When Canadian evenings get cold, a patio heater can help you enjoy your outdoor space for much longer. The main choice usually comes down to gas or electric, but they work in very different ways and suit different setups.
Gas heaters produce strong, wide-reaching heat that works well in open patios and larger areas. Electric infrared heaters provide instant, targeted warmth and are better suited for covered or smaller outdoor spaces.
This guide compares heat output, running costs, safety, installation, and convenience to help you choose the right option for your space and lifestyle.
1. What Are They, and How Do They Work?
Before comparing features, it’s useful to understand how each patio heater works and what powers it. This helps set clear expectations for real-world use.
Gas Patio Heater (Outsunny 48,000 BTU Propane Heater)
- Runs on a standard 20 lb (5 gallon) propane tank.
- Produces up to 48,000 BTU of radiant and convection heat.
- Offers three adjustable heat settings for flexible control.
- Freestanding design with built-in wheels for easy movement.
- Includes a tip-over safety switch for added protection.
Electric Patio Heater (Outsunny Infrared Parasol Heater)
- Connects to a standard outdoor electrical outlet.
- Uses three infrared heating panels for targeted warmth.
- Provides direct heat to people and objects without heating the surrounding air.
- Comes with a remote control for easy adjustments.
- Designed to mount on a parasol or umbrella pole.
- Made from durable aluminium alloy for outdoor use.
Key Insight: Gas heaters produce strong, wide-area heat, while electric infrared heaters deliver direct, targeted warmth without heating the air.
2. Heat Output and Coverage
Heat output and coverage determine how warm your space feels, making them key factors when choosing a patio heater. Here’s how both options perform in real outdoor conditions.
Gas Patio Heater
- Delivers up to 48,000 BTU, suitable for heating large patios or garden areas.
- Mushroom-style reflector spreads heat across a wide radius.
- Three heat settings allow adjustment for smaller groups or milder weather.
- Performs well in light wind due to high heat output.
Electric Patio Heater
- Uses infrared panels to heat people and objects directly, not the surrounding air.
- Three heating panels provide consistent warmth for seated groups.
- Best suited for sheltered areas like gazebos, pergolas, or covered patios.
- Provides instant heat with no warm-up time.
Key Insight: Gas heaters are better for large, open spaces due to higher heat output. Electric heaters are more efficient and immediate for smaller, sheltered areas.
3. Running Costs and Energy Efficiency
Running costs play a major role in long-term value, especially if you use your patio heater regularly during colder months.
Gas Patio Heater
- Propane costs vary, averaging about $3 to $5 per hour at full power in Canada.
- A 20 lb tank typically lasts around 8 to 10 hours on maximum heat.
- Lower heat settings can significantly extend fuel usage.
- Tanks can be refilled or exchanged at most hardware stores and retailers.
Electric Patio Heater
- Operating costs depend on electricity rates, usually around $0.50 to $1.50 per hour.
- No need to buy, store, or replace fuel.
- Converts electricity into heat efficiently with minimal energy loss.
- Settings and remote control help optimize energy use.
Key Insight: Electric heaters are generally cheaper to run per hour. Gas heaters can deliver stronger heat output, which may offer better value in very cold or exposed outdoor conditions.
4. Setup and Installation
Setup refers to how quickly you can get your heater running and how much effort is involved. Gas and electric models differ mainly in their power source and installation requirements.
Gas Patio Heater
- No electrical outlet required, making it fully portable once assembled.
- Assembly involves connecting the pole sections, base, and reflector head.
- Simply attach a standard 20 lb propane tank to start heating.
- Built-in wheels make it easy to move without disassembly.
Electric Patio Heater
- Requires an outdoor electrical outlet within cable reach.
- Mounts directly onto a parasol or umbrella pole, without a separate stand.
- Controlled via remote for easy operation after installation.
- Offers a clean setup with no visible fuel tanks or gas lines.
Key Insight: Gas heaters provide full portability without relying on electricity. Electric heaters are easier to operate but depend on access to a nearby power source.
5. Safety Considerations
Outdoor heaters must be used carefully to ensure safe operation in different environments. Understanding the risks of each type helps you choose and use them responsibly.
Gas Patio Heater
- Includes a tip-over protection system that shuts the unit off if it falls.
