Patio heaters are your best friend if you want to keep barbecues going late into the night or extend the season outside. These useful heaters warm up the area surrounding them, making outdoor living spaces more pleasant on chilly evenings or cool fall days. Tim Bakke, a design expert, says that today’s homeowners are “increasingly utilizing their outside spaces and prolonging their usage earlier in the spring and later in the fall.” We saw an “uptick” in patio heaters throughout the fall. Suffice it to say, and this fashion is hot. In this article, we have listed some of the best patio heaters available on Amazon.
Patio heaters come in various designs, with the most popular being mushroom-shaped ones that you typically see on restaurant patios. Pyramidal, wall-mounted, and even tabletop patio heaters are also available, as well as propane-, natural gas-, and electricity-powered options. If you want to be extra cautious, invest in a patio heater with specific safety characteristics such as a CSA safety rating, a tilt-proof design, and an automatic gas shut-off (for windy days).
Here are the top patio heaters available today.
Our Favorite Options
Best Overall: Hampton Bay 48,000 BTU Patio Heater
- Heats up to 200 sq. ft. for optimal patio use
- Control valve lets you adjust the temperature to the desired level
- Durable stainless steel construction is built to last
- 48,000 BTU burner
- Piezoelectric ignition for quick, easy starts
- Adjustable heat control system
- Propane gas cylinder sold separately
- Size: 32.25 x 32.25 x 87.25 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- The look is sleek and modern
- One person can assemble it in less than 10 minutes.
- It produces a lot of heat.
- For windy days, they’ll require extra stakes or sandbags.
This patio heater is simple to operate, heats effectively, and is reasonably priced, making it a top choice for any outdoor space. It has a 48,000 BTU burner that can heat up to 200 square feet, and it utilizes a liquid propane cylinder tucked away inside the unit's base for a sleek modern look. The Hampton Bay Patio Heater is equip with a piezoelectric ignition and an adjustable heat control system that allows you to maintain the ideal temperature.
The heater is composed of long-lasting stainless steel, and its intense heat will keep you and your visitors warm throughout the year, allowing you to enjoy your outside space for longer each year.
Best Budget: Mr. Heater 45,000 BTU Propane Tank
- 360 degree burner head
- 30, 000 - 45, 000 BTU tank top heater
- Push Button TE Valve
- Safety shut off tip over switch
- Mounts to a 20 lb. Cylinder
- Size: 10.4 x 10.4 x 17.5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Heat Range Diameter: 950 feet
- CSA Certified: Yes
- Affordable
- Heats quickly
- Portable
- Funnels rise as a result of the heat; a reflector or a roof is recommended.
- Less durable than other models
This low-cost tank top heater, which may be set up in a relatively unpromising position, will do the job well, producing a maximum of 45,000 BTUs. The unique patio heater is fueled by liquid propane, and it comes with a mount so you may attach it directly to the top of the tank. It has an expected burn time of 9.5 hours on a 20-pound tank.
Because it emits radiant heat, anyone sitting near it will immediately feel the warmth. It emanates heat in all directions and may warm rooms up to 950 square feet. The heater also has a built-in switch for turning off the heating element if the device ever falls over, ensuring that your family and home are safe while it is running.
Best Propane: Frontgate Commercial Patio Heater
- Outdoor gas heater with 46,000 BTUs, providing heat up to a 9-foot radius. Ideal for commercial cafes and restaurants or residential patios
- Made with aluminum, sturdy plastic, and rugged steel with a durable powder-coated finish that stands up to outdoor elements
- Piezo ignition system for easy push-button start ups; requires 20lb Liquid Propane Gas tank (not included); chain to help secure LPG tank provided.
- Safety auto shut-off tilt valve; waterbox for adding weight to the base; wheel assembly included for easy mobility
- Secure the patio heater when not in use to avoid any potential damage to the patio heater
- Measures approximately 18 x 33 x 89 inches (LxWxH); weighs 38 pounds
- Backed by an Amazon Basics 1-year limited warranty
- Wide base for stability
- Wheels provide portability
- Safety auto shut-off valve
- Slightly noisier than other models
- Expensive
Although liquid propane is an efficient fuel for patio heaters, this model is one of the best propane-powered ones on the market. The Commercial Patio Heater is identical to those you'd see at a restaurant, with a mushroom-shaped design that generates 46,000 BTUs of warmth.
The stainless steel fireplace comes with a piezoelectric ignition system and a double-mantle heating grid. For stability, there's a large base, and an automatic shut-off valve is included for safety. The heater is powered by 20-pound propane tanks stored in the base, and it's even portable thanks to its wheels which allow you to move it around your patio easily.
Best Natural Gas: Bromic Black Tungsten 500 Smart-Heat Hanging Patio Heater
- Sleek contemporary styling with black high temperature ceramic coating over stainless steel
- Radiant infrared burner heats up fast and provides direct heat to warm people
- Wind resistance up to 8 miles per hour for uninterrupted heating
- Wall bracket houses control system away from heat and pivots heater head 25-degrees to the left and right of center
- Perfect for residential and commercial installati
- Size: 14.1 x 25.5 x 25.5 inches
- Heat Range Diameter: 200 square feet
- It doesn’t take up floor space
- Easy-pivot arm brackets provide directional control
- Durable
- Remote controllable
- The heat output is not adjustable.
- It does not include heat deflectors, although they are available as an option.
- There must be an electrical outlet available.
If you already have a natural gas line on your property, you may use it to heat your patio with this heater. The Bromic Black Tungsten 500 Patio Heater is intended to be placed on a wall or ceiling and has a capacity of 43,000 BTUs.
This natural gas patio heater is equipped with easy-pivot arm mounts, allowing you to position it in various directions while keeping the safety of your family top of mind. However, keep in mind that this product has an electronic ignition system, so it must be within reach of an electrical outlet.
