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10 Best Patio Heaters 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Round Table Design, Double-Layer Stainless Steel Burner and Wheels, Outdoor Patio Heater for Home and Commercial, Bronze, 31.9" x 31.9" x 86.6"

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,151
Heat Output (BTUs)
Safety Features
Design and Portability

Most important from
2113 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
The heat output is impressive, providing effective warmth over a wide area and making it suitable for chilly nights.
Safety Features
Lighting the heater is a breeze, taking just two minutes, and the flame can be easily adjusted with a dial.
Design and Portability
The heater is constructed with quality materials and works exceptionally well, with clear and easy-to-read assembly instructions.
Weather Resistance
It's important to note that the heater performs best in low to moderate wind conditions.

The EAST OAK 48,000 BTU Patio Heater is a robust option for both home and commercial outdoor settings. With an impressive heat output of 48,000 BTUs, it can effectively warm up an area with an 18-foot diameter, making it suitable for patios, gardens, and poolside areas. The heater runs on propane, which is a common and easily accessible fuel type for outdoor heaters. Its double-layer stainless steel burner ensures durability and a longer lifespan compared to traditional single-layer burners.

Additionally, the heater features a patented round table design, providing a convenient surface for placing small items like snacks and drinks. This design also includes a handy hole for easy access to the propane tank controls without having to open the door, enhancing user convenience. Safety is a key aspect, with a Tip-over Protection system that shuts off the flame if the heater is tilted more than 45 degrees, and a Flame-out Protection system that cuts off the gas supply if the flame extinguishes. These features make it a safe choice for busy outdoor areas.

The heater is reasonably portable, thanks to the wheels on its base, allowing smooth movement across different surfaces. Assembly is straightforward and can be completed in about 30 minutes, as some parts come pre-assembled. However, it's important to note that this heater is designed exclusively for outdoor use and might not be suitable for very windy or extremely cold conditions due to its open flame and propane fuel type. Weighing 33.1 pounds, it's relatively lightweight for its size, but moving it on uneven terrain might still require some effort. With its combination of high heat output, durable construction, thoughtful design, and safety features, the EAST OAK Patio Heater is a well-rounded choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient outdoor heating solution.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,151
Heat Output (BTUs)
Safety Features
Design and Portability

Most important from
2113 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
The heat output is impressive, providing effective warmth over a wide area and making it suitable for chilly nights.
Safety Features
Lighting the heater is a breeze, taking just two minutes, and the flame can be easily adjusted with a dial.
Design and Portability
The heater is constructed with quality materials and works exceptionally well, with clear and easy-to-read assembly instructions.
Weather Resistance
It's important to note that the heater performs best in low to moderate wind conditions.
#2

Bromic Heating BH0110003-1 Smart-Heat Platinum 500 Radiant Infrared Patio Heater, Natural Gas, 39800 BTU

Rating
9.7
Heat Output (BTUs
Heating Area
Design and Portability

Most important from
18 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs
The heaters are highly effective, so much so that one user had to turn one off because it was too warm.
Heating Area
Although the heat production is substantial, it is most effective within a 6-feet radius rather than the claimed 10-12 feet.
Design and Portability
The heater is probably the best looking NG heater available, with a sleek design that resembles a flat screen TV when off.

The Bromic Heating BH0110003-1 Smart-Heat Platinum 500 Radiant Infrared Patio Heater offers a strong heat output of 39,800 BTUs, making it suitable for warming up outdoor spaces effectively. It uses natural gas, which can be more economical and convenient for continuous use compared to propane.

One of its notable features is its sleek, contemporary design with brushed stainless steel and tinted ceramic glass, which adds a stylish touch to any patio setting. It's also designed to withstand winds up to 12 miles per hour, ensuring consistent heating even on breezy days, which is a significant advantage in outdoor environments.

The heater covers a 200-square-foot area, making it ideal for medium-sized patios, and the wall bracket allows for easy adjustment with a 25-degree pivot to direct heat where needed. This model is suitable for both residential and commercial use, adding versatility to its application. At 40 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which may affect portability and ease of installation. Potential buyers should consider the installation requirements and ensure proper safety measures are in place for comfortable and secure use.

Rating
9.7
Heat Output (BTUs
Heating Area
Design and Portability

Most important from
18 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs
The heaters are highly effective, so much so that one user had to turn one off because it was too warm.
Heating Area
Although the heat production is substantial, it is most effective within a 6-feet radius rather than the claimed 10-12 feet.
Design and Portability
The heater is probably the best looking NG heater available, with a sleek design that resembles a flat screen TV when off.
#3

EAST OAK 48,000 BTU Pyramid Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Outdoor Heater with Wheels, Triple Safety Protection, 2025 Upgrade for Home, Backyard & Commercial Spaces, Stainless Steel

Rating
9.1
Heat Output (BTUs)
Fuel Type
Safety Features

Most important from
464 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
The heater delivers powerful warmth and covers a wide area, making chilly outdoor evenings much more comfortable.
Fuel Type
The propane-fueled design balances strong heating capability with convenient outdoor usability and mobility via built-in wheels.
Safety Features
Safety features provide peace of mind, especially in households with children, thanks to automatic shut-offs and stability protections.
Heating Area
The heater delivers powerful warmth and covers a wide area, making chilly outdoor evenings much more comfortable.
Design and Portability
Its elegant pyramid design with visible flames creates a stunning ambiance that enhances any patio setting.
Weather Resistance
Built with solid, durable materials that feel robust and designed to withstand outdoor conditions.

The EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater is a solid choice for anyone needing strong outdoor heating. With 48,000 BTUs, it provides powerful warmth, suitable for spaces up to about 10 feet around, making it ideal for patios, gardens, or small commercial areas. It runs on propane, which is convenient for outdoor use but means you’ll need to keep fuel tanks available. The heater’s design stands out thanks to its pyramid shape and stainless steel construction, which looks elegant and holds up well against rust and outdoor wear. It also features a durable quartz glass tube that adds a modern touch and withstands weather conditions.

Safety is a strong point here, with triple protection including automatic shut-off if it tips over or the flame goes out, which is reassuring when using propane outdoors. The one-button ignition makes it easy to start, and an adjustable knob lets you control the heat. Mobility is another plus—the heater comes with wheels, so moving it around your space is straightforward despite its nearly 70-pound weight.

While the heater covers a decent area, it’s not suited for very large outdoor spaces or full backyard coverage. Its size and weight might also be a consideration if you need something ultra-portable. Additionally, as a propane model, it requires proper ventilation and monitoring to ensure safe use. This combination of strong heat output, attractive design, and key safety features makes the EAST OAK heater a great option for homeowners or small businesses looking for a reliable, stylish outdoor patio heater.

Rating
9.1
Heat Output (BTUs)
Fuel Type
Safety Features

Most important from
464 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
The heater delivers powerful warmth and covers a wide area, making chilly outdoor evenings much more comfortable.
Fuel Type
The propane-fueled design balances strong heating capability with convenient outdoor usability and mobility via built-in wheels.
Safety Features
Safety features provide peace of mind, especially in households with children, thanks to automatic shut-offs and stability protections.
Heating Area
The heater delivers powerful warmth and covers a wide area, making chilly outdoor evenings much more comfortable.
Design and Portability
Its elegant pyramid design with visible flames creates a stunning ambiance that enhances any patio setting.
Weather Resistance
Built with solid, durable materials that feel robust and designed to withstand outdoor conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best Patio Heaters

Choosing the right patio heater can make a significant difference in how much you enjoy your outdoor space, especially during cooler months. Patio heaters come in various types and sizes, and selecting the best one for your needs involves understanding several key specifications. By considering factors such as heat output, fuel type, and safety features, you can find a patio heater that will keep you warm and comfortable while also being efficient and safe to use.
Heat Output (BTUs)Heat output, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), indicates how much heat the patio heater can produce. This spec is crucial because it determines how effectively the heater can warm up your outdoor space. Lower BTUs (around 10,000-20,000) are suitable for small areas or close seating arrangements, while higher BTUs (30,000-50,000) are better for larger spaces or more open areas. To pick the right one, consider the size of the area you want to heat and how many people will typically be using the space.
Fuel TypePatio heaters can be powered by different types of fuel, including propane, natural gas, and electricity. Propane heaters are portable and easy to set up, making them ideal for flexibility. Natural gas heaters require a fixed gas line but offer a continuous fuel supply and lower operating costs. Electric heaters are convenient and safe for enclosed spaces but may have higher operating costs. Choose the fuel type based on your preference for portability, installation, and operating costs.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to ensure the safe operation of your patio heater. Look for features such as an automatic shut-off, which turns the heater off if it tips over, and a safety guard to prevent accidental contact with the heating element. Some models also have oxygen depletion sensors that shut off the heater if oxygen levels drop too low. Prioritize safety features based on your environment, especially if you have children or pets.
Heating AreaThe heating area indicates the maximum space the heater can effectively warm, usually measured in square feet. This spec helps you understand the coverage you can expect from the heater. Smaller heaters may cover around 100-200 square feet, while larger models can cover up to 500 square feet or more. To choose the right heating area, measure your outdoor space and consider how you plan to use the heater, whether for intimate gatherings or larger parties.
Design and PortabilityThe design and portability of a patio heater can affect its usability and aesthetic appeal. Freestanding heaters are versatile and can be moved around, while tabletop heaters are compact and suitable for smaller spaces. Wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted heaters save floor space and are ideal for permanent installations. Consider the layout of your outdoor area and how often you might need to move the heater when selecting the design and portability features.
Weather ResistanceWeather resistance is important for ensuring the longevity of your patio heater, especially if it will be exposed to the elements. Look for heaters made from durable materials like stainless steel or those with weather-resistant coatings. Some models are designed to withstand rain, wind, and rust. Choose a heater with appropriate weather resistance based on your local climate and whether you plan to leave it outside year-round.

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