Finding the right patio heater can completely change how you use your outdoor space, letting you enjoy cool evenings and stretch the seasons a bit longer. When you’re searching for reliable outdoor patio heater reviews, the goal is to find the perfect balance between raw heating power, efficiency, safety, and a design that actually looks good on your deck.
If you just want the short version: propane heaters are your go-to for versatility and serious heat, while electric models are incredibly convenient for smaller or covered spots.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Patio heater
Let’s be honest, no one likes being chased inside by a sudden drop in temperature. A good patio heater is the key to reclaiming your evenings and making your outdoor space comfortable year-round. This guide will walk you through our top outdoor patio heater reviews to help you feel confident in your choice. We’ll break down the real-world differences between fuel types—propane, electric, and natural gas—and get into the details that matter, like heating power (BTUs), actual coverage area, and the safety features you can’t ignore.
Think of this as your roadmap. Whether you’re trying to warm up a tiny apartment balcony or a sprawling backyard patio, we’ll help you find a heater that fits your space, your budget, and how you actually live.
Understanding Your Heating Needs
First things first: take a look at your space. Heating an open-air deck is a totally different ballgame than warming up a screened-in porch.
Start by asking yourself a few simple questions:
- How big is the area? A beefy freestanding unit is great for large patios, but a compact tabletop or wall-mounted heater is all you need for a smaller balcony.
- What’s the main goal? Are you looking for a blast of focused warmth over a dining table, or just some gentle ambient heat for a lounge area?
- What power sources do you have? Your options will narrow down pretty quickly depending on whether you have an electrical outlet or a natural gas line handy.
Comparing Core Heater Types
Each fuel type has its own distinct personality and purpose. Propane heaters are the crowd favorite for a reason—they’re powerful, portable, and can be set up almost anywhere. Electric heaters, on the other hand, are all about plug-and-play simplicity and are the only truly safe option for covered or semi-enclosed spaces. For a more permanent setup, natural gas models offer a “set it and forget it” solution with the lowest running costs, provided you have a gas line.
If you’re looking for a different kind of warmth that’s more about ambiance and gathering people together, you might want to check out our guide to the best fire pit for your patio. While heaters deliver direct, functional warmth, a fire pit creates a natural focal point with a real flame.
| Feature | Propane Heaters | Electric Heaters | Natural Gas Heaters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portability | High (move it anywhere) | Moderate (limited by cord) | Low (fixed installation) |
| Heat Output | High (up to 48,000 BTU) | Low to Moderate (radiant heat) | Very High (up to 60,000+ BTU) |
| Best For | Open Patios, Decks, Events | Balconies, Screened Porches | Permanent Outdoor Kitchens |
| Installation | Easy (just attach a tank) | Very Easy (plug it in) | Professional Help Needed |
The desire for year-round outdoor living is booming. The global market for outdoor patio heaters hit USD 1.6 billion in 2023 and is expected to nearly double by 2032. This isn’t just a niche product anymore; it’s a core part of creating a comfortable home. You can dig into the numbers in the full research report on dataintelo.com. This trend just goes to show how much value a great heater can add to your space.
Comparing Propane, Electric, and Natural Gas Heaters
Picking the right fuel type is the single most important decision you’ll make when buying an outdoor heater. Seriously. This choice dictates everything from where you can put it and how much heat it throws, to installation hassles and what it costs to run. Let’s break down the real-world differences between the big three: propane, electric, and natural gas.
Each one shines in different situations. Understanding their core strengths and weaknesses will point you straight to the perfect fit for your patio.
Propane Heaters: The Portable Powerhouses
When you picture a classic patio heater, that tall “mushroom” style unit is probably what comes to mind. That’s a propane model. They are wildly popular for a reason: they deliver a fantastic combo of powerful heat and total portability. They run on a standard 20 lb propane tank that hides away in the base, so you can wheel them anywhere you need a pocket of warmth—no cords or gas lines to worry about.
