How do you know when your evenings are great? Or better, how do you fall in love with your patio? It is simple; all you need is to have the best patio heater in your backyard or patio.
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Your evenings, I promise you will change. You will love spending more times in you patio with family and friends. You will have the better conversation with your family and guest will be happy to have a little chat with you in the evening.
Best Patio Heaters Compared
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Image |
Name |
Weight |
Heat/BTU |
Dimension |
Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
22 Lbs |
46,000 |
24.25 x 25 x 28.5 |
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 |
80 Lbs |
46,000 |
45 x 45 x 23.5 |
||
 |
15 Lbs |
48,000 |
20 x 35 x 35 |
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 |
46.1 Lbs |
41,000 |
32 x 87 x 32 |
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 |
58 Lbs |
46,000 |
54 x 34.5 x 8 |
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 |
65 Lbs |
40,000 |
24 x 24 x 94 |
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But it is not that simple to buy a patio heater compares to other types of heater. You can toil for days scouring the internet for what to buy.
I want to end that for you right now. This guide is 3500+ long, you have every bit of information that I took 40 hours to compile together.
It is unbiased and it contains the right balance of information to ease your buying process. In the pages ahead, nothing is exaggerated.
That brings us to our first section…
Best Patio Heater 2018 Reviews
1. Belleze 48,000BTU Premium Patio Heater, Propane, CSA Certified, Hammered Bronze
You will love having the Belleze 48000 BTU Premium patio heaters on your patio. It is commercial built and has modern-day safety features that keep everybody safe. It is quiet and lightly evenly with a beautiful flame.
From hammer bronze, hammer black, mocha and stunning. You have the options to choose which color suits and appeal to you
Anti-tilt automatic shut system
The heater would not even try to go beyond the neighborhood of 30 degrees. Once it reaches that angle, it shuts itself automatically keeping you, your family and your guest safe from any burns and accidents. You don’t need to worry knocking it over.
Heat (48000 BTU)
It ignites that strong amount of heat per hour that is capable of heating a 15-square foot diameter. It doesn’t matter how large your gathering is. You can have 15 people and rest assured that they would all get the heat
>> Check Verified Customer Reviews and Ratings on This Product <<
Heavy duty construction
It was built for lasting performance. It features gorgeous style with an exotic finish that will blend with your decor. It has steel construction that is resistant to both salt and the harsh sun.
One-stop ignition
There is no two way about it: All you need is to press the button and you have the heater running.
Cons
I wish the metal construction was super thick.
2. AmazonBasics Stainless Steel Commercial Patio Heater
When the AmazonBasic Havana Bronze patio heaters ring in my mind, all that I remember is the soothing warmth devouring the night while you sip a glass of wine.
Nothing can come close to the experience that you will have with the AmazonBasic patio heater. And it doesn’t matter if you are alone or with your family.
To enhance secure placement stability, the heater has a base reservoir system that you can fill it with sand or water.
A base reservoir system
To enhance secure placement stability, the heater has a base reservoir system that you can fill it with sand or water.
>> Check Verified Customer Reviews and Ratings on This Product <<
Start-up piezo ignition system
It is a no-brainer; even your four year daughter can operate it. All you need is a simple touch of a button. And if you want to have more fun, you can control the knob and adjust the settings.
46, 000 BTU of heat
It ignites that amount of heat that warms up an 18 feet diameter.
Smooth wheel
It has two smooth wheels that support mobility that means you can the patio heater anywhere that you want. You can even go with for camping.
Cons
I wish the patio heater came with its own propane tank. It would save cash.
3. AZ Patio Heaters HLDS01-WCGT Tall Patio Heater with Table, 87-Inch, Hammered Bronze
It finishes will send you a statement of quality. The bronze finish is something that will make you appear class among your peers.
This patio heater has special features that you will find in few heaters such as an extra table. It is CSA certified so you can feel safe with this patio heater.
It throws out 41,000 Btu of heat perfect for heating a 10 to 12 diameter area in a circle. Meaning each person will feel the warmth and ambiance this heater delivers.
