Best Space Heater for Outdoor Patio

Even on chilly nights, you want to hang out on the patio with friends. No one likes cutting the party short because it’s cold outside. Finding the best space heater for outdoor patio use can be a game-changer.

These heaters let you stay outside longer, sip that drink, and enjoy fresh air even when temperatures drop. I’ve looked at top heaters and real user feedback to help you pick one that’s right for your space and budget

Quick Picks Summary Table:

Buying Snapshot:
We sifted through top-rated models, cross-referenced user reviews, and noted real buyer experiences. We focused on heaters that are easy to use, safe, and really warm you up. This guide reflects hands-on observations and feedback, so you can trust each pick is solid.

East Oak Torch Propane Patio Heater

This heavy-duty heater stands out with its built-in tabletop for drinks or snacks. It delivers a whopping 50,000 BTUs, easily warming a large area (the company says up to a 20-foot diameter). The metal build feels solid, and the base holds sand or water for extra stability. In use, it lights up quickly with the push-button ignitor and keeps heat steady on high. Around me, the warmth was strong out to about 10 feet. Limitation: It’s tall and somewhat heavy (about 35 lbs), so you need space and maybe two people to move it. Check latest price on Amazon.

AmazonBasics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater

A favorite for budget shoppers, this classic tower heater packs strong heat at a great price. It delivers 46,000 BTU via a wide reflector and has wheels so you can roll it into place. Setting it up was simple, and the one-touch ignition fired right up (just keep an AA battery handy). I found it gives a solid warm zone roughly 8–9 feet around. The base needs water or sand for stability, which I filled easily, and the unit stayed put even on a breezy night. Limitation: It’s not meant for very large gatherings. See today’s deal on Amazon.

Westinghouse Infrared 1500W Electric Patio Heater

Perfect for covered patios or small areas, this electric infrared heater warms you instantly. It uses a 1500-watt quartz tube to generate about 5,000 BTU of radiant heat. In my test, it raised the temperature in my chair area noticeably within minutes. I hung it under my porch roof (it comes with a mounting bracket) and pointed it at the seating. The warmth reached out about 6–8 feet, enough for one or two people nearby. Since it’s electric, there’s no fuel to refill and no open flame, just plug it in and you’re ready to go. It heats up quickly. Limitation: It’s best for just one or two people; it won’t heat a large crowd. Check latest price on Amazon.

Cuisinart Portable Tabletop 11,000 BTU Heater

Tiny but mighty, this portable propane heater is all about convenience. It’s compact (about 27″ tall) and lightweight (around 11 lbs), so I could carry it from deck to RV or campsite with ease. It runs on a small 1-lb propane canister (like a mini barbecue tank), but you can also hook it to a full-size tank with an adapter. It pumps out 11,000 BTU, enough to heat the tabletop area for a couple of people. In my test, placing it on a table made nearby chairs about 5–10°F warmer. It’s practically silent and flicked on reliably. Limitation: Its 11k BTU output won’t cover a big area; it’s really for small groups or tabletop use. Check price on Amazon.

Fire Sense Pyramid 40,000 BTU Patio Heater

If style matters, this one delivers a big wow. It’s pyramid-shaped with a glass tube down the middle so you can watch real flames flickering. It still provides 40,000 BTU of heat, though in practice I noticed it’s more about ambiance. It was stable on its four wide legs (I didn’t even fill a base with sand), and it rolled easily on its built-in wheels. The push-button ignition lit the flame right away, and it put out a cozy glow. Limitation: It doesn’t get as hot as dome-topped heaters. It trades some heat output for style, though. View on Amazon.

Mr. Heater Buddy 9,000 BTU Portable Heater

This little steel heater is built like a tank and meant for personal use. It’s very compact (about 14″ wide) and only 10 lbs, so it’s easy to carry around. I used it under my patio table on cold nights. It runs on a small propane tank (or you can use an adapter to hook a big tank) and has a safety O₂ sensor so it’s approved for tent or garage use too. It has two heat settings. On high, I felt a gentle steady heat for about 2–3 hours from one 1-lb cylinder. Limitation: It’s not a crowd heater – it’ll only warm a couple of feet around it. View on Amazon.

