Do you dream of cozy evenings on your patio, even when the weather turns chilly? Imagine sipping hot cocoa under the stars, extending your outdoor season by months. But, let’s face it: choosing the perfect outdoor patio heater can feel like navigating a maze! The market is flooded with choices, from propane to electric, mushroom-shaped to tabletop, each promising warmth but often leaving you confused.
This topic is important because enjoying your outdoor space shouldn’t be limited by the cold. Picking the wrong heater can be a costly mistake, leaving you with insufficient heat, high energy bills, or even safety hazards. You might also end up with a heater that doesn’t fit your patio’s style. The pain of making the wrong choice is real, wasting your money and your comfort.
In this blog post, we’ll cut through the confusion. You’ll learn about the different types of patio heaters, their pros and cons, and how to choose the best one for your needs and budget. We’ll also cover safety tips and how to keep your heater running smoothly. By the end, you’ll be ready to create a warm and inviting outdoor oasis. Let’s dive in and find the perfect patio heater for you!
Our Top 5 Outdoor Patio Heater Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Amazon Basics 46 | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 | EAST OAK 50 | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
 | Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater for Restaurant | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 | Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
 | EAST OAK 50 | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Outdoor Patio Heater Detailed Reviews
1. Amazon Basics 46
Rating: 8.8/10
Stay warm outside with the Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater! This heater is great for your patio, cafe, or restaurant. It’s easy to use and move. The heater has a stylish slate gray finish and a water tank for added stability. It uses propane and can heat a large area. This heater is perfect for chilly evenings.
What We Like:
- The heater gives off cozy warmth.
- It is easy to start with a one-touch button.
- Wheels make it easy to move around.
- It has a powerful 46,000 BTU output.
- You can adjust the temperature.
- Safety features include an auto-shut off.
- The base has a water box for stability.
- It is made with durable materials.
What Could Be Improved:
- The propane tank is not included.
The Amazon Basics Patio Heater is a solid choice for outdoor heating. It provides warmth and is simple to set up and use. This heater is a great way to extend your outdoor season.
2. EAST OAK 50
Rating: 9.3/10
Stay warm outdoors with the EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater! This black patio heater is made for your home. It has a round table design. It delivers a lot of heat. You can use it on a balcony or by a pool. It is safe and easy to use. It is perfect for your backyard gatherings.
What We Like:
- Powerful 50,000 BTU heat warms a large area.
- The double-layer stainless steel burner is strong and lasts a long time.
- It has a safety system that shuts off the heater if it tips over or the flame goes out.
- The round table design is great for holding drinks and snacks.
- It starts quickly with a one-touch ignition.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial cost may be a bit high.
The EAST OAK patio heater is a great way to enjoy the outdoors in cooler weather. It is safe, efficient, and has a nice design. You should buy it!
3. Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater for Restaurant
Rating: 8.6/10
The Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 is a carbon infrared heater. It is made for both indoor and outdoor use. You can use it at home, in your garage, or at your restaurant. This heater provides instant heat. It uses infrared technology. It has three power settings and a remote control. The heater is easy to install and comes with mounting brackets. It is made from durable aluminum and is weather-resistant.
What We Like:
- This heater is good for indoor and outdoor use.
- It gives you instant heat.
- It has three power settings.
- The heater is easy to install with included mounting brackets.
- It is controlled by a remote.
- It is made of strong, weather-proof aluminum.
What Could Be Improved:
- We do not have any cons to list at this time.
Overall, the Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 is a great option for staying warm. It is a versatile and efficient heater for various spaces.
4. Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio
Rating: 8.7/10
The Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio Heater is a great way to stay warm outdoors. This black propane heater is perfect for patios, camping, and tailgates. It heats up to 100 square feet. It is also safe and easy to use. This heater is a great addition to any outdoor space, providing warmth on chilly nights.
What We Like:
- POWERFUL & EVEN HEATING: The heater has 11,000 BTUs. It warms up to 100 sq. ft. The reflector top helps spread the heat.
- SAFE & USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN: It has a safety tilt switch. This automatically shuts off the heater if it tips. It also has a burner screen guard.
- PORTABLE & VERSATILE: This heater is light and easy to move. It is great for patios, camping, and tailgates. You can put it on a table.
- EXTENDED USE AVAILABLE: You can use a small propane tank. Or, you can hook it up to a larger tank (hose not included).
What Could Be Improved:
- Larger tank hookup requires an additional hose.
- Heat range is limited to 100 sq. ft.
This Cuisinart heater is a good choice for staying warm outside. It is easy to use and safe. You can enjoy the outdoors longer with this heater.
