Gone are the days when you were forced to wind up your most entertaining outdoor parties with friends or family because of the chilled wind outside.
With various patio heaters available in the market, you no longer need to worry about planning late-evening parties in the chilly wind.
However, selecting the best & safest outdoor patio heater is a task in itself, particularly when many outdoor patio heaters are available on the market.
Not to worry! We will share the top 11 best & safest outdoor patio heaters with you that will never let you leave your party during those beautiful chilly evenings.
Table of Contents
Top 11 Best & Safest Outdoor Patio Heaters
1. Fire Sense 01775 Unpainted Stainless Steel Patio Heater
The Fire Sense 01775 patio heater would keep you and your friends or family members together while you all enjoy the outside parties in a bar or your garden or porch on the most chilling evening.
You don’t need to lock yourself inside your homes during those cool & windy evenings anymore. This heavy-duty patio heater constructed with commercial grade stainless steel offers a durable solution to all your chilly and windy evenings.
The 46,000 BTU heater comprises stainless steel burners and a heating grid. Besides, the electronic ignition system ensures instant heating up of the patio heater. To generate the amount of heat, the patio heater requires a 20 pounds LPG cylinder. The cylinder is not part of the standard packaging.
The propane heater is equipped with two copper finish heavy-duty wheels that offer smooth-rolling even on terrains’ roughest to add to the convenience.
Pros
- High durability
- Instant heating up
- High output
- Extremely aesthetics in appearance
- High portability
Cons
- Assembly instructions are a little confusing.
- Requires 50” spherical clearance
Verdict
If you want a stylish patio heater that quickly heats up and is high on durability, portability & output, the Fire Sense 01775 patio heater is just the right choice for you.
2. Landmann 28345 Big Sky Stars and Moons Fire Pit
The Landmann 28345 is a highly convenient lightweight fire pit. The unique design of stars & moons makes it a highly decorative article that is very effective and powerful in its core function.
The heavy-duty steel construction makes it a longer-lasting option, while the lightweight, compact size and convenient handles offer very high portability to the equipment. The fire bowl, along with the safety ring, is used as a carry handle and offers the footrest’s convenience.
The high portability of the pit fire enhances the versatility of the unit. The heater thus can be used for multiple occasions and at multiple locations. The pit fire comes with a protective screen to provide safety from the stray spark. The bowl is designed in a way that provides a 360-degree view with glimpses of fire from the beautiful star & moon cutouts.
Pros
- Sturdy & durable
- Highly portable
- Safe design
- Very easy to assemble
- Highly versatile
Cons
- No drainage holes
Verdict
The best companion of your backyard during the most chilly & windy evenings, the Landmann 28345 is a perfect fit for all occasions with the utmost ease.
3. AZ GS-FC-PC Antique Bronze Finish Propane Fire Pit
A perfect patio heater for the indoors and the outdoors, the AZ GS-FC-PC is a tabletop pit fire that would blend with any living room furniture. Its rustic bronze finish makes it an excellent unit for any outdoor location.
Made of sturdy steel, the heater is powerful and highly durable. Besides, the Piezo ignition allows the patio heater to emit up to 41,000 BTU of heat. Moreover, the thick glass over the burners adds to the aesthetics of the patio heater.
The double-hang door discreetly conceals a 20 lbs capacity propane tank while maintaining the overall heater design’s elegance. To make the whole unit safe, the fire pit is equipped with a thermocouple that can alert you to inflame failure.
The versatile patio heater is wonderful equipment for your backyard and the outdoor’ bar setups.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Elegant design
- Safe in operation
- Versatile
- Good value for money
Cons
- Lacks rocks to flame the center area
Verdict
If you want a durable patio heater that can be used inside the home, in the backyard, and the outside camping or bar settings, your search ends at the AZ GS-FC-PC Antique.
4. AmazonBasics Commercial Propane Outdoor Patio Heater with Wheels
The AmazonBasics Commercial Propane Outdoor Patio Heater is a high output heater delivering 46,000 BTU of heat using 20 lbs LPG cylinders. It offers super comfort & warmth through its most convenient and user-friendly functions.
The Piezo ignition system lights up the heater in a single push of a button and ensures that the dipping temperatures outside do not interrupt your joy of being with your friends or family members.
To make it more convenient, the heating device is equipped with two smooth yet strong wheels. The wheels can travel the roughest of terrains with super ease making the propane heater extremely portable.
