The Best Outdoor Heater to Warm Up the Patio – BobVila.com

A good patio heater has the power to expand a deck or patio from strictly warm weather use to a year-round living space for relaxing entertaining. Outdoor heaters come in 1,500-watt electric units that can produce up to 5,100 BTUs, gas heaters that can pump out a scorching 50,000 BTUs of heat, and wood burning heaters that add warmth and the appeal of a crackling fire. These powerful heaters are available in a variety of shapes in sizes, including 7-foot-tall tower heaters that provide warmth within a 360-degree heating zone, wall heaters that provide heat while remaining up and out of the way, and inviting table heaters that resemble the classic fire pit.

In this guide are the different types of patio heaters and the factors to consider when shopping for one of these units in addition to some of the best patio heaters on the market.

Outdoor patio heaters use three different possible fuel sources: gas/propane, electric, and wood. Electric heaters are convenient and versatile, while gas and propane heaters offer superior heating power. Wood offers the allure of an open fire. Ahead, discover the advantages and disadvantages of each outdoor heater type.

Electric outdoor heaters work much like their indoor brethren. They plug into a standard 120-volt outlet, offer the same max power of 1,500 watts (the equivalent of 5,100 BTUs), and produce infrared heat, which warms skin and clothing directly as opposed to the surrounding air. One of the biggest advantages of an outdoor electric heater is ease of use. Simply flip a switch to activate the heating element. Electric outdoor heaters also come in a variety of forms. They can function as stand-alone heaters or as wall-mount heaters. They can even be moved indoors for heating a garage or living space. That said, they dont provide the same amount of heat as a gas heater, so users may need to don a good outdoor blanket for supplemental warmth.

Given that they use electricity for power, there are safety factors to take into account with an outdoor electric heater. An outdoor electric heater should have an IP Code (International Protection Code) rating of 55 or higher, which means the heater can withstand dust and low-pressure streams of water.

Gas and propane outdoor heaters generate more heat than electric models, with the ability to pump out a blazing 50,000 BTUs. While a gas heater will heat more space, it is more susceptible to wind and heat dispersion, because a gas heater warms the air around it while an electric heater warms people and objects directly. This type of heater also isnt as easy to fuel. It requires a propane tank, which the user must periodically replace with a full one, and this can be inconvenient.

Gas and propane outdoor heaters feature all-metal construction thats weather resistant. This type of heater also does not present the same hazards as outdoor electric heaters. Most gas outdoor heaters have safety devices that automatically shut off the unit if it tips over.

Wood backyard patio heaters are made of either metal or stone. Shoppers might find box-shaped or bowl-shaped open fire pits that provide heat in all directions around the pit. Chimineas are also available; they feature a firebox and a small chimney that provides heat from all slides or one side, depending on the design. Chimineas and fire pits both typically sit a foot or more off the ground to prevent the flames from reaching the patio below. The amount of heat a wood patio heater can produce is based on size. A 36-inch-diameter fire pit can hold more fuel, and hence produce a larger fire than a 20-inch-diameter model. Wood fire pits require more work than a gas or electric fire pit, as the user must build and maintain the flame and periodically clean ash out of the unit.

Heat output, style, and coverage area are crucial factors to consider when selecting the right heater for an outdoor living space. Read on to learn about these and other important considerations one should make when shopping for the right patio heater for an outdoor living space.

The area of the patio largely determines the required size of the heater. A freestanding patio heater that produces 40,000 BTUs per hour can heat a 20-foot-diameter space, while a tabletop heater pumping out 30,000 BTUs can heat a radius of 5 to 8 feet. Keep in mind that the heaters ability to heat an area to a comfortable temperature depends on the air temperature. A gas outdoor patio heater will warm the air around it between 3 and 7 degrees above the air temperature with the area closest to the heater receiving the most warmth. Electric heaters will only heat people and objects in close proximity to the heater.

Patio heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Freestanding heaters often have a cylindrical base about a foot in diameter with a pole that extends upward about 6 feet to a large heating element surrounded by a metal grate with a cylindrical heat shield on the top. This style of heater is ideal for patios as it provides a 360-degree heating zone. They come in different colors and finishes to suit different styles. Wall-mounted heaters attach to the wall and are typically elevated about 6 feet off the ground. They are long and narrow and radiate heat using an electric element. Tabletop patio heaters consist of a small heater with an exposed gas flame. This type of heater doesnt produce as much heat as other models but does add an aesthetic element that other styles lack. Some outdoor heaters hang from the ceiling of a covered porch. They look similar to a light fixture; however, instead of emitting light, they emit infrared heat, making them excellent options for patio tables and sitting areas.

