Best Patio Heaters In 2020: Buying Guide and Reviews
In this article, we will break down the various factors that should influence your purchase as well as review the best 10 patio heaters on the market.
Your patio is beautiful, and most times, you ant wait for summer to make the most of this space. Much as you like hosting and spending family time in this sanctuary, it remains unutilized for the rest of the year. You wish you could use it more, but you just don’t know how. It gets so cold in the other seasons, and you just know it wouldn’t make sense being outdoors just for a romantic dinner set-up.
So, what if there was a way you could efficiently heat this part of the house up and enjoy it in any season? Best believe that can happen with these best patio heaters below on the market. And you won’t have to break the bank too, you know.
Table of Contents
- Best Patio Heaters: Review & Buyer’s Guide
- 1. AmazonBasics Commercial Outdoor Patio Heater
- 2. Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Patio Propane Heater
- 3. Hiland HLDS01-SSHGT 48,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater
- 4. Belleze 48,000BTU Premium Outdoor Patio Heater
- 5. Sunjoy Lawrence Floor-Standing Patio Heater
- 6. Fire Sense Hammer Tone Bronze Patio Heater
- 7. TRUSTECH Patio Heater
- 8. PAMAPIC Patio Heater
- 9. HOmeLabs Gas Patio Heater
- 10. Dyna-Glo Premium Hammered Bronze Patio Heater
- Patio Heaters: Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Best Patio Heaters: Review & Buyer’s Guide
1. AmazonBasics Commercial Outdoor Patio Heater
Powered by a 20-pound liquid propane tank that is sold separately, this patio heater is quite powerful as it produces up to 46,000 BTUs. This makes it ideal for large spaces, whether commercial or residential. The maker says this heater will work on a 324 square-feet space, but the heat produced will depend on weather conditions. This particular slate grey heater is made of powder-coated steel that is durable and is quite the looker.
It lights up at the push of a button because it is controlled by an electric ignition system, and you have a knob at the front to control heat. It uses radiation heating that dispenses heat to the objects in a room, and so it will keep you sufficiently warm for the night. The little wheels that are part of the piece make it easy to move around.
Other features of this heater include a sturdy stand that makes it stand on its own effortlessly, reasonable dimensions – 33 x 18 x 89 inches, and easy assembly. Though it weighs 40lbs, the wheels make it so much easier to move around.
- Gas-powered and quite powerful at 46,000 BTU.
- Wheels for portability and sturdy base
- Steel construction for longevity.
- Piezo ignition system.
- The cover is sold as a separate unit.
- Quite expensive.
2. Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Patio Propane Heater
This radiant-style patio heater produces up to 40,000 BTUs. Its metal construction ensures durability while its wide base makes it quite sturdy even when the wind blows. It is propane-powered and able to heat up to 20 square feet. A 33” aluminum shield shines heat down to where it is needed, reducing the amount that would go to waste. A small door on the side makes it easy to swap propane cylinders when one is full, and an anti-tilt safety device installed shuts the heater down whenever it tilts past a particular angle.
It uses a standard propane tank, and the manufacturer says it can heat a room for up to 10 hours on a 20-pound propane cylinder. With a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, you are covered in case of any eventuality within this time. It is 87 inches tall, and so you want to check that your patio can handle this height. Wheels make it portable.
- Anti-tilt device for safety.
- A 1-year warranty.
- Has a sturdy base that can stand strong winds.
- The wheels on this heater make it portable.
- It is tall and so the tip can get too close to the ceiling.
- Quite heavy.
3. Hiland HLDS01-SSHGT 48,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater
This Hiland heater stands at 87 inches tall and is quite leniently priced for a heater that emits so much – 48,000 BTU. It has a bronze powder coating that makes it quite durable and a table that matches the entire piece where you can place your snacks. The wheels on this unit make it portable while the base enables it to stand on its own, though some reviewers say it could be swayed under windy conditions.
You can attach a standard 5-pound tank to this heater and get some hours of heat, but a 20-pound gas tank does an even better job as it keeps the heat on for about 10 hours. It keeps a 20 square-foot area warm enough for all these hours, and so you can have it for larger gatherings. It automatically shuts off when it tilts too much. This budget-friendly piece that is good looking has a one-year warranty. It is also easy to assemble and operate.
- Produces up to 48,000 BTUs
- It has large wheels for portability.
- It is covered by warranty for one year.
- Has an access door for changing propane tanks.
- The base is not stable under windy conditions.