An Extra table
It comes with an extra table for your patio that you can use to place your glass of wine or anything.
>> Check Verified Customer Reviews and Ratings on This Product <<
Durable construction
The whole unit is made of steel that is durable as well as functional. This is a heavy-duty heater that is powder coated with steel and built for lasting performance.
Anti-tilt switch safety device
You don’t have to worry about your kids or even you knocking the whole thing off. In the event that happens, the heater will shut off automatically to keep an accident from further happenings.
Certified
Safety doesn’t have to be something that concerns you. It is certified and approved by the CSA. What should concern you is how you are going to spend your evening.
Cons
- Small diameter: I wish the table is had a larger in diameter.
- No propane tank: It doesn’t come with a propane tank. So you have to spend extra dollars to get yourself a 20lb propane tank.
4. AZ Patio Heaters HLDS01-CGTHG Commercial Glass Tube Patio Heater, Bronze
What amazes me with this AZ Quartz Glass Tube in Hammered Bronze patio heater is the height. It is 91 inches tall. You will love it when you get one of it.
It also has special features that are not found in other heaters. If you are looking for something tall and kills the attention of your visitors and guest, then have this one your backyard.
It will be a center of focus in the evening and it will complement your patio perfectly.
40,000 BTU
That is what heater ignites to keep everyone warm and cozy the whole night.
>> Check Verified Customer Reviews and Ratings on This Product <<
Access design door
There is an access door to hide your propane tank. You can also access your tank when it is empty from this small window. No one will ever know that the tank is near.
Durable wheelbase
The base and its wheel are sturdy enough to provide premium support to the heater.
With the wheelbase, you can move from your heater anywhere-from your garden to your deck.
Cons
The patio heater lacks a well-clear written instruction on how to assemble????? it. When you get it take your time to look at the unit before you spend hours fixing it. But it will take you a short time to figure everything out.
5. Fire Sense Hammer Tone Bronze Commercial Patio Heater
Fire Sense Hammer Tone is a high quality patio heater. You even don’t need sand or water to make the base of the patio stable.
It has a better pre-weight bottom. That is just one of the features that make this heater a great buy. Here are some that you may need to know more about it.
It ignites 46,000 Btu that will keep your loved ones feeling warm and toasty throughout the night.
Easy to start
Comes with an electric ignition that is easy to ignite. All you need is to press the button and you have the heat. It also has a temperature control knob that you can adjust the desired settings for the temperature you want.
>> Check Verified Customer Reviews and Ratings on This Product <<
Beautiful finish
This is kind of patio heater that will leave neighbors turning heads in the evening. That is because it has dark bronze finish that features a hammer tone black and stainless steel construction.
Portable
You can move anywhere with this patio heater in and out of the storage. It has heavy duty wheels designed to move on rough terrains of patios.
Tall enough
It is tall. It has the right balance of height that gets you enough heat when you need it.
Cons
The pictures and print are not clearly illustrated in the pages. They are poorly labeled and small. But that doesn’t mean that you can fix it.
6. Thermo Tiki Outdoor Patio Heater – LP Propane Gas – Commercial Outside Porch & Deck Heater – Black
I guess the manufacturer spend lots of man-hours just making a premium finish like this. Looking at the design and the material used to make this patio heater.
It sends a statement about how durable, this unit is. You can’t match all other heaters that I have mentioned here.
Sturdy Construction
Thermo Tiki Deluxe Propane heater is crafted from a high-grade steel construction and aluminum that makes it irresistible to all weather conditions or extreme climate.
The design features a durable powder coated accents for lasting performance.
>> Check Verified Customer Reviews and Ratings on This Product <<
Ceramic – glass column
With features, you have a spectacular show of the heater’s flame as they dance and dazzle in the evening.
38,000 Btu
It provides you with an exact range that you need to warm up a 15-foot diameter area,
Simple operation
No fancy sophisticated button, with just a simple push, you get started. And to have more fun, there is a temperature control knob to adjust flame settings
Built-in safety value
The fuel supply to the heater is shut off immediately when the heater is knocked over.
