Quartz tube heaters

You can find quartz tube heaters just about anywhere. They are commonly used in outdoor areas like pergolas or terraces. Because all they need to operate is a supply of electricity, they are a fantastic option for spaces that don't have room on the floor to set them.

Plaque Heaters

These guys are what most people refer to as box heaters. They have flat, glowing "plates" with tiny holes all over them. These are a great option for outdoor areas because they operate at high temperatures and can be installed at a variety of angles.

Mushroom Top and Cylinder Heaters

Mushroom heaters are probably the most popular form of patio heater in the market. Because of their wide flat tops, they look like floor lamps, though the tops do more than reflect light. The mushroom "cap" directs infrared rays to the people beneath them to help contain the warmth below.

Tank Top Heaters

No, this model was not named after a bathing suit cover-up. But I know you were thinking it. Tank top heaters get their name honestly. They literally sit on top of a propane tank. Due to their lightweight, they are portable and can be used in a variety of locations.

Metal Tube Heaters

If having a dozen options to choose from among infrared heaters wasn't confusing enough, you may hear many different names like, "tube brooder", "push tube heater" OR "stick heater" when referring to metal tube heaters.

Metal tube heaters are long, thin, and don't heat to a high enough temperature to produce a glow. They can be straight, U-shaped, or even serpentine. You will find a painted black stainless steel version to be common among this type of heater.

Wall Heaters

Wall heaters are a good option if you don't have room on your floor to connect a space heater. They can be mounted mid-range on the wall between the floor and head height so heat doesn't escape over the top of your head. Their emitters are often covered with a metal cage to prevent curious fingers from getting burned. Some even come with an option for a fan. Yahoo!