10 Best Infrared Patio Heater 2026 in the United States

The Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238 is a versatile infrared heater designed for both indoor and outdoor use, making it suitable for various settings like patios, backyards, and even restaurants. One of its strong points is its IP55 weather resistance, which allows it to perform well outdoors regardless of the weather conditions. With a power output of up to 1500 watts and three adjustable settings (900W, 1200W, 1500W), it offers flexibility in heating based on your needs, enabling instant and clean heat without any odors.

The included remote control and easy 'plug and go' setup simplify the user experience, making it user-friendly for those who may not be tech-savvy. The heater's design also incorporates a high-efficiency mirror aluminum reflector, which enhances its heating capability, contributing to energy efficiency.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While it can cover a decent heating area, its effectiveness will depend on the specific space's size and layout. Users seeking to heat large open areas may find it less effective compared to larger units. Additionally, the requirement for mounting (either on a wall or ceiling) may limit placement options for some users, especially in areas without suitable mounting surfaces. The assembly is straightforward but may require some setup effort. In terms of aesthetics, the black design is sleek and modern, which can complement various outdoor and indoor decors. However, those looking for more color options or styles might find it somewhat limited.

The Bromic Heating BH0110003-1 Smart-Heat Platinum 500 is a natural gas-powered infrared patio heater designed to warm outdoor areas up to about 200 square feet. Its radiant infrared burner heats quickly and delivers direct warmth, which is ideal for chilly patios or small commercial spaces. The sleek stainless steel and tinted ceramic glass design offers a modern look that blends well in both residential and commercial settings. It mounts on a wall bracket that cleverly keeps controls away from the heat and allows you to pivot the heater head 25 degrees left or right, giving some flexibility in directing the warmth. It's also built to handle winds up to 12 mph without losing effectiveness, which is a strong plus for outdoor use.

The heater provides a consistent heat source but offers limited heat settings and relies on natural gas, requiring a gas line setup and lacking portability compared to electric or propane models. Energy efficiency is decent due to the direct infrared heating method. The unit weighs 40 pounds, so installation will require some effort and likely professional help.

If you want a stylish, robust heater for a fixed outdoor spot with natural gas access, this model performs well. However, it may not fully meet the needs of those seeking more adjustable heat levels or a portable option.

The DR. INFRARED HEATER portable infrared space heater is a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor use, fitting well in patios, garages, and living spaces. It offers three power settings (900W, 1200W, and 1500W), allowing you to customize warmth based on your needs, with heat coverage suitable for medium-sized areas up to around 400 square feet. One standout feature is its 3-way mounting flexibility: you can use it freestanding with wheels for easy movement or mount it on a wall or ceiling to save space and direct heat precisely where needed. The heater uses efficient carbon infrared technology combined with a reflective surface to warm people and objects directly, which tends to feel more immediate and cozy than traditional heaters that only warm the air. It includes safety features like tip-over and overheat protection, and it won't operate unless correctly set up, ensuring safe use especially in homes with kids or pets.

The rugged aluminum design is weather-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use without worrying about rust or damage. The included remote control with a programmable timer adds convenience and helps save energy by allowing you to set how long it runs. While it weighs about 10.7 pounds, it remains fairly portable thanks to its base with wheels. The heater’s black, tower-style design is sleek and unobtrusive. A limitation to consider is that it’s designed more for moderate space coverage rather than very large outdoor areas. It also requires a standard 120V power outlet, so placement near a power source is necessary. This heater serves as a flexible, efficient, and safe infrared heating solution that performs well indoors and outdoors for personal or small group comfort.