If you’re looking for the best outdoor heater to liven up your deck or patio, this guide gives you everything you need to find the product that is right for you. Whether you’re a homeowner who wants to invite guests on your patio when it’s chilly out or a restaurant owner who aims to generate more traffic year-round, a patio heater can help you accomplish your goals.

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The following product reviews can guide you toward the best decision if you haven’t yet chosen a product for your outdoor area. Whether you’re looking for a tall and sleek fixture that functions as an extra piece of outdoor furniture or an unobtrusive unit that you can mount to the ceiling, it's important to find the heater that caters to all of your needs. Regardless of the choice you make, investing in an outdoor heater is sure to keep your loved ones or customers comfortable on a chilly night or brisk afternoon.

This outdoor heater promises a quick and easy setup that takes less than five minutes. You simply need to supply your own 20-pound propane tank in order to get the unit up and running. Once you’ve set up the heater, all you need to do is press the ignition button to light it, which will quickly activate the flame. The fixture also has a temperature control knob that allows you to adjust the height and intensity of the flame. This flame is housed in a shatter-proof Borosilicate glass tube, keeping it well protected even in harsh weather.

This fixture is able to distribute heat within a five- to six-foot radius. It is also designed with safety in mind, as it includes a protective steel grill that helps you maintain a safe distance from the flame. This steel grill also adds weight to the base of the heater to make it more stable. Whenever you need to turn on or shut down the unit, the pilot light allows you to do this safely. There is also an auto shut-off feature in case the gas runs out and an auto shut-off tilt valve that turns off the heater automatically if it falls over.

A potential disadvantage of the Bali Outdoors heater is that it stands at only 71 inches, a shorter height than that of its competitors. However, this may be beneficial for shorter customers who have trouble accessing a tall heater. Moreover, the heat output of this unit is only 36,000 BTUs, which may leave you feeling cold as you spend time outside. Overall, this heater is an attractive fixture that provides a small space with enough heat and can be set up easily.

Key Features
  • Temperature control knob
  • Shatter-proof Borosilicate glass tube
  • Protective steel grill
  • Auto shut-off in case gas runs out
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 20 x 71 inches
  • Number of Settings: Adjustable knob
  • Manufacturer: Shinerich Industrial Ltd.
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: 5-6 feet
  • Brand: Bali
Pros
  • Quick and easy setup
  • Height and intensity of flame can be adjusted
  • Distributes heat within 5-6 foot radius
  • Strong and durable
Cons
  • Only 71 inches tall
  • Relatively low heat output
Editors choice

2. Fire Sense Patio Heater

9.20 / 10
Read Reviews

This outdoor heater from Fire Sense is a strong and effective unit. Built with convenience and efficiency in mind, this fixture is designed to keep you and your loved ones warm in the cold weather. The unit is very simple and intuitive, with an electric ignition system that lights when you simply press a button. This easy startup can keep you warm at any time and with no effort at all. For extra convenience, the unit runs on a standard 20-pound tank filled with liquid propane gas, which can last up to 10 hours.

The Fire Sense Patio Heater has a total heat output of 46,000 BTUs, providing your outdoor space with a substantial amount of warmth. It comes with heavy-duty wheels that can allow you to transport it across bumpy or rough patio terrains. Whenever you need to place your heater in storage or bring it back outside, these mobility wheels can make the job a much easier one. In addition, this unit has a commanding height of 89 inches, allowing it to maintain a strong presence in your outdoor area.

A significant concern regarding this heater is that it tips over in response to even slight winds. This sensitivity to wind may be a problem if you anticipate gusty weather in your area. In addition, the heater’s material may begin to rust and corrode after a couple of years. Aside from these issues regarding material and durability, the Fire Sense Patio Heater keeps patios and decks warm and can be operated almost effortlessly.

