10 Best Infrared Patio Heater 2025 in the United States

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 Dimplex DIR30A10GR is a powerful 3000W infrared heater designed primarily for indoor use but also capable of outdoor operation thanks to its weatherproof IP65 rating. Its stainless steel build and corrosion-resistant materials make it durable against outdoor elements, which is a strong point if you want an outdoor patio heater that can handle various climates. The heater offers three adjustable heat settings, allowing you to control the warmth to suit your comfort level, and its ruby halogen bulb heats up quickly in about 8 seconds, providing almost instant warmth.

It mounts on walls and is designed for hardwired installation at 120V, which ensures safety but might require professional setup since it’s not plug-and-play. The heater is energy efficient in delivering direct infrared heat without warming the air unnecessarily. The inclusion of a programmable thermostat adds convenience, helping maintain consistent temperatures.

The hardwired installation and indoor-focused design might limit flexibility for some outdoor setups, and the moderate weight (8.4 lbs) means it’s not the easiest to move around. This heater combines fast, efficient heating with a sleek, durable design, making it a suitable choice if you want reliable warmth on your patio or indoor space and don’t mind a fixed mounting option.

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.