This freedom is what makes them perfect for open-air decks, restaurant patios, and backyard parties where you might want to move things around. They can really crank out the heat, often up to 48,000 BTUs, which creates a generous circle of warmth that’s ideal for larger spaces. The only real trade-off is managing the fuel. You’ll have to refill or swap tanks, which usually last about 8-10 hours on high. A lot of the same logic applies to gas grills; for a deeper dive, our article on propane vs. gas grills has some great insights.
Electric Heaters: Convenient and Versatile
If you’re looking for pure convenience, electric heaters are the undisputed champions. The setup couldn’t be simpler: find an outlet, plug it in, and you’ve got instant heat. They use infrared technology, which is pretty clever—it heats objects and people directly, not the air around them. This makes them surprisingly effective even when there’s a bit of a breeze.
That direct heating method also makes them the only truly safe option for semi-enclosed spaces like a covered patio, screened-in porch, or gazebo, since they produce zero emissions.
Key Takeaway: Electric heaters are the go-to for smaller spaces or any area where ventilation is a concern. Their plug-and-play nature is a huge plus, but just know their heat radius is typically more focused and smaller than what you’d get from a big propane unit.
Their main limitation, of course, is the power cord, which tethers you to an outlet. But with so many designs out there—wall-mounted, hanging, and freestanding—they offer a ton of flexibility for almost any setup.
Natural Gas Heaters: The Permanent Solution
For anyone who wants a powerful, permanent, and cheap-to-run heating solution, natural gas is the way to go. These heaters hook directly into your home’s natural gas line, giving you an endless supply of fuel. No more running out to swap a tank mid-party. This makes them a true “set it and forget it” option, perfect for built-in outdoor kitchens or dedicated entertaining zones.
The biggest hurdle is the initial setup. You’ll absolutely need a professional to run a gas line to your desired spot, and that’s a significant upfront investment. Once that’s done, however, natural gas is the cheapest fuel per BTU by a long shot, making these heaters incredibly economical to run over time. Their heat output is also top-notch, easily rivaling or even beating propane models.
For a quick side-by-side look, this table breaks down the key differences to help you decide what matters most for your space.
Patio Heater Comparison Propane vs Electric vs Natural Gas
| Feature | Propane Heaters | Electric Heaters | Natural Gas Heaters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Output | High (up to 48,000 BTUs) | Moderate (focused heat) | Very High (rivals propane) |
| Portability | Excellent | Limited by cord length | None (permanently installed) |
| Installation | Simple assembly | Plug-and-play | Professional installation required |
| Upfront Cost | Low to Moderate | Low to Moderate | High (due to installation) |
| Running Cost | Moderate | Higher than gas | Lowest |
| Best For | Open patios, flexible setups | Covered patios, smaller areas | Permanent outdoor kitchens |
Ultimately, the best choice boils down to how you plan to use your outdoor area. Do you value flexibility and raw power, plug-in simplicity, or a permanent, low-cost solution?
Design and Form Factor
Beyond the fuel type, the heater’s physical shape—its form factor—is what determines how it will fit into your space. The market is basically broken down into freestanding, tabletop, and mounted models, each serving a different purpose. Freestanding heaters are the most common by far, making up about 55% of global sales in 2024 simply because they’re so versatile. Those classic “mushroom” or newer “pyramid” styles are great for open areas.
- Wall-Mounted Heaters: These are fantastic space-savers. They are almost always electric, which makes them a perfect match for covered patios where floor space is at a premium.
- Tabletop Heaters: Think of these as personal space heaters for your patio table. They come in smaller propane or electric versions and provide focused warmth for intimate dinners or conversation areas.
Decoding Heater Performance and Safety Features
The spec sheet on a patio heater can feel like a foreign language, but you only need to grasp a few key metrics to understand what really matters. Let’s translate that technical jargon into real-world comfort and safety so you can pick a unit that actually delivers on its promises.
