Patio heaters come in three main types: LPG mushroom, pyramid and electric infrared. Each suits different outdoor conditions and event formats. Output, coverage radius, gas safety and quantity calculations differ between them. This guide covers every decision point.
Patio heaters come in three main types: LPG mushroom, pyramid and electric infrared. Each suits different outdoor conditions and event formats. Output, coverage radius, gas safety and quantity calculations differ between them. This guide covers every decision point.
LPG mushroom heaters produce 11kW of heat, equivalent to approximately 37,500 BTU. The dome reflector directs heat downward and outward, covering a radius of around 4 metres in calm conditions. For an open outdoor space with no windbreak, the mushroom heater is the most effective heat source for both standing and seated guest areas.
A standard 13kg gas cylinder powers a mushroom heater for approximately five hours at full output. For a four-hour evening event, one cylinder per heater is sufficient. For events that run longer, or in cold conditions where the thermostat stays at maximum throughout, order one spare cylinder per heater.
Pyramid heaters produce the same 11kW output as mushroom heaters but distribute heat through a narrower vertical column rather than a wide dome. The glass-tube burner runs the full height of the unit, radiating heat outward at multiple levels. This makes pyramid heaters more effective in semi-enclosed spaces, covered walkways and areas with low overhead clearance where the mushroom dome would push heat into a ceiling.
The visual profile of a pyramid heater suits formal outdoor settings more closely than a mushroom heater. For a black-tie garden dinner or a rooftop reception, the slimmer form fits the event aesthetic better while delivering identical output.
Electric infrared heaters output 2 to 3kW, which is below gas units. They run on a standard 13A socket, which removes the gas cylinder management requirement. For venues that prohibit LPG on-site, or for indoor-outdoor spaces where gas is impractical, electric infrared heaters cover small zones at close range.
Infrared heaters warm surfaces and people rather than heating the air. On a covered terrace with some air movement, this uses less energy than gas for the same comfort level. In open outdoor conditions with wind, gas units outperform electric: the output is higher and the heat does not depend on a power supply.
Open outdoor area, mild conditions: one mushroom or pyramid heater per 10 to 15 guests. Below 5°C or with wind chill, increase to one heater per 8 to 10 guests.
For marquees with closed sides, reduce the count by 20 to 30 percent: the enclosed space retains heat more than an open area and the same number of heaters will overheat the space.
All hired units carry current gas certification. Keep cylinders upright at all times; a horizontal cylinder risks liquid gas entering the regulator and causing erratic output. Maintain 600mm clearance above and around the heater head. Do not position mushroom or pyramid heaters directly under a low canvas roof: the heat damages the fabric. Position heaters at least 1 metre from the canvas edge of a marquee or awning.
Store cylinders for multi-day events in a ventilated outdoor area, not inside a tent or marquee. A designated gas storage point away from the main event space, marked clearly, is the correct arrangement.
Browse the patio heater hire range for LPG mushroom, pyramid and electric infrared options, and the outdoor furniture hire range for complete outdoor event setups.
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