As the weather cools off and the air becomes chilly and crisp, most of us are not quite ready to give up our time outdoors. Outdoor patio heaters are growing in popularity as their manufacturing becomes higher in demand and the units are more accessible to the average person who would just like a cozy space to sit in their yard.

Today there are patio heaters for many types of use, from simple tabletop patio heaters to large commercial heaters that restaurants use. According to Tactical Business, the market for outdoor patio heaters is expected to have a compound annual growth rate of 7.34% through the year 2022.

We’ve looked at the different types of patio heaters, as well as fuel options and safety concerns to help you find the best patio heater for your home, restaurant or business. We have carefully considered other patio heater reviews and have compiled a list of our top picks.

Considerations Before Buying A Patio Heater

Size & Shape Of The Area

When planning your purchase of an outdoor patio heater, the most important element will be to measure the size and the shape of the space that you would like heated. For example, a small table top heater might be perfect for an apartment balcony at a two-person table but might not offer enough heat to be used on a deck with an eight-person table.

Most models of patio heaters will tell you how many square feet they typically cover, so this is a useful number to have during your shopping. You will also want to consider whether your patio is covered or not. A covered patio will hold heat in better than one that is completely open to the elements.

Heat Output (Btus)

1. XtremepowerUS

The XtremepowerUS 48,000 BTU Premium Floor Standing Propane Outdoor Patio Heater is the best propane patio heater that comes as a free-standing model. Its sleek design will fit comfortably on an average deck and it heats up to a 15-foot radius. I like that it’s a tall model at 8.5 feet, but because of this, you will need to make sure that it’s a little farther away from any patio umbrellas.

The base will perfectly conceal a 20 lb. propane tank, which is nice as you do not want guests tripping over gas bottles. I’ve read from other reviews though that as the propane tank becomes emptier that this model has been known to fall over in the wind, so I might recommend that you either store it indoors when not in use or figure out a way to add weight to the base such as securing to your deck or adding sandbags.

This model is fairly easy to assemble, but I like that Amazon offers the option to add-on “expert assembly” right at your home. Once built, the automatic tilt cut off switch means that in the event of a fall, the unit will no lose heat immediately. These are well-designed patio heaters that offer safety as well as long lasting heat.

It is my favorite choice for regular sized decks because it is wheeled and easy to move, push-button start and represents value for money for homeowners.

2. True Commercial (Propane)

Anyone who enjoys a traditional fire will be able to appreciate the ambience that this Golden Flame patio heater provides, as it truly does look like the flames are dancing within the quartz tube. This is another great option and does look better than our #1 choice but it comes with an increased price tag.

The push-button ignition makes this patio heater easy to use and its design also gives off a good amount of lighting for evening gatherings. I like that the base has a compartment for adding water or sand for extra weight and that this particular Golden Flame model has a weather cover that can be purchased separately to protect the heater from the elements.

Some golden flame models come with wheels which is great readjusting the heater. The 3 sided pyramid design is made with a single piece of quartz tubing which is stronger than many other brands who use 2 thin pieces. Lastly, the auto tilt safety feature leaves users with the knowledge that if any unsuspecting fall occurs then their heater will cut out immediately.

I find that the quartz glass tube patio heaters are usually more expensive than regular freestanding versions, but if it’s style you’re after they make an excellent choice.

3. Belleze Commercial

Every time that I search for this patio heater by Belleze online, it’s out of stock! And for good reason too – this patio heater is a sturdy, solid piece of art and ambiance for any backyard. It doesn’t give off quite as much heat as some of the other free-standing heaters on the market (34000 BTUs), but it’s design and flame lighting make this model very popular among consumers.

One of my favorite features of this patio heater is that it is only 5.5 feet tall (larger option about 7 ft.), which means that it can safely fit under most covered porches or pergolas. The specifications for this heater say that it gives off heat for about 15 feet, but most users will agree that you will be more comfortable within about half of that.

The weather-resistant glass casing means it can be used in light rain or strong winds without getting damaged. A 20 lb. propane tank will last approximately 10 hours and keep you warm whilst eating, drinking and socializing outside.