The two big numbers you’ll see are British Thermal Units (BTUs) for gas models and wattage for electric ones. These directly translate to a heater’s raw power and how far its warmth will reach.
Understanding BTUs and Wattage
Think of BTUs as a raw measure of heat energy. For propane and natural gas heaters, a higher BTU rating means more heat and a wider coverage area. Your typical freestanding propane heater, for instance, pumps out 40,000 to 48,000 BTUs. That’s enough muscle to comfortably warm a radius of about 10-15 feet, making it a perfect fit for most open patios.
With electric heaters, the game changes to wattage. Most residential models will land somewhere between 1,200 and 1,500 watts. Since electric heaters use infrared technology to heat objects and people directly—not the air around them—their “coverage” feels much more focused. A 1,500-watt model is ideal for keeping a small group warm around a dining table or in a cozy balcony seating nook.
Pro Tip: Don’t just chase the biggest number on the box. A 48,000 BTU beast is complete overkill for a tiny, enclosed balcony and will just burn through fuel inefficiently. Match the heater’s power to your space for the best experience and lowest running costs.
Non-Negotiable Safety Mechanisms
All the heat in the world means nothing if the unit isn’t safe. Modern patio heaters come loaded with essential features to prevent accidents, and these should be at the very top of your checklist. Today’s buyers know what to look for, and market research shows that safety is a top priority.
In North America, where the patio heater market is well-established, over 70% of new heaters sold now include these advanced safety technologies. This isn’t just a manufacturer trend; it’s a direct response to consumer demand for peace of mind.
Here are the critical safety features you absolutely need:
- Automatic Tip-Over Switch: This is the big one. A sensor inside the heater instantly cuts the fuel or power if the unit gets knocked or tilted past a certain angle. It’s a simple feature that prevents a massive fire hazard.
- Overheat Protection: Mostly found in electric models, this function shuts the heater down if its internal parts get too hot, protecting the unit from damage and preventing a potential meltdown.
- Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS): This is essential for any gas-burning heater. An ODS constantly monitors oxygen levels in the air. If they drop too low (a sign of poor ventilation), it shuts the unit off to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
Evaluating Construction Quality and Durability
A patio heater lives outdoors, so it has to be tough enough to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at it. The materials used in its construction are the single biggest factor in determining its lifespan and how it will look after a few seasons of rain, humidity, and sun.
You’ll generally find two main options: stainless steel and powder-coated steel.
Stainless Steel
This is the premium choice for a reason. Stainless steel is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, which makes it a fantastic investment if you live in a coastal area with salty air or a region with high humidity. It might cost more upfront, but a stainless steel heater will keep its looks and structural integrity for years. Keeping it shiny is easy, too; our guide on how to clean stainless steel has some simple tricks to keep it looking brand new.
Powder-Coated Steel
This is the more budget-friendly route. Powder-coating is a tough, paint-like finish applied over a steel frame. It offers solid protection against rust and scratches and usually comes in a variety of colors to match your patio furniture. The only catch? If the coating gets a deep scratch or chip, the exposed steel underneath can start to rust over time.
By focusing on these practical performance specs, safety features, and build materials, you can see past the marketing hype and choose a heater based on what truly matters.
Our Patio Heater Reviews: Real-World Testing
Sorting through the endless options for outdoor patio heaters can be a real headache. To cut through the noise, we got our hands on the top models and put them to the test right in our own backyards. We looked at everything—from raw heating power and ease of use to crucial safety features and overall bang for your buck.
Below, we’re breaking down exactly what we found. Each review is straightforward, focusing on who the heater is best for, what makes it stand out, and what real owners are saying about it—the good and the bad. This way, you get the full picture and can pick the right heater for your space with total confidence.
Before we get into the individual breakdowns, here’s a quick look at how our top picks stack up against each other.
