If you want to enjoy your outdoor space into the winter months, an outdoor heater makes sense. So, what are the options?

• Freestanding heaters are a good option if you want portability. Keep in mind to allow about 12 inches of space between the ceiling and your heater.
• Overhead heaters come in wall, ceiling, and umbrella-mounted options, which are great if you are space-conscious or concerned about burn injury.
• Firepit heaters look like a fire, minus the hassle, and some double as a coffee table.

Outdoor heaters are fueled three different ways:

• Electric – Easiest to install if you have an outdoor power outlet but doesn’t create as much heat as its counterparts.
• Propane – Be aware you need to refill the tank when empty.
• Natural gas – Requires a dedicated gas line, which can be expensive.

Note the latter two options cannot be used in enclosed patios because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Side notes:

• Ensure the heater covers the square footage of the area you want to heat.
• Check for recognizable safety certification.
• Good safety features to look out for include a safety tilt switch for freestanding heaters (powers off if it tilts too much), automatic turn-off if it gets too hot, or cool touch glass to prevent burn injury.
• If you live in a condo, check if there are rules about using outdoor heaters.