This is another step up in quality design and appearance. It is a great tower patio heater but once again, be prepared to pay a higher price.

4. AZ Portable Tabletop Heater

Its slim design stands just under 40” tall, which is just tall enough to not block anyone’s vision across the table and keep the heat going in all directions (which for this heater, is about a 5-foot diameter). I love that this patio heater uses a very small 1 lb. propane tank and functions for about 2-3 hours at a time. You will need to purchase this gas tank separately as almost all patio heaters do not come with one.

When you’re done, you can simply store it in your garage or shed without worrying if it will be damaged by the rain or other elements. Also, I appreciate that the AZ brand is a well-known company that stands behind their limited warranties on all their products.

Overall this choice isn’t for everyone as it will only warm tabletops that are small and intimate. It is, however, a great option for anyone with an open-air balcony who is legally able to use a propane heater.

5. Ener-G+

Products with duel purposes are among my favorite, and this Ener-G+ Freestanding Outdoor Electric Patio Heater with LED Light is right at the top of my list. Ideal for a balcony or small outdoor space, this heater is just perfect for 2-4 people.

And the dual purpose I mentioned? It’s also a table! The glass top has a cool-touch feature that will make sure your beverages and snacks don’t get too toasty while the heater is working to keep your legs toasty below.

I like that it can plug right in and keep you toasty for however long you want, without having to worry about running out of fuel. The power cord is a decent length at 6.5 feet, so it’s nice that you also don’t have to be right on top of a power outlet. I only wish that the table-top itself were a bit larger as it is only suitable for drinks or a bowl of nuts.

Still a great heater product in my opinion as it is perfect for my needs. Sit out in the cold air, plug in the heater and enjoy a cold beer while resting your glass on the table top.

6. AZ Patio (Radiat)

Wall mounted patio heaters are a great option for people who don’t have a lot of floor space to spare on their deck’s and patios, and I love this AZ patio heater for its ability to blend in without sticking out too much. Unlike most wall-mounted patio heaters, this one does not give off any light at all so you won’t even notice its even there. Except for the heat it provides!

I appreciate this because my deck already has lighting that I find to be ambient and intimate for small gatherings. The heater also comes with a remote control, which is super handy for changing the temperature without asking anyone to move or interrupt the conversation. The only con about this heater is that it only has a low-temperature setting and a high-temperature setting, so you can’t be too picky about getting it just right or you will drive yourself crazy.

One thing that surprised me about this AZ heater is that it is not light! The heater itself is only 20 lbs. which might not seem like very much, but the actual mounting overhead is definitely a two-person job. Once complete, the electrically powered heat source is set for all year round. This is a superb option for anyone who is considering a wall or ceiling (it comes with those brackets too) mounted heater.

7. Infratech WD4024SS

This is a great choice for homeowners with a three-season room or for business owners with an open-air theme going on. The 4000W power is huge in comparison to most out heating units and this one will keep you and your guests toasty and warm.

Not only are these Infratech patio heaters eco-friendly, but they are also made right here in the United States, whereas most patio heaters on the market are coming directly from China. The only downside to this heater is that it is more expensive than many of the other brands on the market and you will likely need to have a professional electrician help you install it. But if you don’t mind dishing out the few extra dollars, it will be worth it!

8. Bromic 3 Burner

The best option for permanently placed outdoor patio heaters is the Bromic Heating Tungsten 300 Smart-Heat. I love that it’s hooked up to your home’s natural gas line and that you won’t ever have to worry about replacing the fuel source. Additionally, you will still have that hot, instant gas that keeps you warm for hours on a chilly night.

I feel like the designers have really thought of everything when it comes to this compact design. If your patio heater will be in the open air (as opposed to under a covered patio), there is a special deflector shield that can be placed on the unit to direct the heat right to where you want it to be. It also is one of the only models of mounted patio heaters that comes on an adjustable bracket so that you can fine-tune as necessary.

My local cafe uses about 10 of these heaters and they are fantastic. I’ve noticed how easy they are to adjust, project heat in any conditions and the sleek design really turns heads. Of course, all of this comes at a hefty cost but for commercial and even residential, these are the absolute top of the line.

