May 10, 2025

Warming Your Pergola: Suitable Heater Options for Covered Spaces

Want to enjoy your pergola year-round, even when the chill sets in? Electric, infrared, and propane heaters are your best bet! These outdoor heating solutions bring warmth and coziness without turning your pergola into a furnace. Check out our Outdoor Heating and Firepits Collection for more heated options to keep the fun going!

Selecting the Right Heater for Your Pergola Environment

There’s something magical about a pergola: it’s an outdoor haven, perfect for unwinding after a long day, enjoying a summer evening, or hosting friends for a barbecue. But when the temperature drops, that charming space can quickly lose its appeal.

To make your pergola comfortable no matter the season, choosing the right heater is essential. The perfect heater will not only keep you warm but also complement the structure and environment of your pergola. Factors like the level of enclosure, the size of the area, and the heater's efficiency play a major role in your choice.

Whether you’re after something sleek and modern or a more powerful option for larger spaces, here’s a breakdown of the best heaters for pergolas.

Electric Infrared Heaters

When you think of outdoor heating, infrared heaters are often the first to come to mind. They’re efficient, reliable, and ideal for partially covered spaces like pergolas. Infrared heaters emit heat that directly warms people and objects rather than heating the air around them. This method makes them incredibly effective, even on breezy days.

Direct Heat, Less Affected by Air Movement

The magic of infrared heaters lies in how they work. Unlike traditional heaters, which warm the air, infrared heaters emit radiant heat that directly targets what’s in its path – whether it's you, your guests, or your furniture. The beauty of this is that the heat doesn’t easily dissipate, even if it’s windy. So, even on a chilly night, you’ll feel the warmth instantly.

Imagine you're sitting outside on a crisp autumn evening, sipping mulled wine with friends. The wind is rustling in the trees, but your infrared heater is doing its job, ensuring you stay warm and toasty. No drafts, no fuss.

Variety of Mounting Options

One of the key advantages of infrared heaters is the variety of ways you can install them. From wall-mounted to ceiling-mounted models, these heaters don’t take up valuable floor space. So, whether you're looking to keep things sleek and minimal or add a touch of modern design, infrared heaters can be seamlessly integrated into your pergola.

Electric Convection Heaters (with caution)

Another option is electric convection heaters. These units work by warming the air, which rises and spreads through the space. While convection heaters can work in your pergola, they do require a bit more attention than their infrared cousins.

Ensure Adequate Ventilation

One thing to keep in mind with convection heaters is that they work best with good air circulation. In a covered or partially enclosed pergola, air movement can be limited, making convection heaters less efficient. So, if you're considering this option, make sure your pergola has proper ventilation to allow the warm air to circulate and spread throughout the space.

Consider Mounting and Clearance

Just like infrared heaters, convection heaters also require mounting. However, since they heat the air, the placement of the heater can affect its efficiency. For the best results, ensure there’s sufficient clearance around the heater and avoid placing it near any flammable materials.

Low-Emission Gas Heaters (with proper ventilation)

If you’re after a more powerful heat source, low-emission gas heaters could be just the thing for your pergola. Powered by either natural gas or propane, these heaters can kick out serious heat, making them ideal for larger or open pergolas.

Natural Gas or Propane Options

Natural gas heaters are connected to your home’s gas supply, providing a continuous source of heat. Propane heaters, on the other hand, are portable and can be moved around to suit your space. Both types are incredibly effective, but it’s essential to choose one that fits the layout of your pergola and your heating needs.

Imagine hosting a late-night gathering in the garden, with a propane heater keeping everyone cosy. With the flicker of the flames and the warmth in the air, it’s the perfect setting to make memories that last.

Emphasise Ventilation and Safety

While gas heaters can provide plenty of heat, they come with a caveat: ventilation is key. Gas heaters produce carbon monoxide, a dangerous gas if allowed to build up. That’s why, when using these heaters in a pergola, it’s vital to ensure there’s adequate airflow. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure your pergola is properly ventilated.

Considerations to Avoid

While heaters can make your pergola a year-round haven, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Some heaters may seem like a good choice, but in reality, they can cause more harm than good.

Open Flame Heaters in Enclosed or Partially Enclosed Pergolas

You might love the idea of a traditional open flame heater, but using one in a pergola—especially if it’s partially enclosed—is a safety risk. Open flame heaters can be a fire hazard in confined spaces, where flames might come into contact with nearby surfaces or fabrics. So, stick to heaters designed specifically for covered outdoor spaces to keep things safe.

Heaters Not Rated for Outdoor or Covered Use

It’s tempting to buy a heater on a whim, but be sure it’s rated for outdoor or covered use. Not all heaters are built to handle the elements, and using an indoor heater outdoors can be a disaster. Look for models specifically designed to withstand the weather, and always check that they’re approved for use in outdoor or covered environments.

By selecting the right heater for your pergola and following a few simple safety guidelines, you can transform your outdoor space into a warm, cosy retreat all year round. Whether you go for a sleek infrared heater, an efficient convection model, or a robust gas heater, the key is to match the heater to your space and needs.

Now, your pergola can be a place of warmth, comfort, and relaxation, no matter the season. Ready to embrace outdoor living? Start exploring your heating options today!

Other articles our customers have found useful:

Previous article Safe and Secure: Installing Heaters in Wooden Pergolas

Next article Getting Back to Warm: Troubleshooting Common Patio Heater Problems