We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Outdoor Patio Heaters 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

EAST OAK 55,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater with Round Table & Stainless Steel Burner, Outdoor Heater with Wheels, Ideal For Large Patios, Gardens, Outdoor Events, and Commercial Use, Bronze

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,197
Heat Output (BTUs)
Design and Style
Safety Features

Most important from
2109 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Delivers powerful warmth ideal for year-round outdoor cooking and gatherings, easily warming a sizable area.
Design and Style
The heater’s quality stands out, combining durable materials with a sleek design that enhances outdoor spaces.
Safety Features
Safety features like automatic shut-off on tipping or flame loss provide reliable peace of mind during operation.
Heating Area Coverage
Warming up to 10 feet away is comfortable, making it perfect for decks, porches, and patios during cooler nights.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward with clear instructions, allowing assembly typically within an hour, even for solo users.

The EAST OAK 55,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater is a strong choice if you want a powerful heater for large outdoor spaces like patios, gardens, or commercial areas. Its high heat output (55,000 BTUs) can comfortably warm an 18-foot area, which means it can keep a good-sized group warm with just one unit. Running on propane fuel, it offers steady warmth without needing electricity, making it convenient for many outdoor settings. The heater sports a unique round table design on top, which is handy for placing drinks or snacks nearby, adding a useful surface while saving space.

Moving it around is easy thanks to the built-in wheels, and assembly is straightforward, often finished within 30 minutes with clear instructions. Safety is well covered with a double protection system that automatically shuts the heater off if it tips over or if the flame unexpectedly goes out, giving peace of mind during use. The stainless steel burner is durable and designed for outdoor conditions, although specific rust-proof or weather resistance features are not emphasized.

Operating the heater is simple with a quick, one-touch ignition and adjustable heat settings, making it user-friendly even for those not familiar with patio heaters. The heater is relatively tall, which might limit placement options in spaces with low ceilings or coverings. As a propane unit, it requires regular fuel replacement and proper storage of propane tanks, which some users may find less convenient compared to electric models. This heater suits those needing a reliable, powerful heat source for large outdoor gatherings and who appreciate extra features like the table top and easy mobility.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,197
Heat Output (BTUs)
Design and Style
Safety Features

Most important from
2109 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Delivers powerful warmth ideal for year-round outdoor cooking and gatherings, easily warming a sizable area.
Design and Style
The heater’s quality stands out, combining durable materials with a sleek design that enhances outdoor spaces.
Safety Features
Safety features like automatic shut-off on tipping or flame loss provide reliable peace of mind during operation.
Heating Area Coverage
Warming up to 10 feet away is comfortable, making it perfect for decks, porches, and patios during cooler nights.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward with clear instructions, allowing assembly typically within an hour, even for solo users.
#2

EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Heater for Commercial & Residential, Triple Protection System, With Wheels, 2024 Upgrade, Bronze

Rating
9.7
Heat Output (BTUs)
Design and Style
Safety Features

Most important from
463 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Delivers powerful, wide-reaching heat that makes chilly outdoor nights comfortable and enjoyable.
Design and Style
The stylish pyramid design with a glowing quartz glass tube adds a striking centerpiece to any patio.
Safety Features
Safety features provide peace of mind, especially around children and pets, with automatic shut-offs.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward, and the one-button ignition ensures it fires up instantly every time.

The EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater is a strong choice for anyone looking to warm an outdoor space like a garden, patio, or balcony. It offers a powerful 48,000 BTU output, which is enough to comfortably heat up to a 10-foot radius—good for small to medium sized outdoor areas. The heater runs on propane, a common fuel type that’s easy to find and replace. Its design stands out with a tall bronze pyramid shape and a glowing quartz glass tube that adds both style and durability, making it more than just a functional item but also a nice centerpiece for outdoor gatherings.

Safety is well-covered with a triple protection system that includes automatic shut-off if the heater tips over or if the flame goes out unexpectedly, giving peace of mind when using it around people or pets. The unit also has wheels, which makes it easier to move around despite its weight of about 66 pounds. Starting the heater is simple thanks to a one-button ignition, and you can adjust the heat level easily with a control knob.

Some limitations include the fact that while the metal and glass materials resist rust and weather damage fairly well, long-term exposure to harsh weather might still affect its appearance over time, so some care or cover is recommended when not in use. Additionally, its heating area is moderate; larger spaces may require multiple units or a more powerful model. The size and weight might be cumbersome for some users who need frequent portability. This patio heater is best suited for residential and commercial outdoor settings where a reliable, attractive, and relatively easy-to-use heating solution is needed, balancing strong heat output and safety features with a stylish look.

