Imagine this: The sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in beautiful colors. You want to stay outside on your patio, enjoying the evening air, but a sudden chill sends you scrambling back inside. Sound familiar? That evening chill can quickly cut short your outdoor enjoyment, turning a perfect evening into a race for a sweater.
Choosing the right patio propane heater can feel like a puzzle. There are so many shapes, sizes, and features to consider! You want something that actually warms your space, is safe to use, and fits your budget. It’s easy to get overwhelmed trying to figure out which one is best for your backyard oasis.
Don’t let a little cool air keep you from enjoying your outdoor space! This post will break down everything you need to know about patio propane heaters. We’ll explore the different types, what to look for, and how to pick the perfect one to keep you cozy.
Ready to extend those perfect patio evenings? Let’s dive in and find the heat source that will make your outdoor area the place to be, no matter the temperature!
Top Patio Propane Heaters Recommendations
- SOOTHING WARMTH: Outdoor gas heater for cozy warmth when sitting outside; ideal for cafes, restaurants, and home patios
- EASY TO USE AND MOVE: One-touch ignition button for quick start ups; wheels for maneuvering into place
- POWERFUL HEAT: 46,000 BTUs for heating up to a 18 foot diameter; adjustable temperature knob for controlling the output
- ๐ฃ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ณ๐๐น ๐ฑ๐ฌ,๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐จ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐: Our outdoor patio heater delivers 50,000 BTU of power to spread heat up to an 20-foot diameter from its central heating position. With ETL certification, it is ideal for outdoor and commercial use and can be placed on an outdoor balcony, garden, swimming pool, etc
- ๐ ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ-๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ ๐ฒ๐๐ต: High-quality 304 stainless steel is engineered into our double-cover heating mesh design. Compared with a traditional single-layer burning mesh heater, the EAST OAK Outdoor Heater is more powerful, durable, and safer. All these improvements deliver a 20% longer product life
- ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐๐ผ ๐๐๐๐ฒ๐บ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ ๐ผ๐๐ฒ: Some parts are assembled in advance, and the upgraded reflector shield only needs to be assembled with three reflector pieces. The installation of the entire product, following the instructions, can be completed in about 30 minutes. The Outdoor Patio Heater has two wheels on the bottom for smooth movement
- ๐ฃ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ณ๐๐น ๐ฐ๐ด,๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐จ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐: Our outdoor patio heater delivers 48,000 BTU of power, and feature adjustable knobs to regulate temperature according to your preference. With CSA certification, it is ideal for outdoor and commercial use and can be placed on an outdoor balcony, garden, swimming pool, etc
- ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐บ๐ถ๐๐บ ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ต-๐ค๐๐ฎ๐น๐ถ๐๐ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐ฟ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป: The exterior of the patio heater is made of powder-coated, high-quality aluminum to resist scratches and rust. A 4.7-inch diameter quartz glass tube not only looks spectacular but is both strong and durable can easily stand up to the great outdoors
- ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐พ๐๐ฒ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐บ๐ฏ๐ผ๐๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ป: Our in-house design team put their hearts and souls into creating the EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater. Our goal was to create something that not only worked well but would also be the centerpiece of any outdoor entertaining area. The embossed stainless steel surfaces complement any decor with elegance, and the heaterโs flame feature will be the talk of the neighborhood
- ๐ฑ๐ฑ,๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐จ ๐๐ณ๐ณ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด: Our patio heater boasts a 55,000 BTU system for powerful, efficient warmth. It maintains a steady, consistent temperature, perfect for comfortable outdoor gatherings and daily relaxation. With its reliable heating, you can enjoy a warm, inviting space without the need for multiple heaters, making it ideal for any event or regular use.
- ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ฑ-๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ผ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ด๐ป๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป, ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ง๐ผ ๐ข๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ: The Patio Heater is easy to start with a one-touch ignition system that can ignite the flame in under five seconds. The adjustable control knob can customize the heat from low to high or turn off the heater
- ๐๐ผ๐๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฆ๐๐๐๐ฒ๐บ: The Tip-over Protection system will shut off the flame when the patio heater propane is tilted more than 45 degrees. If the flame goes out, the Flame-out Protection system automatically shuts off the gas supply
- ใ50,000 BTU Outdoor Gas Heaterใ๏ผThe propane patio heater provides you with steady comfortable warmth and easily ignites without any complicated operations. Featured an one-press ignition system and control valve to allow for temperature adjustment. It only takes a few minutes to get warm quickly, This heater is the perfect choice for outdoor use. A great heating solution for your party in late autumn or winter.