Key Features
  • Electric ignition system
  • Heat output: 46,000 BTUs
  • Heavy-duty wheels for easy transport
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 18 x 33 x 89 inches
  • Number of Settings: 1
  • Manufacturer: Well Traveled Living
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: About 1,600 square feet
Pros
  • Easy startup
  • Can be transported across rough or bumpy surfaces
  • Simple and intuitive
Cons
  • Sensitive to windy conditions
  • Materials may rust over time

The patio heater from Donyer Power is a versatile unit that can be used for various purposes. It may be placed indoors or outdoors depending on how you wish to use it. Along with heating your patio, it can warm up your living room, garden, balcony or terrace. It can easily be mounted on both indoor and outdoor ceilings and accommodate your needs in either setting. With a modest height of 13 inches, this patio heater can efficiently warm up any given area without taking up a lot of space.

The Donyer Power heater can also be adjusted according to your temperature needs. It has a low heat setting of 600W and a high heat setting of 1500W, allowing you to choose the appropriate heat level for the current weather conditions. When you do raise the temperature, you can do it quickly with the help of the unit’s two halogen heating pipes, which work to rapidly increase heat flow and prevent oxidation from occurring during the heating process. The unit also has a 360° heating feature that allows it to emit heat from all directions, warming you up no matter where you’re standing. If you need to hang the unit somewhere in your indoor or outdoor space, its hook design keeps it suspended wherever you choose to place it.

Although the amount of heat that the unit gives off may be somewhat less than expected, even when it is set to 1500W, the final word is that this is quite the effective patio heater for both indoor and outdoor environments.

Key Features
  • Ceiling-mounted
  • Low heat setting: 600W
  • High heat setting: 1500W
  • 2 halogen heating pipes that increase heat flow and prevent oxidation
  • 360° heating feature
  • Hook design that lets you hang fixture
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 18.2 x 17.9 x 11.3 inches
  • Number of Settings: 2
  • Manufacturer: DONYER POWER
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: Unspecified
Pros
  • Can be placed indoors or outdoors
  • Takes up minimal space
  • Temperature can be adjusted
  • Highly versatile
Cons
  • Relatively weak heat flow

This sleek and sturdy patio heater is an attractive addition to any outdoor space. With its durable stainless steel finish and 91-inch build, the AZ Patio Heater is a stunning presence that adds an element of style and elegance to your space. This fixture can reliably warm up your patio using its built-in electronic igniter, allowing your guests and family members to enjoy a comfortable night outside even in chilly weather. The sturdy nature of the heater prevents it from falling over even if you’re facing strong winds while spending time outdoors.

The AZ outdoor heater has a heat output of 40,000 BTUs. This enables it to emit a substantial amount of heat and warmth, although its output isn’t as high as that of other heaters. It also comes with wheels that make it easy for you to move the fixture wherever and whenever you please. For safety purposes, this outdoor heater has an auto shut-off tilt valve as well.

One drawback of this patio heater is that it does not heat up the space immediately. According to one buyer, it takes about ten minutes for the heat to reach you. In addition, the instructions may appear complicated and make the process of assembling the fixture more difficult than you may expect.

Overall, the AZ Patio Heater efficiently heats up your patio while functioning as an elegant piece of furniture. If you need a tall and sturdy fixture that gives off a good amount of heat, this patio heater can cater to your needs.

Key Features
  • Wheels for easy mobility
  • Heat output: 40,000 BTUs
  • Electronic igniter
  • Safety auto shut-off tilt valve
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 21.5 x 21 x 38.5 inches
  • Number of Settings: 2
  • Manufacturer: AZ Patio Heaters LLC
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: About 2 feet
Pros
  • Sturdy build
  • Easy mobility
  • Attractive design
Cons
  • Relatively low and delayed heat output
  • Complicated instructions

The outdoor heater from AmazonBasics is a worthwhile option for anyone looking to add some warmth to their café, restaurant or other outdoor area. This product is highly durable and has a powder-coated finish that gives it a sophisticated, polished appearance. It stands at 89 inches, a height that allows it to properly spread heat throughout your outdoor space. This heater also gives you the ability to secure it when it’s not in use so it can remain strong and durable. By securing it, you can also protect it from damage and potentially extend its life.