Rating
9.7
Heat Output (BTUs)
Design and Style
Safety Features

Most important from
463 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Delivers powerful, wide-reaching heat that makes chilly outdoor nights comfortable and enjoyable.
Design and Style
The stylish pyramid design with a glowing quartz glass tube adds a striking centerpiece to any patio.
Safety Features
Safety features provide peace of mind, especially around children and pets, with automatic shut-offs.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward, and the one-button ignition ensures it fires up instantly every time.
#3

Encyclpo Patio Heater for Outdoor Use,1500W Infrared, 36 in Portable Tower Heater, 3 Levels, IPX5 Waterproof, Tip-Over&Overheat Protection for Garage, Indoor, Large Room, Backyard, Home

Rating
9.1
Heat Output (BTUs)
Design and Style
Safety Features

Most important from
171 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Heats up quickly and evenly, providing cozy warmth for workouts or outdoor gatherings.
Design and Style
The sleek, durable design is lightweight and easy to move, fitting well in various spaces like garages and patios.
Safety Features
Safety features like the included bracket prevent getting too close, adding peace of mind.

The Encyclpo Patio Heater is a portable tower-style electric heater designed mainly for outdoor use, offering 1500 watts of infrared heating power. Its infrared technology means it warms up almost instantly—within one second—which is great if you want quick, focused warmth without waiting around. It has three heat settings (600W, 900W, and 1500W), letting you adjust the warmth to fit small or larger spaces like patios, garages, or even indoor rooms if needed.

One standout feature is its IPX5 waterproof rating, making it suitable for outdoor environments where it might get splashed, so you don’t have to worry about light rain. It’s also designed with safety in mind: it automatically shuts off if tipped over or if it overheats, which is reassuring if you have kids or pets around. The heater runs quietly without blowing air or making noise, which adds to its comfort factor.

The tower design is slim and portable at just 36 inches tall and 7.5 pounds, so you can move it easily to where you need heat. However, since it is electric, it requires a power outlet nearby, which might limit placement options compared to fuel-based patio heaters. Its sleek dark black tower design fits well in modern patios or indoor settings, and it’s user-friendly with manual controls, so it won’t overwhelm if you prefer simple operation. This heater is ideal for those wanting quick, quiet, and weather-resistant electric heating for smaller outdoor spaces or indoor spots that need extra warmth without the hassle of fuel or propane.

Rating
9.1
Heat Output (BTUs)
Design and Style
Safety Features

Most important from
171 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Heats up quickly and evenly, providing cozy warmth for workouts or outdoor gatherings.
Design and Style
The sleek, durable design is lightweight and easy to move, fitting well in various spaces like garages and patios.
Safety Features
Safety features like the included bracket prevent getting too close, adding peace of mind.

Buying Guide for the Best Outdoor Patio Heaters

Choosing the right outdoor patio heater can make a significant difference in how much you enjoy your outdoor space, especially during cooler months. The right heater will provide warmth, comfort, and enhance the ambiance of your patio. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting an outdoor patio heater.
Heat Output (BTUs)Heat output is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and indicates how much heat the heater can produce. This is important because it determines how effectively the heater can warm up your space. For small patios or intimate settings, a heater with 10,000 to 20,000 BTUs may be sufficient. Medium-sized areas might require 20,000 to 40,000 BTUs, while larger spaces or commercial settings could need 40,000 BTUs or more. Consider the size of your patio and how warm you want it to be when choosing the heat output.
Fuel TypeOutdoor patio heaters can be powered by different fuel types, including propane, natural gas, and electricity. Propane heaters are portable and easy to set up, making them ideal for flexibility. Natural gas heaters are more permanent and require a gas line, but they are cost-effective in the long run. Electric heaters are convenient and safe for enclosed spaces but may have higher operating costs. Choose the fuel type based on availability, convenience, and your specific patio setup.
Design and StylePatio heaters come in various designs and styles, such as freestanding, tabletop, wall-mounted, and hanging models. Freestanding heaters are versatile and can be moved around, while tabletop heaters are compact and suitable for smaller areas. Wall-mounted and hanging heaters save floor space and are great for fixed installations. Consider the layout of your patio and how much space you have when selecting the design and style.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are crucial when dealing with outdoor heaters. Look for models with automatic shut-off mechanisms that turn the heater off if it tips over or overheats. Other important safety features include protective grates to prevent accidental contact with the heating element and anti-tilt switches. Prioritize heaters with robust safety features to ensure the well-being of everyone using the patio.
Heating Area CoverageHeating area coverage indicates the maximum area the heater can effectively warm, usually measured in square feet. This is important to ensure that the heater can cover the entire space you intend to use. Small heaters may cover up to 100 square feet, medium heaters can cover 100 to 200 square feet, and large heaters can cover 200 square feet or more. Match the heating area coverage to the size of your patio for optimal warmth.
Weather ResistanceSince patio heaters are used outdoors, they need to withstand various weather conditions. Look for heaters made from durable, weather-resistant materials such as stainless steel or powder-coated metals. These materials can resist rust and corrosion, ensuring the heater lasts longer. Consider the typical weather in your area and choose a heater that can handle those conditions.
Ease of UseEase of use includes factors like how easy it is to ignite the heater, adjust the temperature, and maintain it. Look for heaters with user-friendly controls, such as push-button ignition and adjustable heat settings. Maintenance features like removable parts for cleaning can also make a big difference. Choose a heater that you find easy to operate and maintain to ensure a hassle-free experience.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now