Outdoor heating and cooling is what extends a Middle Tennessee outdoor space from a 90-day-a-year use to 200+. The technology has matured dramatically in recent years. Here’s a step-by-step guide to designing heating and cooling for your outdoor living space.
Step 1: Identify Your Worst Months
Tennessee has two challenging seasons for outdoor use: peak summer heat (mid-July through August) and chilly shoulder seasons (November–December, February–March). Plan for both.
Step 2: Cooling Options for Summer
Ceiling fans (always include in covered structures), misting systems for radical heat days, and shade design (proper roof overhang, side coverage). For fully covered outdoor rooms, even mini-split AC can extend usable summer afternoons.
Step 3: Heating Options for Cool Months
Three main options. Radiant overhead heaters (electric or gas) heat people in defined zones. Outdoor fireplaces provide mood and warmth. Fire tables or pits are flexible. Many great outdoor spaces combine all three.
Step 4: Plan Power and Gas Lines at Construction
Electric and gas runs are 10x cheaper to install during construction than retrofitted later. Even if you’re not adding heaters yet, run the wiring and gas lines now. Future-you will be grateful.
Step 5: Match the Solution to the Space
Open patios benefit from focused heaters and fans. Pavilions and screened porches benefit from broader heating and cooling. Pool houses can have full HVAC. Match the solution to the space, not vice versa.
Ready to Get Started?
Good Day Living designs outdoor heating and cooling for Middle TN’s specific climate. See examples at gdayliving.com.