If you need to transport this outdoor heater across your deck or patio, it comes with wheels that allow you to do this at any time. Wherever you place it, the AmazonBasics heater gives off a generous amount of heat, its total heat output reaching 46,000 BTUs. If the heater happens to tip over at any time, it will turn off automatically with its safety auto shut-off tilt valve.

This patio heater is particularly useful in extremely cold temperatures, as it lights instantly and begins warming up your outdoor space in no time. It is also highly sturdy and continues to function properly even in windy weather. However, its materials are of relatively low quality. According to one buyer, the chrome became heavily rusted after only a year of use. In addition, several buyers claimed that the igniter did not last very long, causing them to feel cold after only a short time using the product.

The AmazonBasics Commercial Outdoor Patio Heater is a practical choice for staying warm in chilly weather. Its durability and instant heating feature can transform your outdoor area into a cozy nook during any time of year.

Key Features
  • Heat output: 46,000 BTUs
  • Safety auto shut-off tilt valve
  • Wheel assembly included
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 33 x 18 x 89 inches
  • Number of Settings: 2
  • Manufacturer: AmazonBasics
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: 18 feet
Pros
  • Highly durable
  • Can be secured when not in use
  • Easy mobility
Cons
  • Low quality material that may cause rusting
  • Igniter does not last long

If you need as much heat as possible while you spend hours out on your patio, the Dyna-Glo Patio Heater can keep you warm and comfortable no matter what the weather is like outside. This fixture has a heat output of 48,000 BTUs, the highest of all of these featured outdoor heaters. It also comes with an electronic ignition that ignites with the quick push of a button, letting you waste no time warming up your space. If you need to adjust the level of heat that the fixture gives off, you can use its variable heat setting at any time.

The Dyna-Glo heater has a hammered bronze finish, giving it a sleek appearance that can boost the look of your patio. Its robust construction and quality material makes it a highly reliable addition to your outdoor space. To give it an extra layer of protection, this heater also has an anti-tilt safety device that allows it to remain firm and steady in windy conditions. The wheels on this unit make it possible for you to easily move it anywhere at any time.

While many buyers claim that this product is easy to assemble, some had trouble getting the fixture to light. Other than this minor difficulty, the Dyna-Glo heater is overall a durable and effective product that can provide your space with enough heat to fight the cold. Its strong materials also make it more likely to last long and remain firm after a significant amount of use and adverse weather conditions.

Key Features
  • Wheels for easy mobility
  • Heat output: 48,000 BTUs
  • Electronic ignition with simple activation
  • Anti-tilt safety device
  • Variable heat setting
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 32 x 32 x 87.5 inches
  • Number of Settings: Variable heat setting
  • Manufacturer: Dyna-Glo
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: 25 feet
Pros
  • Highest heat output
  • Easily adjustable heat flow
  • Durable and robust material
  • Large heat radius
Cons
  • May experience some difficulty during assembly

For buyers in search of a well-crafted and sturdy outdoor heater, the Sunjoy Lawrence Floor-Standing Patio Heater is a choice that meets your needs. This fixture is made of quality stainless steel and has a robust iron base. Its bronze hammered finish adds to the overall appearance of your deck or patio. The Sunjoy heater is also designed to stay shielded from any kind of damage, as it comes with a double-layer protective head that keeps it safe from the elements.

This outdoor heater warms up your space with a powerful heat output of 47,000 BTUs. When giving off heat, the unit is able to reach an entire area up to 9.5 feet in semi-diameter. This ensures that you stay warm outside even if you aren’t sitting right next to the heater. When you do light your unit, you can do so easily using a valve knob and ignition button. With a height of 87 inches, you don’t have to worry about the device not being able to heat your whole patio. The Sunjoy heater also comes with a safety shut-off valve in case the fixture falls over, as well as wheels that can help you move the unit.

In some cases reported by buyers, the heater stopped working after several minutes. While it is simple to relight the fixture, this flaw may be an inconvenience for many customers. However, the Sunjoy patio heater is an efficient unit overall that gives off an abundant amount of heat. With its high-quality materials, this heater can also be a stylish addition to your outdoor area.