Outdoor heaters use different energy sources. Propane heaters use propane gas that comes in a 20-gallon steel container. These containers provide about 10 hours of heat before requiring a refill. Natural gas heaters connect directly to a homes gas supply, providing a limitless amount of fuel and eliminating the need for inconvenient runs to the gas station or supermarket for a replacement propane tank. Electric heaters plug into a standard 120-volt outlet for power, while wood requires a steady supply of firewood for fuel.

The amount of heat put out by a patio heater is measured in BTUs (British thermal units) for gas heaters and watts for electric heaters. Of course, the heat output of a wood-burning patio heater is determined by the size of the fire. Electric heaters are limited to 1,500 watts, which is just under the 1,800 maximum watt output of a standard 120-volt outlet. A 1,500-watt heater puts out roughly 5,100 BTUs of heat (3.4 BTUs of heat per watt). Propane and natural gas heaters, in comparison, can generate up to 46,000 BTUs of heat, making them ideal for covering large spaces.

Patio heaters range in size and, hence, portability, though most have fairly limited portability. Wall-mounted and heater-table combos are stationary units. Large freestanding patio heaters have small wheels on the base that allow the user to move them to different locations on the patio. However, they are large and heavy, making them impractical for transport to another location. Tabletop heaters, which look like smaller versions of tower heaters, are less than 3 feet high, weigh less than 20 pounds, and use 1-pound propane canisters, making them ideal for camping trips and other excursions.

Given that outdoor heating units put out a tremendous amount of heat, they are fire and burn hazards. Most outdoor heaters have safety shutoffs to prevent fires. Gas and electric heaters have tip-over safeties that automatically shut off the unit in the event it falls over. Models with heating elements that are within reach of children and pets feature protective grates that prevent accidental burns. Many electric models have programmable shut-off timers to prevent the heater from being left on.

When using a space heater, its important to pay attention to its safety guidelines. Be sure to adhere to the clearance requirements, which dictate how far the heater should be from structures and patio furniture. Never use an outdoor patio heater indoors unless it is rated for indoor use.

When it comes to the cost of running an outdoor heater, propane is generally the most expensive, followed by electric and natural gas. A 40,000 BTU natural gas patio heater costs about 48 cents per hour to use, whereas a 1,500-watt electric heater costs about 15 cents per hour, based on the national average for electricity and gas rates. Propane patio heaters are significantly more expensive at about $1.70 per hour based on a rate of $17 for a 20-gallon propane tank refill. Of course, these numbers vary based on local utility rates as well as the efficiency of the heater. The cost of running a wood-burning patio heater depends on the cost of firewood, which can range from $6 per bundle to free for those who live in wooded areas.

Electric patio heaters require the least maintenance, as they do not have ignition devices that can wear out if not periodically cleaned, nor do they produce ash. That said, once an electric patio heater malfunctions, it is not easy to repair, typically requiring replacement. In comparison, parts on a gas patio heater, such as the valve and ignition, are fairly easy to replace. Wood fire patio heaters will generally last the longest since they have no mechanical parts.

The list below takes into account the above considerations to narrow the field to some of the best outdoor heaters by price level and class. Any of the outdoor heaters below are worthy of heating a backyard living space.

Photo: amazon.com

With its attractive design and high power output, this propane heater from Hiland is a worthy means of heating an outdoor space. This heater pumps out a maximum of 40,000 BTUs of heat in all directions, allowing it to warm a space 20 feet in diameter. A 20-pound propane tank supplies enough fuel for between eight and 10 hours of use on the high setting. This tower-style heater rests on a 20-inch-diameter base and stands 91 inches tall.

With its integrated wheels, repositioning the heater to different locations on the patio is easy. This model is also one of the more stylish freestanding heaters on the market with its attractive quartz glass heating tube and three sophisticated finish options: bronze, black and stainless steel. A safety-shutoff tilt valve automatically shuts off the heater if it tips over, and a waterproof cover keeps it protected from rain when not in use.

Photo: amazon.com

A remote control, easy mounting, safety features, and an affordable price make this wall-mounted electric heater a great pick for outdoor heating needs. It boasts a powerful heater with three operating levels: 900 watts, 1,200 watts, and 1,500 watts. A carbon fiber heating tube thats hot in just moments emits infrared heat that warms people and objects directly. The heat levels are adjustable by a handy remote control, allowing for convenient operating of this heater. A built-in temperature protection feature will shut off the unit to prevent possible fires.

With an IPX4 weather rating, this model is waterproof as well as dustproof for sheltered outdoor use; it should not be exposed to rain or moisture. A silver aluminum housing adds durability while making for an attractive addition to outdoor living spaces. This model is also rated for indoor use.