The stainless steel construction offers extreme durability to the heater, while the powder-coated bronze finish adds to its life besides enhancing its aesthetics. Also, the base reservoir system ensures that the heater is perfectly secured at all times. Depending on the base surface, you can fill the reservoir system with water or sand and provide proper weight to ensure the equipment’s stability.
Pros
- Ideal for commercial purposes
- Highly durable
- Excellent portability
- High output
- Quick heating
Cons
- LPG tank not included in standard packaging
Verdict
From organizing a cocktail party on the back deck to arranging the outside dating meet, the AmazonBasics Commercial patio heaters would add only warmth in all the events around the year.
5. LEGACY HEATING CAPH-7-S CAPH-7 Smocha Patio Heater
One of the most effective patio heaters for the winter season, the LEGACY HEATING CAPH-7Smocha, can produce heat of up to 47,000 BTU. This heating can warm up large backyards and porch areas.
The heater has an adjustable heat control system that makes it suitable for various areas and weather conditions. You can easily control the temperature according to your need.
The patio heater is equipped with the piezo ignition system, which allows it to heat up very quickly. In addition to this, to offer convenience to the equipment, the heater is fitted with two wheels. The smooth & durable wheels add to the heater’s portability and make it very easy to transport from one location to another.
The heater has also been provided with an auto-shutoff system, making it a very safe device to operate.
Pros
- High output
- Adjustable heat dissipation
- Highly portable
- Sturdy & durable
- Auto shut off system for safety
Cons
- Wheels don’t come assembled with the heater
Verdict
If you are looking for a patio heater that can fulfill your different heating needs in multiple weather conditions through its high output & temperature adjustability features, the LEGACY HEATING CAPH-7Smocha is the ultimate heater to go for.
6. Heininger 5995 58,000 Outdoor Propane Fire Pit
A fire pit with a difference, the Heininger 5995, produces an extremely high output of 58,000 BTU heat using the LPG. The canvas tote is a highly durable and portable fire pit. In addition to the material, the double-stitched handles enhance the durability of the heating unit. Moreover, strong stitched handles also make it easy to carry. This adds to the portability of the heating device.
The whole system can also be used as a cover or bag and can be used for alternative purposes. The fire pit is not only effective but also extremely convenient to use. To add to the convenience, the product is designed in such a way that you can pack it very easily for any tailgate parties, camping, or RV trips. In addition to that, you don’t need to worry about the residual ash; the tote bag can store it neatly without creating any mess whatsoever.
Pros
- Very high output
- Convenient to transport
- Versatile
- High durability
- Neat & clean function
Cons
- Lacks protection at the bottom of the bag
Verdict
Extremely easy to carry, the high output, neat & clean fire pit is your excellent companion for all weather conditions.
7. Deckmate Sonora Outdoor Chimenea Fireplace Model 30199
The Deckmate Sonora Outdoor Chimenea Fireplace Model 30199 is an excellent heater for outdoor purposes during cold evenings. The device uses wood & artificial logs as the heating source. The Chimenea fireplace has a cast iron construction with the finishing of the paint to withstand higher temperatures.
The heater has an awe-inspiring & appealing antique design, and the fine wire mesh around the circle makes it even more alluring while burning. The fireplace also has a sliding door, large enough to add fuel. Also, it has the provision to collect the ash. Besides, the screen around the fireplace ensures safety from the fire sparks. These features make the whole heat operation very neat, clean & safe. The package comes included with the grate and firewood.
The chimenea structure ensures that the whole burning operation is completely smoke-free.
Pros
- Highly effective
- Neat, clean & safe operation.
- Excellent for outdoor purpose
- Smoke-free heating
- Very appealing design
Cons
- Not suitable for indoors
Verdict
One of the best outdoor fireplaces, the Deckmate Sonora, offers an elegant, clean, safe, and smoke-free experience while giving the necessary warmth during the cool, windy evenings.
8. FDW Outdoor Patio Heater Tall Standing
Built with sturdy stainless steel, the FDW Outdoor Patio Heater is one of the most powerful patio heaters in the market. The durable heater uses a piezo ignition system for quick ignition and heating up. The heater has high portability, thanks to the two smooth wheels rolling over any terrain with great ease.
It is a CSA approved heater that is a testimonial to its high quality. Besides the excellent quality, the heater offers extremely safe operations through its auto-shutoff system. The base with the provision of storing 20 lbs LPG tank gives the whole setup high stability. Moreover, you can secure the heater with the screws on the base.
The patio heater offers very effective heating up to 5 ft from its position.
