The 10 Best Patio Heaters in 2024

Do you intend to purchase the best patio heaters for your home? Here we’ve reviewed a list of highly-effective patio heaters that might fall in your price range. We are also going to show you crucial factors to consider when looking for the right variant.

The best patio heater can be electric, propane, or natural-gas-powered. These systems work by generating enough heat to keep you warm outdoors, especially when hosting night parties or family gatherings. They are also handy for extended outdoor stay when sipping a glass of champagne or wine.

Some patio heaters are way pricier to run, so keep costs low as possible. Also, take note of the Btu (British thermal unit), as it is the rate at which the heater works. The higher the Btu rating, the more powerful the system.

Right away, let’s take a look at the top ten models that stand out in the market.

Hampton Bay 48000 Btu Steel Patio Heater

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The first in our list of reviews is the Hampton Bay Btu 48,000 propane heater. Well, if you are looking for a stylish and easy-to-maintain heater, then Hampton bay 48000 is the best.

To start with, this heater comes with a propane cylinder that is sold separately. The cylinder is also replaceable with any variants of the same size. Averagely, it should take you less than 45 minutes to assemble the whole appliance.

At the base of the heater is a 20 lb propane tank that is compatible with various types of heads. When full, the fuel is enough to run for three days uninterruptedly without any hitch.

If you need something that won’t topple over under strong winds, then this heater is your ideal bet.

Hampton Bay 48,000 Btu comes with a control valve that lets you adjust the temperatures. All you need is to rotate the knob to either right or left to increase or decrease the amount of combustion gas. For safety, the heater comes with an anti-tilt switch to ensure more stability.

This heater is the best option when looking for something portable enough with decent weight. It doesn’t need any wheel to walk it across the patio to a preferred spot. Generally, it guarantees value for money.

Garden Treasures 48,000 Btu Stainless Steel Heater

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If you are running a restaurant and want to keep it warm for your customers, then you will definitely love this heater. Standing more than 70 inches high, the garden treasure 48000 BTU heater is powerful enough to warm an area of around 200 sq ft. On maximum output setting, it attains 48, 000 thermal units while evenly distributing heat in a 360-degree zone.

The garden treasure comes in a mushroom-shaped head that ensures water doesn’t get into the ignitor when it is raining. It falls in the category of professionally designed propane heaters with doors for easy refills. Through this, you can access the tank without having to bring the system down.

The stainless steel burner is durable enough for years of use. Neither does it rust even when left outside for days. To clean the body, all you need is to wipe the surface with a wet towel.

Most propane heaters in the same height range as this heater have sand-filled bases for stability. This is not the case with Garden Treasure. Firstly, the 20lb tank is enough to ensure that your guests do not topple this device over. Added to the door frame, this heater can withstand the push of wind without the flame going off.

Dr. Infrared 1500 Watts Heater for Outdoors and Indoors

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If you want to spend less on an electric heater, then we recommend this product by Dr. Infrared. This heater only weighs a few pounds, and it can fit in every place, be it indoors or outdoors. It also comes with a sturdy body that makes it easy to mount on walls and even the ceiling.

Unlike the products that we reviewed prior, Dr. Infrared comes with a remote control feature. You can hide the device in one of the corridors and use the remote to turn it on and off without the need to maneuver the unit.

Dr. Infrared heater doesn’t come with a heat adjustment knob. The remote has a button that you can use to alternate its temperature settings to 900W, 1200W, or 1500W. This way, it suits most of your needs, from feet-warming to keeping your patio comfortable.

The anodized aluminum used to make this device is not only durable but also aesthetically appealing and weatherproof. If you love black colors, then here is a perfect gift that can last you decades without compromising efficiency.

Dr. Infrared works on electricity when corded and plugged. You won’t go wrong with it as long as there is a stable electric current.

Hiland HLDSO1-GTHG 91-Inch Tall Quartz Glass Tube Heater

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What do you get from buying a portable tower for your outdoor heating needs? An awesome beauty element that accentuates your home’s aesthetic appeal. Well, that is only part of the many benefits that this product from Hiland has in store for you.

Standing 91 inches high, this heater comes in a pyramidal shape with wheels for ease- of-maneuverability. It sits on a 20 lb propane tank that can last you 8-10 hours of uninterrupted use when full. When switched to maximum output, the heater works at a rate of 40, 000 Btu per hour.