Key Features
  • Double-layer protective head
  • Heat output: 47,000 BTUs
  • Safety shut-off valve
  • Wheels for easy mobility
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 32 x 32 x 87 inches
  • Number of Settings: 1
  • Manufacturer: Sunjoy Group
  • Warranty: 1 year; 6 months for replacement parts
  • Coverage: 9.5 feet in semi-diameter
Pros
  • Quality materials
  • High heat output
  • Heats area up to 9.5 ft in semi-diameter
Cons
  • May stop working after short period

This outdoor heater is a more compact option for buyers who wish to heat up a smaller space. It efficiently warms up spaces up to 225 square feet and can be used both indoors and outdoors. A highly efficient unit, the Mr. Heater Portable Propane Heater has a heat output range of 4,000-9,000 BTUs. It is made of steel, plastic, and nickel and is a highly sturdy and durable fixture. The unit also comes with an easy-start four-position control that makes starting up the heater extremely simple.

If you have limited room to store your heater, you can use its fold-down handle in order to reduce the amount of space it occupies. The fixture comes with low and high heat settings as well, allowing you to adjust it according to your temperature needs. Moreover, the Mr. Heater unit is designed to be completely safe for usage. It contains a high temperature wire guard that helps to protect you against high heat, as well as low-oxygen and tip-over safety shut off features. This heater’s ceramic burner tile is mounted with shock absorbing insulation in order to boost durability and make it easy for you to replace it if needed. When you have this heating unit, you can rely on its porcelain-coated heating surface to spread warmth over a wider area, keeping you comfortable for a longer time.

Unfortunately, this fixture may not work at maximum efficiency in windy conditions. Note that this may not be the best choice for a particularly windy area or day, as it may go out. There also may be a fair amount of maintenance involved when you purchase this heater, and it may not be as long-lasting as some other options available. Generally, however, this it is a well-designed and safe product that can keep any area warm and cozy.

Key Features
  • High temperature wire guard to protect against high heat
  • Heat output: 4,000-9,000 BTUs
  • Easy-start 4-position control for quick setup
  • Fold-down handle for storage
  • Low and high heat settings
  • Low-oxygen and tip-over safety shutoff
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 7.7 x 13.4 x 15 inches
  • Number of Settings: 2
  • Manufacturer: Enerco
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: 225 square feet
Pros
  • Can be used indoors or outdoors
  • Highly sturdy and durable
  • Designed with safety and convenience in mind
  • Takes up very little space
Cons
  • May shut down in windy weather
  • Requires considerable maintenance

This outdoor heater comes with extra features that can make your heated outdoor experience even more satisfying. The Golden Flame Patio Heater includes a drink table, which gives you the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing beverage while you spend time in your outdoor space. You can even move your cocktail party around your patio using the fixture’s mobility wheels. With a heat output of 46,000 BTU’s and a combination of SS burners and double mantel heating grids, this unit is sure to make your patio a cozy area to spend a cold night in.

A key feature of the Golden Flame Patio Heater is its pilotless burner system. This feature eliminates the need for a standing pilot flame, which tends to waste large amounts of fuel. The lack of a standing pilot also means the wind can’t blow out the flame and cause the heater to fail. In addition, activating this unit’s ignition system is easy, as the “Rapid Spark” feature allows you to simply press a button to light the heater.

Once the heater is running, its reflector hood can increase the flow of heat on your patio and keep you warm for an extended amount of time. Even though it is unlikely to happen, the built-in tilt switch will shut off the unit right away if it ever tips over. When you have a Golden Flame heater on your property, you don’t have to worry about its quality fading over time. This unit is made of stainless steel and has a sleek powder coat finish, allowing it to maintain its appearance and resist severe weather conditions.

The heater comes with a sand/water container that is meant to add weight to its base. However, according to one buyer, this container is not particularly sand or water tight. Aside from this small inconvenience, the Golden Flame heater is a powerful unit that has the bonus of a drink table.

