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10 Best Propane Heaters 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Mr. Heater MH9BX-Massachusetts/Canada approved portable Propane Heater

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,497
BTU Rating
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
2443 reviews

BTU Rating
The heater puts out a lot of heat, effectively replacing multiple electric heaters.
Fuel Consumption
Running on a full 5-gallon propane tank, it can operate continuously for 3 days on the low heat setting.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,497
BTU Rating
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
2443 reviews

BTU Rating
The heater puts out a lot of heat, effectively replacing multiple electric heaters.
Fuel Consumption
Running on a full 5-gallon propane tank, it can operate continuously for 3 days on the low heat setting.
#2

Portable Propane Heater with Catalytic Burner for Camping Outdoor Space 6200BTU Power with Control Valve Patio Heater 1lb Small Propane Gas Tank Holder Tent Garage Fishing stove buddy(Upgraded Burner)

Rating
9.1
BTU Rating
Portability
Safety Features

Most important from
602 reviews

BTU Rating
Delivers reliable warmth exactly as promised, making it a great choice for camping in cold conditions.
Portability
Compact and lightweight design fits perfectly with standard 1-pound propane tanks, enhancing portability.
Safety Features
Built with safety in mind, it features a stable stand and shuts off easily without complicated mechanisms.
Ignition Type
Easy to use and set up, with a simple control knob that adjusts heat effectively.
Heating Area
Produces enough heat to comfortably warm a small personal space, ideal for individual outdoor use.

This portable propane heater is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts needing reliable warmth in small spaces up to about 200 square feet. It delivers a strong 6200 BTU output, which is enough to heat areas like tents, patios, garages, or outdoor workspaces effectively. Its catalytic burner design offers improved heat efficiency and better wind resistance, meaning it can keep you warm even in breezy or chilly conditions. The heater is lightweight at just over 1.3 pounds and compact, making it easy to carry for camping, fishing, or tailgating. It features a simple control knob that lets you adjust the heat level to your comfort, which is great for varying weather and activities.

Safety is well considered here, with mesh guards and a secure bracket for the propane tank, plus a brass hose connection to reduce gas leak risks. However, keep in mind that the propane tank is not included, so you'll need to purchase a compatible 1-pound tank separately. The coil burner means it doesn’t use electricity, making it convenient for off-grid use but also means you should be careful about ventilation and never use it in fully enclosed spaces. While it doesn’t have an automatic ignition system, the straightforward design makes it easy to light manually.

This heater suits those who want a dependable, portable heat source for outdoor use without complex setup or heavy gear. It is not meant for heating large indoor rooms or continuous use but performs well in camping and outdoor leisure scenarios where lightweight and efficient heat is needed.

Rating
9.1
BTU Rating
Portability
Safety Features

Most important from
602 reviews

BTU Rating
Delivers reliable warmth exactly as promised, making it a great choice for camping in cold conditions.
Portability
Compact and lightweight design fits perfectly with standard 1-pound propane tanks, enhancing portability.
Safety Features
Built with safety in mind, it features a stable stand and shuts off easily without complicated mechanisms.
Ignition Type
Easy to use and set up, with a simple control knob that adjusts heat effectively.
Heating Area
Produces enough heat to comfortably warm a small personal space, ideal for individual outdoor use.
#3

Portable Propane Heater for Camping, Outdoor Space Tent Heater, Cordless Patio Heaters with Self Igniter, Control Valve, Foldable Gas Tank Holder, Ideal Garage Hiking Ice Fishing Hunting Buddy

Rating
8.8
Ignition Type
Portability
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
75 reviews

Ignition Type
The push-button igniter works flawlessly every time, eliminating the need for matches or lighters.
Portability
The foldable tank holder keeps everything secure and makes the heater extremely compact and portable.
Fuel Consumption
Heats up quickly and runs reliably on a standard 1lb propane cylinder, perfect for cold-weather adventures.
Heating Area
Ideal for individual use in chilly conditions, providing steady warmth without trying to heat large groups.

