Looking for the Best Outdoor Patio Heater in 2024 for your home or commercial space? In today’s article, we review the Best Outdoor Heater for Patios – and help you decide which is right for you.
It’s only natural when you have an inviting outdoor area that you would want to spend as much time as possible enjoying that space. But when the weather turns cold outside, it means “heading indoors” or finding a good heater for your patio.
Find the most efficient way to heat your patio. A propane patio heater is one of the least expensive and best practices for heating exterior spaces.
Need More Privacy on Your Patio? Read: “The Cheapest Way to Build a Wood Privacy Fence.”
Below, you’ll find our top picks in many different categories. Each stand-up patio heater review includes the key features and any criticisms from actual users – who understand the pros and cons of these products the best.
Best Patio Heater To Buy In 2024
Below, you’ll find our top picks in many different categories. Each stand-up patio heater review includes the key features and any criticisms from actual users – who understand the pros and cons of these products the best.
Editor’s Pick: “Amazon Basics” Commercial Patio Heater, Slate Grey
Key Features of This Product Include:
- 46,000 BTU heating capacity
- 89-inch overall height
- Piezo ignition
- Powder-coated for long-term durability
- Attached wheels
- Solid Steel with a powder-coat finish in Slate Grey
This patio heater from Amazon Basics is considered an excellent option for keeping most outdoor spaces well-heated and comfortable during the colder periods of the year.
At 46,000 BTUs of heat output, this is one of the best patio heaters in its price range for distributing sufficient heat to keep a patio area heated efficiently.
One significant advantage of this model is the piezoelectric push-button starter, which saves users the hassle of lighting the heater with a flame source. An added safety feature is a tilt-over shutoff that will automatically turn the heater off if it gets tipped over.
The ultimate convenience of this patio heater is its pair of durable wheels attached to one side. These wheels allow it to be tilted back and easily rolled from place to place as needed.
This heater may be a good option if you frequently heat different areas outside your house. The unit is easy to navigate, weighing only 40 pounds.
“AMAZON BASICS” – PATIO HEATER
Premium Pick: Fire Sense Patio Heater, Stainless Steel Finish
Key Features of This Product Include:
- 46,000 BTU heating capacity
- 89-inch overall height
- Single-stage ignition
- Premium stainless steel construction
- Heavy-duty wheels
Though very similar to the AmazonBasics heater, this model from Fire Sense stands out as a strong candidate for the best propane patio heater because of the higher-grade stainless steel materials used in many aspects of its construction.
Fire Sense has gone out of its way to create an excellent patio heater, from stainless steel burners to an all-aluminum reflector hood, especially for Humid climates where Rust wreaks havoc on anything not stainless.
For this reason, this model has earned the position of the top premium pick on our list.
Operating on a 20-pound propane tank, this unit will run for about 10 hours, making it a good choice for entertaining on cooler evenings when you may have friends over for a prolonged period.
Like the similar AmazonBasics model, this heater has two attached wheels that make it easy to move around your yard.
At 42 pounds, it is slightly heavier than the previous model, which keeps it mobile while providing extra stability. Even though it is more of a premium model, many reviewers still regard it as an excellent value due to its high quality.
As a final advantage, this patio heater is fairly easy to assemble. Most buyers find that it has none of the fit problems that sometimes make assembly a hassle on lower-quality products. You can check out the “Fire Sense” patio in the YouTube video below:
“FIRE SENSE” – PATIO HEATER
Best Value: Hiland – 48,000 BTU Premium Outdoor Patio Heater, Hammered Bronze
Key Features of This Product Include:
- 48,000 BTU heating capacity
- Hammered Bronze Finish
- 20 Square foot heating radius
- 33″ overhead Heat Shield
- 87-inch overall height
- Push-button ignition
- Durable steel frame
At 48,000 BTUs, this patio heater from Hiland offers more than enough heating capacity for almost any outdoor weather condition. Within a 20-foot radius, this heater will keep you warm enough to stay outside well into the colder months.
The significant heating capacity, paired with a relatively low price compared to many similar models, has earned this outdoor patio heater the best value on this list.
Although most patio heaters are one-person assemblies, the Hiland 48,000 BTU Patio Heater can be tricky to assemble. Because of the added “table” option, you’re home-free once this step is figured out.
In addition to its commercial-grade heating, this model has several valuable features that will make it more convenient for patio use.
