The Best Outdoor Patio Heaters for 2023
With these wonderful outdoor patio heaters, you and your family can stay warm outside, even in chilly weather.
If you prefer spending time outside or holding get-togethers in your backyard, a top outdoor patio heater is exactly what you need. They will not only add ambiance when the sun sets but also keep you and your visitors cozy and warm.
However, because there are so many different patio heaters on the market, it is not always easy to choose which would suit your backyard and your requirements the best. However, there are a few important things to consider before purchasing an outdoor patio heater.
Consider whether the outdoor patio heater runs on gas, electric infrared, or propane. It is important to consider the heat coverage, size, and maximum power of the best patio heaters because these factors might impact their effectiveness. Also, consider your budget. It is important to find an outdoor patio heater that is cost-effective. We’ve compiled a list of the top outdoor patio heaters, with options to suit every type of patio and spending limit.
Our Top Picks
Our Top Pick
Hampton Bay
Thanks to the stainless steel used in its construction, it has a sleek appearance, delivers powerful heat, and is incredibly durable.
$80.00
Our Runner-Up
Mr. Heater
The Mr. Heater Buddy Patio Heater is a compact, portable, and ideal for heating up small outside areas.
Most Cost-Effective
Dr. Infrared Heater
The Dr. Infrared Heater offers clean warmth and is fully adjustable, making it the ideal choice for covered patios.
$126.71
Our Picks For You
Our Top Pick - Hampton Bay
Our Top Pick
Hampton Bay
Thanks to the stainless steel used in its construction, it has a sleek appearance, delivers powerful heat, and is incredibly durable.
This pick has a great heating capacity for a minimal cost. It can warm an area up to 200 square feet in size. It is composed of rust-proof stainless steel to be able to withstand the elements. Besides, it doesn't take much effort to stow it away when it's not in use.
Who It's For
If you are seeking an outdoor patio heater that is not only economical but also powerful and can provide a hint of warmth, this is the ideal solution for you. It will make it easier for you to spend more time outside.
Why It's Great
This model from Hampton Bay is seven feet high and uses a 20-pound propane tank. It also has a 48,000-BTU burner suitable for rooms up to 200 square feet. Additionally, the temperature can be adjusted. Because of its low price and high heating capacity, this is the product that we recommend the most.
Potential Flaws
The fact that this model did not come with wheels or a rain cover was something that irked a few of the customers who used it.
Other Features
For optimal use on a patio, this outdoor heater can heat an area of up to 200 square feet. It also includes a piezoelectric ignition, which ensures quick and trouble-free starts, and it has customizable heat control settings, so you can set the temperature to where you want it to be.
This 33-pound heater is a great example of how form and function coexist harmoniously. It is made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel and weighs 33 pounds. The Hampton Bay portable outdoor patio heater, which measures 87 inches in height and 32 inches in diameter, will fit in well on the back porch, and it is simple enough to tuck away in a corner when it is not in use.
Our Runner-Up - Mr. Heater
Our Runner-Up
Mr. Heater
The Mr. Heater Buddy Patio Heater is a compact, portable, and ideal for heating up small outside areas.
You will gain the most from this heater if you position yourself in front of the heater. This heater is for you if you want to spend more time outside but don't want to be cold while you do it. It helps keep you warm without wasting valuable surface area, so it's a win-win.
Who It's For
This is the ideal option for you if you enjoy spending time outside and desire warmth for camping, RVs, or small outdoor events.
Why It's Great
Even though it won't be able to heat a large area, this is an excellent choice because it is inexpensive and quite simple to use and produces toasty radiant heat.
Potential Flaws
Most customers have mentioned that one of its drawbacks is that it is not an ideal solution for giving warmth to a large group of people at once.
Other Features
According to the information provided by the manufacturer, Mr. Heater Buddy can be powered by a one-pound propane canister for up to three hours if used on the high setting; on the low setting, you will receive around five hours. There ought to be plenty for four to five people seated in a close circle. Because of this, it is ideal for use in recreational vehicles or on camping trips. In addition to its ease of use, it also has a handle that makes it easy to carry around.
This outdoor heater, like many others, comes with an automatic safety shut-off mechanism that activates if it unintentionally topples over or detects low oxygen levels. This is an excellent safety feature.