This portable propane heater from LOFUKI is designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, especially for camping, hiking, and other chilly outdoor activities. It offers quick and reliable warmth, thanks to advanced heating technology and a decent BTU output. The heater is very lightweight (about 1.2 pounds) and compact, making it easy to carry and set up with its foldable stand.

Safety is well covered with protective mesh guards, a secure cylinder stand, and a connecting pipe that helps prevent gas leaks. Ignition is simple and convenient, using a one-push self-igniter that eliminates the need for matches or lighters. You can adjust the heat level smoothly with a control knob to get the right amount of warmth depending on your needs. The heater is built from sturdy, rust-resistant materials suited for cold, windy conditions, which is great for outdoor use.

It burns propane cleanly, which helps reduce emissions and gives you longer heating time per tank. A point to note is that propane tanks are not included, and indoor use requires proper ventilation to stay safe. Given its small size, it’s best for relatively small areas like tents, patios, or garages rather than large spaces. This model is a compact, reliable propane heater that’s easy to carry and safe to operate outdoors.

Rating
8.8
Ignition Type
Portability
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
75 reviews

Ignition Type
The push-button igniter works flawlessly every time, eliminating the need for matches or lighters.
Portability
The foldable tank holder keeps everything secure and makes the heater extremely compact and portable.
Fuel Consumption
Heats up quickly and runs reliably on a standard 1lb propane cylinder, perfect for cold-weather adventures.
Heating Area
Ideal for individual use in chilly conditions, providing steady warmth without trying to heat large groups.

Buying Guide for the Best Propane Heaters

When choosing a propane heater, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the best model for your needs. Propane heaters are versatile and can be used for various purposes, from heating outdoor spaces to providing warmth in indoor areas. Understanding the different features and specifications will help you make an informed decision and find a heater that meets your specific requirements.
BTU RatingBTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures the amount of heat a heater can produce. This spec is crucial because it determines how effectively the heater can warm up a space. Heaters with a lower BTU rating (around 5,000-10,000 BTUs) are suitable for small areas or personal use, while those with a higher BTU rating (20,000-50,000 BTUs or more) are better for larger spaces or outdoor use. To pick the right BTU rating, consider the size of the area you need to heat and how quickly you want it to warm up.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the heater from one location to another. This is important if you plan to use the heater in different areas or need to store it when not in use. Portable heaters are typically lighter and may have handles or wheels for easy transport. If you need a heater for camping, tailgating, or moving between rooms, look for a model that is compact and easy to carry. For stationary use, portability may be less of a concern.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Common safety features include tip-over protection, which automatically shuts off the heater if it falls over, and an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS), which turns off the heater if oxygen levels drop too low. These features are particularly important if you plan to use the heater indoors or in enclosed spaces. Always prioritize models with robust safety features to protect yourself and others.
Ignition TypeIgnition type refers to how the heater is started. There are manual ignition heaters, which require a match or lighter, and electronic ignition heaters, which have a built-in igniter for easy startup. Electronic ignition is more convenient and safer, especially in windy conditions or for users who prefer a hassle-free operation. Choose the ignition type based on your preference for ease of use and convenience.
Fuel ConsumptionFuel consumption indicates how much propane the heater uses over a certain period. This is important for understanding the operating cost and how often you will need to refill the propane tank. Heaters with lower fuel consumption are more efficient and cost-effective, while those with higher consumption may provide more heat but require more frequent refills. Consider how long you need the heater to run and how often you are willing to replace or refill the propane tank.
Heating AreaThe heating area specifies the maximum space the heater can effectively warm. This is usually measured in square feet. It's important to match the heater's capacity to the size of the area you need to heat. For small rooms or personal use, a heater with a smaller heating area (up to 200 square feet) is sufficient. For larger spaces or outdoor areas, look for heaters that can cover 500 square feet or more. Assess the size of your space to determine the appropriate heating area.

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