- Must be used only in open or well-ventilated outdoor spaces.
- Requires at least 3 feet of clearance from furniture, walls, and overhead structures.
- Propane tanks should be stored safely and kept away from direct heat sources.
Electric Patio Heater
- No open flame or combustion gases, reducing fire and air-quality risks.
- Designed with low-glare infrared technology for comfortable use.
- Safer for use under gazebos, pergolas, and covered patios.
- Must be connected to a weatherproof outdoor electrical outlet.
Key Insight: Electric heaters are generally safer for covered or semi-enclosed spaces. Gas heaters require more open ventilation but include built-in safety shutoff features.
6. Portability and Flexibility
Portability and flexibility affect how easily you can move and position your heater in different outdoor spaces.
Gas Patio Heater
- Built-in wheels make it easy to move across patios and garden areas.
- Works anywhere outdoors without needing a power outlet.
- Ideal for large backyards, decks, and open spaces.
- Can be repositioned easily for gatherings or changing seating layouts.
Electric Patio Heater
- Limited by the length of the power cable and outlet location.
- Attaches to a parasol or umbrella, keeping heat focused over a table.
- Compact design with no floor space required once installed.
- Remote control allows easy adjustments from your seat.
Key Insight: Gas heaters offer greater flexibility for different outdoor setups. Electric heaters are best for fixed, table-focused heating.
7. Cost and Value Comparison
| Factor | Gas Heater (48,000 BTU) | Electric Parasol Heater |
| Heat Output | 48,000 BTU – very high | Infrared panels – moderate |
| Fuel / Power | Propane tank required | Standard electrical outlet |
| Running Cost | ~$3–$5/hr (propane) | ~$0.50–$1.50/hr (electricity) |
| Portability | Excellent – wheels, no plug | Limited by power cable |
| Best Location | Open patios, large gardens | Gazebos, pergolas, tables |
| Safety | Tip-over protection, outdoor only | No flame, low-glare, safer indoors |
| Ease of Use | Manual settings | Remote control |
| Installation | No electrician needed | Needs outdoor power outlet |
| Winner | Open outdoor spaces | Covered, smaller outdoor areas |
Best Use Cases
The best choice depends on how and where you plan to use your patio heater. Matching the heater to your space ensures better comfort and efficiency.
Choose a Gas Patio Heater if you:
- Have a large open patio, backyard, or garden area.
- Do not have access to a nearby outdoor electrical outlet.
- I want maximum heat output for cold evenings.
- I need to move the heater frequently between different spots.
- Regularly host larger outdoor gatherings.
Choose an Electric Parasol Heater if you:
- Have a covered patio, gazebo, or pergola.
- Prefer a clean setup without visible fuel tanks.
- I want remote-controlled convenience.
- Use heating mainly around a dining table or seating area.
- Prioritise lower running costs for frequent use.
Key Insight: Gas heaters are best for large, open, and flexible outdoor spaces, while electric parasol heaters are ideal for covered, table-focused, and energy-efficient use.
Shop Both Heaters at Aosom Canada
The right choice depends on where you plan to use it, how much heat you need, and whether you have easy access to power, including options you can find through Aosom Canada. Neither heater is universally better; they each suit a different kind of outdoor setup.
A gas patio heater makes sense for open spaces, large areas, or anywhere without a power outlet. An electric infrared heater is the smarter pick for covered patios, gazebos, and anywhere you want clean, targeted warmth without the hassle of fuel.
FAQs
Electric patio heaters generally cost less per hour to run, especially with current propane prices in Canada. However, gas heaters produce significantly more heat, so the cost-per-degree-of-warmth depends on your specific situation.
Gas heaters should not be used in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. They require open, well-ventilated areas to operate safely. Electric infrared heaters are the recommended choice for gazebos, pergolas, and covered patios.
A standard 20 lb propane tank lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours at maximum output. Using lower heat settings extends the tank life considerably.
It requires a standard outdoor electrical outlet. Make sure the outlet and any extension cords used are rated for outdoor use and weatherproofing in Canadian conditions.
The gas patio heater is more portable thanks to its built-in wheels and the fact that it does not need a power connection. The electric parasol heater is fixed to wherever its power cable reaches.