Cons
I don’t think the 38 000 BTU is enough to warm a 15-square foot diameter.
How to Choose The Best Patio Heater
Patio heaters are a nice extension of your living space. They bring the feeling of a romantic calming evening.
To select a good heater for your space, there are timeless factors that you need know. Not every heater will appeal to your perfect situation. For instance, you need to…
Know The Fuel Types
Before you decide to get yourself a heater, you need to know which fuel type you need.
They are three fuel types: Natural gas, propane and electric heaters.
Both of them have their own pros and cons. The natural gas heaters are common because they need little maintenance and they cost less than others heaters.
However, their disadvantages are that you will need a plumber to help you install the gas lines. Unlike propane heaters than can moved, natural gas heaters can’t be moved.
Styles Configuration
Different patio heaters come in different styles. If you are looking for the specific heaters that can complement your patio surrounding or environment, it can cost you extra dollars.
It can also be high if you need custom made design. Here are some of the styles that you will find on the market.
Standalone / Ground heaters
These are the common type of heaters on the market. They are thin and tall. They give off lots of heat; therefore they are perfect for large spaces such as decks, backyards or patios. You will always find this kind of heaters in event, or spacious restaurant.
Tabletop heaters
I love their look. They are classic and modern. The tabletop heaters resemble the traditional lamps.
They will give your garden a nice eccentric look. Tabletops were designed to be placed on side tables or large tables.
You can still use tabletop in your home, but on most occasions, you will find them common in the restaurant and special events.
Mountable heaters
From the word alone, this kind of heaters can be placed on a wall or attached to something. They often come with their own stands.
Heating Power and Size
The question is how much heat do you need? Most models of heaters will always list their heating power.
For instance, an electric heater may offer up to 1300 watts of power. What you need to know is that it can heat an area of 20-25 feet around the heater [Reference: HPBA, Outdoor Furnishing – Heating.]
Heaters have BTU (British thermal unit), which is measured per hour. If a heater gives off more BTU, it gives more heat and uses more power.
Safety Features
We know that they are dangerous, that is why safety is something that needs to be emphasized.
Now, before you make a decision to buy even one of these features, you need to be prepared to look for it.
If you have gas heaters you need to make sure that there is no leakage. Below this article, there is a section on safety features, which you must read.
Meanwhile, look for a heater that has safety features like automatic shut off, tilt-over protection and cool-touch glass.
Such features can lower the risk of fire happening by 50%. You now know the features; it is time for you to learn more about the unit or heaters that have this same features and characteristics that we have talked about in this section.
Patio Heaters and Outdoor Heaters – Is It Necessary
You are still not sure if you should buy patio heaters. Okay, let me show you a few points why you will need this unit.
Less Maintenance
You won’t break the bank having patio heaters. As you have seen in the above pages, they are easy to maintain. If you are buying an electric heater, then you will only be spending 15 cents per hour.
Keeps Everyone Toasty and Warm
Why die in the cold when you can have a propane heater around. The winter is coming, and there is no reason why the whole family should stay in cold. With only a few dollars, you can get everybody warm and you will be rewarded for being the best mom or dad.
Beautiful Design
Even if the idea of warmth doesn’t impress you, there is nothing that is so fascinating like having the chance to see dancing flames. It makes the evening looks beautiful and romantic. Having a patio heater is a nice way of extending your nightlife and making it memorable.
Less Hassle
Forget the issues of smoke, suits, carrying logs that are associated with a fire pit or fireplace. All you need is to refill your tank when the propane gas is over. It is that simple.
Patio Heaters Size and BTU Explained
If this is your first time, the question that disturbs you is: How much BTU do I need to warm my patio?
There is no direct answer to this because it depends on many factors. If you were buying a heater for your living space.
You would need to make sure that your room is insulated so that you can have the most of the heat in your room.
With patio heaters, the heat won’t be concentrated. For that reason there are few things that you need to know.
