How many patio heaters do I need on my terrace?

April 15, 2024

After our article How to choose the best patio heater for the Canadian climate, we are answering another important question: “How many patio heaters do I need on my terrace?”. This article also answers the question: “how much heat output do I need on my terrace?”.

The answer depends on the expectation. Is the terrace going to be used exclusively during fresh summer nights or also during spring and fall when the temperature reaches a lower threshold?

The number of heaters will also depend on the heat output of each heater. Generally, the best result will be achieved by a uniform layout of heat in the seating area. When possible, having heaters on multiple sides of the terrace is recommended for the best comfort.

Another rule of thumb is that the Canadian climate requires more heat output than other parts of the world. To achieve great comfort, patio heaters of a minimum of 3kW are preferred when possible.

The article will showcase a few popular terrace layouts for an 8’ or 9’ wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted heater. Higher installations will require more heat output for the same comfort. Also, feel free to take our quiz to determine the best heat output for the size of your terrace.

How many patio heaters do I need on my 10’ x10’ terrace?

For a 10’ x 10’ terrace or any other terrace smaller than 100 square feet. A single heater will provide a good heat. However, greater comfort will be achieved by splitting the heat output between 2 heaters.

Economical option for a 10’ x 10’ terrace

Infrared heater - CD-series 4000 Watts - 39" – Signature Radiant

Popular option for a 10’ x 10’ terrace

Package: 2 x 3kW infrared heater SL Series - with Regulator – Signature Radiant

Deluxe option for a 10’ x 10’ terrace

Package: 2 x 4kW infrared heater SL Series - with Panel – Signature Radiant

How many patio heaters do I need on my 12’ x12’ terrace?

Similarly to a 10’ x 10’ terrace. A single heater will provide a good heat for a 12’ x 12’ terrace. However, greater comfort will be achieved by splitting the heat output between 2 heaters. We suggest hight heat output for a 12’ x 12’ terrace than a 10’ x 10’. However previous options could be a good fit.

Economical option for a 12’ x 12’ terrace

Package: 1 x 6kW infrared heater CD Series - with ON-OFF – Signature Radiant

Popular option for a 12’ x 12’ terrace

Package: 2 x 3kW infrared heater SL Series - with Regulator – Signature Radiant

Deluxe option for a 12’ x 12’ terrace

Package: 2 x 4kW infrared heater SL Series - with Panel – Signature Radiant

How many patio heaters do I need on my 10’ x 15’ terrace or a 12’ x 15’ terrace?

The best comfort on a 10’ x 15’ or a 10’ x 15’ terrace with an adjacent wall will be achieved with 3 heaters facing the house but 2 heaters facing each other on the long side will provide good comfort.

Economical option for a 10’ x 15’ terrace

Package: 2 x 3kW infrared heater C Series - with REGULATOR – Signature Radiant Popular option for a 10’ x 15’ terrace

Package: 2 x 6kW infrared heater CD Series - with ON-OFF – Signature Radiant

Deluxe option for a 12’ x 12’ terrace

Package: 3 x 6kW infrared heater CD Series - with Panel – Signature Radiant

How many patio heaters do I need on my 10’ x 20’ terrace or a 12’ x 20’ terrace?

For a 10’ x 20' terrace or a 12' x 20’ terrace, 2 heaters will provide good comfort.

Package: 2 x 6kW infrared heater CD Series - with ON-OFF – Signature Radiant

However, 4 heaters are going to elevate your space to the next level.

Package: 4 x 4kW infrared heater SL Series - with Panel – Signature Radiant

How many patio heaters do I need on my 14’ x 20’ terrace?

For a 14’ x 20' terrace, 4 heaters will provide amazing comfort. The most popular option without a doubt for this layout is a 4 heaters system with a control panel.

Package: 4 x 4kW infrared heater SL Series - with Panel – Signature Radiant

This option provides everything the users need to spend the best time possible with the best control on the market.

Economical option for a 14’ x 20’ terrace

Package: 2 x 6kW infrared heater CD Series - with ON-OFF – Signature Radiant