Hiland HLDSO1-GTHG comes in a quartz glass tube that is equally appealing. It produces a flame that produces heat in every direction across an area of about 10 sq. ft. Most importantly, the heater doesn’t topple easily when swayed by the wind.

Hiland HLDSO1 fits in every outdoor place including on a wooden deck. You can also use it under a covered patio as long as there are a few inches for clearance. Also, you should find it easy to put together as it comes with a manual that explains how to attach the case to the heater.

AmazonBasics 46,000 Btu Outdoor Patio Heater with Wheels, Slate Grey

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Enjoy cozy backyard conversation even in winter cold with the help of this slate grey heater. Made by AmazonBasic, this heater comes in a striking aluminum body with a fine coat finishing that makes it ideal when looking for a beautiful patio heater for outdoor decor. At its base is a vented 20lb propane tank that can last you about 10 hours of uninterrupted use when full.

Well, not all gas tanks have ignition buttons. AmazonBasic incorporated the piezo ignition feature to this heater that allows for fast light-ups while minimizing gas leakages. Also, the system comes with a chain that helps to secure the LPG tank.

The unit includes an auto shut-off tilt valve that cuts the gas supply immediately the system is about to fall. Since the heater is a bit heavier, it includes a wheel for easy mobility.

Standing 89-inches high, this heater captures a radius of about 9 ft, making it ideal for small outdoor gatherings. It also works well in restaurant and hotel environments. For stability, the system comes with a water tank that, when filled, enables it to withstand strong winds or accidental bumps without falling.

AmazonBasics 46,000 Btu Outdoor Patio Heater with Wheels, Charcoal Grey

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The AmazonBasics 46, 000 heater is one of the most powerful systems on our list and is designed for outstanding performance and efficiency. It is a one-stop-solution for residential patio, restaurant, and café heating needs.

With 46, 000 Btu rating, this product is a real workhorse that’s capable of heating up to a diameter of 18 feet. What’s more, it comes in elegant bronze coat finishing that accentuates the outdoor environments for an incomparable beauty.

The AmazonBasics 46, 000 heater includes a piezo ignition system with a push-up button that lights and works the system in a second. Also, the unit comes with a variable knob that you can use to adjust the heat setting to meet your personal preference.

You won’t worry about the system tilting either. At the base is a water box that also works as a sandbag to keep the heater steady. However, if it topples over, the unit is equipped with an auto-shutoff tilt valve that cuts the gas and shuts the system off.

Weighing 37.9 pounds, AmazonBasics is rather heavy, but there would be no need for lifting since the system comes with a wheel for mobility. This feature makes it an ideal option when looking for a portable heater that is not daunting to move around in any direction.

Hiland HLDS032-BSS HLDS032-BBS Portable Table Top Heater

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Hiland HLDS032-BSS HLDS032-BBS is a lightweight heater that perfectly fits any tabletop. All factors considered, there is no doubt that this mini-patio heater is one of the best, both in terms of performance and ease-of-use.

This product by Hiland stands 38-inches tall making it perfect for use in covered patios and any other indoor environment. It is engineered a tone black body with an SS finish that adds to the glamour and glitz of both indoor and outdoor décor.

One of the main reasons for the effectiveness of this heater is its 1 lb tank. Unlike most variants that use 20 lb tanks, this heater has a horse-insert hole on the tank that you can use to connect the system to another tank. This way, you can easily carry it around and refill the unit using a 20lb or any larger LPG tank.

As small as it may look, this heater has a Btu rating of 11,000, hence suitable for heating up to 10 feet in diameter. The unit also comes with a regulator that you can use to vary the temperature in your room for added comfort. It comes with a burner screen guard that prevents leakages.

Mr. Heater, MH30T Double Tank Top Outdoor Propane Heater

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Mr. Heater MH30T is a top-of-the-line heater from a reputable MR.HEATER Brand. This mini-heater comes in a metal body and is small enough to fit onto any tabletop. It is ideally perfect for outdoor use.

It boasts a Btu rating of between 16, 000 to 20, 000. It has two heating elements that look like satellite dishes that rotate side by side to heat areas exposed to the radiating heat. When limited on gas, you can power one dish, and rest the other. Otherwise, you can alternate the angle of the radiant heat to any intended place.

