Gas vs Electric Patio Heaters: Which Is Better for Your Commercial Space?
If you’re choosing patio heaters for a hotel courtyard, resort pool deck, or outdoor dining area, you’ve probably wondered: gas or electric? Both work, but choosing the right one can save you money, reduce headaches, and make your outdoor space more comfortable for guests and staff alike.
At Raytech Store we sell both. And over the years we’ve seen what works and what doesn’t in real world commercial settings. Here’s what I’ve learned, and what I want you to know before your next outdoor heating upgrade.
Know Your Space First
Before you pick a heater type, consider your space. Is it open to the sky or tucked under a roof? Large and wide or narrow and intimate? Do you already have gas lines or just power outlets? These details matter.
Electric heaters are ideal for covered patios, near walls, under gazebos, or when you want clean, quiet heat. As Bromic Heating notes, electric models are great for smaller spaces that might not have a lot of natural ventilation, since there is no concern over carbon monoxide emissions.
Gas heaters shine when you’ve got a large open area and you want serious heat fast. According to Woodland Direct, natural gas tends to be the cheapest way to heat a patio, followed by electric and then propane.
Electric Heaters: The Minimal Hassle Choice
Here’s why many commercial buyers lean electric:
They turn on instantly and can be mounted in tight spaces or under awnings (Frico).
No fuel tanks. No open flame. Cleaner for semi-enclosed spaces.
Less wind impact, which matters if your HVAC system pushes guests outside and you want the heat to stay in place (AuthenTEAK).
However they do have trade-offs: you’ll need sufficient wiring and sometimes higher upfront cost for power draw. In very large, open-air spaces the coverage can be less efficient than large gas units.
Gas Heaters: Big Heat for Big Spaces
If your area is vast—think resort pool deck, outdoor amphitheater, or large entrance court—gas often wins on coverage.
Pros:
High output, strong radiant heat in large open zones
If you already have natural gas lines, operating costs can be lower (Bromic Heating))
But there are downsides:
Requires ventilation and clearance; cannot be used safely in fully enclosed spaces (Fire Pit Surplus).
Wind can affect performance, and tanks or refills (for propane) add maintenance.
Upfront installation, including gas line plumbing, can be higher.
My Recommended Approach for Commercial Buyers
Since we see a wide variety of commercial clients, here’s how I recommend deciding:
Small to mid-sized covered patios: Electric. Clean, safe, easier installation.
Large open-air areas with good ventilation: Gas. Big output and surface heating.
Hybrid approach: Many sites use electric heaters under roofed areas and gas heaters in broad outdoor zones. It lets you match heater type to space for best efficiency and comfort.
What You’ll Want from the Supplier
When you order from a professional supplier (like us) instead of picking generic from a big-box site, make sure you get:
Clear specs: coverage area, BTUs or watts, mounting height
Application details: “suitable under awning,” “wind rated,” “marine grade finish”
Support: wiring diagrams, gas line compatibility, service parts
Options: adjustable finishes, bulk ordering, installer-friendly features
Final Thoughts
Choosing between gas and electric patio heaters for commercial use isn’t just about brand or model. It’s about matching the right type to your space, long term cost, and guest experience. When you get that alignment right, you’ll have a comfortable outdoor area that looks good, operates smoothly, and doesn’t become a maintenance headache.
If you’re ready to explore commercial-rated patio heaters—both electric and gas—take a look at Raytech Store’s outdoor heating collection. We’re happy to help you size the right heater, spec installation, and guide you through the options.