Imagine this: The sun dips low, painting the sky in warm colors, but a chill creeps into the air. You want to keep enjoying your beautiful backyard, maybe for a late dinner or just relaxing with a book. How do you keep that cozy feeling alive when the temperature drops?
Choosing the perfect backyard heater can feel like a puzzle. There are so many types out there—tall mushroom heaters, sleek electric models, even fire pits that offer warmth. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed deciding which one fits your space, budget, and style best. You want something that works well without taking up too much room or costing a fortune to run.
Don’t let a little cool air cut your outdoor fun short! In this guide, we will break down the best backyard heaters available today. You will learn about the pros and cons of each type so you can choose confidently. Get ready to extend your outdoor season in comfort.
Top Backyard Heaters Recommendations
- Instant Cozy Heat – This 34" 1500W carbon infrared tower heater with dual carbon element heating tubes warms you from head to toe in just 1 second, like natural sunlight. It heats silently without drying the air, produces no CO₂ or smoke, and costs only 1/10 as much to run as propane heaters.
- Durable & Weatherproof – This outdoor patio heaters has an aluminum alloy frame with an IPX5 rating, which withstands rain, humidity, and daily use. Suitable for both indoor spaces like garages, living rooms, and offices, and outdoor areas such as patios, balconies, and decks.
- Safe & UL-Certified – Our outdoor heaters for patio automatically shut off if tipped, moved, or overheated. Comes with a 6.6FT flame-retardant power cord for safe and flexible use. Built with safety as a top priority, giving you reliable warmth you can trust.
- Comfortable Sleep – 3 heat levels (600W/900W/1500W) let you choose the perfect warmth for restful nights. Delivers sun-like heat without drying the air or creating noise, keeping your sleep cozy, quiet, and undisturbed.
- Carry Warmth Anywhere - Ergonomic protruding handle makes it easy to move the garage heater safely and effortlessly, reducing the risk of drops or damage. Place it wherever you need warmth, indoors or outdoors.
- SOOTHING WARMTH: Outdoor gas heater for cozy warmth when sitting outside; ideal for cafes, restaurants, and home patios
- EASY TO USE AND MOVE: One-touch ignition button for quick start ups; wheels for maneuvering into place
- POWERFUL HEAT: 46,000 BTUs for heating up to a 18 foot diameter; adjustable temperature knob for controlling the output
- SAFETY FEATURES: Tilt safety auto-shut off valve; water box for weighing down the base and wheel kit; chain included to secure the tank
- DURABLE EXTERIOR & REQUIRES: Powder-coated finish in Havana Bronze for lasting strength; 20 pound liquid propane gas tank to operate (not included)
- 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝟱𝟬,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗕𝗧𝗨 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁: Our outdoor patio heater delivers 48,000 BTU of power to spread heat up to an 18-foot diameter from its central heating position. With ETL certification, it is ideal for outdoor and commercial use and can be placed on an outdoor balcony, garden, swimming pool, etc
- 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲-L𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝗵: High-quality 304 stainless steel is engineered into our double-cover heating mesh design. Compared with a traditional single-layer burning mesh heater, the EAST OAK Outdoor Heater is more powerful, durable, and safer. All these improvements deliver a 20% longer product life
- 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺: The Tip-over Protection system will shut off the flame when the patio heater propane is tilted more than 45 degrees. If the flame goes out, the Flame-out Protection system automatically shuts off the gas supply
- 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻: The Propane Heater features a unique round propane tank lid that allows you to place snacks, drinks or other small objects on top. Our barrel has a convenient hole design, so you can reach directly in and turn off the heater without opening the door
- 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝟱-𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘆 𝗧𝗼 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲: The Patio Heater is easy to start with a one-touch ignition system that can ignite the flame in under five seconds. The adjustable control knob can customize the heat from low to high or turn off the heater
- 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝟱𝟬,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗕𝗧𝗨 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁: Our outdoor patio heater delivers 50,000 BTU of power to spread heat up to an 20-foot diameter from its central heating position. With ETL certification, it is ideal for outdoor and commercial use and can be placed on an outdoor balcony, garden, swimming pool, etc
- 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲-𝗟𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝗵: High-quality 304 stainless steel is engineered into our double-cover heating mesh design. Compared with a traditional single-layer burning mesh heater, the EAST OAK Outdoor Heater is more powerful, durable, and safer. All these improvements deliver a 20% longer product life
- 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗲: Some parts are assembled in advance, and the upgraded reflector shield only needs to be assembled with three reflector pieces. The installation of the entire product, following the instructions, can be completed in about 30 minutes. The Outdoor Patio Heater has two wheels on the bottom for smooth movement
- 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺: The Tip-over Protection system will shut off the flame when the patio heater propane is tilted more than 45 degrees. If the flame goes out, the Flame-out Protection system automatically shuts off the gas supply
- 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻: The Propane Heater features a unique round propane tank lid that allows you to place snacks, drinks, cell phones, or other small objects on top. Our barrel has a convenient hole design, so you can reach directly in and turn off the heater without opening the door
- 𝗢𝗻𝗲-𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗢𝗻𝗲-𝗞𝗻𝗼𝗯 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹：Start faster with fewer steps. Simply and easily push, twist, and ignite—all with one hand. No complicated, multi-step igniter required.