Photo: amazon.com

A powerful heat output and a surprising range of diverse color options make Amazon Basics take on the outdoor patio heater a worthy choice for many patio styles. This propane tower-style heater boasts a capacity of 46,000 BTUs, making it suitable for heating spaces up to 20 feet in diameter. With seven color options that include teal, black, sable brown, slate gray, charcoal, brown/stainless and stainless steel, this model will coordinate with a variety of patio styles.

Its steel body with powder-coated treatment and aluminum heating element add the rugged durability needed to endure winter weather, while an auto-shutoff tilt valve prevents fires in the event the heater tips over. This models base is 18 inches in diameter and it stands 89 inches tall, ensuring the heating element is out of harms way. Two wheels on the base allow for easy maneuvering around the outdoor living area.

Photo: amazon.com

This versatile patio heater can function as a freestanding or wall-mount unit and comes with a tripod stand that raises the heater from a minimum of 4 feet to a maximum of 7 feet. Its electric heating element uses infrared heat to warm surfaces and bodies around the unit. A wide tripod base keeps this unit upright, while a protective metal sheath surrounds the heating element to prevent accidental burns. An auto-shutoff sensor automatically switches off the unit should it tip over.

Moisture is always a concern with outdoor electric appliances. With its IP 55 rating, this unit can stand up to low-pressure water. A remote control allows for easy operation of the heater, while a programmable timer automatically shuts off the unit after one to nine hours of use. This heater also comes with a kit for mounting the heater to a wall, making it one of the more versatile outdoor heaters on the market.

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At just 38 inches tall with a 23-inch-diameter base, this mini version of the tower patio heater is small enough to provide warmth from a tabletop, making it suitable for a tabletop or patio wall. And, at just 17 pounds, this small tower heater is also a great portable option for camping trips.

Despite its small size, this heater packs a punch with an 11,000 BTU output, enough to create a 3-foot radius of warmth. The base fits a standard 1-pound propane canister, which is enough for about an hour and a half of heat. A weighted base prevents the unit from easily turning over, while a metal screen guard prevents accidental burns. An anti-tilt safety guard automatically turns off the unit should it topple over. This heater comes in three different finish options, including bronze, gold, and silver.

Photo: amazon.com

Most patio heaters have a utilitarian look that can negatively impact the aesthetics of an outdoor living space. They can also get in the way, especially during warmer months when theyre not in use. With its fire pit feel and versatility that makes it a useful piece of furniture even in midsummer, this propane fire pit from Tacklife is a suitable option for smaller patios. When not functioning as a heater, this heater includes a cover, allowing it to function as a table.

The table, which measures 28 inches long, 28 inches wide, and 25 inches high, features an open gas flame with a powerful 50,000 BTU output that provides a broad circle of warmth around it. Lava rocks and an attractive faux rattan and wood exterior add to the aesthetics of outdoor living spaces. The space beneath the table is large enough to house a 20-pound propane tank.

Photo: amazon.com

This propane heater adds sophistication to the classic tower patio heater with stainless steel looks, design accents in the base, and an integrated LED-lit table. This tower-style heater stands about 86 inches tall and includes a 31.5-inch-diameter table that encircles the support pole. The table lights up, adding modern style while providing a convenient place to set a drink.

Its handsome stainless color is augmented by patterned vents that circle the base. In addition to being one of the more attractive tower heaters on the market, its also one of the most powerful, with a maximum output of 47,000 BTUs. A push-button ignition makes lighting the flame easy, while two rugged wheels on the base of the unit allow for easy repositioning around the patio.

If youre still wondering about what size outdoor heater is right for your patio, then read on for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about outdoor heater performance.

Outdoor heaters work well in winter. Although propane can be affected by extreme cold with temperatures well below zero, the fuel will work just fine in other conditions.

A patio heater can safely be used under a covered porch as long as it meets the heaters requirements for clearance. If using a tower heater, make sure there is adequate space between the top of the heater and the ceiling of the covered roof.

The average outdoor heater can heat about 100 square feet of space.

Begin by determining how big a space you are warming. Calculate the area of the patio by calculating the length times the width. Then multiply the square footage by 20 BTUs to determine the output you need to adequately warm the space. For example, a 300-square-foot patio would need a heater with 6,000 BTUs of output. Keep in mind that multiple small patio heaters spaced out will provide more even heat than one large one.

An electric patio heater isnt as powerful as a gas one, so its essential that an outdoor electric heater have 1,500 watts of output, which is the most an electric heater can produce.

Patio heaters do use a lot of electricity, in the sense that they operate continuously at 1,500 watts. However, as is discussed above, the cost of using an electric heater is still significantly less than the cost of using a propane heater.

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The Best Outdoor Heater to Warm Up the Patio - BobVila.com