The best part of it is that it accepts a wide range of LPG tanks. The unit accepts a male fitting connector that you can use to channel gas from a tank of your choice. With the right installation, it works pretty well with even a 200lb LPG bottle.

Operating this heater is hassle-free. Unlike other variants that come with a thermostat to vary the heat, this product only includes high and low heat settings. When the temperature dips to the lowest degree, you can keep yourself warm by pressing the high heat setting, and vise versa.

Lastly, the unit comes with symmetrical jelly beans that fit near the framastan to prevent leakages. The manufacturer recommends the use of strong adhesive to install and keep the jelly beans in place.

hOmeLabs Gas Patio Heater – 87 Inches Tall Premium Standing Outdoor Heater

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Are you looking for a perfect replacement for your firepit? Well, this product by hOmeLabs is powerful enough to keep you warm all night long even under extreme temperatures. It features a Btu rating of a whopping 41, 000 and can heat up to an area of about 21 feet in diameter.

The first word that comes to your mind when buying a heater is height. Well, this heater stands 87-inches tall while still settling perfectly on a drink shelf tabletop. To keep it stable, the unit comes with a base that measures 18.1 inches. You can fill the base with either water or sand to keep it from toppling.

This unit is engineered from high-grade steel. However, it is the finish that impresses many. It includes appealing steel hammered double covering that fits perfectly in any patio or outdoor environment. The finishing also makes it weatherproof and non-corrosive.

Added features like auto-shutoff make it easy to close the valves and prevent fire breakout whenever the system topples by accident. However, the system incorporates an auto-ignition system that starts the unit with a press of the button.

At the top of the heater is a mushroom-shaped reflector that distributes heat at a 360- degree angle. The cover also makes it more efficient, in that it, minimizes power loss and also prevents water from getting inside the unit.

Dr Infrared Heater DR-978 Dual Heating Hybrid Space Heater, 1500W with remote

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The last in our list of reviews is an electric-powered heater by Dr. Infrared Heater, a reputable manufacturer of AC appliances. This device is one of the most compact electric heaters you’ll ever meet. Plus, it blows air using a quiet fan across the room, so you can be sure to achieve a tranquil environment.

Dr. Infrared 978 is packed with safety features that allow for use around pets and children. It comes with an overheat protection that prevents the unit’s heating elements to disperse heat that is above your specific requirements. Also, it includes tip-over protection that cuts the system’s operation whenever the heater tilts.

Dr. Infrared 978 has three heating modes; low (1200 watts), high (1500 watts), and ECO. ECO mode works by achieving a set temperature that you must key in the system before it starts.

The most outstanding feature of this heater is its programmable off-timer. With it, you can set the heater to turn off immediately after a specific timeframe.

Dr. Infrared 978 also comes with a remote control feature. You can place it anywhere on the floor or couch and use the remote to alternate the setting without having to move around. It accepts a voltage of between 110-120 V.

Patio Heater: How to choose your fit

Patio heaters are huge investments, but choosing the right fit for your outdoor environment takes some effort and knowledge. To start with, the best patio heater should not hurt your budget. Neither should the device compromise on functionality and energy efficiency.

But that’s not all. Your personal preference comes into play whenever you intend to buy a heater that matches your personality and lifestyle. For this reason, we’ve compiled a set of pointers to guide you with the whole process of choosing a custom-fit patio heater that meets all your requirements.

Heat type

Are you the kind of personality that has a soft spot for green energy? Well, you should be. Patio heaters come in a range of fuel sources, some environmentally friendly, some not. Here are a few popular options that grace the market:

Propane heaters

Propane heaters are a perfect mix of functionality, style, and power. They come with propane tanks that hardly need refills. You can easily install propane heaters through a DIY process that doesn’t include the use of any tool at all.

Most propane heaters are made with durable steel bodies that last decades under proper maintenance. With an additional heat adjustment feature, they are your perfect bet for customizing your outdoor temperatures to a level that warms your heart.

Electric heaters

Electric patio heaters are the most popular, save for their zero emissions. They are your perfect bet when looking for an economical heater, that is at the same time, effective. This equipment emits a perfect amount of energy that is enough for a small backyard family gathering.

Electric heaters are easy to mount as they do not require any tool. They sit well on outdoor umbrella poles or any hang down. With the right heater, you can warm up to 15 square feet.