Because of its durable structure, it is an excellent option for outdoor activities such as camping. Even though Mr. Heater Buddy appears to be constructed for use outside, it may also be used safely indoors. If you're limited on a room or looking for a portable outdoor heating solution while you're on the move, this compact and portable gadget is an ideal choice to consider. Because it is only 14 inches wide, it is ideal for usage on tabletop surfaces.
Most Cost-Effective - Dr. Infrared Heater
Most Cost-Effective
Dr. Infrared Heater
The Dr. Infrared Heater offers clean warmth and is fully adjustable, making it the ideal choice for covered patios.
The inexpensive Dr. Infrared Heater delivers clean, quick, odorless infrared heat. It has three heat settings: 900W, 1200W, and 1500W. It's composed of weatherproof aluminum and contains a 90% reflective aluminum reflector.
Who It's For
This is an excellent choice for use on covered patios and households with young children. Because infrared heaters do not heat up during usage, the clean-burning warmth remains comfortably out of reach.
Why It's Great
Because it can be put on the wall or the ceiling, this infrared heater efficiently uses available space. You can simply regulate the temperature using the remote included in this plug-and-go heater, which emits odorless infrared heat immediately after being turned on. Because it does not require gas, it is an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor usage.
Potential Flaws
When initially used, it was mentioned by a few of the reviewers that it had an unpleasant odor. There is also a reference to the short chord and the requirement that one must be somewhat close in order to feel the heat because it works well for small spaces.
Other Features
The Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 comes at a very affordable price and provides clean, fast, and odorless infrared heat. This infrared heater also has three distinct heat settings — 900W, 1200W, and 1500W to accommodate a wide range of requirements. It is made with durable and weatherproof aluminum, and it is outfitted with a high-level mirror aluminum reflector that has a reflectivity of 90%.
In addition, its operation is quiet, so it won't interfere with your gathering in any way. Remember that it functions most effectively in small, partially, or fully enclosed spaces. As a result of the heater's ability to be used indoors as well as outdoors.
Almost Made The Cut - Hiland HLDSO1
Almost Made The Cut
Hiland HLDSO1
A great showpiece for the patio.
It has a more contemporary appearance than the pole and saucer design of a conventional patio heater, thanks to its pyramidal form and the glass tube that runs the length of the center of the stainless steel heater. It's much like looking at a bonfire, but seeing the flame climb steadily higher and higher through the glass tube is very entertaining.
Who It's For
This is the ideal product for you if you want an outdoor patio heater that has a stunning look and is something that you would be proud to show off in front of guests. Those who prioritize appearance more than practicality will adore this heater.
Why It's Great
This heater offers several heat settings that can be adjusted, as well as an attractive, visible flame and a gorgeous pyramid shape. It is well-designed and simple to operate, with a piezoelectric ignition for quick and trouble-free starts and an automatic shutdown mechanism in the event the heater tips over.
Potential Flaws
Although the Hiland HLDSO1 has a stunning appearance, it does not provide a very high heat level. Most consumers believe that the radius of heat is not particularly large. However, the most important reason that they decided to purchase it is due to the item's stunning appearance.
The other drawback is that it is cumbersome, and despite its wheels, it is uneasy to carry the glass tube on a rough surface like concrete.
Other Features
It has a more contemporary appearance than the pole and saucer design of a conventional patio heater, thanks to its pyramidal form and the glass tube that runs the length of the center of the stainless steel heater. It's much like looking at a bonfire, but seeing the flame climb steadily higher and higher through the glass tube is very entertaining. In addition, the Hiland comes with a straightforward control system that makes lighting it up a breeze every time.
A one-year limited warranty is included with this standing heater that has 40,000 BTU and is priced in the middle of the range for its category. The base is sturdy, and it comes with a wheel kit, allowing you to effortlessly relocate it to whichever location is most convenient for you.
In addition, it has a durable stainless steel finish. If you have space for it, the antique yet chic appearance that it exudes is certain to win you over.
Who This Is For
Patio heaters are for people that want to enjoy the outdoors throughout the whole year by providing warmth and ambiance.
Are Outdoor Patio Heaters Waterproof/Weather Resistant?
Patio heaters need to have a cover placed over them to prevent the heaters from being damaged by the elements, especially rain and snow. Covers also prevent dirt, dust, and debris from entering the heater, which is an important safety feature. They also guard against insects and other tiny animals that may cause harm to the heater.