Top-Rated Patio Heater Models at a Glance
This summary table highlights the key specifications, best-fit scenarios, and editor’s rating for each of our reviewed outdoor patio heaters.
| Model | Type | Heating Power | Coverage Area | Ideal For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hampton Bay Stainless Steel Heater | Propane | 48,000 BTU | Up to 200 sq. ft. | Large, open patios & gatherings | ★★★★☆ |
| Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 | Electric (Infrared) | 1,500 Watts | ~100 sq. ft. (targeted) | Covered porches & small, semi-enclosed spaces | ★★★★☆ |
| AZ Patio Heaters Tabletop Heater | Propane (Tabletop) | 11,000 BTU | ~25 sq. ft. | Small tables, balconies & intimate settings | ★★★☆☆ |
This table gives you a bird’s-eye view, but the real story is in the details of how these heaters perform day-to-day. Let’s dive in.
Best Propane Heater: Hampton Bay 48,000 BTU Stainless Steel Heater
The Hampton Bay Stainless Steel Patio Heater is a true classic for a reason. It’s the powerful, versatile workhorse you see on restaurant patios and in well-appointed backyards everywhere. Its impressive 48,000 BTU output is more than enough to create a comfortable bubble of warmth on a chilly evening.
This model hits that sweet spot between serious performance and a reasonable price, making it a fantastic choice for anyone with a medium to large open-air patio. The stainless steel construction not only looks sharp but also holds up well against the elements, fighting off rust and corrosion season after season.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: With 48,000 BTUs, it easily warms a radius of up to 10 feet. It’s perfect for keeping larger gatherings comfortable.
- Pro: The push-button piezo ignition is reliable and fires up the heater without any fuss.
- Pro: A weighted base and crucial auto shut-off tilt valve provide essential stability and safety.
- Con: The assembly can be a project. Some users report it takes over an hour, and the instructions can be a bit cryptic.
- Con: At over seven feet tall, it’s a bit of a beast to store during the off-season. Make sure you have garage or shed space.
Customer Reviews
Owners consistently rave about the Hampton Bay’s raw heating power. One user mentioned it “single-handedly extends our patio season by weeks,” while another praised the “sturdy feel of the weighted base.” The most common constructive feedback? The assembly process. As one person put it, “It’s a one-time pain, but a pain nonetheless.”
Best Electric Heater: Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Heater
For anyone with a covered patio, balcony, or a need for a space-saving solution, the Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 is a standout. This wall- or ceiling-mounted unit uses carbon infrared technology to heat objects and people directly, providing a gentle, consistent warmth that a breeze won’t just blow away.
Its 1500-watt output is perfect for smaller, targeted zones, like a cozy seating area or an outdoor dining table. And since it’s electric, there are zero emissions, making it the safest choice for semi-enclosed spaces where you can’t use propane.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Three heat levels (900W, 1200W, 1500W) allow for precise temperature control.
- Pro: The included remote is a game-changer for adjusting settings from your seat.
- Pro: With an IP55 rating, it’s built to withstand dust and rain for permanent outdoor installation.
- Pro: The infrared technology is completely silent, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere.
- Con: The warmth is highly focused, so you need to be in its direct line of sight to feel the full effect.
- Con: The included mounting screws might not be suitable for all surfaces; you may need a trip to the hardware store.
Customer Reviews
People love the sheer convenience of the DR-238. “The remote makes it so easy to use, and it’s totally silent,” one review noted. Another happy customer said its effectiveness in their covered porch was a “major win.” The main constructive point is that the heat doesn’t radiate everywhere; it’s more like a “spotlight of warmth.”
Our Takeaway: Choosing between propane and electric really comes down to your space. Big, open areas need the raw power of propane. But if you have a covered porch or a smaller patio, the targeted, safe heat of an electric model like this is the smarter choice.
Best Tabletop Heater: AZ Patio Heaters HLDS032-B Tabletop Heater
When you just don’t have the room for a full-sized tower, the AZ Patio Heaters Tabletop Heater is a brilliant solution. This little guy delivers 11,000 BTUs of heat, making it perfect for intimate dinners or conversations around a small patio table. It runs on a small, 1 lb propane cylinder, so it’s super portable and easy to set up anywhere.
