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Black Friday Deals Happening Now!
Some of our favorite patio heaters are on sale for Black Friday. Our favorite electric option, the East Oak Patio Heater is on sale for $168.99 (originally $199.99) during Amazon’s Black Friday sale. Or, you can snag the Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater for $349 (save $699) during Solo Stove’s Black Friday sale.
Investing in a patio heater is a great way to enjoy outdoor entertaining any time of year. We recently tested 11 outdoor heaters of various sizes, styles, and power sources to see which could add enough warmth to make staying outside cozy, even when temperatures are low. We ate dinner near them, gathered our chairs nearby, and used them to enjoy hanging out on our deck well after dark on a cold fall night.
We also spoke with a nursery owner to get their expert opinion on using a patio heater to add efficient heating to outdoor areas. Based on her insights and our independent research, we selected almost a dozen popular patio heaters and then tested their ease of assembly, performance, portability, and value. We chose the AZ Patio Heaters 87-inch tall patio heater and table as our top option, but each of the other models also has aspects we love that might be ideal for your needs and preferences.
Ahead, learn which features of the best outdoor heaters matter most in your decision and why these products are worth considering. Then start the grill, gather some good company, and let the best patio heaters keep you warm and toasty.
- BEST OVERALL: AZ Patio Heaters 87-Inch Tall Patio Heater With Table
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: EnerG+ Hanging Outdoor Electric Patio Heater
↓ Jump to Review - BEST ELECTRIC: East Oak E-Glow Wall & Standing Electric Heater
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PROPANE: Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WOOD PELLET: Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater
↓ Jump to Review - BEST TABLETOP: AZ Patio Heaters Outdoor Tabletop Patio Heater
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WALL-MOUNTED: Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Heater
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PORTABLE: Outland Living Mega Fire Pit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST HEATER AND TABLE: Best Choice Products Wicker Propane Fire Pit Table
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PYRAMID: AZ Patio Heaters HLDS01-GTSS Quartz Glass Tube Heater
↓ Jump to Review
| Testing Stats | |
|---|---|
| Products tested | 11 |
| Time spent testing | 11 hours |
| Tests performed | 7 |
| Price range | $75 to $600 |
Our Top Picks
Consider power source, material, design, safety features, and more to find the best patio heaters to keep warm. The following patio heaters are all at the top of their respective categories, and any of them would be a great choice for most users.
Best Overall
AZ Patio Heaters 87-Inch Tall Patio Heater With Table
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.75/5; Performance 5/5; Portability 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 48,000
- Dimensions: 87 inches tall by 17 inches in diameter
- Power source: Propane
What We Like
- Wheeled base for easy moving
- Adjustable-height tabletop is great for drinks
- Hinged door allows convenient access to gas cylinder
- Temperature can be set as desired
What We Don’t Like
- No rain cover
- Cylinder access door sometimes catches on frame
For those looking for a heater that pushes out plenty of heat, this mushroom-style patio heater is the way to go. The steel-constructed propane heater offers a diameter of warmth between 10 and 12 feet. It features a table with an adjustable height for added usability and a wheeled base for maneuverability on paved surfaces. The heater has a clearly marked ignition mechanism that allows for safely starting it, and its flame is easy to control so you can create the ideal amount of warmth.Overall, we found this heater to be convenient and efficient. Its construction was primarily sound, except for the cylinder access door for the propane tank at the base, which is somewhat flimsy. We also wish this unit came with a rain cover to help keep it clean and dry when not in use. Still, for its massive heat output and easy operation, this outdoor patio heater will provide excellent value and performance for a majority of users.
Get the AZ Patio Heaters patio heater with table at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, Walmart, or Bed Bath & Beyond.
Best Bang for the Buck
EnerG+ Hanging Outdoor Electric Patio Heater
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.75/5; Performance 3.5/5; Portability 5/5; Value 4.25/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 5,119
- Dimensions: 11 inches tall by 16.73 inches in diameter
- Power source: 110-volt power outlet
What We Like
- Doesn’t take up valuable floor space
- Provides energy-efficient infrared heat
- IP24 rating provides water resistance
- Ideal for covered patios and decks, porches, or gazebos
What We Don’t Like
- No warm-to-the-touch sensation as with radiant heat
Hang this overhead heater over a patio or under a porch or gazebo for extra warmth in cool, damp weather. The EnerG+ hanging patio heater is IP24 certified for use in dusty and rain-exposed environments, so you won’t need to worry about moving it on account of inclement weather. Its adjustable hanging chain allows users to suspend it at any height from an overhead support. Its power settings produce 750 or 1,500 watts of silent infrared heat, and a pull chain on/off switch controls the heater.
