Outdoor living areas frequently include decks. Although it might get cold at night, they give off a cozy and welcoming vibe.
Would you like to spend the winter months on your deck? Many people recommend using a heater for this space.
However, can patio heaters go on decking? This article will give you the answer and considerations while using this device for your backyard!
Table of Contents
Can Patio Heaters Go On Decking?
The good news is yes! You can use a patio heater on the decking if this device is built for outdoor usage and passes all safety tests.
If you plan to install one for this area, let’s consider the following handling measures for various patio heater types on any decking.
Safe And Secure Placement
Avoid placing any flammable or combustible materials near patio heaters.
All manufacturers create these devices intending to radiate heat onto any nearby people, animals, or objects.
So, putting an outdoor heater next to flammable material poses a fire risk.
Additionally, it is harmful to have it close to the grass, outdoor textiles, or potted plants. Avoid combustible items as well, such as propane tanks.
Remember to check the user’s handbook to learn about other capabilities that can control the temperature in various placement regions.
Power And Fuel Safety
Patio heaters include three primary energy sources: electricity, natural gas, and propane.
Ensure all wires have insulators to avoid electric shocks and tape any unprotected cords.
If you use a gas heater, ensure the propane container is set back from the heater at a reasonable distance.
It’s best to get an expert to connect your natural gas heater to a gas pipeline if you plan to use one.
Stabilize And Secure The Heater
Position the heater far away from busy places where people constantly move around. The surface on the decking should also be level.
Besides, using water bags or sandbags to weigh down your heater is a good idea, making it more stable on the decking.
Weatherproof The Heater
A heater’s worst opponent is the wind, especially if it is a dome-shade patio heater that may capture the wind.
You can utilize anti-tilt tools and anchoring weights to secure this device against the wind.
Good Ventilation
Heaters for patios are designed to be utilized in open spaces with good airflow as they may generate dangerous carbon monoxide.
Therefore, use heaters in areas with some openness. Stay away from locations with obstacles like water tanks and towering structures.
Light The Patio Heater Safely
Most patio heaters include an electric igniter mechanism, but older types and some older variants require manual igniting.
If you have to ignite the device manually, it’s best to use a grill lighter or a candle to ensure a safe distance.
If this device doesn’t light up, you should shut off the gas valve and wait approximately five minutes. After that, it will work again.
Always Keep A Fire Extinguisher Nearby.
Even when you obey all safety precautions, accidents may still occur. Thus, always keep a fire extinguisher near your backyard.
Ensure you get the appropriate extinguisher based on the heater’s power source.
What Patio Heater Can Go On Decking?
Before choosing the right heater for your decking, you should know about various types. Let’s keep reading!
Types Of Patio Heaters
Patio heaters may come in various types, depending on the fueled way.
While they are suitable for outdoor usage, they have pros and cons when going on decking.
1. Natural Gas Heater
This type can be a suitable choice for those who use natural gas connections coming into their homes.
These heaters are an environmentally friendly option. Moreover, they will never require refilling.
These are excellent fallback options for inclement weather since they will function even when the electricity goes out.
Natural gas-powered devices are frequently fixed, which limits their adaptability.
2. Propane Patio Heater
These devices are relatively practical since they are additionally available in a mobile version.
Therefore, you can place it anywhere you want. They are an excellent option for decking as long as you follow all safety precautions.
However, one drawback of a propane heater is that you need to refill the gas cylinder regularly.
3. Electric Patio Heater
Electrical heaters for patios are popular since they are relatively versatile, highly functional, and safe.
They are movable and may be utilized outside on the decking and in more confined settings such as a barn. They get warm quite rapidly.
Nevertheless, placing these devices near power outlets would be best. It is the biggest problem with this option.
Moreover, these heaters come at affordable prices. However, you may need more than one device to keep all members warm when you have an extended family.
The Ideal Type For Your Decking
The suitable device depends on the design of your decking and the plan you want to use.
You must consider the deck structure, size, style, and traffic frequency of people in this area.
For instance, wood decking will require special attention due to its propensity to catch fire.
For this decking type, it’s better to place an electrical heater to keep the atmosphere warm.
If you want to use other versions, such as propane or natural gas, ensure you manage and handle them properly and carefully.
Decks composed of diverse materials, such as stone, concrete, and brick, are suitable for using patio heaters.
The size of your deck itself should be your primary concern. You might need more than one heater to keep your visitors warm because they heat the surrounding areas.
Additionally, the device you require depends on the activities you have planned for your visitors.
Fixed heaters are fantastic options if you intend to utilize natural gas because they are often attached to walls or ceilings.
If your visitors plan to sit to have dinner, tabletop heaters will be the best choice as they are more compact, and you can put one on the table.
They also generate a substantial amount of warmth to keep everyone at the table cozy.
You must consider the design in addition to the heaters’ dimensions, as these devices have various stunning versions.
The styles available for them are hammered bronze, black matte, or stainless steel.
They also appear in various forms, from more contemporary to antique. Select a design that complements your patio so that everything blends together.
What To Consider When Using Patio Heaters On Decking?
If you have never used patio heaters before, let’s look through all the considerations below for the best safety!
Follow Recommended Instructions
While these devices might not all operate the same, they all will include a book of operating instructions.
Follow the guidelines to avoid unwanted occurrences since a small mistake can cause harm to people nearby and cause the device to break down.
Never Place Patio Heaters Inside
Since most patio heaters run on gas, utilizing them indoors poses a significant safety risk.
The gas is highly poisonous and can cause several health issues, such as confusion, headaches, or respiratory problems.
To allow the gas to evaporate, you should only place the device in areas entirely open to the outside.
Use Good Gas Tanks
You shouldn’t utilize your fuel tanks if they have rusted or holed areas. Gas leaks cause both fire and health risks.
Before using the tank, check for any corrosion. If you smell gas, notify the fire department immediately.
It’s advisable to choose a location far from ensuring it is level and robust so that you store your containers safely when you don’t use them.
If you want, you can leave these tanks exposed all year long. Yet, in the warmer months, you should move them into a shaded spot away from the sunlight.
Keep The Heater From Flammables
It would be best never to place your patio heater next to or surround anything easily combustible.
It’s best to keep flammable materials such as rugs, chairs, or pillows far from your heater.
The radiating heat may lead to combustion if you don’t follow a safe distance of around three feet.
Keep The Patio Heater Dry
If you notice the weather will be bad that day, you should bring the heater inside.
Some types may be water resistant, but if they are constantly in contact with bad weather conditions, they will eventually get damaged.
When inclement weather strikes, keep the device in a clean, dry, and enclosed space to avoid potential long-term harm.
Final Thoughts
Can patio heaters go on decking? You can place these devices in your backyard as long as you follow all safety precautions.
You should consider the decking structure, design, and purpose to choose the best-suited versions.
Most importantly, keep the heater far away from flammable materials in your patio to avoid potential accidents.
If you have further questions, please comment below. We are willing to reply to them all. Thanks for taking the time to follow this post!