Outdoor Heating Calculator — Heaters & Running Cost

A standard gas patio heater covers approximately 10-15m² effectively. For a 30m² patio area, you would need 2-3 heaters depending on temperature and desired warmth level. Place heaters where guests congregate rather than spacing evenly.

A standard gas patio heater uses approximately 0.8-1.0 kg of propane per hour on the highest setting. A 13kg gas bottle will last approximately 13-16 hours. On a lower setting, consumption drops to about 0.4-0.6 kg per hour.

Gas heaters are more powerful and work anywhere but need ventilation and gas bottles. Electric infrared heaters are cheaper to run, instant warmth, and lower maintenance but need a power supply and cover less area. Gas is better for larger open spaces.

Gas patio heaters cost approximately £2-£3 per hour per heater on high. Electric infrared heaters cost about £0.50-£0.80 per hour at current electricity rates. For a 4-hour event with 3 gas heaters, expect £25-£35 in gas costs.