The EnerG+ electric patio heater was inexpensive, easy to install and operate, and produced a warming effect across an 8-foot diameter. To adjust the temperature, we selected between the high and low settings and raised or lowered the hanging height. It worked well inside our covered deck when hung 7 feet above the floor over a cluster of chairs, but at that height, it needed to stay on the high setting for us to feel the warmth in ambient temperatures of 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. We could have lowered the height for a stronger effect if it had been over a dining table or near a corner where no one could bump their head walking around it, but that would have shrunk the heated diameter accordingly.
Get the EnerG+ patio heater at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best Electric
East Oak E-Glow Wall & Standing Electric Heater
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Performance 3.5/5; Portability 5/5; Value 4.25/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 5,118
- Dimensions: 40 to 70 inches tall by 18 inches in diameter (base) by 31 inches wide (heater)
- Power source: 110-volt power outlet
What We Like
- Warms up to 64 square feet
- IP65 dust- and water-resistant rated for safe use outdoors
- Can mount to wall or included adjustable base
What We Don’t Like
- Too small for large spaces
- Top-heavy design presents a tip-over risk
Electric patio heaters are budget friendly and offer loads of flexibility. The East Oak E-Glow outdoor electric heater boasts an IP65 water-resistant rating for all-weather use, offers three heat settings for quiet warmth, and comes with both an adjustable stand and wall-mounting hardware. Unlike tower-type heaters that send out heat on all sides, this one emitted directional heat, making it a better option for use near or on a wall. The included remote control allows users to power on/off, change the temperature setting, or set the 24-hour timer.
We assembled the East Oak E-Glow patio heater on its stand and tested the low (1,000 watts), medium (1,200 watts), and high (1,500 watts) power settings at different heights. At the lowest height, about 40 inches, it was perfectly aligned for placement behind a bench or a row of chairs. The tallest setting, about 70 inches, was a better configuration for a cluster of three to six people standing within 8 feet. The best heating effect was within a 64-square-foot area, up to 8 feet from the heater and 4 feet to either side of the heater’s center point. As with other electric heaters we tested, this one produced a pleasant warming effect on the highest power setting in cool temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but it would likely not be enough for lower temperatures.
Get the East Oak patio heater at Amazon or East Oak.
Best Propane
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.25/5; Performance 4.25/5; Portability 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 46,000
- Dimensions: 91.3 inches tall by 32.12 inches in diameter
- Power source: Propane
What We Like
- Powerful and adjustable heat output
- Lightweight and wheeled for easy moving
- Attractive and comes at a great price
What We Don’t Like
- Might be more effective if unit was shorter
This relatively affordable outdoor propane heater boasts 46,000 BTUs of comfortable, adjustable heat. It took us about 30 to 45 minutes to set it up using the included tools, but we also grabbed our own ratchet wrench to tighten all the screws and covers. To hold its stainless steel body down, we filled its base with water, though you can also use sand.
At 91.3 inches tall, this model towers above most of the competitors. It radiates heat about 9 feet out, but since heat rises, those of us who are shorter couldn’t feel its warmth as well. If you’re looking for a standing patio heater for a bar-height setup, the unit’s attractive design would definitely add an upscale feel alongside effective heating.
Read our full review: Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater
What our tester says: “This heater uses piezo ignition to start, where you hold in a control knob to release gas and press a button to create a spark. While piezo ignitions are more convenient than using a lighter, they don’t always work well. The piezo ignition on the gas fireplace I own often leaves me clicking the ignition repeatedly in an effort to get the pilot to light. In contrast, the Amazon Basics patio heater typically started with just one or two attempts.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews writer and tester
Get the Amazon Basics patio heater at Amazon.