Key Features
  • Drink table
  • Wheels for easy mobility
  • Heat output: 46,000 BTUs
  • Reflector hood
  • Pilotless burner system
  • Rapid Spark feature for easy lighting
  • Built-in tilt switch
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 20 x 35 x 89 inches
  • Number of Settings: Adjustable knob
  • Manufacturer: Golden Flame
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: 3-5 feet
Pros
  • Drink table allows you to enjoy beverage while warming up
  • Keeps area heated for extended amount of time
  • High-quality material
Cons
  • Sand/water container not particularly sand or water tight

With a powerful igniter and high heat output, the Legacy Heating Patio Heater is a unit that can reliably heat up your outdoor space. According to users, it is highly efficient and brings your patio to a comfortable temperature with its output of 47,000 BTUs. The heater is also easy to operate both when lighting it and shutting it off. At a height of 88 inches, this unit can reliably spread heat throughout your entire outdoor space.

The Legacy Heating unit has a mocha powder coating that keeps it protected and helps it stand strong against windy conditions. It also comes with wheels to facilitate mobility and allow you to place it wherever you choose. When putting the heater together, the majority of buyers reported that it was a fast and simple process. The fixture also has a strong light that keeps any area warm for an extended amount of time. If you need to transport your heater at any time, you will find yourself having an easy time bringing this lightweight fixture from one place to another.

While the Legacy Heating Patio Heater is agreed to be a powerful and efficient unit, you may experience some problems when trying to make it stand properly. It is possible that it will seem a tad bit wobbly after setting it up, or even lean slightly to the side. However, we think it's noteworthy that the assembly process is straightforward and generally causes no concerns. If you need a reliable and strong patio heater, this product from Legacy Heating is a worthwhile choice overall.

Key Features
  • Heat output: 47,000 BTUs
  • Wheels for easy mobility
  • Powerful igniter
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 30 x 30 x 88 inches
  • Number of Settings: 2
  • Manufacturer: California Outdoor Design
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Coverage: 26 cubic meters
Pros
  • Highly efficient
  • Easy to operate
  • Resists windy conditions
Cons
  • May appear wobbly or lean to the side

Your patio is an extension of your home, and spending time on it allows you to enjoy the fresh air while staying right outside your living space. While you may restrict time on your patio to the warm summer months, you shouldn’t abandon it when the temperature drops. An outdoor heater gives you the opportunity to spend time outside with your family and friends while being fully protected from the cold. Whether you’re planning a barbecue or a peaceful night under the stars, you can make the most of your outdoor time with a patio heater. Your family members or guests will be more comfortable when your space is well heated, and you’ll find yourself spending more time with them as a result.

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Outdoor heaters are highly versatile units and can be used in both residential and commercial settings. If you own a restaurant or café that has outdoor seating, a patio heater is a worthwhile investment. You can attract more customers to your business if you have a reliable heating fixture to warm up your outdoor seating area. Moreover, a heater can even increase your revenue during the long winter months. If other restaurants close off their outdoor seating as soon as the temperature drops, the customers they lose will come to you if they see that you have a heated patio. Investing in an outdoor heater can therefore benefit your business in ways you haven’t imagined.

When you spend more time outside with your patio heater, you also take full advantage of your outdoor space. Without a heater, you will most likely avoid going outside when it’s cold and cause your patio to be left untouched for the majority of the year. Warming up your space with a quality heater will make your patio worth the money and remind you of how pleasant it is to spend time on it.

Not only is enjoying your outdoor space a worthwhile experience, but it is also good for your physical and mental health. Going outside often can boost your mood, improve your blood pressure, strengthen your immune system and increase your energy levels. With a patio heater by your side, you can enjoy these benefits of the outdoors even when the cold weather swoops in.

Adding an outdoor heater to your space can enhance your everyday life in countless ways. Whether you’re picking one up to add more life to your home’s backyard or to attract more customers to your restaurant patio, a heater can transform your outdoor nook and help you enjoy it to the fullest.

Resources— Kent-Teach, Infrasave

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