Hiland-HLDS01-CGT-Tall Patio Heater

Since getting this and winter has come, you can get slightly better deals. But this is a solid heater that works well. Heat Output: It won't keep you too warm in sub 40 degree weather unless you stand right under it, but for sub 50 it works great for a larger (sitting) area. Assembly & Ballast: Ours came mostly assembled so it was a cinch to put the rest together (about 20 minutes). The longest part of assembly was peeling off the protective blue plastic sheets. The drink stand has turned out to be oft used but because I don't trust the adjustable slide i leave it all the way down so I can trust putting glasses and plates on it without mishap. I did not bother putting in sand or whatnot into the base as the tank and the unit seem pretty heavy as is. Unless on a slope or in extremely heavy winds or you rugby-tackle it or climb it, it is very unlikely to fall over. Ballast sand might only help a bit more for the case of a small child climbing it.... maybe. Teach your small children to not climb patio heaters (good parenting tip). Finish: I chose this hammered finish look because I felt it would hold up best and look best for outdoor use vs. shiny steel or smooth finish. Should also be easier to touch up with hammered rustoleum if ever needed. It definitely does not show fingerprints like steel finish would and matches well our oiled-bronze/grey/brown patio environment . Noise: The noise level is great. Except on the highest setting, the sound of the gas is barely noticeable. And on high, it is not loud enough to be a distraction to casual conversation under the unit. *Rust Update*: After a full season (bought last fall, reviewed in December 2013), I am still happy with this unit. However, I want to note that a fair amount of rust has appeared along the bottom of the unit particularly along the rolled metal edges of the bottom of the base. I had hoped this finish would be impervious to rust, but obviously is not. The heater has been outside all year in a semi-covered location when stored (under house eave on patio), but it is in a location that gets some indirect rain/snow at the base in any inclement weather. I will try touching up with rustoleum of similar finish but I am sure it will never be the same. Additionally, for winter, it seems wise to put these up on some kind of blocks if outside, or completely covered area/shed to better protect from the wet.