Patio, deck heaters can warm up entertaining

Cool autumn temperatures are no reason deck and patio lovers should retreat to the cozy confines of dens or family rooms.

Homeowners can take back the night -- and early evenings or football afternoons for that matter -- with toasty outdoor heaters designed to extend enjoyment of decks or patios to three if not four seasons.

"When you look at the extraordinary steps many homeowners take to build a deck or patio into the new family room, you can't blame people if they want to stay outside a little longer," says Marybeth Cornwell of Lowes.

Outdoor fans have warmed to three basic heat sources: patio heaters, chimineas and fire pits.

Propane fueled patio heaters familiar to outdoor café or bistro patrons have made a smooth transition to home uses. Floor stand or adjustable height tabletop models reflect heat against a metal dish. Expect to pay $90 to $360.

Also hot on the heat scene are chimineas. Either terra cotta or cast iron, these wood burners have a distinct desert Southwest influence.

"Chimineas score high on ambiance but don't produce the same amount of direct heat as patio heaters," says Cornwell. Costing less than $100, chimineas have an oven-like appearance but are not suitable for cooking.

Extending the seasons

The best of both worlds for heat and appearance may be fire pits. These steel or copper units burn charcoal or wood. Built-in screens control sparks. Some models double as grills. Fire pit prices range from $100 to nearly $130.

There are no restrictions on use of propane patio heaters, and Cornwell says both chimineas and fire pits are approved for use in all but a few U.S. markets.

Discerning patio and deck owners will be glad to know these outdoor heat devices also come with the expected accessories such as pokers and tongs for wood or charcoal and grill amenities.

And gathering around the ol' heat source wouldn't be the same either without nice furniture to sit upon. Cornwell says teak-like wood (about $200) and cast aluminum ($39 for single chairs to several hundred for a table and chairs) with designer cushions continue to be best sellers. "People are going to be outside as long as they can possibly stand it," observes Cornwell. "They grill out all year long, they entertain come rain or shine or snow, and now they can at least be warm and comfortable when the temperatures begin to take a dip."