Best Wood Pellet
Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.2/5; Performance 4.5/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 72,000
- Dimensions: 80.5 inches tall by 19.8 inches wide (base) by 23.3 inches deep
- Power source: Wood pellets
What We Like
- Durable 304 stainless steel and cold-rolled steel construction
- Produces extremely low smoke and ash
- Automatic-feed hopper holds enough pellets for 3 hours
- Warms at an over 10-foot radius
What We Don’t Like
- At 104 pounds, it’s difficult to reposition
- Sides become dangerously hot during use
Nothing beats the feel of real wood heat. The Solo Stove Tower patio heater offers a fast, clean, and easy way to heat an outdoor living space with environmentally friendly wood pellet fuel. The 6.5-foot-tall tower gives off 72,000 BTUs of full-height warmth without gas or electricity. It’s equipped with an automatic-feed pellet hopper that holds 25 pounds of pellets. After you light the fire, it burns for up to 3 hours with no stoking, poking, or feeding.
The Solo Stove Tower patio heater is essentially a wood stove for a patio. It’s easy to light with a small dab of fire-starter gel and produces a good amount of heat within 5 minutes. Unlike the gas tower heaters we tested with burners at head height, the Solo Stove Tower’s burner is near ground level. It radiates heat from its base all the way to the top of the chimney, providing a much more even heat from about knee-high and up and covering about 314 square feet or 10 feet in diameter.
Although the Solo Stove patio heater is pricier than the others we tested, operating it is competitively cost-effective. We paid under $16 for two 40-pound bags of wood stove pellets, which is enough for about 10 hours of burn time. In comparison, a standard propane tank providing about 10 hours of burn time for a 48,000-BTU propane tower heater will cost between $18 to $25, or up to about 30 percent more than the price of heating with wood pellets.
Read our full review: Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater
What our tester says: “The Solo Stove Tower patio heater is a solid option that offers a unique heating experience. It costs more than the competition, but that is at least in part because of its heavy-duty construction. The premium price point may exclude bargain hunters, but in my view, it is a fair price.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Solo Stove patio heater at Solo Stove, Academy Sports + Outdoors, or BBQGrills.com.
Best Tabletop
AZ Patio Heaters Outdoor Tabletop Patio Heater
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.4/5; Performance 4/5; Portability 5/5; Value 4.75/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 11,000
- Dimensions: 38 inches tall by 13 inches in diameter
- Power source: Propane
What We Like
- Short enough to heat seating areas
- Sturdy stainless steel and aluminum construction
- Compact size makes it highly portable
What We Don’t Like
- Short runtime of about 1.75 hours on high
When cool weather rolls in, you can still share a meal with friends or cozy up on the deck with a good book. The AZ Patio Heaters portable outdoor heater, powered by a 1-pound propane bottle, produces up to 11,000 BTUs of warmth that keeps cold at bay. It is made of durable stainless steel and features a weighted base, push-button starter, adjustable heat output, and anti-tilt safety shutoff. The mushroom-style top reflects heat downward and outward to cover a 3.5-foot radius or about 10 square feet.
Essentially a miniature tower patio heater, this tabletop heater did a great job heating our 4-foot dining area. Its narrow body and high dome reflector minimally obstructed eye contact across the table. We also liked that the propane bottle was hidden inside the base of the heater so we could set it up anywhere (unlike other tabletop heaters that require a fuel connection through an umbrella hole).
In addition to our outdoor dining area, we also tested this heater on an end table to heat a pair of side chairs. The warmth it provided was pleasant on a damp, 50-degree Fahrenheit morning. The runtime was a little less than we would have liked, at a few minutes under 2 hours on the high setting, but this was still our favorite tabletop model.
Get the AZ Patio Heaters tabletop patio heater at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, Walmart, Target, or BBQGuy.