Wheels on the back of the unit make it easy to move, while a weight bladder that can be filled with sand or water allows it to be weighted down if you prefer to keep it in one place.
Push-button starting makes this unit easy to use, and variable heat control allows you to adjust the heat output to precisely the desired level.
As an aesthetic note, this model’s hammered bronze finish is also quite handsome and blends well with many contemporary patio furniture styles.
“HILAND” – PATIO HEATER
Best Tabletop Patio Heater: Fire Sense 61322, Bronze
Key Features of This Product Include:
- 10,000 BTU heating capacity
- Push-button ignition
- Takes a 1-pound propane cylinder
- 35-inch overall height
- 14.3 pounds
Although 10,000 BTUs are slightly below the heat output of the full-size versions covered in our other patio heater reviews, this tabletop version from Fire Sense is a good option for keeping your patio seating area comfortable as the weather cools down in the autumn.
At just 14.3 pounds, this unit is also highly portable. However, it has as many features as its larger cousins, including push-button piezo starting and a tilt-over shut-off safety mechanism.
Though not a criticism, many owners of this tabletop patio heater recommend buying an adapter to hook it up to a standard 20-pound tank, as a 1-pound cylinder must be replaced relatively frequently.
Another considerable advantage of the Fire Sense 61322 is that it can be used in spaces that wouldn’t accommodate a full-size heater. For example, many users choose this heater to warm their screened porches.
In many cases, the ceilings on such porches would be too low for a taller propane heater to be used safely.
“FIRE SENSE” PATIO HEATER
Patio and lawn covered in leaves? – Check out the Best Leaf Vacuum Mulcher for any budget.
Best Folding Heater for Umbrella: Star Parasol “Electric” Patio Heater
Key Features of This Product Include:
- 5,100 BTU heating capacity
- 1,500W maximum power draw
- Three arms for even heat distribution
- It only works when heating elements face down
- No fumes or CO2
This electric “umbrella” patio heater is a favorite among users who dislike the extra maintenance involved in using propane or natural gas heat. However, it’s essential to understand your heating needs before purchasing a patio heater.
At only 5100 BTUs, the heat output is much lower than other patio heaters.
Although they don’t have the same ability to produce heat as propane heaters, electric patio heaters make up for it by offering a very high level of convenience.
Rather than hooking up, changing, and refilling tanks, heaters like the Star Patio Parasol allow you to heat your outdoor areas using electrical power.
Electrical units such as these are also excellent from a safety perspective, as shutoff switches can directly disconnect the power and turn it off immediately if something goes wrong.
The Star Patio Parasol also solves the problem of heating patio tables covered by umbrellas. While propane heaters can put out a good amount of heat, they must be kept away from umbrellas for safety.
As a result, they must sometimes be set too far away to provide adequate heat.
Using an infrared heater that can clamp onto the umbrella’s post and fold down along with it, you can get even, direct heating for your patio table.
PARASOL PATIO HEATER
Best Glass Tube Patio Heater: AZ Patio Heaters Quartz Glass Tube
Key Features of This Product Include:
- 40,000 BTU heating capacity
- 90-inch overall height
- Push-button igniter
- 65.2 pounds
The AZ Patio Heaters Quartz Glass Tube model is a handsome, well-constructed outdoor heater with a spectacular flame effect. While other heaters on this list certainly offer higher BTU ratings, this model stands out for its glass tube visual impact.
At 40,000 BTUs, this unit has less heating capacity than some of its competitors, which is worth considering while purchasing.
At 65.2 pounds, this unit is less mobile but much more stable than some of its lighter counterparts. Nevertheless, it still offers tilt-over shutoff protection to ensure users’ safety in the unlikely event that the heater should tip over.
Because of its greater weight and reduced mobility, this unit is likely the best natural gas patio heater candidate if you plan to do a natural gas conversion on any of the units listed in this article.
If you prefer to move this durable Patio Heater, this model still includes wheels that can lighten the burden.
AZ PATIO QUARTZ PATIO HEATER
Best “Portable” Propane Heater: Mr. Heater MH18B
Key Features of This Product Include:
- Very light & easy to move around
- 18,000 BTU heating capacity
- Heats up to 450 square feet
- Compact and portable
- Nearly 100 percent efficient
- Electronic ignition!
Although it isn’t as decorative as several other heaters reviewed here, the Mr. Heater MH18B is a highly functional and extremely portable model that offers reasonably good heating for smaller patio areas or workshop spaces.
