[myamoto1]

The tank top units are a "need to be directly in front of" heating unit. If you aren't right in front of it, you won't even notice it's there. I have 2 of the big patio heaters and despite the 16' heat radius, I've found that 6' is about the max. Granted, I tend to always have a breeze where I am, so I'm sure the impacts the performance as well. I just store mine outside. You can buy little covers that wrap around the head unit to keep the wind and rain out when not in use.