5. EAST OAK 50
Rating: 9.4/10
Stay warm outdoors with the EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater! This powerful heater keeps you cozy on chilly evenings. It has a cool table design and is made for your patio or garden. It’s perfect for gatherings with friends and family. This heater is built to last and easy to use. It’s also great for businesses like outdoor cafes.
What We Like:
- The heater has a powerful 50,000 BTU output, keeping a large area warm.
- The double-layer stainless steel burner is strong and lasts a long time.
- It is stable because of its conical barrel design and has a water tank to add weight.
- The round table design is perfect for drinks and snacks.
- It is easy to start and control with a one-touch ignition.
- It has safety features, like a tilt protection system.
- It is easy to install and move around with wheels.
What Could Be Improved:
- We don’t have any cons for this product.
This EAST OAK patio heater is a great way to extend your outdoor season. It is a solid choice for anyone wanting a reliable and user-friendly outdoor heating solution.
Stay Warm Outdoors: Your Patio Heater Buying Guide
Are you ready to enjoy your patio even when it’s chilly? A patio heater is a great way to do that! This guide will help you pick the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a patio heater, look at these important things:
- Heating Power (BTUs): This tells you how much heat the heater gives off. Higher BTUs mean more heat. Think about how big your patio is. A bigger patio needs a heater with more BTUs.
- Heating Area: This shows how big an area the heater warms up. Check the heater’s specs to see how much space it covers.
- Fuel Type: Patio heaters use different fuels. Common types are propane, natural gas, and electricity. Propane heaters use tanks. Natural gas heaters connect to your gas line. Electric heaters plug into an outlet.
- Safety Features: Look for heaters with safety features. These features keep you safe. Examples include a tip-over switch (shuts off if it falls) and a safety valve.
- Portability: Do you want to move your heater? Some heaters have wheels. Others are easy to carry.
- Control Options: Some heaters have knobs. Others have remote controls. Choose the control type you like best.
Important Materials
The materials used in a patio heater affect its quality. Here are some materials to consider:
- Stainless Steel: This is a strong and rust-resistant material. It lasts a long time. Many good heaters are made of stainless steel.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight and doesn’t rust. It’s also a good choice.
- Steel: Steel is strong, but it can rust. Make sure the steel has a good coating to prevent rust.
- Glass: Some heaters have glass tubes. These tubes can radiate heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a patio heater better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built heater lasts longer. Look for strong joints and quality materials.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making great products. Research the brand before you buy.
- Warranty: A warranty protects your purchase. A longer warranty is usually better.
- Ease of Assembly: You don’t want a heater that’s hard to put together. Check reviews to see how easy it is to assemble.
- Rust Resistance: A heater that rusts won’t last. Look for materials that resist rust.
- Fuel Efficiency: Some heaters use fuel more efficiently than others. This can save you money over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your patio heater? Think about these things:
- Where will you use it? Will you use it on a deck, patio, or in a gazebo?
- How big is your space? This decides the size of the heater you need.
- How often will you use it? If you plan to use it a lot, get a good quality heater.
- What’s your budget? Patio heaters come in different price ranges.
- Who will use it? Make sure the heater is safe for everyone, including kids and pets.
- Use Cases:
- Dinner Parties: Keep your guests warm during evening gatherings.
- Relaxing Evenings: Enjoy a book or a drink on your patio.
- Seasonal Extension: Extend the use of your outdoor space into the cooler months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What fuel type is best?
A: It depends on your needs. Propane is portable. Natural gas is cheaper but requires a gas line. Electric is clean but needs an outlet.
Q: How do I know what BTU rating I need?
A: Measure your patio. More BTUs is needed for a bigger space.
Q: Are patio heaters safe?
A: Yes, if you follow the safety instructions. Always use them properly and make sure they have safety features.
Q: Can I use a patio heater indoors?
A: No, never use a patio heater indoors. They produce carbon monoxide, which is dangerous.
Q: How do I clean my patio heater?
A: Clean it regularly with soap and water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: How long do patio heaters last?
A: This depends on the quality and how you use it. Good heaters can last for many years.
Q: What is a tip-over switch?
A: It is a safety feature that turns off the heater if it tips over.
Q: Can I use a patio heater under a covered patio?
A: Yes, but make sure there is enough ventilation. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Q: Where can I buy a patio heater?
A: You can buy them at home improvement stores, online retailers, and some department stores.
Q: What should I do if my patio heater won’t light?
A: Check the fuel supply, make sure the pilot light is lit (if applicable), and read the user manual for troubleshooting tips.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.