Best Wall-Mounted: Dr. Infrared Heater 1500W Carbon Infrared Heater with Remote
- Recommended primarily for SHELTERED external use. Do NOT expose to rain or moisture.
- Clean, instant and odorless Infrared heat, 900W, 1200W, 1500W
- Plug and go uses standard 120V, remote controlled
- Included wall and Ceiling mounting bracket
- Made with durable and weather proof alumi
- Size: 35 x 8 x 4 inches
- Material: Aluminum
- BTU: 5115
- It doesn’t take up floor space
- Adjustable heat output
- Remote controllable
- Not as powerful as other models
- Difficult assembly
- Requires electrical outlet and (possibly) an extension cord
If you don't like the appearance of a freestanding patio heater, the Dr. Infrared Wall-Mount Heater is a great option. The design can hang from the wall or ceiling on your patio. This heater offers three heat settings that can adjust via its remote control, and a standard 120-volt outlet powers it.
The wall-mounted model has a mounting bracket that may be used on either the wall or the ceiling, while the ceiling-mounted variant comes with an installation kit. While this heater can be utilized on your patio, it will function best if it is not exposed to direct weather conditions. The Dr. Infrared has a safety shut-off feature that cuts off the heat if it gets too hot and an auto-shutoff option that shuts the device off after a set amount of time.
Best Heat-Focusing: Hampton Bay 38,200 BTU Heat-Focusing Propane Gas Patio Heater
- POWERFUL-38,200 BTUs heats up to 120 sq. ft. Propane-fueled, propane tank not included.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT-Heat-focusing reflectors adjust to offer excellent heat distribution.
- SAFE-Anti-tilt design and flame failure cut-off switch for safety with weighted base that offers stability.
- EASY SET UP-Hinged cylinder chamber door provides easy access.
- FREE COVER-Patio Heater Head Vinyl Co
- Size: 34 x 34 x 86.60 inches
- Material: Steel
- Directional control provides focused heat
- Wheels aid portability
- Includes cover
- Not as powerful as other models
- Difficult assembly
- Top-heavy
Most patio heaters put off heat in all directions. But if you want to be able to control where the warmth goes, this model offers a unique heat-focusing feature. The propane-powered unit has adjustable reflectors on top, allowing you to change the angle of its warmth. This is an ideal for heating up a dining or seating area!
The patio heat has 38,000 BTUs of power and heats up to 120 square feet with a weighted base that is equipped with wheels for mobility. The device has a long-lasting powder coating to guarantee it does not chip. Its electronic ignition system is simple to use.
The Final Analysis
You can't go wrong with the well-known Hampton Bay Stainless Steel Patio Heater which is a powerful alternative that heats up to 200 square feet for a reasonable price. If you're looking for something more cost-effective, we recommend the Mr. Heater Portable Heater (view at Walmart), a tabletop device.
What to Look for When Purchasing a Patio Heater
Power Source
Patio heaters are available with a range of fuel and power supply alternatives. Propane is the most popular fuel used in patio heaters. But an electric-powered patio heater may be a better option if you don't want to deal with propane tanks. As they run on electricity, these can run by plugging into regular household outlets. There will not be any electrical risks or malfunctions if the elements are dry and safe.
Range
If you're searching for a personal-sized patio heater to keep two people or a bigger unit that can heat things up for a small group. Which kind of patio heater are you looking for? Larger patio heaters generally cover greater distances—up to 18 feet or more. However, while smaller tabletop versions will only radiate warmth for a few feet.
Heat Output
Its intensity and effectiveness may best assess the heat output of a patio heater. This is usually measured in BTUs for gas-burning patio heaters and watts for electric patio heaters, with an average output of 40,000 BTUs. Compare the BTUs or watts to determine which model would be the most effective at heating your area.
FAQs
What's the best way to choose a fuel source?
Three common fuel sources, i.e., Liquid propane, natural gas, and electricity, are the most common fuels used in patio heaters. Consider what's most readily available, practical, and cheap when deciding which is best for you.
20-pound liquid propane tanks power most heaters, which are relatively cheap to run. You'll have to refill your tank, which often entails traveling to a local convenience store, gas station, or home improvement shop.
You may want to choose an electric patio heater if that appears like a headache because this just requires connecting it to a regular 120-volt outlet. Just keep in mind that using an electric patio heater on a daily basis might raise your power bill. Another alternative is natural gas, but it's only useful if you already have a natural gas line in your home.
What are BTUs?
The BTUs, or British thermal units, of a patio heater. The measurements of heating are often but to indicate how much heat it generates. The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit is defined as BTU. A good patio heater may produce up to 30,000-50,000 BTU per hour—the higher.
How do I clean a patio heater?
Wiping down the outside of your patio heater with soapy water every now and again to remove any grime or flaws is a good idea. Keep your patio heater clean during the off-season by covering it when not in use and storing it correctly.
It's also a good idea to inspect the unit's pilot tube and thermocouple for corrosion or damage and the fuel regulator and fuel line for kinks, breaks, or leaks on a regular basis. If any of these components are damaged, consult the owner's handbook for instructions on how to repair them.
- Where should I place my patio heater?
When setting up your patio heater; make sure it is on a firm, solid surface to reduce the chance of tipping. It will be separately placed at least three feet away from ignition sources such as plants, textiles, and even propane tanks.
In general, place the heater as close to your outside sitting or dining area as feasible. This will allow you to take full advantage of it and, if it's too hot, turn it down. This will help you save money.
- Are patio heaters safe on decks?
The heat generated by a freestanding patio heater isn't enough to cause burning. Most patio heaters are safe to use on wooden decks. To be clear, it's always a smart idea to double-check the operating instructions.
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