The FDW outdoor patio heater is versatile and can be used for multipurpose activities at multiple locations.
Pros
- CSA approved quality
- Adjustable heating
- Highly stable
- Effective safety systems
- Quick ignition
Cons
- Suitable only for outdoor purposes
Verdict
If you are looking for a powerful, effective, and good quality patio heater, the FDW Outdoor Patio Heater would be an excellent choice for you.
9. Hiland HLI-1P Electric Parasol/Umbrella Patio Heater
One of the best umbrella patio heaters, the Hiland HLI-1P Electric Parasol/Umbrella Patio Heater, can heat up to 15 ft from its position. The patio heater is suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities. This makes it a handy heater for all weather conditions.
The umbrella heaters consist of 3 heating hands. The heaters have a stainless construct with a total capacity of 1500 watts.
You can adjust the temperature of the heaters as per your comfort level. Besides, you can use these outdoors even in rainy conditions as the heater has the IP certificate endorsing its waterproof capabilities.
Pros
- Unique & effective design
- Excellent range of heat effect
- Waterproof construct
- Adjustable heating
- Suitable for both indoor & outdoor activities
Cons
- BTU heat output is not very high
Verdict
The unique & effective design offers warmth covering a large periphery in all your indoor & outdoor locations throughout the year.
10. Bromic Heating BH0110003-1 Smart-Heat Platinum 500 Radiant Infrared Patio Heater
The uniquely designed patio heater, the Bromic Heating BH0110003-1, is an excellent heater for domestic & commercial purposes. It produces 39,800 BTU of heat using natural gas.
The unit heats up quickly and covers 200 square feet, making it a highly effective infrared patio heater for big parties inside and outside your home round the year.
The design using glass-ceramic technology is highly appealing & efficient. Besides, the unit has an optional smart control system or standard switch to operate multiple heaters.
Also, the unit comprises the mounting bracket for safe, stable & flexible mounting. You have the option to mount the heaters on the wall or attach them to the ceiling. The heater can fit in very easily at the backyards and in the restaurants.
Pros
- Glass-ceramic technology for high efficiency
- Large area coverage of 200 square feet
- Quick electric ignition system
- Flexible mounting options
- Suitable for both indoor & outdoor activities
Cons
- On the higher price point
Verdict
The highly advanced patio heater, the Bromic Heating BH0110003-1, is a fascinating patio heater that offers a rare package of efficiency, comfort, elegance, safety, and quality.
11. DONYER POWER 1500W Electrical Patio Heater
One of the most versatile patio heaters, the DONYER POWER 1500W Electrical Patio Heater makes for an excellent patio heater for your multiple needs. You can use it in your office space, bedroom, living room, backyard, camping, and small parties to the big commercial events.
It is an extremely lightweight and portable unit. The unit also has two power options adding to your convenience. For further ease of use, the unit comes attached with a pulling cord. You can select the required wattage by pulling the attached cord once for the lower wattage and twice for the higher one.
The heater dissipates uniform heating in all directions. This helps in enhancing the overall heating effectiveness and the coverage area. Besides, the heater uses halogen tubes for luminous heat dissipation. This also offers smoke-free, high-efficiency heating with no oxidation.
The IP4 approved heating unit can be safely used outside, even in rainy or snowy conditions.
Pros
- Luminous heating with high efficiency
- Uniform 360-degree coverage
- Extremely versatile
- Highly durable
- Great portability
- Beautiful appearance
Cons
- Not very suitable for large areas
Verdict
If you are looking for a highly versatile & efficient patio heater, which is highly durable and easy to transport, you don’t need to look beyond the DONYER POWER 1500W Electric Patio Heater.
Outdoor Patio Heaters Buying guide.
Product reviews given above would have helped you in shortlisting a few suitable outdoor patio heaters. Now, the inputs regarding their working, types, and factors affecting their performance would help you make a more informed decision in finalizing the best one.
How does a Patio Heater Work?
The patio heaters use either propane or natural gas for burning or use electricity for producing the heat. They do not blow the hot air in the space. They warm the surrounding area through the heat radiation method. The heat keeps us warm while passing through the air.
The patio heater powered through propane consists of a valve regulator. The valve opens up as soon as you give power to the heater. The gas thus starts to move through the pole of the heater and reaches the burners. The burners are attached at the top of the patio heater assembly. In turn, they heat the radiant element, which is fitted on the heater structure’s rims.
This raises the temperature of the whole patio heater, which starts radiating heat in the surrounding area.
