10 Best Patio Heaters 2026 in the United States

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.

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.

The DIAMONDFORGE 50,000 BTU Patio Heater is a strong contender for anyone needing a reliable, propane-fueled outdoor heater. Its powerful 50,000 BTU output can comfortably warm an area up to about 20 feet in diameter, making it suitable for medium to large patios or garden spaces. The use of high-quality 304 stainless steel and a double-layer burner design gives it excellent durability and resistance to corrosion, which is valuable for outdoor use. Safety is well-covered with features like tip-over protection, auto shut-off, flame failure safety, and low-oxygen shutoff, all backed by ETL certification, providing peace of mind during use. The heater’s design includes a convenient round tabletop for holding drinks or small items, adding some practical functionality beyond just heating.

Portability is another plus, with built-in wheels and a relatively manageable weight of about 34 pounds, allowing you to move it around your outdoor space as needed. Assembly is straightforward and can be completed in about 30 minutes. On the downside, while it is wind-resistant thanks to a dual-waist design and the option to add weight to the base, it may still be affected by very strong winds, which is common with freestanding patio heaters. The height and size make it less compact if you have limited storage space. Also, being propane-fueled means you’ll need to manage fuel tanks separately, which might be less convenient compared to electric models for some users.

This heater is well suited for those who want a robust, safe, and somewhat portable propane option with good coverage and added features like a tabletop, especially for outdoor gatherings on patios, decks, or gardens.