10 Best Propane Heaters 2026 in the United States

The DIAMONDFORGE 50,000 BTU Patio Heater is a strong choice for anyone needing reliable outdoor heat with a good coverage area. Its powerful 50,000 BTU output can warm up an area about 20 feet wide, making it great for patios, gardens, or poolside evenings. The heater’s double-layer stainless steel burner adds durability and resistance to rust, which is a bonus for outdoor use and means it should last longer than many competitors. On the safety side, it is ETL certified and includes useful features like tip-over shutoff, flame failure protection, and overheat prevention, giving peace of mind during use in windy or busy environments.

Portability is well thought-out with built-in wheels and a reasonably light weight (about 34 pounds), so moving it around your outdoor space is easier than heavier models. The one-touch ignition makes starting up quick and simple, avoiding the hassle of matches or complicated setups. Additionally, the adjustable heat control lets you customize the warmth to your liking, preventing wasted fuel. A nice extra is the round stainless steel tabletop, which offers handy space for drinks or snacks during gatherings, combining heating and a little outdoor furniture in one. Assembly is reported to take about 30 minutes, which is manageable for most users.

One possible downside is that, while the heater is good for outdoor, residential spaces, it might be too large or powerful for very small patios or enclosed areas. Also, it does require a propane tank (not included), so you’ll need to manage refills. This patio heater balances strong heat output, safety, and portability, making it a solid pick for outdoor heating needs without complicated setup or maintenance.

The DEWALT 70,000 BTU Outdoor Portable Forced Air Propane Heater is a strong choice if you need to heat large outdoor spaces such as construction sites, workshops, barns, or patios. It heats up to 1,750 square feet efficiently, which is quite generous for outdoor use. The heater offers portability with its ergonomic handle and relatively lightweight design (14.33 pounds), making it easy to move around as needed.

It runs on propane with a 10-ft hose and regulator included, and provides about 6 hours of run time on a full tank, which is practical for extended work periods. Safety is well covered with features like low-oxygen shutoff and overheat protection, important for peace of mind during use. The heater uses a radiant burner with quiet burner technology, reducing noise compared to some other forced-air models. It can operate corded or cordless using a separate 20V MAX battery, adding flexibility but requiring additional purchases if you want cordless use.

This heater is designed for outdoor use only, so it’s not suitable for indoor heating. The warranty is a standard 2 years, which is typical for this type of product. This heater suits those needing a powerful, portable propane heater for large, well-ventilated outdoor areas, especially working professionals or hobbyists who want quick and dependable warmth on-site.

The Mr. Heater MH9BX is a portable propane heater that offers a BTU rating ranging from 4,000 to 9,000, making it suitable for heating spaces up to 225 square feet. This makes it a good choice for small outdoor areas. One of its key strengths is its portability, featuring a fold-down handle and swivel-out regulator, which makes it easy to transport and set up.

It runs on propane tanks (not included) and can operate for up to 5.6 hours on the minimum BTU setting, which allows for extended use without frequent refueling. Safety is a notable feature of this heater, with an auto shut-off function that activates if the unit is tipped over, if the pilot light goes out, or if low oxygen levels are detected. This makes it a safer option for outdoor use.

However, it's important to note that the heater may shut off if used at altitudes over 7,000 feet, which could be a limitation for users in high-altitude locations. Additionally, the use of unauthorized accessories or attachments is prohibited and can void the warranty, which is something users should be mindful of. This heater does not require batteries and comes with a 1-year limited warranty. The construction of the heater includes steel, plastic, and nickel, enhancing its durability. Despite its strengths, it is designed for outdoor use only, limiting its versatility.

In summary, the Mr. Heater MH9BX is a reliable and efficient option for those seeking a portable heater for outdoor spaces, with strong safety features and good fuel efficiency, but it may not be suitable for high-altitude use or indoor applications.