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 thereโtall mushroom heaters, sleek electric models, even fire pits that offer warmth. Itโs 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
- ๐ฃ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ณ๐๐น ๐ฑ๐ฌ,๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐จ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐: 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
- ๐ ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ-๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ ๐ฒ๐๐ต: 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
- ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐๐ผ ๐๐๐๐ฒ๐บ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ ๐ผ๐๐ฒ: 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
- ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฆ๐๐๐๐ฒ๐บ: 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
- ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฅ๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฑ ๐ง๐ฎ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ป: 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
- 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)
- 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 50,000 BTU: This outdoor propane patio heater delivers powerful 50,000 BTU heat output, warming up to a 20-foot diameter from the central heating position. ETL certified for safe use on patios, decks, gardens, and poolside areas. Perfect for patio deals, outdoor heaters for patio, and anyone looking for a reliable propane heater outdoor
- Premium Stainless Steel: Constructed with high-quality 304 stainless steel, the double-layer burner mesh offers superior durability, corrosion resistance, and safety compared to traditional single-layer designs. Enjoy a 20% longer service lifeโideal for outdoor fireplace and propane fire pit setups
- Stable Windproof Safe: Dual-waist design for low center of gravity. Add sand or water to the base for wind resistance. Built-in tip-over protection, auto shut-off, and flame failure safety. ETL certified and leak testedโideal for outdoor heater safety and windproof propane heater
- Easy Assembly & Mobility: One-touch ignition system for quick startup with adjustable heat control for personalized comfort. Assembles in approximately 30 minutes with included instructions. Built-in wheels provide effortless mobilityโmaking it the perfect portable heater and camping heater for all your outdoor adventures
- Multi-Functional Tabletop: The convenient round stainless steel tabletop offers space for drinks, snacks, and small items while enjoying your outdoor gathering. Humanized design allows easy access to the gas valve without removing the propane tank. An essential outdoor propane heater that combines the functionality of a propane fire pit with the convenience of a patio heater in one versatile unit
- ใ1S Instant Carbon HeatใVAGKRI Patio Heater equipped with Dual high-efficiency carbon fiber tubes, the Infrared Heater delivers natural, sun-like heat that spreads evenly โ perfect for chilly patios, garages, or cozy living rooms.
- ใAdjustable Warmth AnywhereใSpace Heater Choose from 3 heating levels (600W / 900W / 1500W) to match any environment or season. The portable tower design with a built-in handle lets you move it effortlessly from your living room to your backyard โ warmth wherever you need it.
- ใAll-Round SafetyใSafety is our priority. This ETL-certified heater features tip-over and overheat protection, IPX5 waterproofing, and corrosion-resistant housing โ ensuring stable, worry-free use even around kids, pets, or humid outdoor spaces.
- ใWide-Angle CoverageใStanding 36 inches tall, the tower heater provides up to 100ยฐ wide-angle heat distribution, covering a larger area evenly and efficiently. Ideal for patios, restaurants, or family gatherings โ bringing everyone together in comfort.
- ใQuiet & Healthy HeatingใEnjoy windless, silent warmth with no noise, odor, or glare. The gentle infrared heat promotes blood circulation and prevents dryness, creating a relaxing environment that lets you unwind in peace.
- Instant Cozy Heat โ 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 COโ or smoke, and costs only 1/10 as much to run as propane heaters.
- Durable & Weatherproof โ 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 and offices (when used according to the user manual), and outdoor areas such as patios, balconies, and decks.
- Safe & UL-Certified Design โ 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 Comfort โ 3 heat levels (600W/900W/1500W) let you choose the perfect warmth for comfortable relaxation. Delivers sun-like heat without drying the air or creating noise, creating a cozy and quiet environment.
- 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.
- ๐ฃ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ณ๐๐น ๐ฑ๐ฌ,๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐จ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐: 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
- ๐ ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ-L๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ ๐ฒ๐๐ต: 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
- ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฆ๐๐๐๐ฒ๐บ: 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
- ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฅ๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฑ ๐ง๐ฎ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ป: 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
- ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ฑ-๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ผ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ด๐ป๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป, ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ง๐ผ ๐ข๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ: 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
- ใ50,000 BTU Outdoor Gas Heaterใ๏ผThe propane patio heater provides you with steady comfortable warmth and easily ignites without any complicated operations. Featured an one-press ignition system and control valve to allow for temperature adjustment. It only takes a few minutes to get warm quickly, This heater is the perfect choice for outdoor use. A great heating solution for your party in late autumn or winter.
- ใDouble-Layer 304 Stainless Steel Burner Meshใ๏ผ High quality 304 stainless steel burning grid is used in the design of the double cover heating grid. Compared with traditional single-layer burner mesh heaters, Our Patio Heaters for outdoor use are stronger, more durable, and safer, and the upgraded model's service life can be increased by 30%.
- ใWeight-adjustable Water Tankใ: Compared with the traditional version of the round barrel design, the upgraded conical barrel is more stable, and comes standard with a weight-adjustable water tank (tested up to 26.45 lbs.), which substantially improves the product's wind-resistant performance.
- ใProtable Patio HeaterใWith wheels, you can move it easily, very suitable for patios and balconies, camping, and tailgating. Heats up to 200 sq. ft. for optimal patio use. This outdoor patio heater can be seen at parties, coffee tables on the streets, parks, fishing places, and drinking.
- ใSafety DesignใThe outdoor heaters for patio not only has high heating efficiency but also the designer has considered the safety factor in the design. One-press ignition for quick, easy starts. In particular, the umbrellalike design at the top allows for more uniform heating.The tilt protection system will extinguish the flame if the propane patio heater is tilted more than 45 degrees.
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 manufacturerโs 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. Itโs 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.