- 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗛𝗶𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗕𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿：Delivers up to +90°F higher surface heat vs standard 50K burners for faster, more powerful warmth. The fastest and hottest heater you can buy.
- 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁, 𝗨𝗽 𝘁𝗼 𝟭𝟬% 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗚𝗮𝘀：HiFire technology delivers heat comparable to traditional 55K burners while operating at just 50K BTUs—using up to 10% less gas for greater efficiency.
- 𝟱× 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲：Built to Resist High-Heat Deformation. Reinforced Hifire structure helps resist high-heat deformation. Built for long-term performance — 500+ hrs lifespan.
- 𝗢𝗻𝗲-𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲𝘀：SpinLock Design, 70% Faster Setup. SpinLock + fewer screws means one-person install . 70% faster setup than our previous design — no “align-and-tighten” headache.
- SOOTHING WARMTH: Outdoor gas heater for cozy warmth when sitting outside; ideal for cafes, restaurants, and home patios
- EASY TO USE AND MOVE: One-touch ignition button for quick start ups; wheels for maneuvering into place
- POWERFUL HEAT: 46,000 BTUs for heating up to a 9 foot radius; adjustable temperature knob for controlling the output
- SAFETY FEATURES: Tilt safety auto-shut off valve; water box for weighing down the base and wheel kit; chain included to secure the tank
- DURABLE EXTERIOR & REQUIRES: Powder-coated finish in Slate Gray for lasting strength; 20 pound liquid propane gas tank to operate (not included)
- INDOOR and OUTDOOR HEATER - Heater is IP55 approved for both indoor and outdoor use - perfect for home, backyard, garages, open-air restaurant, outdoor patio or deck. Create a comfortable environment for both your indoor activities and outdoor recreation.
- CLEAN and INSTANT HEAT - Clean, instant and odorless Infrared heat with 3 power settings, 900W, 1200W, 1500W. 120V, 60Hz.
- PLUG and GO - uses standard 120V, remote controlled
- WALL and CEILING MOUNTED - Included wall and Ceiling mounting bracket
- EFFICIENT - High level Mirror aluminum reflector with 90% reflectivity, and special design to fit the carbon lamp to bring strong heating efficiency.
- 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝟰𝟴,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗕𝗧𝗨 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁: Our outdoor patio heater delivers 48,000 BTU of power, and feature adjustable knobs to regulate temperature according to your preference. With CSA certification, it is ideal for outdoor and commercial use and can be placed on an outdoor balcony, garden, swimming pool, etc
- 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝘂𝗺 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The exterior of the patio heater is made of powder-coated, high-quality aluminum to resist scratches and rust. A 4.7-inch diameter quartz glass tube not only looks spectacular but is both strong and durable can easily stand up to the great outdoors
- 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻: Our in-house design team put their hearts and souls into creating the EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater. Our goal was to create something that not only worked well but would also be the centerpiece of any outdoor entertaining area. The embossed stainless steel surfaces complement any decor with elegance, and the heater’s flame feature will be the talk of the neighborhood
- 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 : EAST OAK propane patio heater offers a triple safety protection system to ensure your well-being. Designed with anti-tip protection, it will automatically shut off the flame when tilted more than 45 degrees. If the flame is accidentally extinguished, the gas supply will shut off immediately
- 𝗢𝗻𝗲-𝗕𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 : Our patio heaters are incredibly easy to start, simply press the one-button ignition to ignite the flame in 5 seconds. The adjustable control knob allows you to customize the heat or turn it off according to your preference, from low to high. Note: 5AA battery included, recommended to remove the battery if not used for a long time
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Backyard Heater
Ready to enjoy your backyard even when the air gets chilly? A good backyard heater can turn your patio or deck into a cozy gathering spot year-round. Choosing the right one is important. This guide helps you pick the perfect heat source for your outdoor space.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, certain features make a big difference in how well your heater works and how long it lasts.
Heat Output and Coverage
- BTU Rating: This measures how much heat the unit puts out. For small patios, lower BTUs work. Large decks need higher BTU ratings for effective heating.