9. Outland Gas Fire Pit

I’m from the south, and around here we call these fire pit tables s’mores tables. Because they are obviously the perfect size and height to make s’mores! It’s so relaxing to sit around this table and watch the little flames dance. It really offers all the benefits of a traditional campfire without any of the work.

I love that the propane tank is completely sealed, and the wicker is made of super weather resistant material. For this fire pit table, I highly recommend also purchasing the accessory package. The accessory package comes with a glass windscreen that not only adds a beautiful design but will make sure that the flames don’t blow into your drinks or snacks.

It also includes a weather cover and an additional lid that can be used to cover the fire rocks when not in use so that you have an average coffee style table. These fire pit tables run on a 20 lb. propane tank, operate at 35000 BTU (which is a lot of heat) and come with easy, push-button ignition. In addition, the 8 mm black tempered glass tabletop and 15.5 lb arctic ice decorative glass rock set keep this heater looking amazing while offering safety for those near it.

This is one of my favorite winter products and is a real favorite in my home. It’s more than a heater and is a year-round backyard setting so families, guest or neighbors can get together.

10. AmazonBasics Natural Stone Fire Pit

I love this firepit by Amazon Basics for our backyard. It’s a simple design, but the natural stone makes it look much more high-end than typical fire bowls even though the price is comparable. The stabilizing feet on this firepit give it a sturdy hold, so unlike a lot of outdoor heaters, you can use this one on the grass, even if the area is not completely level.

The firepit is heavier than I would have expected at just over sixty pounds, but it’s relatively easy for two people to carry from one location to the next. Our Home Owner’s Association requires that all firepits are at least 25-feet from the house, and after using it we can see that because it’s a real fire there will be embers and floaters. For this reason, I would make sure you never use this firepit on a wooden deck and always keep a hose or bucket of water nearby.

It does come with the wide handle fire screen to help cover any potential flying embers. The steel, natural stone, and copper mean this fire pit will last a long time while maintaining it’s stylish design. Overall, this is an excellent value for money wood burning firepit.

What Fuels Outdoor Heaters?

Propane

Propane is the most common form of fuel for outdoor heaters, and most gas-grill owners are familiar with how it is stored in a liquid form inside a tank. According to the official Propane Website, propane gas is clean, American, abundant and affordable, which makes it a good fuel option for outdoor patio heaters.

Many free standing and table top patio heaters will use a propane tank of up to 20 lbs. This includes heaters with quartz glass tubing, a special kind of fused glass that is much less temperature resistant than normal glass. Depending on what temperature setting you’re using your patio heater at, a 20 lb propane tank can be expected to last anywhere from 7 to 15 hours (depending on your model). Table top patio heaters have much smaller propane tanks (usually around 1 lb) and will need to be changed out often.

Sizes, BTU’s & Heating Areas Explained

When purchasing an outdoor patio heater, it’s important to understand the relationship between the size of the heater, the BTUs it puts out, and the heating area you’re intending to heat. First, let’s look at each of these elements individually.

Understanding the importance of each of these factors will help you choose the right outdoor patio heater for your home or business. This table can help you decide how many BTUs are ideal for your outdoor space, and most models can tell you exactly how much area they are recommended for:

Patio Heater Safety Guide

Unfortunately, there is no one-size fits all when it comes to outdoor patio heater safety. Although patio heaters are growing immensely in popularity, their use is still mostly unregulated in the United States. We’ve developed a checklist of safety precautions that should be made as you purchase and install your outdoor patio heater.

Conclusion

For an average outdoor space, we recommend the XtremepowerUS 48,000 BTU Premium Floor Standing Propane Outdoor Patio Heater. With its easy maneuverability and fast setup, it’s the perfect option for heating a space with a 20-foot diameter if you need heat today for an event or gathering.

Purchasing an outdoor patio heater can be an overwhelming experience if you’re not aware of the different varieties available and each of their intended uses. With a little research, we hope we have helped you along your way so you can enjoy a few of our favorite products on the market.