BTUs and How It Affects The Heater That You Choose
Now, for those folks that have no clue for what BTU is? It is an abbreviation of the British thermal unit. And it is usually measured per hour.
Most patio heaters will have a BTU that range from 30,000 to 100,000. The more BTU you have the more heat that you get.
Freestanding heaters have a higher BTU and they will be ideal heaters if you want to heat a large patio or backyard.
Majority of these heaters have a BTU of 45,000. Tabletop heaters give off, less amount of heat. Their BTU on average range is 12k.
The Ideal Sizes and The Power Options
The size of the space that you have will determine the type of heater and the amount of BTU that you need.
For instance, if you have a small patio and you are living alone. You have three options: an infrared heater, tabletop heater or cell mount heater.
The BTU, they provide is enough to warm you. They are also ideal heaters for offices.
For large spaces, a freestanding heater that can ignite 45k of BTU is the best options.
Know that if you need more BTU you will have to budget for extra dollars for that.
On average a heater that ignites 45k of BTU can heat a 20 square foot diameter, which is roughly 314 square feet. Making it ideal for spaces that are large like backyards and patio.
Now, some experts claim that if you want to heat a large area you will need multiple heaters 8 to 20 foot apart.
There is some truth in that. The more heaters you have the more warmth you will get. Yes is true, but that will be perfect if you have the large gathering.
Calculation: Size of the area and the BTU you need
Technical one BTU increases the temperature of a pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. That means more BTU more heat.
I don’t want to go to so much calculus here but I want to give you a rough idea of what to do. For our case, we want to use 20 BTU as the standard heat range to determine the amount of heat we need to heat any size of the space.
For instance, let say you have a 3000 square feet patio, how many BTU will you need.
20BTU*3000(square feet) = 60,000 BTUs.
I believe this calculation should give you a rough estimation.
Safety Tips of Outdoor Patio Heaters
First is getting the warmth and ambiance. Second is learning how to keep you, your family and everybody safe.
But the most important is learning how to use it well so that fires or accident may not occur.
To make your home a safe haven, here are some of the safety tips that you need to be aware of:
Enough Space
The heat that comes from this heaters is enough cause fire. For that reason, you need have adequate space on your patio.
There is must be enough space between the patio and the combustible materials. A better way of knowing how much space is you need is to read it the manual.
For instance, patio heaters that emit 30k to 50k of BTU need to have a 30 inches clearance on all the sides if the reflector and emitter.
Small patio like ceiling and tabletop that have 10k to 30k BTU, must have a 24 inches clearance on all the sides of the reflector or emitter and above.
Free standing and tabletop heaters should sit on a level surface that can support they are weigh to prevent pricking.
Before you ignite the heater make sure that there is no windy or close to any low-hanging leaves or tree branches that can lead to the fire.
Safety Features
For ultimate safety and prevent features accidents, check out if your patio heaters have the following characterizes.
- Automatic shut off. This is a small switch inside the heat. In case, it gets hot inside it shuts the heater off.
- Tilt-over protection. What you have to know is that you are dealing with portable patio heaters. Units that can be moved from one place to another. Tilting or pricking is common. Any of those scenarios can result to fire. When buying a patio heater, check for the one that has tilt-over protection. In the event any member of your family knocks the patio, the heating element should turn off immediately.
- Cool-touch glass. If you have pets or kids, then you want to take of them. You will need a patio heater with a cool to touch the glass. Because kids and pets are curious, and they will always want to touch anything.
Safety Approvals
You need to get yourself a patio heater that has gone through rigorous testing to meet the safety standards.
If you are buying a patio heater look for the one that has the following stickers: UL and CSA-which are the common safety approval authority.
Keep on The Watch
It is simple, but how many people leave their patio heat unattended? Many.
In fact, the most accident that related to patio heater occurs as a result of negligence. These are things that can be prevented quickly.
Inspect The Heater
If you are having a gas patio heater, you will need to be extra safe. Before lighting, you want to make sure that there is no loose connection or leakage somewhere.
