Gazebos are marvelous garden structures not many of us are lucky to own. They’re private spots in your home where you can enjoy the summer sun with your family or cozy up with a book on rainy evenings.
The gazebo charm is simply endless. But what if it gets too cold outside where you live come the winter months? Can you and your kids no longer camp out in the gazebo for some downtime?
I’m here to help with that—and I can already tell you that a patio heater is the answer to all your problems.
Stick around to know how you can enjoy a warm, cozy gazebo, no matter how cold it gets outside.
Can You Put a Patio Heater Under Your Gazebo?
Like I said: you can totally put a patio heater under a gazebo!
Before you set up your cozy outdoor space, though, let me tell you a few things to consider first:
1 – Read the Heater’s Safety Manual
Familiarize yourself with the heater’s safety manual. If you have a prefabricated gazebo, go through its manual, too.
Similar to snowflakes, every patio heater is different—which is why it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
I know it sounds like a boring task (Real men don’t read the instructions, right?), but don’t be smart with this.
The heater’s safety guide contains valuable information, such as the device’s heat output and the proper conditions for using it.
2 – Pick the Right Location for Your Heater
To stay on the safe side, position your heater away from combustibles. Those include wood, cushions, umbrellas, and curtains.
Here’s my golden rule: keep these combustibles at least six feet away from your patio heater.
There should also be two feet of free space around and above the heater.
3 – Check Ventilation
If you have a gas or propane heater, make sure there’s enough ventilation inside the structure.
Otherwise, it’ll be dangerous to put the heater inside your closed gazebo. You’ll be exposing yourself and your family to high levels of carbon monoxide. Improper ventilation also poses a fire hazard.
What Is the Best Way to Heat a Gazebo?
Want to avoid the hassle? Then, I highly recommend going for an electric heater.
You’ll notice that many electric heaters have safety measures that make them suitable for an outdoor setting – like a gazebo. They’re also convenient, easy to use, and require little to no maintenance.
Win-win, right? So, is there a catch?
Sadly, yes. To run an electric heater, you’ll need an outdoor power source.
The good news, though, is that adding power to your gazebo isn’t a complicated process. You can plant an outlet, run a cable, or—if your budget allows—install solar panels!
You can also just opt for a rechargeable electric heater. Makes things easier for you.
What Are the Best Gazebo Heaters?
The choices are endless, my friend! There are tons of gazebo heaters out there that you can go for.
My top pick (you guessed it) is the electric heater. If you’re like me, safety and ease of use are your priorities, and an electric heater checks all the boxes.
Not only that, but they’re also more efficient and provide consistent heat. They come in different forms, including wall or ceiling-mounted, tabletop, and portable.
Not convinced you should get one, yet? Here’s a list of some of the best electric heaters for your gazebo:
- 18,000 BTU Big Buddy Portable Propane Heater
- EnerG+ Electric Patio Heater
- TrusTech Waterproof Patio Heater
If you don’t have access to power in your gazebo, I got you.
In your case, a propane heater is a good alternative—but it might be a little pricey to run compared to an electric one.
Additionally, you’ll have to make sure there’s adequate ceiling clearance to safely use the heater.
My picks for the best propane patio heaters include:
- Arlmont and Co Triplett Propane Patio Heater
- Hampton Bay Outdoor Patio Heater
- Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Heater
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a patio heater cost?
A patio heater can cost anywhere between $100 and $500, depending on its type and size.
Generally, I recommend buying your heater from a reputable brand. It’s also best to check online reviews to make sure you’re buying a safe, efficient product.
How safe are patio heaters?
Most patio heaters, especially electric ones, have incredible safety features so they’re harmless to have around your family.
Still, never leave a patio heater running while unattended. You also shouldn’t let kids or pets come close to the heater.
Final Thoughts
So, can a patio heater go under a gazebo? The answer is yes!
Carefully read the safety manual before doing that, though.
Then, pick a location for the heater away from any combustibles. And if your heater runs on gas or propane, make sure there’s adequate ventilation inside your gazebo.
But if you have an electric heater, like me, you don’t need to worry about any of that.
After all, electric heaters are generally safer and more efficient. They really should be your first choice when buying a gazebo heater.
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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