A patio heater is a great investment if you plan to entertain more people in your backyard, or keep it warm all year. It’s safer to spend time outdoors and it’s healthier. Our guide to the best patio heaters features a variety of models to keep you and your guests comfortable throughout the year.
We have compiled a list of the best patio heaters from trusted brands like Hampton Bay, Fire Sense and ThermoTiki. These patio heaters are great for hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying your backyard as an extension of your home.
There are many patio heaters to choose from. You can have a large, freestanding burner that heats several people and covers 324 sq. feet. Or you can get a small wall-mounted model that heats a 6×6 foot balcony. No matter what your needs are, there’s a patio heater that will suit them all.
Top 3 Best Rated Patio heaters have become more popular in recent years. This has led to more design options and styles. Our top patio heaters guide includes classic heaters, propane-powered models and wall-mounted electric models. We also have contemporary patio heaters that will add a unique touch to your deck or patio.
When buying a patio heater, it is worth considering the BTU (British Thermal Units). This will give you an indication of the heat output of your patio heater. The higher the number, you will get more heat. However, patio heaters can also be more expensive to run.
Our guide to the best patio heaters (opens new tab) might help you decide if a patio heater is right. The best gas grills and the top hot tubs are great options to maximize your outdoor space.
1. Fire Sense Commercial Patio Heater: Best patio heater overall
(Image credit: Amazon)
A powerful, sturdy and reliable patio heater.
Specifications
Heat source: Propane
Heat output: 46,000 BTU
Heating range: 225 square feet
Size: 89 x 33 x 18 inches
Weight: 43 pounds
Reasons to buy
Electric ignition system
Pilotless burner system
Various finishes to choose from
Avoiding Reasons
At maximum power, it consumes a lot of fuel
The Fire Sense Commercial Patio Heater is our top pick. The Fire Sense Commercial Patio Heater is a strong, freestanding heater that can be used outdoors. It uses a standard 20-pound propane tank and its 46,000 BTU heat will heat up to 225 square foot of patio.
The Fire Sense Commercial Patio Heater, made from commercial-grade stainless steel, is available in a variety of finishes to match your patio decor.
The Piezo electric ignition system allows for patio heater lighting as easy as pressing a button. But, the most appealing feature is the ‘Pilotless Burner. System, which is more reliable in windy conditions and also reduces fuel wastage.
2. Avenlur 42000 BTU Pyramid: Best patio heater with optional LED lights
(Image credit: Amazon)
Superb style for classy evenings on the patio
Specifications
Heat source: Propane
Heat output: Around 42,000 BTU
Heating range: 10 sq. ft.
Size: 29 x 29 x 89 inches
Weight: 65lb
Reasons to buy
Looks magnificent
Visible flame offers brilliant ambiance
Avoiding Reasons
It is difficult to assemble
Fuel prices can be high
Avenlur’s Pyramid is one of the best patio heaters. The glass tube it fires up gives you a unique glow unlike any other propane heaters. It’s also far more attractive than the mushroom-topped counterparts.
Although it’s not an easy thing to assemble with a few missing details, once you have figured them out, we don’t think you’ll be disappointed with the ease of use, its wheels that make it portable and the heat it produces. You should keep a spare propane bottle handy, as it can guzzle the gas in large flames.
3. Westinghouse Infrared 5100 Electric Standing Patio Heater: Best patio heater for small backyards
(Image credit: Amazon)
This is the ideal patio heater for creating a small cozy space for two
Specifications
Heat source: Electricity
Heat output: 5100 BTU
Heating range: 6 feet
Size: 33 x 6 x 5.5 inches
Weight: 6lbs
Reasons to buy
Easy to move around
Built-in protection against overheating
Avoiding Reasons
Not suitable for larger spaces
The Westinghouse Infrared5100 Electric Standing Patio Heater will impress those who need a heater to keep their patio warm while they relax or eat. This heater is ideal for small families or individuals who do not require a lot of heat.
The Westinghouse Infrared5100 Electric patio heater is a great choice for energy efficiency. It also has a lot of useful features. This includes safety features to avoid mishaps or accidents and technology to protect it from falling in adverse weather conditions. It won’t heat large gatherings or families due to its low power but it will suit smaller families well and be less expensive to run.