Natural gas

These heaters run on natural gas that is eco-friendly. However, to install a natural gas patio heater, you must enlist the services of a professional. These heaters are your ideal bet when looking forward to cutting the upfront costs in terms of power output Vs initial investment.

Heat range diameter

The heat range diameter is a measure of space your patio heater can warm. The less powerful models can heat between 5-10 feet, while the most powerful heat up to more than 20 feet range.

However, don’t assume that the bigger the patio heater, the larger the range it can warm. Some heaters are small in size but more powerful than their bigger counterparts. Usually, patio heaters have temperatures calibrated in British Thermal Units (Btu).1 Btu can heat 1.lb of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit.

When buying a patio heater, check the product description for its Btu. The higher the Btu, the more powerful the device is.

Patio heater designs

Though most patio heaters are sturdy, placing the device on the grass is not safe enough. Also, by moving the heater from one place to another, you can trip and fall, hence damaging it. Here are popular patio designs that guarantee great functionality and protection.

Wall-mounted designs

Take your patio décor to another level by using a wall-mounted heater. These designs accentuate architectural features and artwork, while at the same time provide enough heat to keep you warm. Additionally, wall-mounted heaters save on space. They fit small spaces while allowing you to add furniture such as tabletops.

Most walls mounted heaters are permanent, so you don’t have to worry about the risks of regular installation.

Hanging patio heaters

Hanging or pendant patio designs are your ideal option when you want to jazz your space. Unlike the permanently installed wall heater, these designs allow you to adjust the heights to your specifications. You can hang the equipment from a deck, sunroom wall, or the ceiling.

Table Top Patio heaters

Tabletop heaters are the most versatile and portable. They come in a wide range of designs, hence guarantee creativity and fantasy in patio decoration. Since they sit almost everywhere, these patio designs are your ideal bet when housing a small party or a family gathering.

Standing patio heaters

Free Standing patio heaters have a unique charming effect. From classic vintage design to wrought iron finish, to minimalistic designs, these sleek heaters guarantee unparalleled aesthetics. Most of them come in full size, portable bodies with compartments for fuel tanks. They are your go-to option when looking for a sizable heater for outdoor parties.Tank top patio heaters

These types of patio heaters sit on tank tops that often contain the fuel. They are mostly propane powered.

Safety Tips when Installing Patio heaters

It is vital to take some precautionary measures when installing patio heaters. Some rules should not be compromised, while others followed in a certain sequence. The basic safety guidelines regarding the safe handling of patio heaters documented below will help you avoid damages and accidents.

Always check with the local government for fire bans before buying a patio heater

Carefully read the user manual and manufacturer’s guidelines on installation

Choose the right installation spot that is out of reach of children and third parties

Remember propane and natural gas heaters can lead to poisoning. Make sure to ventilate any indoor space adequately before installation

Choose the right heater for your space. The Btu rating should guide you through this process.

Check whether the gas tank has a thermocouple that shuts the gas off when not in use to prevent leakages. In this way, you can avoid problems such as fire accidents.

Never install an outdoor heater indoors, and vice-versa. Check the manufacturer’s instructions on the ideal spot of use before installation.

Propane and natural gas are highly flammable. Make sure to keep them away from any heater.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are patio heaters worth it?
A: Yes. Patio heaters are worth every coin when looking for something to make you’re extended outdoor stay a bit warmer. With a powerful heater, you can warm up to an area of about 20 sq feet. They have only one downside. In an open space, the energy is lost into the air as there are no walls to confine the heat.

Q: Are electric patio heaters environmentally friendly?
A: Yes. Electric patio heaters are more eco-friendly than natural gas or propane- powered heaters. These devices produce only 15% of the carbon dioxide footprint of a standard patio heater. This figure is very negligible compared to 135 pounds of carbon dioxide a propane heater emits per million BTU

Q: Do patio heaters attract bugs?
A: Unfortunately, yes they do. Worst of all, some heaters attract mosquitoes. When lit, propane-powered heaters burn the fuel to produce carbon dioxide as a byproduct. The small parasites love the smell of carbon dioxide, hence swarm in numbers to bite anyone near the heater.

However, not all heaters attract mosquitoes. To stay safe, go for electric infrared heaters as they do not produce carbon dioxide. Otherwise, the light produced by electric heaters will still attract bugs such as moths, insects, and flies.