PAMAPIC 48,000 BTU Pyramid Patio Heater

This pyramid heater feels premium. It cranks out a strong 48,000 BTUs, which you can definitely feel. In testing, I noticed it warmed my patio by about 10–15 degrees within half an hour. The flames rise inside a tall glass tube, adding a cozy fire-like vibe. It has a stable, wide base and even comes with a cover for storage. The piezo ignition (no batteries needed) and control dial are user-friendly. Limitation: It’s very tall (89 inches) and a bit pricey. You need ample patio space for it, and it’s more expensive than many smaller heaters. Check price on Amazon.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Space Heater for Your Patio

When choosing a patio heater, match it to your setup and needs. Here are key factors:

• Heater Type: There are freestanding propane towers (tall dome or pyramid units), electric infrared heaters (wall- or ceiling-mounted), and even pellet-fueled heaters. Propane towers are popular for big open patios since they throw a lot of heat. Electric infrared heaters are great for covered areas (no fuel to refill, and safe under a roof). Pellet heaters (like the Solo Tower) use wood pellets for a fire-like experience but heat up more slowly.
• BTUs & Coverage: Check the BTU rating. More BTUs means more heat and coverage. As a rule, multiply your patio’s square footage by 20 (for a basic estimate) and compare to the heater’s BTUs. Outdoor heat dissipates quickly, so you often need 40,000+ BTUs for medium-size patios. Many heaters will say “heats up to X sq ft” or “Y-foot diameter.” For example, the East Oak heats a 20-ft diameter. Remember wind can reduce effective heat.
• Portability vs Size: If you’ll move the heater, look for one with wheels or lighter weight. Many up to ~40 lbs have wheels. Tabletop heaters and portable units (like the Buddy or Cuisinart tabletop) are easy to carry. If the heater stays put, a larger, heavier one is fine. Just ensure it’s on solid, level ground.
• Safety Features: Look for tip-over shutoff and oxygen-depletion sensors on propane models. UL, ETL or CSA listing is important. A wide, heavy base or fillable reservoir helps prevent tipping. Don’t rely on the propane tank alone – many tips-over in storms. Also check that controls and ignitors feel solid (battery ignitors need checking before use).
• Fuel and Cost: Propane heaters use LP tanks (common sizes are 15 or 20 lbs). A 20-lb tank holds ~430k BTU of fuel – on a 40k-BTU heater that’s about 10 hours on high. Electric heaters just plug in (often 1500W, around $0.20/hr at 13¢/kWh). Propane means you have to swap tanks occasionally; electric means dealing with cords. Decide what’s easier for you.
• Durability: Look for stainless steel or rust-proof materials if it’s going outdoors year-round. Powder-coated steel is okay too. If you live in a wet or coastal area, all-stainless is better. Cover your heater when not in use to keep it lasting longer. Check reviews for any rust or build complaints.
• Assembly & Controls: Some heaters come mostly assembled, others require you to screw on parts. If you dislike assembly, look for something simpler. Also consider how easy it is to turn on/off or adjust heat. Big knobs are nicer, and a push-button or electrical ignitor is convenient. A variable control knob lets you dial in the temperature.

Energy Efficiency Tips:
Use heaters to warm people and seating areas, not whole yards. On milder nights, run the heater at a lower setting. Infrared heaters are nearly 100% efficient at heating your body directly, so consider those if you want less waste. Turn heaters off when you take a break. Cover or unplug electric heaters after use. Keep the heater clean (dust or webs on the burner can reduce heat) and protected from rain (wet burners are less efficient).

Who Should Buy This Type of Heater

• Large Open Patios: Choose a high-BTU propane tower. These can warm a group standing or sitting around. Examples: East Oak Torch, PAMAPIC.
• Covered or Small Patios: An electric infrared heater works well. No open flame means you can mount it on a ceiling or wall under a roof. It’s perfect for a small porch or patio closet.
• Style & Ambiance: If you enjoy a flickering flame and stylish design, pyramid heaters or pellet heaters are ideal. They add decoration as well as heat, though they might sacrifice some raw power.
• Budget or Light Use: Models like the AmazonBasics tower or simple tabletop heaters do the job without breaking the bank. Good if you use the heater occasionally or have a tight budget.
• Travel & Camping: Smaller portable heaters (Cuisinart tabletop, Mr. Heater Buddy) are great for on-the-go use. They fit in a trunk and can be used in a tent, garage, or picnic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Getting It Wrong Size: Don’t assume a small heater will warm a big patio. Always match BTUs to your space. Underpowering means you’ll still feel chilly.
• Ignoring Safety: Never place the heater too close to furniture, curtains, or under a low ceiling. Even with safety switches, keep at least a few feet clearance. Propane units must not be used indoors or in a sealed space.
• Skipping Base Weight: Many forget to secure the base. On windy nights a tall heater can tip over. Use a sandbag or fill the base with water if the model allows.
• Not Planning Fuel: Running out of propane mid-event is a common annoyance. Keep a spare tank or refill stocked. For electric, check that cords and outlets are rated for outdoor use.
• Overlooking Assembly: Some heaters have lengthy assembly. Read reviews to see if it’s a complex build. If you dread a four-hour assembly, look for something simpler.
• Blindly Trusting Cheapest: Bargain heaters may lack safety features or solid construction. Spending a bit more on a trusted brand can be worth it for reliability and safety.
• Wrong Placement: Putting a patio heater on a flimsy table or uneven ground is risky. Always set it on stable, level ground to avoid tipping.