- Heating Area: Check the manufacturer’s suggested area (measured in square feet). Don’t buy a unit too small for your space.
Fuel Type Options
- Propane (LP): These are very common. They use standard BBQ-style tanks. They offer portability.
- Natural Gas (NG): If you have a natural gas line outside, this offers continuous heat without tank refills. Installation is usually more complex.
- Electric: Great for covered patios or balconies where venting isn’t possible. They are clean but need a strong outdoor outlet.
Safety Features
Safety must come first. Look for features like **tip-over shutoff switches**. These automatically turn the heater off if it accidentally falls over. Also, check for **flame failure protection** on gas models.
Important Materials and Durability
The materials used determine how long your heater survives outdoor life. Harsh weather breaks down weak metals.
Stainless Steel vs. Aluminum
- Stainless Steel: This is the top choice for longevity. It resists rust and corrosion very well, especially the higher grades (like 304 stainless steel). It costs more upfront.
- Aluminum: Lighter weight and naturally resists rust. It is often used for the reflector hood.
- Powder-Coated Steel: This offers good protection against scratches and mild weather. However, if the coating chips, the steel underneath can rust.
Burner Quality
For gas heaters, the burner assembly is crucial. High-quality stainless steel burners last longer and distribute heat more evenly. Cheaper burners often break down faster.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. It’s about smart design.
Factors That Improve Quality
- Adjustable Heat Settings: Being able to dial down the heat is useful on milder evenings. This feature saves fuel.
- Wheels/Mobility: Good, sturdy wheels let you move the heater where you need it easily.
- Weatherproof Covers: Many high-quality models include a cover or offer one as an option. This protects the unit during the off-season.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Thin Metal Components: If the metal feels flimsy when you touch it, it will dent easily and likely rust sooner.
- Lack of Certification: Always check for safety certifications like CSA or ETL marks. Uncertified heaters pose serious risks.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about *where* and *how* you plan to use your heater. This affects your final decision.
Patio Heaters (Standing Models)
These tall, mushroom-shaped heaters are perfect for open decks and patios. They provide excellent 360-degree heat distribution. They are best for social settings where people stand or sit around a table.
Wall-Mounted or Ceiling Heaters
These electric or infrared models save floor space. They work wonderfully in smaller, covered areas like screened porches or under pergolas. They heat objects and people directly (radiant heat), rather than just the air.
Fire Pit Tables
These offer ambiance and moderate heat. They are excellent conversation starters. They usually run on propane and often double as an outdoor coffee table when the flame is off.
Backyard Heater Buying Guide FAQs
Q: What is the difference between radiant and convective heat?
A: Convective heat warms the air around the heater, like a furnace. Radiant heat (often from infrared electric heaters) warms objects and people directly, similar to sunshine. Radiant heat feels warmer faster, even if the air temperature is cool.
Q: How often do I need to refill a propane tank?
A: This depends on the heater’s BTU rating and how high you run the flame. A standard 20lb tank usually lasts between 8 to 12 hours on high settings for a typical patio heater.
Q: Can I use a gas heater under a low awning or pergola?
A: You must check the manufacturer’s minimum clearance requirements. Gas heaters produce open flames and exhaust. Usually, you need several feet of clearance above the top and around the sides for safety.
Q: Are electric heaters expensive to run?
A: Electric running costs depend on your local electricity rates. Generally, they are cheaper to operate than propane heaters if your electricity rates are low, but they require a dedicated, heavy-duty outdoor circuit.
Q: What is the easiest type of heater to set up?
A: Propane standing heaters are the easiest. You usually just assemble the base and reflector, attach the tank, and light it. Natural gas models require professional plumbing connection.
Q: Do I need a cover for my heater all the time?
A: While many materials resist rain, using a cover when the unit is not in use significantly extends its lifespan by protecting the ignition components and finish from constant moisture and dust.
Q: How much heat coverage should I expect from a 40,000 BTU heater?
A: A 40,000 BTU model typically heats an area of about 150 to 200 square feet effectively, assuming there is little wind.
Q: Is it safe to use a heater in windy conditions?
A: Gas heaters should generally be turned off or significantly lowered in high winds. Wind reduces efficiency and can sometimes cause the flame to blow out, which is dangerous if the gas keeps flowing.
Q: What does “tip-over protection” actually do?
A: This is a safety switch. If the heater leans past a certain angle (usually 10 or 15 degrees), the switch detects the movement and immediately cuts off the gas or electricity supply, preventing fire risk.
Q: Can I use my patio heater indoors?
A: Absolutely not. Outdoor gas heaters produce carbon monoxide, which is deadly in enclosed spaces. Only use appliances specifically rated and certified for indoor use.