In case you smell gas, get out of that place and call the fire department quickly.
Fuel Types of Outdoor Heaters
There 3 types of fuel options for outdoor heaters. Each fuel type has its own merit and limitation. Here is a brief description of each.
Natural Gas
It is more popular than other types of fuel. That is because; it is cheap and needs little maintenance.
However, it has one drawback. You will need a plumber to help you install the gas line. And once the unit has been installed, there is no way you can move it. They are less expensive to operate compared to other types of fuel.
Propane Gas
This is the second type of fuel. It is also common but its availability depends on the area that you will live.
In some areas, natural gas is more common than propane gas and vice versa.
Propane gases are simple to use. They don’t require installation. All you need is to a 20lb propane gas tank.
The only limitation with this type of fuel is that you have to replace the tanks often. Or you need to have at least 2 propane tanks.
You will also incur an additional cost of replacing the gas tank. The good thing that I love about the propane heater is the much heat that they give off.
Electric Fuel
This type of heaters uses electricity as a source of fuel. All you need is the120-volt outlet.
The good thing about an electric heater is they can fit in any house or household.
They have very little maintenance because all you need is a plug or socket and you have the heat that you need.
Unlike other heaters, you can use an electric heater even in an enclosed space.
Although there is the benefit of using an electric heater are many, there is one disadvantage that they have. They don’t ignite much heat.
They are perfect if you have a small house or patio or balcony.
Operation Cost Of Propane Patio Heaters
There are so many factors that affect the cost of patio heaters. Personally, I don’t think that cost should be an issue (I will tell you in a second).
The cost of maintenance is higher than the cost of purchase. So don’t look at what they will cost. The question is … can you maintain the cost of operation?
Let us look at the cost of Electric heater and propane heater
Most people will opt to buy an electric heater because its cost of operation is less expensive. That one is true; there is no debate about it.
But what most people forget is that an electric heater doesn’t through off much heat.
The 1500 watts its use is not even in the neighborhood of what a propane heater gives.
With an electric heater you can use $2.5 dollars for it to run for 10 hours but you won’t get much heat.
On the other hand, propane heaters are costly. For instance, it will cost you around $20 to refill a 20lb propane tank which can last you for 10 hours.
My point
An electric heater is cheaper to operate than a propane heater, but it doesn’t give off much heat.
You will need an electric heater if you have a small area. But if heat is what you need, then you will need a propane heater.
How do Patio Heaters Work
You are right to be skeptical. You are thinking….How can a device like this be safe to use, it if doesn’t pose danger? How does it work?
And it is my job to answer that question. So here a real theory on how a patio heater works.
Patio heaters burn their fuel; it can be through gas or electricity. Then this source of heat is amplified through a special heat that warms existing materials in a specified area.
Unlike an electric fireplace or space heater than have the fan distributing the heat, patio heaters emit radiant heat that warms the area.
Radiant heat travels through the air to keep you warm; it is like the heat from the sun.
For that reason, it is not harmful to your health. Fan forced heater can pose a serious health challenge to people with respiratory problems.
This method of heating is much more efficient than blowing hot air into space, which gets lots.
While radiant heat is concentrated into one place, it travels in a straight line to heat objects instead of warming the surrounding air.
The size of heat you want will depend on the space that you have. And to get more heat distributed in all the area of your living space it may cost you more.
For instance, if you were to heat an area of 20 square foot and you want to raise the temperature from 60 to 70 degrees, you will need a patio heater that can emit around 84,000 BTU.
That is enough heat to warm everybody that will be sited in the evening. If you need everybody to get warm from the heater, all you need is to center the unit.
Radiant heat is safe and environmentally friendly, it doesn’t pose any danger.
Final verdict
With a 3500+ word guide, you now have a better way of making an informed decision. I believe you will choose the best patio heater that is ideal for your patio.
If you’ve got any information, leave a comment below. Or you can share this incredible patio heaters review article with your friends on social media.