Patio Heater Demand Surges: Outdoor Living Trends Heat Up Post-Pandemic Market
Staff Editor Patio Heaters Remain Hot Commodity as Outdoor Living Trend Persists
The surge in patio heater popularity that began during the pandemic shows no signs of cooling off, industry experts report. What started as a necessity for outdoor gatherings during lockdowns has evolved into a lasting trend, reshaping how consumers view and utilize their outdoor spaces.
“We’ve seen a sustained interest in patio heaters even as pandemic restrictions have eased,” says Eric Kahn of Alfresco Heating. “Consumers are continuing to invest in their outdoor living areas, with patio heaters becoming a key component of these spaces.”
Data from Adobe supports this trend, showing significant spikes in patio heater sales during major shopping events. Leah Langford from Bromic Heating notes, “The residential market for patio heaters has experienced a boom that’s outlasted initial pandemic-driven demand.”
Tara L. Paige, founder of The Black Girls Social Club, attributes this ongoing popularity to a shift in lifestyle preferences. “People have rediscovered the joy of outdoor living, and patio heaters are essential for extending the usability of these spaces year-round,” Paige explains.
However, the market’s rapid growth has brought challenges. Consumers face a bewildering array of options, from propane-fueled units to infrared models, each with its own set of pros and cons. “There’s a real need for consumer education in this space,” Kahn emphasizes. “Many buyers are unaware of the differences between various heater types and how to choose the most effective option for their specific needs.”
Industry insiders see this as both a challenge and an opportunity. By focusing on consumer education and guiding customers towards higher-quality products, the patio heater market has the potential for further growth and improved customer satisfaction.
As the line between indoor and outdoor living continues to blur, patio heaters appear poised to remain a fixture in American homes. With better-informed consumers and ongoing product innovations, the future looks bright – and warm – for the patio heater industry.