4. Belleze 48,000BTU Premium Outdoor Patio Heater
This gas-powered heater pumps out 48,000 BTUs, which is good enough to most reasonably large spaces. It covers up to 175 square feet of space and has a sturdy base that holds it stable in place. Made of hammered bronze, this piece is a looker that will light up any space. It only measures 7.25’ tall and has a 31.9” dome reflector that makes it just ideal for most patios.
Because it weighs 41lbs, this heater is a little too heavy to carry around, which is why the wheels help. They are a little too small, though as per some reviewers, and so they don’t roll as smoothly as desired. This heater has anti-tilt technology that shuts down the gas flow when the heater tilts to a 30° angle. The construction of this heater ensures even distribution of heat and the hood at the top directs heat down to prevent damage to the patio.
- Pumps out 48,000 BTUs
- Has a 15-foot diameter, which is ideal for most patios.
- Its heat range is 15′ radius which is ideal for medium to large spaces.
- A Piezo ignition system that makes it easy to operate.
- Wheels are quite small, making portability a little difficult.
- Some reviewers say the heater turns off randomly.
5. Sunjoy Lawrence Floor-Standing Patio Heater
If your patio roof is quite high, then this 88-inch patio heater from Sunjoy Lawrence will be a good addition to your home. Its Bronze hammered finish not only makes it attractive, but it also ensures durability that will withstand heat for years. It is only covered for a year, but it is designed to last way longer than that.
Pumping 47,000 BTU, it distributes heat evenly on a relatively large space. You will feel the heat best at 9.5 ft. in a semi-diameter. The stand-alone design allows you to place it on any flat surface, while the wheels improve portability.
An automatic shut-off valve is handy in case the heater tips over. The protective double-layer mesh that forms the larger part of this heater is not only protective but aesthetic as well. It is designed to make no noise, and the technology in it prevents the emission of dry heat. Because it is propane-powered, this heater distributes heat evenly.
- Releases up to 47,000 BTU for lots of heat.
- It distributes heat evenly.
- Attractive Bronze hammered finish that is also durable.
- An automatic shut-off valve.
- Though it comes with an instruction manual, it is not user-friendly.
- Assembly may take a while.
6. Fire Sense Hammer Tone Bronze Patio Heater
Fire Sense’s heater has a reflector hood that pushes heat down where it is needed. The entire piece is made of aluminum for longevity and it is covered for one year. With a 46, 000 BTU output, a 20-pound propane tank will last 2 to 4 hours on high depending on weather conditions. Its powder-coated hammered Bronze finish makes it interesting to look at and also long-lasting. The little door at the front of this heater makes it easy to change a gas tank.
It has the Piezo ignition system that makes operation a breeze, and the small wheels on this set are ideal for portability. It automatically shuts down when tipped to a 30-degree angle.
- Has a reflector hood made of aluminum.
- Wheels for portability.
- Auto shut-off tilt valve.
- Pumps up to 46, 000 BTU.
- The heat reflector needs assembly.
- Some reviewers say it started rusting after the lapse of warranty period.
7. TRUSTECH Patio Heater
Electric-powered heaters are great because they do not emit fumes. This Trustech heater is small and only weighs 6.35 pounds, which is pretty light to carry around. It also has a beautiful design chandelier-like design that makes it a decorative addition to your room.
With a 1500W power supply, you are not worried about not having enough warmth for intimate dinners. You also have no concern for power as long as your electricity bills are paid. It is made of steel and has a lifespan of 6000 hours. An 8.2 inches chain is handy for portability and hanging above the dinner table. It heats up quite fast, thanks to the halogen tube in the design that emits a beautiful glow that will decorate your space. Because it is electric-powered, you don’t have to worry about using it in enclosed spaces.
- Output- 1500W power supply
- Uses electricity which does not emit any fumes.
- Decorative design.
- Lightweight and easy to assemble.
- Only ideal for small spaces.
8. PAMAPIC Patio Heater
This heater from Pamapic has a piezo igniter that makes it easy to start, which the knob on the side allows you to adjust heat as per your liking. It uses the standard 5-pound gas tank, but you will get more hours out of a 20lb propane tank – reviewers say up to 5 hours on ‘high.’ It keeps the heat evenly distributed in a range of 18 feet in diameter.
At the top is a reflector hood that pushes heat down the room so that it disperses ideally. This dome also prevents any damages to your patio’s roof. The wheels on this heater make it possible to carry while its sturdy base stands alone on even ground. When tilted over 30 degrees or it tips over, the valve in the heater shuts down to prevent accidents. It comes with a zippered waterproof cover to shield it from the elements.