4. AmazonBasics Commercial Outdoor Patio Heater: Best patio heater for value
(Image credit: Amazon)
This great-value patio heater competes on power and performance with more expensive models
Specifications
Heat source: Propane
Heat output: 46,000 BTU
Heating range: 324 square feet
Size: 89 x 33 x 18 inches
Weight: 40 pounds
Reasons to buy
Powerful
Variety of finishes
Electric ignition system
Avoiding Reason
Windy conditions can make it unstable
Paint can peel from the burner.
The AmazonBasics Commercial Outdoor Patio Heater is a great choice if you are looking for a propane patio heater that you can free-standing. It’s one of the most affordable patio heaters.
This patio heater is nearly identical in size, style, and power to similar heaters such as the Fire Sense Commercial Patio Heater. It also has the best customer feedback, with over 1000 reviews on Amazon.
Although there are more negative feedback points, most users are still pleased with the product’s performance, especially when considering its price and positioning as ‘Basics.
5. Bromic Smart-Heat Electric Patio Heater: Best patio heater for wall-mounting
(Image credit: Amazon)
A premium patio heater that’s well-designed, efficient and eco-friendly
Specifications
Heat source: Electric
Heat output: 4000W (13,640 BTU)
Also available: 2000W, 3000W, 6000W
Heating range: 120 square feet
Size: 44 x 8.5 x 3.5 inches
Weight: 20 pounds
Reasons to buy
Precise dimming control
Efficient heat output
Can be mounted on wall or ceiling
The best high-end patio heater we have chosen is not the most expensive, but the Bromic Smart-Heat Electric Patio Heater is our choice for its winning combination of power, eco-friendliness and design quality.
The wall-mounted Bromic Smart Heat Electric Patio Heater is available in four models, ranging from 2000W up to a powerful 6000W. It uses state-of the-art infrared radiant elements that provide efficient directional heat for your patio.
This outdoor heater produces less heat than propane. Access to an electrical outlet is required. It’s effective at heating spaces and we love its modern, sleek design.
Bromic has introduced a premium Platinum range that is ultra thin and sleek to enhance an already high-end patio heater. Both ranges also include gas-powered units.
6. Hampton Bay 48000 BTU Stainless Steel: Best patio heater for garden parties
(Image credit: Home Depot)
Big patio? Little money? No problem.
Specifications
Heat source: Propane
Heat output: 48,000 BTU
Heating range: 200 sq ft
Size: 7ft 2in
Weight: 33lbs
Reasons to buy
Solid, straightforward design
Strong heat output
Avoiding Reasons
The heat doesn’t get too low
Exciting looks
Hampton Bay’s patio heater can produce a huge 48,000 BTU heat output. This makes it one of the most powerful patio heaters available. The Hampton Bay 48000 BTU Stainless Steel Patio Heater is a reasonable option. However, it won’t be a standout in terms of design unless you have a lot of stainless steel hardware.
Hampton Bay’s patio heater is great for standing up parties, covering large areas, and it’s easy to transport even though it doesn’t have wheels. It is not a bad thing but it doesn’t push the boundaries of innovation.
The Hampton Bay 48000 BTU Stainless Steel Patio Heater has an auto shut-off valve in case it is tipped. The heater also features a stackable bottom that can hold your 20lb propane tank. This patio heater is safe and reliable, particularly for gatherings with a lot of people standing up.
7. Hiland Parasol Electric Patio Heater: Best patio heater for your parasol
(Image credit: Amazon)
This discreet, affordable electric patio heater fits inside your parasol
Specifications
Heat source: Electric
Heat output: 1500W (5,115 BTU)
Heating range: 15 square feet
Size: 40 x 40 x 6 inches
Weight: 10.8 pounds
Reasons to buy
Variable temperature control
Also suitable for indoors
Avoiding Reasons
Heating range limited
Access to an electrical socket is required
The Hiland Parasol Electric patio heater is a great option if you have parasols and outdoor seating. It’s made by AZ Patio Heaters and is very discreet. It attaches to your parasol pole and allows for variable temperature control.
