Patio Heater Buying Guide
Pyramid vs mushroom patio heaters for outdoor events — heat output, fuel, placement and what to look for when buying commercial LPG heaters.
Heater types on Expo Direct
Pyramid patio heaters
A tall column heater with a visible flame through the glass tube. Directional heat output and a strong visual presence suited to terrace and prestige settings. The EventPro® version uses an extra-thick neck for greater stability. Used at the British Grand Prix.
Mushroom patio heaters
A circular diffuser head distributes heat over a wider standing area at a lower profile than the pyramid. More even coverage in high-density outdoor spaces where visual presence matters less than warmth spread.
What to compare before buying
Heat output
Both heaters run at 13kW, covering roughly 4–6 square metres of standing area at outdoor ambient temperatures. One heater per 8–10 guests is a practical starting point for enclosed or part-enclosed spaces.
Fuel
Both run on standard LPG propane via a 13kg cylinder (not included). At full output, consumption runs at approximately 0.9kg/hour. A 13kg cylinder lasts around 14 hours at full burn.
Ignition
EventPro® heaters use electric piezo ignition. More reliable than spark lighters in cold or damp outdoor conditions where standard ignition can fail.
Visual style
Pyramid heaters stand around 220cm tall and work well in terrace, marquee and prestige settings where the heater forms part of the environment. Mushroom heaters suit high-density standing areas where visual profile is secondary.
Stability
Both use a weighted base. In high footfall environments, position heaters away from main circulation routes and check the gas cylinder connection is secure before use.
Safety clearances
Keep 0.5m minimum clearance from any fabric, canopy or overhead obstruction. Do not use inside fully enclosed structures. Standard LPG safety regulations apply.
Recommended products
Pyramid Patio Heater (13kW)
NewEP-HEAT-PYRAMID
Mushroom Patio Heater (13kW)
NewEP-HEAT-MUSH
Common questions
How many heaters do I need for an outdoor event?
One heater per 8–10 guests works well in enclosed or part-enclosed spaces. In fully open outdoor areas, wind and ambient temperature affect coverage significantly. At 13kW, heaters can run at reduced output, so erring towards more units gives flexibility on the night.
What gas cylinder do the heaters use?
Standard 13kg LPG propane cylinder with a UK regulator fitting. Cylinders are not included. At full output, consumption runs at roughly 0.9kg/hour, so a 13kg cylinder gives approximately 14 hours of run time.
Can I use these heaters under a gazebo?
Under a commercial gazebo with open sides, yes — provided you maintain 0.5m clearance from the canopy and keep sides open for ventilation. Do not use in fully enclosed structures. See the gazebo guide for canopy options.
What is the difference between pyramid and mushroom heaters?
Both run at 13kW on LPG. Pyramid heaters are taller with a visible flame column and directional output — better for terrace or prestige settings. Mushroom heaters use a circular diffuser for wider spread at lower height, better for dense standing areas.
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