Posts by Will Montgomery

For apartments and balconies, choose electric infrared — never propane. Our top pick is the Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238. Five renter-friendly, no-flame heaters compared, plus safety and circuit tips.

The complete guide to patio heaters: how they work, propane vs. electric vs. natural gas, how to size one, running costs, safety and clearances, and maintenance — with links to every deep-dive.

Use ~20 BTU per square foot to size a patio heater. A 40,000-BTU freestanding unit covers ~150–300 sq ft; convert electric heaters with watts × 3.412. Full sizing chart and steps.

A propane patio heater costs about $1.15–$2.00/hour to run; a 1,500W electric infrared heater about $0.28/hour. Full propane-vs-electric cost breakdown with current 2026 fuel prices.

Compare the best solar lights for your backyard, from path and spotlights to string lights, with expert picks on brightness, IP ratings, and runtime.

Smart small backyard ideas that actually work — vertical gardens, multi-use zones, string lights, and design tricks that make compact yards feel bigger.