- Built-in tank chamber.
- Burns up 46,000 BTUs.
- Sturdy base and firm wheels.
- Could be a little too tall for some patios.
9. HOmeLabs Gas Patio Heater
If you are looking for a heater that can warm up to 18 inches in diameter at a reasonable price, then this one from HomeLabs is ideal. It may be a little too tall for some patios as it is 87 inches, but it is made for longevity with its high-grade steel and sleek bronze hammered finish. It will not rust nor succumb to the elements, and it will outlive its year’s warranty.
Also, it has a simple ignition system that works at the push of a button, and the auto-shut valve here keeps you safe in the event of a tip-over.
- Auto Shut-off valve.
- Has a shelf table-top
- Simple ignition system
- 41,000 BTUs
- Quite tall at 87 inches.
- The base is not very stable when windy.
10. Dyna-Glo Premium Hammered Bronze Patio Heater
This Dyna-Glo heater strikes a balance between value and quality with its 48,000 BTU heat output and stellar bronze construction. It is light for portability, with wheels that can handle smooth terrain. The electric ignition button on the side can be operated by anyone and it is even better than this heater comes with an instructional manual for reference. You get to decide how much heat you want with the turn of a button at the bottom.
A 20-pound propane tank will last 5 hours or more depending on your settings. To change the tank, a small door at the front is handy.
- 48,000 BTU heat output.
- Stellar construction.
- Easy electric ignition button.
- The base could be sturdier.
Patio Heaters: Buying Guide
What are some of the things to consider before buying a patio heater?
Size of Patio
You will want to take into consideration the size of your outdoor space. If you are placing the heater on a large dining table, you may want to consider a medium-sized one or a free-standing heater. The larger the space, the bigger the heater and naturally, the more it will consume. Freestanding heaters are always ideal for large spaces as they emit the most heat especially because they are propane-powered.
Design of Patio
There are four most common designs – Free-standing, Wall-mounted, Hanging, and Table-top. Freestanding patio heaters are the most common for outdoor spaces. They are usually 7- 8 feet tall with sturdy bases that will hold them ideally in place. They are portable as they have wheels and emit so much heat because they are gas-powered. These heaters are ideal for large spaces.
Wall-mounted heaters are safe especially when you have kids that would naturally be curious. They are ideal for small spaces like homes and can be powered by either electricity or propane.
Hanging heaters only heat small spaces like porches because their hat disperses up to nine feet away. If you want to get the most out of your heater, you may want to hang it low so most of the heat is disbursed better. They come in various designs and can be made to look like chandeliers when they’re hung in a living room. If it is electric-powered, then you can hang it as low as you want because there are no risks of fumes.
Table-top heaters are also ideal for small spaces because they do not emit so much heat. When setting up a table for two or four, you can have this heater on as it also doubles up as a decorative fixture.
Source of Power – Gas or Electricity?
The three common sources of power for patio heaters are; electricity, propane, and natural gas. Energy used to raise the temperature in a pound of water a degree Fahrenheit is measured in BTU – British Thermal Unit, and so the source of power for your preferred heater will be determined by its BTUs. To know the ideal BTUs for your room, measure its size and then use this formula below;
Area – Square Feet X (current temperature in Fahrenheit – desired temp) = minimum BTU
Large entertainment spaces could use up to 48,000 to 58,000 BTUs while 30,000 to 38,000 BTU will suffice for medium-sized areas. Smaller spaces require about 3000 to 10,000 BTUs which is generated by small patio heaters.
Electricity is the cleanest of these three because it does not emit fumes and you will not worry about it being in enclosed areas. As long as you have reliable electricity and are okay with it being installed permanently, this heater will serve you efficiently.
Propane-powered heaters are powerful and are recommended for larger spaces, but they do emit fumes that make them less than ideal to have in an enclosed environment. They are portable too as you can carry your propane tank anywhere.
Natural gas is the most efficient as it is reasonably cheaper than any other source, but you would need a constant supply of it. You cannot pack and port it, and so these heaters are not portable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
These are some of the most common questions we get about patio heaters.
Conclusion – Wrapping Up
This brings us to the end of this article. Our intention was to make it easier for you to choose the best patio heater for your home or space, and we do hope you are more informed. Did you find this article beneficial? Are there tips or products you swear by that you would like to share with other readers?
We are always pleased to hear your thoughts and suggestions, and we also like it when you share this knowledge with your connections. As always, we will keep updating this post with new information on heaters as and when it becomes available.