At 18,000 BTUs, this heater is best used for heat in the autumn and early winter, as it likely won’t be enough to keep you warm during the coldest parts of the year.
The Mr. Heater model uses a combination of radiant and convective heating to spread heat more effectively, allowing it to heat spaces of up to 450 square feet under the right conditions.
While this propane patio heater receives excellent reviews, some buyers have criticized the high rate at which it uses propane when placed on a high heat setting.
A somewhat low-powered fan for moving hot air around – is also cited as a minor complaint.
Despite being a more stripped-down heater, the MH18B offers most of the features and functions you would typically expect from a more expensive patio heater. This propane heater is safe with a tip-over switch and a low oxygen shutoff.
The danger of fumes is also extremely low, as this heater is rated for indoor and outdoor use and offers nearly 100 percent combustion efficiency.
The package also includes a porcelain-coated reflector and insulated ceramic burner tiles, making this heater durable and long-lasting.
MR. HEATER PORTABLE PATIO HEATER
Best “Direct Mount to Propane Tank” Heater: Mr. Heater Tank Top Heater
Key Features of This Product Include:
- Quick heating capacity
- Super convenient – Direct mounted to 20-pound propane tank (tank not included)
- Heats up to 990 square feet
- Take anywhere size
- Economical – Great for Camping
Like Mr. Heaters MH18B, this tank top heater is much more functional than decorative. Its adjustable burner mounts directly to a standard propane tank, producing considerable heat distributed through radiative transfer.
Because of its setup, this heater is portable and can be taken anywhere a propane tank is available.
We were satisfied with the Mr. Heater Tank’s heat output, but it can quickly fill a propane tank. Some of our reviews indicate that a strong wind can blow the burner out, so it’s a good idea to place it somewhere semi-sheltered from the wind. It’s portable!
This propane heater can be used for various other purposes in addition to heating patios.
Whether you have a detached garage that needs extra heat in the winter or are looking for warmth in a fishing cabin or camping, this heater can keep you warm in almost any setting.
Because of its small size and simple function, it is also quite economical for a high-output heater.
MR. HEATER – LP TANK DIRECT MOUNT PATIO HEATER
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Best Patio Heaters to Buy?
The Top-Rated Patio Heaters for Homes and Commercial spaces are;
- FireSense
- AZ Patio Heaters
- Amazon “Basics”
- Hiland
- Mr. Heater
What is the Best Type of Patio Heater to Buy?
We rate the best patio heaters as those featuring an LP Gas fuel source, BTU ratings of 40,000 or higher, Fixed Wheels, and a Stainless Steel or Powder-Coated finish.
How Do Patio Heaters Work?
Patio Heaters generate heat through downward radiation, resulting from a flame and fuel source such as natural gas or, more commonly, LP (Liquid Propane) Gas.
The radiant heat effectively warms objects, people, and pets with a high BTU heat output.
Do Patio Heaters Work in the Winter?
Yes, Patio heaters are very effective for cooler and even cold climates. However, they are not considered adequate for winter use. It is commonly agreed that the minimum temperature for Patio Heater use is 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Conclusion:
These are the 4 Most Important things to consider before buying a Patio Heater;
- To select the right outdoor patio heater, consider the amount of heat you need, where it will be used, and how it will complement your patio decor.
- Your heating needs will mostly depend on the weather in your area and how late in the year you want to be able to continue using your patio. Obviously, the colder the temperatures you expect, you’ll need more heating capacity.
- Space will also matter, as not all heaters fit nicely in all patio areas. A full-size heater may be unnecessary and take up valuable room if you have a smaller patio.
- Finally, it is a good idea to match the finish of a patio heater to your existing patio furniture and the design elements used in your outdoor space. A patio heater will be large enough to attract attention, so it should blend in with the rest of your patio furnishings.
Choosing the right heater to buy will take some consideration, but the reviews above should help you sort the field down to a few good options. Consider these heaters, weigh your needs and preferences, and you’ll soon be able to decide which is best for you.
Thanks for visiting BestHomeGear.Com, and good luck with your Patio heater Selection!
Additional Reading & Resources:
- The Proper Way to Store a Propane Tank from “WikiHow.com”
- The Most Energy-Efficient Space Heaters for 2021 – Besthomegear.com
- The Best Gas Fire Pit Table For Any Budget – Besthomegear.com
- Clear Branches off Your Deck or Home With a “Cordless” Pole Saw – Besthomegear.com
