Patio heaters may seem like a fairly simple thing to choose from, but there are a few things to consider before you buy one. The different types of patio heaters have their own benefits. The best patio heater will be made with quality materials, but more importantly, will throw out enough heat to keep you warm on a chilly evening.
Hampton Bay 48000
Coziest option around
The Hampton Bay 48000 patio heater has adjustable heat that pumps out an impressive 48,000 BTUs, making it one of the hottest patio heaters you'll find. It's great for outdoor parties because it covers a large area.
Pros:
- Solid, straightforward design
- Strong heat output
Cons:
- Heat doesn't reach too low
- No wheels
This heater has a push-start electric ignition system and takes about five minutes to heat up and start producing warmth. We've learned that the heat output stays at about head height, so it won't heat feet very well. The Hampton Bay 48000 is pretty safe, with an auto shut-off valve if it should get tipped. There’s also a bottom-heavy stackable design that houses your own 20-pound propane bottle. It doesn't have wheels so it isn't the most convenient heater to move, but it is still lightweight enough that it won't be too difficult.
Amazon Basics outdoor patio heater with wheels
Warm and easy to move
This freestanding propane heater from Amazon Basics produces 46,000 BTUs of heat, which is effective enough to heat 324 square feet of space. The liquid propane tank is sold separately but will hold 20 pounds of fuel. The Amazon Basics patio heater features an electric ignition system, so all you need to do is push a button.
Pros:
- Powerful
- Electric ignition system
Cons:
- Can be unstable in windy conditions
- Paint may peel around burner
This patio heater is made from durable steel and powder coated to protect it from outdoor elements. However, over time the paint may start to peel, especially around the burner area. This won't interrupt the power and heat it's able to produce; it just won't look as pretty. The Amazon Basics heater is equipped with a Piezo electric ignition system. This means its lights at the push of a button. You'll control the heat output with a large variable-heat control knob.
Trustech infrared space heater with remote
Indoor and outdoor use
This patio heater from Trustech is heated by electricity rather than propane. This means it doesn’t produce as much heat, but it is also a bit safer, especially around kids and pets. It has three heat settings, can be set using the included remote control, and has a 24-hour timer, so you can set it to come on and go off a full day before.
Pros:
- Easy to move around
- Built-in overheating protection
- Anti-tip design
Cons:
- Not suitable for larger spaces
It runs quietly and can be used both inside and outside. The base has a unique safety feature that keeps the heater from tipping over when bumped. The Trustech heater is an excellent choice when it comes to energy efficiency, but it's not the heater for large families or hosting gatherings due to its low heat output. But it'll suit smaller families and costs less to run compared to propane heaters.
Avenlur pyramid patio heater
Eye-catching pyramid style
The Avenlur Pyramid patio heater is stylish with an eye-catching 'dancing flame' feature that is sure to attract attention and generate an atmospheric flickering light. It produces 48,000 BTUs of heat and warms up quickly. It features a safety shutoff that will automatically shut down the heater if it is accidentally knocked over or even tilts a bit.
Pros:
- Portable
- Powerful for its size
- Ideal for small spaces
Cons:
- Relatively heavy
- Uses a lot of fuel
This patio heater will warm about a 25 square foot area. It does use a good amount of fuel. A 1-pound propane tank will give you about an hour of heat. It has an easy, push-button start system, and has several heat settings that are controlled with a dial. For added safety, the Fire Sense heater automatically shuts off if it tilts or is knocked over.
Fire Sense tabletop outdoor heater
Portable and compact
For camping or smaller patios that don’t have a lot of floor space, we recommend the Fire Sense tabletop heater. It produces 10,000 BTUs of heat, which is enough to warm a 25 square feet area.
Pros:
- Portable
- Powerful for its size
- Ideal for small spaces
Cons:
- Relatively heavy
- Uses a lot of fuel
This patio heater runs off a 1-pound propane tank, though it is possible to connect it to a larger tank. It does use a good amount of fuel. A 1-pound propane tank will give you about an hour of heat. It has an easy, push-button start system, and has several heat settings that are controlled with a dial. For added safety, the Fire Sense heater automatically shuts off if it tilts or is knocked over.
Bromic Smart-Heat electric patio heater
Well-designed and eco-friendly
We recommend the Bromic Smart-Heat electric patio heater for its balance of power, eco-friendliness, and quality of design and build. The wall-mounted Bromic Smart-Heat electric patio heater uses state-of-the-art infrared radiant elements to provide efficient directional heating for your patio.
Pros:
- Precise dimming control
- Efficient heat output
- Can be mounted on wall or ceiling
Cons:
- Generates less heat than propane
- Expensive
This outdoor heater generates less heat than propane, and it needs access to an electrical socket to work, but it's efficient at heating spaces. Since it can be mounted to either a wall or ceiling, it helps contain heated air below it and around you and your company. The high-performance mesh screen spreads the heat effectively and evenly. The Bromic heater can be wired to a simple on/off switch or dimmer and is compatible with timers and smart control systems.
How to choose the best patio heater
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There are many types of patio heaters to choose from.
Freestanding patio heaters tend to generate the most heat, often in the region of 40–50,000 BTU. BTU (British Thermal Unit), is the energy required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. They are a popular choice for heating whole patio areas, for larger groups.
Wall-mounted patio heaters provide directional heat for a small area and tend to be significantly less powerful. They are usually electric, with 1500W (5,115 BTU) being a common output. Top-of-the-range units can be up to four times more powerful. Bear in mind that although one wall-mounted heater may be sufficient for a small enclosed area, if you have a large patio you may need multiple units so a more powerful heater may be a better investment.
Gas vs electric heaters
Most freestanding patio heaters are propane-powered and will take a 20-pound tank. These are available at many local stores and supermarkets. You simply connect the tank, turn on the valve, and ignite the heater. Run-time varies, but some patio heater brands promise up to 10 hours of operation on a single tank.
Natural gas patio heaters remove the need to keep purchasing and replacing tanks by connecting directly to the mains gas line, provided your property has one. While this makes them more expensive and time-consuming to install, it also restricts where they can be placed, they are cheaper to operate long-term.
Electric heaters are more eco-friendly than their gas-powered counterparts, are generally cheaper to buy, and easier to operate. You just need to plug them in. But they also generate significantly less heat and need to be within reach of a power outlet.
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