Stay Warm All Winter Long With the Best Patio Heater
When winter hits, your patio is the only place you want to be. But what happens when it gets too cold outside? You can't even enjoy a warm mug of cocoa without feeling chilly. However, with a patio heater, you can extend your outdoor living space to enjoy those crisp winter nights. Not only do they keep you cozy, but these heaters also add ambiance and create a more inviting atmosphere for guests. They come with fans and oscillating features that can help distribute heat more evenly, which leads to increased comfort. They're perfect for heating up a small area like a porch or patio, and they can even be used inside the home in areas that don't get much direct sunlight. We have evaluated some of the highest-rated patio heaters of 2022, so you can comfortably enjoy your outdoor space, regardless of the weather. Now there is no need to stay cooped up inside when these heaters are here to help!
Comparing the Top Patio Heaters of 2022
Amazon Basics Patio Heater
– Best Overall
The Amazon Basics patio heater is perfect for keeping your guests warm on chilly evenings. Made with a combination of durable steel and aluminum, this heater has a powder-coated finish that prevents it from harsh weather and outside elements. It features a 46,000 BTU heating capacity and can provide heat up to a 9-foot radius – perfect for residential and commercial use.
What’s more, it has an auto shut-off tilt valve that ensures a safe and secure experience, while the piezo ignition system makes starting up the heater a breeze – just push the button, and you’re good to go! The wheel assembly makes it easy to move this patio heater wherever you need it, and the secure chain helps to keep your LPG tank in place. It also has a water box that adds weight to the base for extra stability. With the amazingly sleek design, this heater will look great on any patio.
- It is simple to use; just use the piezo ignitor to turn it on
- It has tons of safety features for ultimate protection
- It comes with a wheel for mobility and has a secure chain that keeps the tank in its place.
- It provides 9 ft. wide coverage with 46000 BTUs
- The heater generates a lot of noise
PAMAPIC Patio Heater
– Runner Up
Add some warmth to your outdoor living space with this PAMAPIC patio heater. This freestanding outdoor heater is made with stainless steel for optimal durability and longevity. With an 88″ umbrella and 18″ diameter, this patio heater emits 46,000 BTUs of steady heat, creating an inviting environment for you and your guests. Unlike other traditional heaters, it has an advanced pulse ignition system that makes lighting up this heater a breeze and an adjustable valve to customize the temperature according to your needs.
Additionally, it is equipped with an auto shut-off tilt valve that automatically turns off your heater if it gets knocked over by accident, so you’ll never have to worry about it becoming a fire hazard. It also has an impeccable wheel assembly, allowing you to move it around your garage, deck, courtyard, garden – wherever you need some extra warmth. Another bonus? It comes with a weather-resistant cover that not only protects it against harmful weather but also makes the whole storage process a hassle-free task!
- It has a heavy-duty construction, so it’s very sturdy and durable even in the windiest weather conditions.
- Emits 46000 BTUs, so it is great for large outdoor spaces.
- It has an incredible wheel assembly that makes it easy to transport
- This heater is quite large and cumbersome, making it difficult to move around
Briza Infrared Patio Heater
– Honorable Mention
Step out into the crisp evening air and warm yourself with the Briza patio heater. This heater is embedded with carbon infrared technology that increases the ambient temperature to warm up the space, allowing you to comfortably enjoy your backyard oasis all night long!
It has a remote control that offers endless customization possibilities; you can turn the heater on/off, change the heat intensity level, and even set the timer on it to automatically turn it off – all from the comfort of your seat. That’s not all. It also features a built-in sensor that automatically turns it off in case of any emergency for maximum safety and protection.
Best of all, this versatile heater comes with hardware for both wall and ceiling mounting, as well as an adjustable tripod stand that makes it easy to adjust the height of the heater as needed. You can set it up on your deck, patio, green room, entryways, and wherever you want to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- 93% more energy-efficient than a traditional fireplace, so you can cut costs on your electricity bills.
- Comes with hardware that makes the whole installation process a breeze!
- It silently provides supplemental heat, which is great for noise-sensitive people
- It doesn’t have a fan to circulate the heat
Hiland Patio Heater
– Also Consider
Hiland brand is known for its reliable and consumer-friendly products, and its patio heaters are no exception. With an impressive 40,000 BTUs and a 10 sq. ft. coverage area, this patio heater is ideal for heating up larger spaces in a matter of seconds. It has an advanced igniter that makes starting up your heater easy and safe, while the tilt valve and auto shut-off feature ensures maximum safety and peace of mind.
Additionally, it comes with a 20lbs standard propane tank, so you can operate it for straight 8-10 hours without worrying about the gas refill. It has a clearance space of 36″ from the top and 24″ from the side, so you can place it virtually anywhere to enjoy warmth and coziness. Apart from providing remarkable supplemental heat, this top-of-the-line patio heater features a hammered bronze finish and a stylish pyramid design that’ll complement any decor.
- Reliable ignitor to turn on the heater
- Tilt valve and auto shut-off feature for maximum safety
- Functional and stylish design that will add an elegant touch to the outdoor décor
- The heater requires regular maintenance to function properly
Get ready to turn up the heat on your patio this winter with the FDW patio heater! This high-output patio heater has an impressive 47,000 BTUs and puts out a lot of heat, so you can stay comfortable outdoors even when the temperature drops. It is manufactured with high-quality stainless steel and has CSA certification, so it will last for a long time.
For safety, it has an automatic shut-off feature and tilt over system that automatically turns it off when the gas runs out to prevent accidents. What’s more, it features a standard 20lbs propane gas tank that adds weight to the overall heater and provides you with exceptional stability. The advanced piezo ignitor allows you to quickly turn it on while the wheels make the whole transportation a hassle-free task. So, crank up the heat and enjoy your patio like never before!