This heater punches well above its weight, creating a surprisingly cozy atmosphere for two to four people. It’s the ideal pick for apartment balconies, small decks, or any spot where floor space is at a premium.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Its compact and lightweight design makes it a breeze to move and store.
- Pro: The 11,000 BTU output is perfectly tuned for warming a small tabletop area.
- Pro: A protective screen around the emitter prevents accidental burns.
- Pro: Includes an anti-tilt safety device and weighted base for security.
- Con: It runs on small 1 lb propane canisters, which only last about 2-3 hours.
- Con: The heat output is not sufficient for a large area or very cold temperatures.
Customer Reviews
Users often express surprise at “how much heat it produces for its size,” with many stating it makes their small balconies usable in cooler weather. The most common complaint is the short runtime of the 1 lb tanks. A helpful tip from several owners is to “invest in an adapter hose to connect it to a standard 20 lb propane tank for much longer, uninterrupted use.”
Our Top Heater Picks for Every Outdoor Space
Alright, after digging through all the tech specs and performance data, it’s easy to feel a bit paralyzed by choice. Let’s cut through the noise. To make things simpler, I’ve broken down our top recommendations based on the most common setups and needs people have. Think of this as your expert-backed shortlist.
Whether you’re trying to warm up a big space for parties, add a bit of cozy heat to a covered porch, or just make a tiny balcony usable on a chilly evening, these are the heaters that truly stand out for their performance, value, and smart design.
Best Overall Propane Heater for Versatile Power
For most open patios and decks, a brawny, portable propane heater is still the undisputed champ. Our favorite in this category strikes that perfect balance of raw heating power, solid construction, and features that just make sense for homeowners and even restaurant owners.
Our Recommendation: Hampton Bay 48,000 BTU Stainless Steel Heater
This thing is an absolute workhorse. Its 48,000 BTU output is more than enough to create a comfortable bubble of warmth across a 200-square-foot area, which is a game-changer for extending your outdoor season well into the fall.
- Why It Wins: You’re getting incredible heating performance for a price that feels like a steal. The value here is exceptional.
- Key Feature: The weighted base and the automatic tip-over shutoff switch aren’t just bullet points; they’re critical safety features that give you real peace of mind, especially if you’ve got kids or pets running around.
- Ideal Scenario: Perfect for the backyard entertainer who needs to keep a large dining area or lounge space comfortable for evening get-togethers.
It’s this blend of raw power and essential safety that makes it the most reliable and versatile pick for the majority of open outdoor spaces.
Best Electric Heater for Covered Patios
When you’re dealing with a semi-enclosed space like a covered porch, screened-in deck, or gazebo, safety and efficiency are everything. This is where electric infrared heaters shine. They’re really the only sensible option because they produce zero emissions and heat objects directly—not the air—making them surprisingly effective even when there’s a bit of a breeze.
Our Recommendation: Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Heater
This wall-mounted unit is a game-changer for anyone with a covered outdoor spot. It delivers targeted, silent warmth without eating up a single square inch of your floor space.
Expert Insight: The real beauty of an electric infrared heater like the DR-238 is its efficiency. Instead of wasting energy trying to heat the air (which just blows away), it sends warmth directly to you, your guests, and your furniture. It’s why its 1,500-watt output feels so surprisingly powerful in the right setting.
- Why It Wins: It delivers safe, silent, and convenient heat, topped off with modern touches like a remote control and multiple heat settings.
- Key Feature: Its IP55 weatherproof rating means it’s actually built to live outside. You can install it permanently and not worry about it getting ruined by the elements.
- Ideal Scenario: A fantastic solution for homeowners trying to create a cozy, warm zone on a covered patio or for apartment dwellers looking to make their balcony more comfortable.
