OUR TOP PICK – Best Patio Heaters
We have found the best patio heaters, and our top pick is the Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Patio Propane Heater. This product is made by the AZ Patio Heaters, one of the respected brands for patio heaters since they began their business in 2002. This 89-inch tall heater makes a perfect complement to any patio setting with its superior heating capabilities.
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- Your purchase includes One Hiland HLDSO1-GTCB 91-Inch Pyramid Propane Patio Heater in Hammered Silver color
- Patio heater dimensions: 21.5" W x 21" D x 91" H. Product weight: 65 lbs. Coverage area: 10 sq Ft. Clearance space: Top – 36”/91.4cm. Side – 24”/60.9 cm
- Includes a reliable igniter and a Safety auto shut off tilt valve
- Uses standard 20 lb Propane tank that lasts between 8-10 hrs. on High mode. Butane Heat output: 40,000BTU
Here are the Best Patio Heaters that we have included in our review
A patio is a huge asset for every home or business. For one, it can improve the overall aesthetics of your property. Also, it provides you a convenient space to entertain guests and spend time with your family. However, during colder months, keeping the area warm can be challenging. Thus, forcing many homeowners to stop using the area – which is a big waste. Luckily, there are patio heaters to help you.
With a patio heater, you can keep holding gatherings and enjoy your wonderful space while keeping everyone warm, cozy, and comfortable. Thus, extending your use of such a beautiful outdoor area. And if you are interested in buying one, here’s our guide on the best patio heaters today.
Types of Patio Heaters
When it comes to heating your patio, you can choose from different types of heaters. However, the most efficient are propane and electric. These two types of patio heaters are portable, versatile, and can be immediately used. Let’s look at them in detail below.
What are Electric Patio Heaters?
Similar to your average space heater for indoors, electric heaters produce about the same power. They also operate the same way – just plug and play. These heaters can run at 1,500 watts or 5,100 BTU. There are others with 6,000 BTU as well. Generally, the higher the BTU rating, the stronger its heating capabilities, and the wider its coverage area is.
Electric patio heaters produce infrared energy, meaning the heat is absorbed by your skin and clothes. In terms of safety, electric heaters typically come with glass protection. They also don’t produce flames, so you don’t have to worry about getting it too close to flammable items. But what makes electric patio heaters different from standard indoor units is their water resistance. Most good models can withstand splashing water or light water sprays.
To use an electric patio heater, you need to keep it plugged in an outlet. If there’s no socket close by, you may have to use an extension cord.
What are Propane Patio Heaters?
A propane heater uses liquified petroleum gas (LPG). It produces a flame through an automatic switch, generating powerful max heat output up to 60,000 BTU or more. This is far greater from what electric units can produce. Thus, making it more efficient in providing heat faster and covering a wider area than electric heaters. This is also what makes such models ideal for outdoor use.
Using a propane heater requires no extension cords or electrical outlets. Instead, it needs a tank and fuel to function. And unlike electric patio heaters that heat you directly, a propane heater warms the surrounding air.
Most propane heaters today are made of aluminum or other similar lightweight materials. They are designed with weather resistance as well, which is ideal during winter months. However, compared to electric units, propane heaters require more maintenance. Since they produce fire, some of their parts wear out over time. Thus, you need to have them cleaned at least once a year. Ideally, before putting them into storage.
Another thing worth mentioning about propane patio heaters is that their old parts can be replaced, depending on where you buy them from. But if you buy from unknown brands, this might not be an option. On the other hand, if some parts of an electric heater get broken, chances are that the whole unit won’t be of use again.
That said, which type is the best patio heater?
To help you choose and to guide you in making an informed purchase, here’s a comparison of both types of heaters.
| Features | Electric Patio Heaters | Propane Patio Heaters |
| Heating capability | Up to 6,000 BTU | Up to 60,000 BTU |
| Coverage area | Limited heated area | Wider heating coverage |
| Safety | Protective glass, no fumes, less risk of fire or explosion | More prone to fire and explosion, can emit harmful fumes |
| Initial cost | Lower cost | High initial cost |
| Cost in the long run | Cheaper to operate but can cause your utility bill to increase significantly. Requires bulbs to be replaced occasionally, adding to running costs | Continuous expenses on propane gas, which can be costly in the long run |
| Heating type | Radiant heat is more efficient in heating | Convective heat, which heats up the air around it |
| Portability | Stationary, requires to be plugged in, can’t be moved as needed | No outlets needed, highly portable |
As you can see, there are pros and cons to using both electric or propane. Both can provide you the heat you need to keep your outdoor space toasty and warm during fall or winter. Thus, your decision will depend entirely on your needs.
If you need a safer choice that doesn’t involve dealing with a flame or carbon monoxide buildup, an electric patio heater is your best option. However, if you need better heating capabilities and a larger coverage, a propane patio heater is the best way to go.