- Wheels for easy mobility
- 47000 BTUs rating to efficiently heat up the large space
- Automatic shut-off and tilt over for maximum safety and protection
- Advanced piezo ignitor that starts up the heater within seconds
- It doesn’t have a built-in thermostat
Buyer's Guide: Patio Heater
Whether you are looking to heat up your backyard or simply want to enjoy the ambiance of a fireplace without the need for installing one in your home, a patio heater is an ideal option. There is such a wide variety available in the market that it can often get quite overwhelming to pick the right product. But don't worry. Our inclusive guide has everything you need to know about these heaters. So, let's get started.
Types of Patio Heaters
Freestanding
Freestanding heaters are the most commonly used patio heaters. These heaters are typically not attached to a wall or table like other models; instead, they are placed in the middle of the area that is to be heated. They feature a pole, base, heat source, and heat element to heat up the space. The shape of freestanding heaters resembles a pyramid and can be used in a variety of outdoor settings such as patios, decks, restaurants, and gardens.
Wall-mounted
Wall-mounted patio heaters are an excellent alternative to freestanding patio heaters. These energy efficient units rely on electricity, and work by transferring the heated air into space - making it much easier than a traditional fireplace! These heaters are often mounted in a discrete location. They serve as a stylish focal point while efficiently heating up the outdoor space.
Infrared
Infrared heaters are one of the most versatile patio heaters. These units do not rely on combustion for heating but rather use special infrared heating elements to deliver energy to the surface. This energy is then absorbed by the objects around it and emitted as radiant heat. These heaters can be used in a wide variety of applications and make a great addition to any patio or deck.
How To Pick the Right Patio Heater?
Listed below are some essential features that will help you make an informed buying decision.
Patio Size
A patio heater should not obstruct a person's view of an open patio space or block traffic. Before buying a patio heater you need to determine the right sizing for your outdoor space. If you have a small porch, then go for a wall-mounted heater to get the best possible heat. On the other hand, if you have a large garden or patio, then a freestanding heater with a wide umbrella diameter might be a better choice for you. You can also take the proper measurement by yourself and then buy a heater that is adequate enough to meet your needs.
BTUs
The BTUs of a patio heater are important because they determine how much heat you will get out of your unit. The higher the BTUs, the more efficient and effective your heater will be. The average-sized patio heaters come with 10,000 to 12,000 BTUs while some larger models emit 50,000 BTUs or more to provide the user with the most enhanced experience.
Always skim through the product label to check how much BTU per hour it provides before making the purchase. You should also avoid models with exceptionally lower BTUs as they take more energy to run and can take your energy bills to the roof!
Heat source
Different types of heaters use variable heat sources to operate. But the most commonly used heat sources are propane gas and electricity.
- Propane
Most freestanding patio heaters rely on propane gas. It is a good option for most people who want to enjoy a warm outdoor environment without being dependent on utility power or worrying about cords and outlets. However, propane gas releases carbon monoxide into the air, which can cause a health hazard. So, you have to be extra careful while using it.
- Electric
Electric heaters, on the other hand, use a power cord to turn on and heat up the space. These models have insulated burners that do not pose a fire hazard around children or animals if they touch them or knock them over. They also have no exhaust fumes to worry about, and convenient wheels make them easy to move around on your deck or patio. However, you must be cautious while using these heaters as they can cause a huge surge in your electric bills.
Safety features
When looking for a patio heater, it is significant to consider the safety features. Some heaters have a built-in safety system that will turn the unit off if it gets too close to something flammable. Others have a tilt switch that will turn the unit off if it is tipped over. Look for a model that comes with these essential safety features to keep your family safe and protected.
How Much Does a Patio Heater Cost?
The cost of the patio heater varies greatly depending on the type of heater, its size, and features. The price ranges of patio heaters start from 100$ for a very basic model to 350$ for the most expensive one. However, some of the most expensive models have the most elaborate features, such as automatic ignition, thermostat control, oscillation, and much more!
Tabletop patio heaters are among the least expensive options, ranging from about $60 to $150 or so. If you are on a budget, these affordable models will work just fine.
Safety Precautions While Using the Patio Heater
Follow these tips while using a patio heater to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Never leave your heater unattended, and make sure to extinguish it if you leave the area for any length of time.
- Make sure that small children or pets do not get too close to the heater.
- Using the regular kerosene in a patio heater can cause it to malfunction. Only use approved fuel that is intended for indoor or outdoor heating equipment.
- Keep the heater away from flammable items such as furniture, plants, and paper goods.
- Be extra cautious if you use the patio heater in a windy area.
- Make sure that you place the heater in an area where it will not cause a tipping hazard. You can also put down some sand or gravel around it to prevent accidents.
Best Patio Heaters FAQs
A: Patio heaters are easy to install, but you will need to make sure that you have the right tools and equipment. You will also need to be familiar with the proper installation procedures. If you are not comfortable installing a heater on your own, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.
A: Yes, you can have a propane or natural gas patio heater as long as your landlord permits it and the local ordinances don't ban outdoor heating appliances. Call your landlord or check with your building manager to ensure that you're allowed to use a patio heater before you purchase one and install it on your balcony or deck.
A: You can put your patio heater in any outdoor area where it is permissible to have one. This could be your backyard, your balcony, or even your porch.
A: No, you cannot use a freestanding patio heater inside your house. These heaters require lots of open space to ventilate properly which is not possible in an enclosed area. However, you can get a compact space heater to heat up your indoor space.