The Hiland Parasol Electric Patio Heater was designed to provide extra heat in the area under the parasol canopy and not to heat larger areas. If that’s what you require, the Hiland Parasol Electric Patio Heater is a highly effective and cost-effective outdoor heater.
8. Fire Sense Table Top Patio Heater: Best tabletop patio heater
(Image credit: Fire Sense)
The most portable patio heater we looked at
Specifications
Heat source: Propane
Heat output: 10,000 BTU
Heating range: 36 square feet
Size: 34.6 x 20.9 x 13.4 inches
Weight: 14.3 pounds
Reasons to buy
Portable but powerful for its size
Easy to use
Ideal for small spaces
Avoiding Reasons
Still quite heavy
It consumes a lot fuel
You want a small outdoor heater that will fit on your patio table and not take up too much floor space. Fire Sense Table Top Patio Heater fulfills both of these requirements. This patio heater is portable and lightweight.
The Fire Sense Table Top Patio Heater is a smaller version of its freestanding counterpart. It uses a one-pound propane tank, although you can hook it up to a larger tank if needed. Although it is not the most environmentally-friendly option, this patio heater produces 10,000 BTU heat.
9. Thermo Tiki Deluxe Patio Heater: Best patio heater for stylish spaces
(Image credit: Amazon)
Want ambience? This pyramid patio heater features an eye-catching dancing flame
Specifications
Heat source: Propane
Heat output: 38,000 BTU
Heating range: 225 square feet
Size: 90 x 18 x 18 inches
Weight: 57 pounds
Reasons to buy
Atmospheric ‘dancing flame’ design
Generates light as well as heat
Push-button ignition
Avoiding Reasons
Glass tubes are fragile
More style than power
Patio heaters are not only important for heat output, but they can also be used to enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space. The Thermo Tiki Deluxe Patio Heater is a great example of this. Although the pyramid patio heater does not generate as much heat as other patio heaters, its stylish and eye-catching “dancing flame” feature will draw attention to it and create an atmosphere of flickering light.
Thermo Tiki Deluxe Patio Heating System is a pyramid-shaped heater that looks great. There are more efficient ways to heat your patio. This patio heater is the most efficient, and it will create a relaxing atmosphere.
10. Dr Infrared Heater DR-338: The best patio heater for portable use
(Image credit: Amazon)
Infrared heating for literally any situation
Specifications
Heat source: Infrared
Heat output: Up to 1500W
Heating range: Not stated
Size: 35 x 8 x 4 inches
Weight: 15lbs
Reasons to buy
Very portable
Mountable
No fuel to run out
Avoiding Reasons
Heat output is rather low
Heating area very small
Dr Infrared Heater 338 Carbon Infrared Heater With Remote is a compact and useful infrared heater. This heater is best for heating small areas of patio or covered space. However, the included tripod, which includes tilt-sensing auto shut off and the same protection as the main unit, makes it portable enough to be used wherever you need.
You also get brackets that allow you to mount the heater on a ceiling or wall. This makes it ideal for indoor use in garages or workshops. It doesn’t need any fuel and you can adjust the heat remotely. However, it is best to be close enough to feel the warmth.
The best patio heaters today
How do you choose the best patio heater?
There are many options for patio heaters. These are the main four types.
- Strong freestanding units
- Portable table top units
- Ceiling-mounted or hanging units
- Wall-mounted units
Freestanding patio heaters tend to produce the most heat. Often, they are in the range of 40-50,000 BTU. BTUs (British Thermal Units) are the amount of energy needed to increase the temperature by 1 degree Fahrenheit for one pound. These are popular for heating large areas of patio or for heating larger groups.
Our list includes four freestanding patio heaters, ranging in price from less than $150 to more than $700. Each model was chosen from one of four patio heater brands. However, manufacturers may offer different heater styles. The Fire Sense vs AZ Patio Heaters guide compares products from two popular patio heater brands.
Fire Sense, Amazon Basics and Endless Summer offer freestanding propane patio heaters. (Image credit to Amazon).