Even though outdoor heaters such as propane and natural gas heaters are built to withstand incidental contact with water, it is still not a good idea to use a patio heater when it rains outside. Because infrared heaters and other types of warmers are electrical equipment that is not waterproof, you should avoid using them in the rain to prevent the risk of being electrocuted by them.
Ideal Wattage For An Outdoor Patio Heater
Patio heaters that run on propane produce around eight times more BTUs than electric heaters on average. This means that they provide significantly more heat. Instead of directly heating you, this radiant heat does a better job warming the air around you. This form of heater requires the use of a propane tank.
If, on the other hand, you would instead use an electric heater, then you will normally want a high-wattage heater that ranges between 2000W and 2970W to adequately heat a large number of people across a large area. On the other hand, the significantly lower energy output is required in a smaller room with many people, preferably around 1500W.
Why You Should Trust Us
The greatest patio heaters provide warmth by generating radiant heat. There are multiple kinds of patio heaters on the market today, and as such, we have identified the best quality outdoor patio heater to help you get more usage out of your porch, deck, or patio.
How We Picked
There are many different kinds of patio heaters on the market. Patio heaters may be divided into a few distinct categories based on the method of installation as well as the fuel source that they use.
To simplify the process, we researched past customers’ experiences with outdoor patio heaters and the varieties that were most suitable for them. These experiences can differ depending on whether they are free-standing or installed and whether they are powered by electricity or gas. We looked over a variety of items.
We will walk you through all of these first-hand opinions and assist you in selecting the best heater to meet your requirements so that you do not feel overwhelmed.
When making our selections, we sought an outdoor patio heater that would be practical temporarily and/or permanently in an open-air setting. In addition to this, we consider the heat distribution, namely whether or not it provides the most amount of heat at the lowest cost. We look for one that can be set up and adjusted with minimal effort. You should also think about the appearance of the heater and how well it fits in with the rest of your current accessories and decor. Since they will be used outside, it is essential that they be durable and made of a material that can withstand the elements.
Keeping you comfortable and ensuring that your money is spent most efficiently is our number one goal, which is why selecting the best outdoor patio heater is an important part of our evaluation process. As is our norm, we looked for the best offers or bargains to bring you the outdoor patio heater with the most value for your money.
How We Picked
Heat Distribution
This is important since it affects how much outdoor space the patio heater can heat. You'll require a stronger heater to cover more area.
Max. Temperature
The maximum temperature determines how much heat the heater can produce and how far or near someone can feel the heat. It’s beeter to get a heater with different temperature settings for versatility.
Size
The size of the patio heater typically influences its mobility and ability to be moved about. It also does influence the amount of heat gives off.
Cost-Effective
A more costly patio heater does not necessarily produce more heat. Many factors influence this; therefore, keeping cost-effectiveness in mind is critical.
Care and Maintenance
It is essential that you position your heat source at a considerable distance from anything that might catch fire. You should avoid objects like trees, cloth patio furniture or gazeboes, and cooking equipment fuelled by propane, especially if it has an open flame. Is the heat coming from a fuel-powered source? If this is the case, you will need to ensure that it is situated in a well-ventilated, open location to avoid the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
It is also imperative that children are kept away from fire elements and patio heaters at all times. This involves not just switching it on or off but also relocating it. Be sure to position your source of heat in a secure area, out from the reach of your children when they are playing or moving around so that they do not accidentally touch it.
Always ensure the gas tank valve is closed and the switch is turned off whenever the heater is not in use. This will ensure that the tank remains in excellent operating condition. As a result of its height, standing patio heaters can distribute heat over a significantly more extensive area.
On the other hand, their height can also cause them to be top-heavy, which indicates that they have a greater tendency to collapse when they fall over. Even though many models include anti-tilt systems that are built in, you should still take extra care to secure and stabilize your heater whenever it is practicable to do so.
For cleaning your outdoor patio heater, you can use a damp cloth. To avoid potentially damaging the heater, the lamp coating, and the surface of the reflector found inside the device, do not use any kind of detergent or cleaning fluid. A malfunctioning heater may have been brought on by something as simple as a speck of dust, some residue, or some filth.
Make it a priority to check that the heater cord is in working order. This is especially true if you installed the heater using your wiring rather than the default cable. When exposed to strong sunlight, the cable can deteriorate over time, so be sure to use factory-supplied cable when installing your heater. Any cable that is cracked or otherwise damaged has to be replaced right away.
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