children.
- Easy to use. An infrared patio heater on wheels is easy to use. You position it near a power outlet, plug it in, and switch it on.
- Reliability. Electricity is a renewable energy source, and it thus makes your patio heater on wheel reliable. The heater will warm you so long as there is power.
- Multiple settings. An infrared patio heater has multiple settings enabling you to reduce or increase the heat as you wish.
- Fuel efficient. An infrared patio heater has an intense heat output that doesn’t heat the air but the object. It’s, therefore, a fuel-efficient heater when you place it near people.
Consider the Power Output of a Patio Heater on Wheels
When comparing patio heaters on wheels, it’s best to look at their British Thermal Unit (BTU). BTU is a standard unit for measuring heat. In a patio heater, it refers to the amount of heat the device can produce per hour. If a patio heater on wheels has high BTUs, it’ll generate more heat per hour and vice versa.
When considering the BTUs of the heater, it’s good to look at the area of your patio. If your patio is large, go for a patio heater with a high BTU. If the patio is small, go for a heater with lower BTUs. In other words, balance space and power output to choose the best patio heater on wheels for your needs.
Here’s why you should consider the power output of a patio heater on wheels:
- Suppose you choose a patio heater on wheels with lower BTUs than the size of your patio. In that case, the heater will not heat the patio effectively.
- If the heater has more BTUs than the size of your patio, it will overheat the room, making it stuffy or drafty.
- You could also spend more on fuel if you choose the wrong BTUs for your patio heater.
Patio heaters on wheels manufacturers usually indicate the BTUs on their heaters and the diameter heat range of the heaters. For instance, Enjoysun Propane Patio Heater (available on Amazon.com), has a heat output of 48000 BTUs per hour, and it can radiate the heat to an area of about 16 sq. ft (1.49 sq.m).
Consider the Material Used To Make the Patio Heater on Wheels
Patio heater manufacturers use different materials to assemble their heaters. Some of the materials they use include all-weather wicker, aluminum, stainless steel, and steel. The quality of these materials differs, so it’s best to consider the patio heater’s material before buying.
Below are some of the best patio heaters on wheels based on the construction materials:
- Stainless steel patio heater on wheels. Stainless steel is popular among manufacturers of high-end patio heaters because it has anti-rusting properties. Since a patio heater on wheels spends a lot of time outdoors, stainless steel is an excellent material. Stainless steel patio heaters on wheels such as Amazon Basics Outdoor Patio Heater (available on Amazon.com) are resistant to corrosion.
- Cast aluminum patio heater on wheels. Cast aluminum patio heaters are also a great choice as this material produces ornate designs unique to patio heaters made with other materials. Cast aluminum is also highly rust resistant making it suitable for patio heaters. Also, this material produces sturdier patio heaters than other materials.
- Powder-coated steel patio heater on wheels. Powder-coated steel patio heaters on wheels are popular among consumers because of their attractive finishes. The powder-coated steel provides different colors of finishes to suit your patio furniture colors. The powder-coated steel prevents rusting, thus making these patio heaters durable.
Patio Heater on Wheels Safety Tips
A patio heater on wheels is safe, but like any other device, it can cause some safety issues if you don’t use it correctly. These units usually come with a manufacturer’s guide, which you should read and follow carefully. Doing so will keep you, your loved ones, and your guests safe.
Here are some safety tips for using your patio heater on wheels:
- Put the propane patio heater in an open area to keep the air fresh and clean.
- Keep the heater away from ceilings, walls, or flammable material to prevent fire hazards. Place the heater on a flat surface to prevent it from rolling and tipping, causing burns or fire hazards.
- Keep the heater away from the direct wind to prevent it from tipping over; you could also secure its stem to an immobile object.
- Always keep a multipurpose fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire accident.
- Check for leaks on your propane patio heater regularly to prevent fire hazards.
Patio Heater on Wheels Care Tips
Your patio heater on wheels is a valuable device, so it’s best to take good care of it. Taking care of your patio heater will ensure it’s safe and secure. Taking care of the heater will also give it a long life, thus giving you value for your money.
Here are some patio heater on wheels care tips:
- Store the patio heater indoors in a dry place when not in use to prevent rust and other damage by the elements.
- Replace the patio heater’s wheels when they wear out to prevent accidents as you transport the heater. You could buy a Birheatry Patio Heater Wheel Kit (available on Amazon.com).
- Keep your patio heater covered when not in use to keep off dust, moisture, debris, and bugs; you can use Hualedi Patio Heater Cover (available on Amazon.com).
- Clean your patio heater regularly to keep it looking its best.
- Replace broken or worn out parts to enable the patio heater to perform optimally. Some features like the emitters, reflectors, and pilot light can become worn out or broken.
Key Takeaways
A patio heater on wheels is a great accessory. It produces heat and a glow, giving your patio a warm ambiance. It can keep your patio toasty warm and cozy even on chilly nights, allowing you to sit and enjoy your outdoor space with family and friends.
Having a patio heater on wheels will allow you to move it around effortlessly. In addition, you can replace the wheels when they wear out. If you choose the right patio heater, follow the manual, and take care of your heater, it will give you your money’s worth.
