Patio heaters allow you to host outdoor gatherings while keeping your guests and customers comfortable. A few well-placed patio heaters can ward off an evening chill and extend the period of time you can use an outdoor gathering space.

Buying patio heaters is an important purchase. You want to get it right the first time. So before you look for a patio heaters directory, patio heaters list or even patio heaters information, determine your budget and ask yourself the following questions:

1. Can I afford to purchase new patio heaters?

2. Will used patio heaters be sufficient?

3. Do I only need patio heaters temporarily?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy new patio heaters

When you buy new patio heaters, you know what you are getting. The product should arrive in working condition and should last you for years to come. Be prepared to spend $400 to $1,000 on a new patio heater.

I recommend: The Patio Heater Superstore is a patio heaters provider that offers a large selection of propane and natural gas patio heaters for commercial and residential use. The company ships nationwide, offers 30-day price protection and does not charge sales tax on shipments outside of California. LA Patio sells propane and electric patio heaters in a variety of finishes. Most orders of patio heaters ship within 48 hours.

Purchase used patio heaters

If your budget does not allow you to purchase new patio heaters, you might want to consider buying used heaters. As with any purchase of used appliances, you'll want to be sure the product is safe and in good working condition before you buy it.

I recommend: Raphael's Party Rentals sells patio heaters that were once part of the rental industry. All the units are in working order, but the condition of each heater varies. Patio Zoom has a good selection of used portable and stand-alone patio heaters for sale.

Find patio heaters for rent

Depending on your needs, it may be more cost effective for you to rent patio heaters. When renting patio heaters, try to rent from a company that will provide 24-hour emergency service in case your heater goes down during the evening or on a weekend.

I recommend: Citizens Mechanical Services rents patio heaters to restaurants, hotels and country clubs. The company offers rentals for the entire spring and fall season and installs and services its products. Hacienda Rentals is Arizona's largest heating rental company. It has several styles of propane and electric patio heaters available for rent.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before purchasing used patio heaters, make sure the patio heater provider has a return policy that allows you to get your money back if you are not satisfied with your purchase.
• •  When determining the final price of your patio heater, be sure to take in to account the cost of fueling and operating your heater.