Something happier--wind blocks, outdoor heaters

[Ting Tang]

Does anyone use an outdoor heater?  How well do they work?  I am not sure I have ever been outside with one running.  Can you create a warm space on a patio with one and wind blocks?  I live in Illinois.

[gardenmom5]

I've been at restaurants that use them outside. 
Yes, they can put out quite a bit of heat.  If you have windblocks they should hold in the heat while it's running.

I'd wanted/planned ..  . to put up the clear plastic walls (like shower curtain, only bigger) on our pavillion . . . Then have a heater.  but, I don't see it happening.  But some people do and make it very effective.

[MEmama]

A lot of restaurants/pubs use them around here to extend the eating outdoors season. They work really well and put out a lot of heat. One time after sitting near one I came down with a wicked cough and was very lightheaded for a couple days. I was worried about carbon monoxide poisoning but my doctor wasn't concerned. I'll sit further away, next time (I'm pretty susceptible to things like wood smoke too, so I'm not surprised I had some kind of reaction).

If you get snow...our neighbors bought a couple tall kerosene heaters and not only do they blow over easily, but the metal tops bend easily under a decent snowfall. Ofc, if you have protection (covered deck or so somesuch) that won't be a problem. Just thought I'd put it out there as something I've seen. 

[Spryte]

We’ve had heaters — the big tall high hat type — they work well. We have a sectional and seating around it, and it’s comfortable.

If you get snow and don’t shovel off the top — your heat deflector will bend.

If there’s wind and you have not anchored your heater, it will blow over!

We decorate the area with garland and lights, and the heater makes it a great place to hang out with warm drinks and snacks.

We have a firepit area, but the heater is soooo much easier.