Are Patio Heaters Expensive to Run?
Patio heaters’ cost depends on multiple factors, including design, type, size, capacity, and other features. If you stick to your basic requirements, you may select a low-cost patio heater. However, if you want a high-end model, you may have to pay additionally for the product.
Natural gas has less running costs but has higher installation costs. On the other hand, propane gas is cheaper to buy but costlier than natural gas to run.
The electrical patio heater’s running cost would depend on your respective region; however, they would have a higher maintenance cost compared to both natural and propane gas heaters.
If easily available, Wood is the cheapest fuel of all; however, it has the highest maintenance requirement than all other heating sources.
Power supply Types
Patio heaters have four types of power supplies:
- Propane
- Natural Gas
- Electrical
- Wood
Each of these systems has its respective advantages and disadvantages.
Propane Gas
The propane gas power supply is easily available. The following are some of the pros & cons of the propane gas power supply:
Pros
- Most suitable for the portable types of patio heaters
- Very easy to use
- High versatility
Cons
- Require larger clearances
- Less resistance to wind
- It can only have one to two setting adjustments.
- Costlier compared to natural gas
- Recessed mounting is not possible
Natural Gas
The natural gas power supply is the cheapest. Following are some of the advantages and the flip sides of the natural gas power supply:
Pros
- Cheapest of all heating sources.
- Offers maximum BTU heat output
- Covers the maximum area
Cons
- It offers less wind resistance compared to the electrical power supply systems
- Requires bigger clearance area
- You can only have two heating selection options
- Recessed mounting is not possible
Electric
The electrical power supply has many advantages over the other types, with a few flip sides. Let us have a look at its benefits and the disadvantages that it offers:
Pros
- Requires the least clearance
- Recessed mounting is possible with the flush mount types of electric power supply
- Highest wind resistance
- Have multiple setting options
- Smoke-free
Cons
- Have a higher running cost compared to all others
- Require relatively more frequent maintenance
Wood
This is the most sought-after power supply with the following points making it more or less beneficial compared to other power supplies:
Pros
- Provides a great atmosphere
- Very affordable where they are easily available
Cons
- They require more maintenance
- A little difficult to ignite.
- Difficult to maintain heating levels
- Costly in urban areas
- Not easily available in the city areas
Types of patio heaters
There are broadly three types of patio heaters:
Freestanding
These types of patio heaters are ready-to-install heaters. You have to place them at the desired location. On the downside, these types of heaters require more space and are most affected by the wind.
Hanging and Wall-mounted
Hanging patio heaters are mounted either above a patio table or are fitted to the umbrella pole. They, therefore, do not occupy any space. These types of heaters are also ideal for small spaces.
Tabletop
These heaters are also ready-to-install heaters. They can be easily kept on a table and thus are ideal for heating small spaces.
Things to consider before buying a patio heater
Following are some of the major factors to consider before finalizing the patio heater most suitable for your purpose:
Power output
The power output of a patio heater is measured in British Thermal Unit (BTU). It determines the area that the patio heater would heat. Heater with higher BTU would heat more area compared to the less BTU heaters. However, the heater’s space would also depend on the ambient temperature & wind velocity.
Safety
Safety is one of the major factors to be considered while buying a patio heater. If ignored, they can play havoc and cause serious accidents.
For the windy places, I prefer the heaters that can withstand the high wind velocity. Otherwise, secure the heater firmly to the deck to avoid it from falling.
Avoid keeping wood and gas heaters in the enclosed spaces. They may cause carbon monoxide to accumulate inside the enclosed area, which is very harmful to inhale. Besides, inside the closed area, they have a risk of causing a fire hazard.
Electrical heaters are the safest option. Those having a tilt shutoff mechanism offer even more safety.
While using the fire pits, keep the fire within the pit and remember to put off the fire after the use immediately.
Portability
Most of the patio heaters are either too lightweight and compact to be transported by lifting them. The others would come with smooth wheels attached to them for easy transportation. You can select as per your suitability.
Durability
You would never want to invest frequently in a patio heater. Therefore, it is essential to consider the durability of the heater before placing the final order. Check the making material and its resistance to different weather situations. You can refer to the expert reviews and the customer reviews to know about the heater’s durability that you have shortlisted.
Final Thoughts
So, this was all about the outdoor patio heaters. You would have shortlisted a few heaters while going through the review section.
You can now look at the different factors based on the buying guide’s inputs and match your requirements with each of the shortlisted heaters. Select the one that fulfills most of your requirements in the long run.