Best Wall-Mounted
Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Heater
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 4.5/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 5,200
- Dimensions: 6.27 inches tall by 34.6 inches wide by 3.33 inches deep
- Power source: 110-volt power outlet
What We Like
- Can mount to a wall or set up on an adjustable base
- Compact and lightweight
- Works with any electric outlet
- Comes with a remote for hands-free adjustments
What We Don’t Like
- For sheltered outdoor use only
- Needs weights to secure base if mounted to tripod
For delicious warmth in an enclosed patio or three-season room, shoppers will want to check out the 5,200-BTU carbon heater from Dr. Infrared Heater. It requires minimal assembly, measures about 6 inches tall by 35 inches long, and weighs just 7 pounds. The compact size and light weight of this infrared patio heater make it well suited for installation on a wall or as a ceiling patio heater. It also comes with a tripod for setup as a standalone unit, but the tripod’s legs were a bit flimsy, so it took us a little maneuvering to get everything level during testing.
The Dr. Infrared Heater features adjustable heat output and plugs into a standard 120-volt household outlet, so there’s no need to fill and haul propane tanks. It includes a remote control, features a programmable timer, and also boasts an automatic overheating shutoff. The electric heater is designed for exterior use but only in a protected location, as it can’t come into contact with precipitation.
Get the Dr. Infrared Heater patio heater at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Walmart.
Best Portable
Outland Living Mega Fire Pit
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 4.5/5; Portability 4.25/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 58,000
- Dimensions: 13 inches tall by 24 inches in diameter
- Power source: Propane
What We Like
- High heat output is suitable for colder climates
- Sturdy feet can accommodate rocky terrain
- Includes rain cover
- Smokeless alternative to a traditional fire pit
What We Don’t Like
- Fire rocks stay hot after the fire is out
- Low height and exposed flame can be dangerous
- Tank hose could be a tripping hazard
The Outland Living fire pit includes a 10-foot propane hose so users can position a propane tank out of sight while enjoying the lava rocks and glowing flames inside this rustic fire bowl. The patio heater generates up to 58,000 BTUs of heat, and the heat output is adjustable to suit the outdoor temperature. This patio heater is relatively compact and portable, measuring 13 inches tall and 24 inches in diameter and weighing 34 pounds. It comes with a cover and carrying straps for easy portability, though you’ll still need to carry a propane tank to wherever you want to use the heater.
In our tests, we found the 10-foot-long tank hose to be the biggest drawback, as it presents a tripping hazard. It also doesn’t allow you to move the propane tank all that far from the fire and the seats around it. If you have kids or pets in the area, you’ll also want to be aware that the unit sits relatively low to the ground and its hot rocks and flames are exposed, which could be dangerous. However, the heat the fire pit emits is excellent, and its smokeless output makes it an attractive option for those who prefer not to deal with wood fires.
Get the Outland Living patio heater at Amazon, Wayfair, Walmart, or Outland Living.
Best Heater and Table
Best Choice Products Wicker Propane Fire Pit Table
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3.75/5; Performance 4.75/5; Portability 3.5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 50,000
- Dimensions: 24.75 inches tall by 52 inches wide by 34 inches deep
- Power source: Propane
What We Like
- Wicker and aluminum provide a sleek and modern look
- Glass rocks capture and radiate ample heat
- Metal burner lid is a good safety feature
- Includes a rain cover
What We Don’t Like
- Assembly instructions aren’t clear
- Propane tank door is a bit awkward to access
- Wicker base may be difficult to keep clean
Pull up a chair and pour a glass of wine or iced tea to enjoy around the Best Choice Products fire pit table. Its ample size and dual-purpose design (part fire pit, part food and drink table) make it perfect for casual gatherings with friends or family. Just be sure to set it up where you mean to use it, as it’s not particularly portable at 71.5 pounds. It does come with a durable nylon cover, so no matter where you place it you can protect it from the elements.
The top of the table features a removable rectangular panel that lifts to reveal a fire bowl filled with sparkling glass rocks that add brilliance to its flames. The heater holds a 20-pound propane tank and produces a hefty 50,000 BTUs of heat to keep outdoor diners toasty warm. It’s not super easy to assemble, however. We found the directions to be unclear, and it took a significant amount of time to put together. We also found placing the propane tank inside the table after assembly awkward, and the wicker base difficult to clean (the rain cover should help protect it from getting too dirty). Despite those drawbacks, this is a good patio heater with terrific heat output and an attractive look.
Get the Best Choice Products patio heater at Amazon, Walmart, Target, or Best Choice Products.