After you’ve decided what type of heater you want, it’s time to shop around. To narrow down your options, here’s our list of the best patio heaters.
Best Patio Heaters In 2021
Best Propane Patio Heater: Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Patio Propane Heater
- Your purchase includes One Hiland HLDSO1-GTCB 91-Inch Pyramid Propane Patio Heater in Hammered Silver color
- Patio heater dimensions: 21.5" W x 21" D x 91" H. Product weight: 65 lbs. Coverage area: 10 sq Ft. Clearance space: Top – 36”/91.4cm. Side – 24”/60.9 cm
- Includes a reliable igniter and a Safety auto shut off tilt valve
- Uses standard 20 lb Propane tank that lasts between 8-10 hrs. on High mode. Butane Heat output: 40,000BTU
The Hiland Patio Propane Heater is a pyramid-style heater that measures 91 inches in height and is equipped with wheels. So you can let it stand in the corner and move it when needed. More importantly, this heater has a high heat output of 40,000 BTU. However, as with most patio heaters, you may need to stay close to feel its heat since its coverage is only 10 square feet.
On the plus side, it can produce heat in every direction. Thus, you and your friends or family may gather around it once the cold settles in. This heater uses a standard 20 lb propane tank, which is not included in the package. When full, it can last around 8 to 10 hours in high mode. It also features an igniter and safety automatic shut-off tilt valve.
Best Electric Patio Heater: PatioBoss Electric Patio Heated Wall-Mounted
- 【Fast Heating & 3 Heat Settings】- PATIOBOSS electric patio heater use advanced heating technology with carbon fiber tubes, 95% of electricity can be converted into heat, and delivers heat directly...
- 【Easy to install & Use with Remote Control】- PATIOBOSS wall mounted patio heater equipped with 4 mounting brackets and fasteners, you can mount the infrared heater on the wall easily in only 4...
- 【Multiple Uses】- 1500W high-level power for this outdoor patio heater, whether indoor or outdoor you can use the for your want. Great for setting on your parch and patio to enjoy your reading; For...
- 【Safe Security for Everyone with ETL】- PATIOBOSS electric outdoor patio heater with multiple ways to protect you, your friends and family. When the patio heater is overheated, the infrared heater...
If you are looking for an electric heater and have a convenient wall to mount it to, you can choose the PatioBoss Patio Heater. With the use of its remote control, you can adjust the heat levels from 500W to 1,000W and 1,500W. To make it even better, this heater is energy-efficient, and it can save you about 40% to 60% on electricity.
Aside from not worrying about refilling the tank with fuel and carbon dioxide, the PatioBoss Electric Patio Heater features an auto shut-off that protects you from overheating. It also has a 24-hour timer, which you can set before going to sleep. It has an IP65 rating too, giving it protection from dust and light water sprays. However, the PatioBoss is not a portable heater. Once installed, it has to stay in place.
Best Table Top Propane Patio Heater: Hiland HLDS032-B Table Top Portable Heater
- Hiland 38-Inch tall portable patio heater. CSA Approved
- Stainless Steel finish. Thermocouple and Anti-Tilt Safety Devices
- Heat output: 11,000 BTU's. Gas type: 1lb Propane or 20 lb Propane with Adapter hose, not included.
- Burner screen guard. Regulator included
Do you need a small and portable patio heater that you can simply put on top of a table? If so, the Hiland HLDS021-B Heater is your best choice. You can take it out when needed and keep it in storage once the cold days have passed. It can also produce decent warmth with its 11,000 BTU rating.
This 38-inch patio heater is small and lightweight. It has an anti-tilt safety feature and burner screen guard. It’s also available in 5 colors, giving you more options. However, to use it, you need to purchase a 1 lb to 20 lb propane tank.
Best Freestanding Electric Patio Heater: Westinghouse WES31-15110 Patio Heater
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
If you prefer an electric heater that you can take out and set up only when needed, you might want to check out the Westinghouse Freestanding WES31-15110 Patio Heater. It can produce 1,500W of radiant energy, without letting you worry about gas or other flammable fuels. You can just let it stand where you need it to and plug it in.
This heater is resistant to water and dust, and it is also cost-effective. However, since the cord measures only 8 inches long, you may need an extension cord if an outlet isn’t readily accessible in the area.
Best Mushroom-Top Propane Heater: Belleze 014-HG-PH00-BRO Premium Outdoor Patio Heater
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Here’s another large unit powered by propane. The Belleze 014-HG-PH00-BRO Premium Heater has a mushroom-top design that can match any patio style. It looks good, has a commercial-grade quality, and it’s mobile. Even with its big size, you can position it anywhere you want through its wheels.
This heater offers an impressive 48,000 BTU with a heat range of 175 square feet, making it perfect for mid-winter. It has a simple start-up ignition and a heat control knob. Furthermore, it’s available in 4 colors, and some units come with a table. Overall, the Belleze Outdoor Patio Heater is a great alternative to a fire pit.