Q: Do patio heaters work during winter?
A: Yes, they do. However, only a powerful heater can keep your stay outside warm enough. Additionally, you must wear a heavy winter jacket to keep pace with the dropping night temperatures.

Q: Can you use a patio heater inside a covered porch?
A: You can use a patio heater in a covered porch so long as you have the right type of heater that suits the porch’s dimensions. Depending on the model, heaters emit different amounts of energy. They also have varying levels of clearance. When buying, check the product description if the item is ideal for covered spaces.

Q: How close should the patio heater be to the ceiling?
A: Standard patio heaters should be 45 centimeters away from the ceiling. When installing the heater, make sure that it radiates towards your face. For hanging designs, the part that emits heat should face downwards.

Also, check the item’s manual for the manufacturer’s guidelines on suspension height. For example, heaters that emit 1400 to 1500 watts have approximate suspension heights of about 210 centimeters measured from the ground level. Heaters that emit 3,000 watts and above have suspension heights of about 270 to 300 centimeters from the ground.

Q: Which patio heaters are the best?
A: There is no fit-it-all heater that is best for everyone. However, we recommend electric heaters as they are eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and economical. These devices also come in minimalistic casings and designs that suit almost every occasion. Plus, they do not attract mosquitoes.

Q: Do you need ventilation for a propane patio heater?
A: Yes, you need to ventilate any space when using a propane-powered heater. Propane patio heaters produce carbon monoxide. Unfortunately, under poor ventilation, the level of gas produced can result in poisoning.

Before lighting the heater, make sure to inspect it for any obstruction, Ill-fitting seams, and cracks. Ensure there is an adequate supply of combustion air. This process limits the amount of carbon dioxide the heater produces when burning the fuel.

Also, when using the heater indoors, ensure that all curtains are down and windows opened. This way, the hot carbon dioxide can escape through the vents hence minimizing poisoning. These safety measures also apply to gas heaters.

Q: Can you use a patio heater in an outdoor tent?
A: Yes, you can use electric patio heaters in an outdoor tent. However, there is a range of safety measures that you must consider when installing heaters inside any tent.

First, choose a perfect spot in the tent to place the heater, probably in the middle of the tent to avoid fires. Besides, the place should be easy-to-clear as propane gas produces catalysts that can harm your health.

The patio heater should also come in a design that produces heat evenly. For example, mushroom shapes emit equal amounts of heat in all directions. They are also portable and easily mountable.

Lastly, vent the tent enough. You don’t want to suffocate from carbon dioxide emissions. Otherwise, stably sit the heater to prevent it from tipping off and causing tent fires.

Q: What are the cons of patio heaters?
A: Generally, all patio heaters lose energy to the outdoor environment since there is no wall to trap the heat. Also, they attract bugs more so when used in the darker outdoor spaces.

The Bottom Line

The best patio heater should cater to your main interests. From the list we’ve reviewed, you can see that these heating appliances come in three main varieties; electric, propane- powered, and natural-gas-powered.

To begin with, your ideal heater should not compromise on energy efficiency. If you want a gas-powered heater, look for a variant with perfect fit valves and whose burner works with no leakage. If you are in a hurry, we recommend hOmeLabs Gas Patio as it is exclusively efficient with a sizable tank that lasts eight hours of uninterrupted use.

hOmeLabs also copes well with the outdoor environment and perfectly mixes into the outdoor furniture for an appeal that is incomparable to none.

However, if you intend to purchase an environmentally-friendly heater, then electric variants are your go-to-options. Their only downside is that they can triple your power bill. Otherwise, they work well around pets and small children.

On our part, we recommend Dr. Infrared heater. Apart from being sturdy and appealing, Dr. Infrared is very lightweight hence easy to carry around. It works well in camping, indoor environments, and patios. Most importantly, it is small enough to fit into a sizable suitcase, so you can be sure to carry it even for long journeys.

Dr. Infrared heater’s biggest selling point lies in its ability to heat a large room efficiently without draining your token. And since it comes with an oscillator, remote control, and timer, we are sure that it will answer any of your basic requirements.

If any of our recommendations don’t suit your needs, then re-read the comprehensive details on the buying guide. Otherwise, feel free to leave a comment in the comment section and we’ll be sure to get back to you.