Best Pyramid
AZ Patio Heaters HLDS01-GTSS Quartz Glass Tube Heater
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.4/5; Performance 4/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4.75/5
Product Specs
- BTUs: 40,000
- Dimensions: 91 inches tall by 20 inches square
- Power source: Propane
What We Like
- Radiates warmth up to 201 square feet
- Contemporary design features an ornamental flame inside a quartz glass tube
- Wheeled base improves portability
What We Don’t Like
- Radiates less heat than “umbrella” patio heaters
- Output affected by even a slight breeze
Dancing flames flicker up and down the glass at the heart of the AZ Patio Heaters quartz glass tube heater. This stainless steel, pyramid-style propane heater stands 91 inches tall and offers an adjustable heat output. The solid cabinet base of the pyramid is designed to conceal a 20-pound propane tank (not included).
This pyramid heater weighs 65 pounds, tapers in width from base to top to prevent tipping, and features wheels for easy transport. It delivers 40,000 BTUs of heat and comes equipped with a tip-over safety shutoff. The top reflector shield reflects warmth, while a metal safety grid prevents accidental contact with the quartz glass tube.
Although the design is strikingly attractive, we noted that the heat produced by the AZ Patio Heaters quartz glass tube heater was less effective than what was produced by the mushroom-style heaters. It was somewhat awkward to move, even with the wheeled base. Rather than considering it a primary outdoor heat lamp, we think it’s a nice decorative accent that also happens to add a bit of warmth.
Get the AZ Patio Heaters glass tube patio heater at Amazon, The Home Depot, or AZ Patio Heaters.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Patio Heaters
To test the above patio heaters, we assembled them according to the manufacturer’s instructions and measured their ability to warm an outdoor space by noting the farthest distance one could stand from each unit and still feel the warmth. We evaluated how quickly they heated the area and how much they increased the space’s temperature. We also rated the heaters based on how quickly they cooled after use, how easy they were to clean, and whether their additional features (such as wheels, safety glass, or a cover) were effective.
What to Consider When Choosing a Patio Heater
Some patio heaters are large and serve as a focal point on the patio around which merrymakers gather, while others are strictly functional—they heat the area but don’t add much to the ambience. Choosing the outdoor heating option that best suits a specific patio is mostly a matter of individual taste, but a few factors are worth considering.
Power and Fuel Sources
When the temperatures drop and a chill is in the air, having a source of outdoor heat makes outdoor activities more enjoyable. Patio heaters are well suited to northern climates, where the mercury plunges as soon as the summer sun drops beneath the horizon. They’re also beneficial in warmer regions, day or night, during the winter months. If you’re hunting for the best outdoor heater, start by considering the type of power required to operate the unit.
Propane
Propane patio heaters can warm up an outdoor living space quickly. Some are quite large and will hold up to a 20-gallon propane tank—a boon when users wish to heat a large area for an extended period. These outdoor heaters are often portable, depending on the style, and many include wheels.
Due to the risk of carbon monoxide buildup, it’s important not to use exterior propane heaters in an enclosed area, such as a greenhouse or enclosed patio, unless a clear safety feature is built into the unit to prevent operation under insufficient oxygen levels.
Natural Gas
Gas heaters fueled by natural gas are more likely to be considered permanent fixtures on the patio than propane heaters because they connect to a home’s natural gas line. Depending on local building codes, running a natural gas line to the patio probably requires the services of a licensed plumber.
Tammy Sons, founder and CEO of TN Nursery, is particularly fond of using natural gas heaters in outdoor spaces, even though they’re more expensive than electric or propane models. She notes that “Longtime ownership costs considerably less. They are also easier to maintain … because they connect directly to your gas line and will offer continuous heat for as long as you need it.”
Once purchased and installed, natural gas patio heaters have a lower operating cost because natural gas is usually a less expensive power source than propane. For those seeking an energy-efficient source of exterior warmth, a natural gas heater could be an excellent option.
Electric
Electric patio heaters do not require fuel, but they generally don’t last as long, so users will want to plan to replace them periodically. Because they do not use open flames, they may be safer for use around kids and pets, but they are also typically smaller and less powerful, so they won’t generate as much heat as other types of outdoor backyard heaters.