We also reviewed two table-top patio heaters. One is a portable propane-powered unit that can be placed on top of a table and the other is an electric-powered unit that can be used as a table. They are both within the mid-range price range of $150-300, but they are often discounted.
Ceiling-mounted patio heaters are available in a variety of configurations. We have two options to suit different budgets. The first is an electric unit that can be placed inside your parasol for less than $100. The second is powered by natural gases and costs more than $1,200.
Wall-mounted patio heaters can provide directional heat to a limited area. They are typically much less powerful than other types. These heaters are typically electric with a 1500W (5.115 BTU) common output. The top-of-the range units can have up to four times the power.
Two wall-mounted patio heaters are featured in the following list: a Sundate 1500W unit for less than $100 and a Bromic 4000W unit for $700. While one wall-mounted heater might be enough for small areas, you may need several units if your patio is large. A more powerful heater could be worth the investment.
The wall-mounted electric heaters Bromic and Sundate are at opposite ends of budget. (Image credit: Amazon)
How do you choose the best patio heater fuel?
Freestanding patio heaters are usually propane-powered and will require a 20-pound tank. These heaters can be purchased at most local supermarkets and stores, although you may also find great deals online. To get instant heat, simply connect the tank and open the valve. Although some brands claim that a single tank will provide heat for up to 10 hours, this can vary from one brand to the next. Before you buy, it’s worth reading online reviews to see how long the tank will last.
Natural gas heaters that are connected directly to your mains gas lines are easier to use and more cost-effective in the long-term – provided your property has a gas pipe. This does however mean that your heater can only be installed in a certain area.
Electric heaters are more environmentally friendly than traditional heating systems. They’re also cheaper and easier to use. Plug them in, and heat will be generated. Their output is much lower than those powered by gas, so you will need to make sure they are within easy reach to a power outlet. This is not ideal for entertaining at the far end of your yard.
What are the best patio heaters?
The pyramid heater is a great choice for anyone looking to add style to their garden. Their sleek designs will be a hit with all your guests. The Avenlur Pyramid patio heating system is our favorite, and it has a beautiful visible flame that adds to its overall aesthetic. This heater is also great if you don’t want to wait around for your space warm up. It has a quick ignition, making it easy to install in your backyard.
Thermo Tiki Deluxe Patio Heater is another favorite, featuring a pyramid-shaped design. It also has a bright flame. This pyramid heater generates heat and light, making it a great addition to your backyard.
Which patio heater is the best value for money?
The best patio heaters are listed in our guide. There are many options to choose from, and you can get cozy vibes without spending too much.
The Amazon Basics Commercial Outdoor Patio heater is the best-selling heater. This heater can keep large groups warm with its 46,000 BTUs heat output and 324 square foot range.
The Hiland Parasol Electric Patio Heater is discreet and stylish. It fits inside your parasol to create a comfortable space for guests who enjoy eating al fresco. You can use it indoors or outdoors as well as doubles up to be a light source thanks to its warm orange glow.
Safety tips for using patio heaters
Any heating device that has an open flame can pose dangers. You need to ensure that the heat can be controlled. This is an important aspect. The room shouldn’t be overheated. Every day is a day of fire prevention,” stated Chief Michael Whitzel with the Franklintown and Community Fire Company, York County, Pennsylvania, to WHTM News.
Whitzel stated, “Ensure it has an auto shut off so that if it gets tipped over it will shut off for you.” If it’s an electric device, make sure to plug them into an outlet.
When you are leaving a room, space heaters must be turned off and unplugged. Patio heaters should be turned off and unplugged. Also, make sure to keep combustibles at least three feet from heaters. This will reduce the chance of them starting fires.
Robert Pomeroy, a Franklintown and Community Fire Company firefighter, recommends that you follow the heater manufacturer’s guidelines. He also suggests keeping an eye out for small children to prevent them from burning themselves or knocking the heater over.
How far should a patio heater be from your house?
Patio heaters can only be used outdoors with proper ventilation. This excludes infrared heaters which emit no gas. You could end up with a serious buildup of carbon monoxide.
You can find a suitable location for your heater by looking around the area. Make sure it is at least three feet away from any structures or buildings. Clear the area under your heater and don’t place anything on top or over it.
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