Best Tabletop Heater for Small Balconies
If you’re working with limited square footage, a full-size heater is just out of the question. Tabletop models are a brilliant workaround, providing focused heat for smaller, more intimate settings without hogging precious floor space. They bring the warmth right to where you’re sitting.
Our Recommendation: AZ Patio Heaters HLDS032-B Tabletop Heater
Don’t let its small size fool you; this compact heater is surprisingly mighty. Pumping out 11,000 BTUs, it’s perfectly sized to keep two to four people comfortable around a small table. It’s an absolute must-have for apartment balconies or cozy bistro sets.
- Why It Wins: It packs an impressive amount of heat into a tiny, ultra-portable package.
- Key Feature: The anti-tilt safety switch is a non-negotiable feature in a small unit like this. It ensures the heater shuts off instantly if it gets knocked over.
- Ideal Scenario: A perfect match for anyone who wants to enjoy a morning coffee or an evening glass of wine on a small balcony when the weather turns cool.
How to Make Your Final Decision
Alright, let’s tie this all together so you can make a choice you feel great about. If all the outdoor patio heater reviews point to one thing, it’s this: the “best” heater is always the one that fits your space and your needs.
Forget the noise for a second and start with the basics. Think about your patio size, what kind of fuel is easiest for you to get and use, what you’re comfortable spending, and what safety features will give you peace of mind.
Our comparison tables and top picks are designed to be your cheat sheets. Use them to filter out the noise and zero in on the models that actually make sense for you. This simple breakdown can give you a solid starting point.
As you can see, matching the heater style to your space is the fastest way to get it right. Freestanding models are perfect for big, open patios. Wall-mounted units are a no-brainer for covered areas. And for a tiny balcony, a tabletop heater is all you need.
The right patio heater isn’t just an appliance; it’s a genuine investment in your home. It’s the thing that stretches your outdoor season by weeks, or even months, creating that cozy, welcoming vibe for family get-togethers and quiet nights outside. We’re confident you now have everything you need to make a fantastic choice.
Patio Heater Questions We Hear All the Time
Even after you’ve narrowed down your choices, a few practical questions always seem to pop up. To help you buy with total confidence, we’re tackling the most frequently asked questions real buyers have before purchasing.
Are Propane Patio Heaters Safe on a Deck?
Absolutely, as long as you choose the right one and use a bit of common sense. Most modern propane heaters are designed with deck safety in mind. The non-negotiable features you want are a weighted base to prevent tipping and an automatic tip-over switch. This is a brilliant little safety mechanism that instantly shuts off the gas if the heater gets knocked over. Just remember to respect the clearance guidelines from the manufacturer—usually 24 to 36 inches—between the heater and anything flammable.
What Does It Cost to Run a Patio Heater?
The running cost is a huge factor, and it varies significantly by fuel type. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Propane: A standard 20 lb propane tank refill costs about $20-$25 and provides 8-10 hours of heat on high, which works out to about $2.00 to $2.50 per hour.
- Electric: A typical 1500-watt electric model costs only $0.15 to $0.25 per hour to operate, based on average U.S. electricity rates.
- Natural Gas: This is the cheapest option per hour, but it requires a significant upfront investment for professional installation.
Can I Use a Heater in a Screened-In Porch?
This is a critical safety question. The only type of heater safe for a screened-in porch, garage, or any semi-enclosed area is an electric heater. They produce zero fumes and don’t consume oxygen. Never use a propane or natural gas heater in an enclosed or even partially covered space, as they can cause a deadly buildup of odorless, invisible carbon monoxide.
How Do I Maintain My Patio Heater?
A little upkeep goes a long way. The single best thing you can do is keep it under a protective cover when not in use to shield it from rain, sun, and dirt. For gas models, periodically check the hose for cracks or leaks and brush any dust or cobwebs off the burner. Wiping down the exterior a few times a season will keep it looking sharp.
At Reva Housing, we provide in-depth, honest reviews to help you find the best products for your home and garden. Explore our guides and make your next purchase a confident one by visiting us at https://revahousing.com.