Shoppers looking for an electric patio heater will want to compare the heat output of different models to avoid making a home heating mistake that will increase electricity usage and lead to a larger electric bill. Also, it’s important to remember that electric patio heaters include a power cord, so having access to at least one outdoor electrical outlet is necessary.
Wood
There’s nothing quite like a wood-burning patio heater for an authentic campfire feel. This type of heater can generate a lot of heat, depending on the size of the firebox and the amount of wood it will hold.
Since wood fires can create smoke and ash, a wood-burning patio heater isn’t suitable for an enclosed patio. To reduce smoke, users will want to burn only seasoned hardwoods, such as hickory, birch, and white ash. Since some communities don’t permit open fire pits, it’s a good idea to check with the local fire department before buying one.
Style
Just because it’s a patio doesn’t mean this outdoor space shouldn’t receive the same attention to aesthetics as any indoor room. The following patio heater styles can serve as a unique decor feature for a backyard oasis.
- Tower-style heater: Most tower-style patio heaters are 6 to 8 feet tall, with the heat source located at the top, middle, or bottom of the tower. Available in electric or propane versions, these patio heaters generally warm up a 5- to 10-foot radius, making them an excellent option for yards and larger patios.
- Space heater: More about function than aesthetics, an exterior space heater is relatively small and designed to heat a limited space. A space heater tucked beneath the patio table may be sufficient for outdoor dining to keep diners cozy as they enjoy a meal. Space heaters may be powered by propane or plugged into an outdoor electrical outlet.
- Tabletop heater: Smaller than freestanding heaters, tabletop electric heaters and tabletop propane units usually need to be secured to a patio table through the hole where a sun umbrella would fit. They offer the advantage of portability but tend to be less powerful, making them well suited to smaller spaces.
- Mounted heater: Available in wall- or ceiling-mounted options, these patio heaters are typically infrared (meaning they radiate heat) and electrically powered. They are excellent for those with limited floor space who wish to heat a large area.
- Fire pit/fireplace: Perhaps the ultimate in outdoor ambience, fire pits and outdoor fireplaces offer the type of flickering light associated with a campfire, so it’s little wonder that they’re high on many outdoor entertaining wish lists. They may be powered by propane, natural gas, or wood and are ideal for being surrounded by patio chairs for a late-night s’mores session.
Area Size
The maximum area a patio heater will comfortably heat depends on several variables. Many large patio heaters are radiant, meaning they reflect heat waves rather than distribute heat via a fan. Radiant heat is more effective because it warms objects in front of it rather than just warming the air. On a breezy day, a fan-based convection heater won’t keep anyone warm if the wind blows away the heated air.
Depending on the power of the heating element, a patio heater can radiate heat 4 to 12 feet or even farther. Many feature the ability for the user to adjust the heat output—turning down the heater if only a bit of warmth is necessary or running it on the highest setting to heat a wider area.
Heat Output
A natural gas or propane patio heater’s heat output is measured in BTUs, while an electric heater’s output is measured in watts.
- BTU estimation: To estimate suitable BTUs for a patio heater, multiply the patio’s square feet by 20. For example, a patio that measures 20 by 20 feet equals 400 square feet of space. Multiplying 400 by 20 is 8,000, so a gas patio heater with an 8,000-BTU output would effectively heat the area. Depending on style and size, gas patio heaters range from about 5,000 to 40,000 BTUs.
- Watt estimation: Electric patio heaters offer a maximum of 1,500 watts—comparable to 5,100 BTUs—so they don’t generate quite as much heat as gas heaters, making them better for smaller patios. Alternatively, shoppers can consider using two or more electric patio heaters on a single patio if they desire additional heat output.
Aesthetic
While the main function of a patio heater is to maintain a comfortable outdoor temperature, many go the extra mile to help create a cozy or romantic feeling. Some tabletop styles incorporate glass rocks that reflect various light colors, while others produce flickering flames that add a dreamy feel.
Except for the smallest options, most propane patio heaters feature a cabinet that conceals the propane tank to create a cleaner look. For the best aesthetics, users will want to select a material that blends with the style of the home and patio. A sleek stainless steel patio heater will enhance the look of a contemporary home with modern decor, while a cast-iron fire pit would better suit a rustic cabin getaway space.