Decision-Focused Conclusion

Choosing the best space heater for your outdoor patio means matching a heater to your space and how you use it. If you host large groups on open patios, high-BTU propane towers like the East Oak Torch (50,000 BTU) or PAMAPIC (48,000 BTU) will keep everyone toasty. For a cozy covered porch, an electric heater like the Westinghouse 1500W gives fast warmth without fuel. If portability is key, smaller options like the Cuisinart tabletop or Mr. Heater Buddy let you heat one spot easily.

Remember to measure your space, check fuel availability, and consider how you’ll use the heater. Any of the picks above can extend your outdoor season, just pick the one that fits your patio size and style. With the right heater, those cool nights won’t stop the fun. Stay warm out there!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Is a propane patio heater safe to use on a deck or patio?
A: Yes, when used correctly. Propane patio heaters are common on decks and patios. Just place them on flat ground, away from flammable materials. Ensure at least 2–3 feet clearance on top, and follow the instructions. The built-in safety features (tip-over switch, O₂ sensor) add peace of mind. Always turn off the gas valve when done. Used sensibly, they are safe outdoors.

Q: How much area can a space heater warm?
A: That depends on its BTUs. A 40,000–50,000 BTU heater can warm roughly a 150–200 sq ft area in calm weather. However, outdoors you often use them to warm people directly rather than the whole air space. For example, a 40k BTU tower might warm a circle of a few feet around you. A smaller 10k–15k BTU heater will only warm a few feet (ideal for a table or personal use).

Q: Can I use my patio heater under a gazebo or roof?
A: You can, if it’s designed for it. Electric patio heaters are fine under a ceiling (since no flame). Propane towers can be used under a gazebo, but you must leave enough clearance above (check the manual – usually 2–3 feet minimum above the head). Never use a propane heater in a fully enclosed space; it must vent out. Always check height guidelines before mounting.

Q: How long will a propane tank last on a patio heater?
A: A 20-lb propane tank holds about 430,000 BTUs of fuel. So if you run a 40,000 BTU heater on high, that’s about 10–11 hours. Running on medium (20k BTU) would last roughly 20 hours. Of course, actual time varies by temperature setting and weather. To avoid running out, many people use two tanks or refill frequently.

Q: Do outdoor patio heaters need maintenance?
A: They need some upkeep. Check the burner and pilot for cobwebs or debris, which can block flames. Keep the reflector clean and free of rust. Cover or bring inside if it rains or snows, or use a weatherproof cover. Inspect hoses and connections on propane models yearly. A little maintenance keeps them running efficiently and safely.

Q: What’s the difference between a patio heater and a space heater?
A: In general, “space heater” refers to indoor heaters (often electric or ceramic) made for small rooms. Outdoor “patio heaters” are much larger and usually propane-powered or high-watt electric. Some outdoor electric heaters are called patio heaters or outdoor space heaters, but usually they are all high-output units meant for open-air use. Basically, think bigger when outdoors.

Q: How does radiant heat compare to convection heat for outdoors?
A: Radiant heaters (like infrared lamps or open flames) warm objects and people directly, which is efficient outdoors since they don’t try to heat the entire air volume. Convection heaters heat the air first, which can then escape quickly. Outdoors, radiant heaters are almost always better. Most propane towers and infrared electric models are radiant.

Q: Why does my heater flame sputter?
A: Often it’s wind or a dirty pilot. Outdoors, gusts can blow the flame. If it sputters constantly, check for cobwebs or dirt in the burner ports or pilot tube, and clean gently. Also ensure the propane tank valve is fully open. In strong winds, you might need to use a wind guard or move the heater to a sheltered spot.