Safety
Anything that produces enough heat to warm a patio comes with some safety considerations. Manufacturers reduce the risk of burns by encasing patio heaters in materials that remain cool to the touch or placing the heating element above a level where humans can reach it (in the case of tower-style heaters). Still, shoppers will want to consider the following tips to use heaters for patio areas as safely as possible.
- Move it away: Keep the patio heater away from walls, patio furniture, and flammable objects. The general rule is to position a patio heater with 3 feet of space on all sides.
- Keep it level: Some patio heaters provide a safety shutoff if the heater tips, but not all models include that feature. Position the heater on a level spot to keep it from tipping over.
- Buy a fire extinguisher: Patio heaters don’t present a significant fire risk, but a wood-burning heater can eject burning ash, or a space heater could tip over. Be prepared in case of fire by having an extinguisher handy.
- Stay with it: Don’t leave a patio heater on without an adult present.
- Keep it covered: Some patio heaters include a cover. If your chosen heater doesn’t, it’s a good idea to invest in one and keep the patio heater covered when not in use. A cover will keep bugs, dirt, and debris from blowing into the heating element, which can clog it or create a fire risk.
Portability
It will be much easier to move a patio heater from one side of the patio to the other or relocate it near a pool if the unit includes wheels.
The largest propane patio heaters can weigh 60 pounds or more—not including the weight of a 20-pound propane tank—so carrying one can quickly become cumbersome. Electric patio heaters are typically smaller and more lightweight, weighing up to an average of 20 to 30 pounds, but wheels will still come in handy.
A small portable heater may weigh only a few pounds, allowing users to easily pack it in a trunk or move it to another part of a yard.
Cost
When it comes to electric patio heaters, the real cost often comes in paying the utility bill. This is because electricity can be more expensive than natural gas or propane. That said, electric heaters are initially a less expensive option.
Propane patio heaters run the gamut in price, from inexpensive space heaters to tall tower-style heaters, but operating them is generally more cost-effective than operating electric models.
Natural gas patio heaters are often at the top of the price line because they are frequently designed for installation in permanent outdoor kitchens and living areas. They’re among the least expensive to operate, but users may require the services of a licensed plumber for installation.
Wood-burning fire pits and fireplaces also span a large range in cost, from inexpensive fire pits to high-end fireplaces permanently built into outdoor entertaining areas.
FAQs
Having a heat source in an outdoor area offers users the ability to entertain comfortably even after temperatures drop. For those thinking of buying a patio heater, some questions are to be expected. the temperatures drop. For those thinking of buying a patio heater, some questions are to be expected.
The Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 carbon infrared heater is among the best options for those wanting convenient electric heat in an enclosed patio setting.
When it comes to patio heaters, one size does not fit all. Natural gas and propane patio heaters range from around 5,000 to 40,000 BTUs or more. Choose an option that best suits the space and the level of desired heat output.
Place a gas patio heater and a freestanding electric patio heater a minimum of 3 feet from walls and other items, such as furniture. However, some electric heaters are designed to be safe even if mounted on a wall or ceiling, so it depends on the type.
Most electric patio heaters are safe to use in sheltered patio conditions, like under a covered or enclosed patio. While a small gas patio heater, such as a tabletop model, can usually operate safely under a covered patio, a traditional tower-style model may stand too high (within 5 feet of the ceiling) to be safe here.
It is safe to put a patio heater under a gazebo if it isn’t within 3 feet of the gazebo’s side walls or ceiling rafters.
Though the amount of electricity a patio heater uses will depend on the size and type of the heater, the average 4,000-watt electric patio heater will use about 60 cents worth of electricity
Whether a patio heater needs ventilation depends on the type of heater. Wood, gas, propane, and kerosene heaters require ventilation, but electric models do not.
Meet the Tester
Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester with a background in the nursery and landscaping industry. For more than 20 years he mowed, edged, planted, pruned, cultivated, irrigated, and renovated beautiful landscapes. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest outdoor power equipment, hand tools, lawn-care products, and other outdoor-living goods.
Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor and Debbie Wolfe.