- ใDouble-Layer 304 Stainless Steel Burner Meshใ๏ผ High quality 304 stainless steel burning grid is used in the design of the double cover heating grid. Compared with traditional single-layer burner mesh heaters, Our Patio Heaters for outdoor use are stronger, more durable, and safer, and the upgraded model's service life can be increased by 30%.
- ใWeight-adjustable Water Tankใ: Compared with the traditional version of the round barrel design, the upgraded conical barrel is more stable, and comes standard with a weight-adjustable water tank (tested up to 26.45 lbs.), which substantially improves the product's wind-resistant performance.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Patio Propane Heater
Don’t let a little chill send your guests inside! Patio propane heaters let you enjoy your outdoor space long after the sun goes down or when the weather turns cool. Picking the right one is simple once you know what to look for. This guide helps you find the perfect heater for your patio, deck, or outdoor restaurant area.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep these important features in mind. They make a big difference in how well the heater works and how long it lasts.
Heat Output (BTUs)
- What it is: BTUs (British Thermal Units) tell you how much heat the heater produces. More BTUs mean more warmth.
- Why it matters: Small balconies need less power (around 30,000 BTUs). Large restaurant patios need high power (up to 48,000 BTUs). Always check the recommended coverage area.
Ignition System
- Piezoelectric Ignition: This is like a built-in lighter. You push a button, and it sparks the gas. It is the easiest system to use.
- Manual Ignition: You need a long lighter or match to start the flame. This is reliable but less convenient.
Portability and Wheels
- If you plan to move the heater often, look for models with sturdy wheels. Some heaters are heavy, so wheels are a must for easy repositioning.
Safety Features
- Tip-Over Shutoff: This is crucial. If the heater falls over, this feature automatically turns the gas off. This prevents fires.
- Flame Failure Device: This turns the gas off if the flame accidentally goes out.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials used determine how long your heater will survive outside, dealing with rain, sun, and rust.
Stainless Steel
- Stainless steel resists rust very well. It is the top choice for long-term outdoor use. It costs more upfront but saves money later.
Powder-Coated Steel
- Many heaters use steel coated with a protective powder paint. This coating looks good and offers decent rust protection. However, deep scratches can let water in, causing rust over time.
Reflector Hood Material
- The large top piece reflects heat downward. Aluminum reflectors are common. Thicker aluminum reflects heat better and lasts longer than thin, flimsy metal.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. Specific design choices make one heater better than another.
Factors That Increase Quality
- Heavy Base: A heavy, wide base keeps the heater steady, especially on windy days.
- Durable Burner Elements: High-quality burners give a consistent, strong flame. Poor burners might flicker or not light easily.
- Weatherproof Housing: Good construction keeps the internal gas components dry and protected from the elements.
Factors That Reduce Quality (Watch Outs)
- Thin Metal: If the metal feels flimsy when you touch it, it will dent easily and rust faster.
- No Weather Cover Included: A quality heater often comes with a protective cover. If it doesn’t, you must buy one separately to protect your investment.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use the heater. This dictates the best style.
Mushroom/Free-Standing Heaters
- These are the most common type. They stand tall and look like a mushroom. They are best for heating large, open areas like decks or commercial patios. They use a standard 20lb propane tank stored in the base.
Tabletop Heaters
- These smaller units sit safely on an outdoor table. They provide a nice circle of warmth for people sitting close together. They usually use smaller, disposable propane canisters.
Ease of Assembly and Tank Access
- Read reviews about assembly. Some heaters are complicated to put together. Also, check how easy it is to access the propane tank compartment. You need simple access for routine tank changes.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Patio Propane Heaters
Q: How long does a standard 20lb propane tank last?
A: On the highest setting, a 20lb tank usually lasts about 8 to 10 hours. On the lowest setting, it can last up to 20 hours. This depends heavily on the heater’s BTU rating.
Q: Can I use natural gas instead of propane?
A: No. Patio heaters are designed specifically for propane (LP gas). Natural gas requires different hoses and fittings. Never try to convert a propane heater to natural gas yourself.
Q: Do these heaters work in the rain?
A: Most patio heaters are water-resistant, meaning they handle light mist or dew. However, you should not leave them uncovered during heavy rain or storms. Always use the protective cover when not in use.
Q: What is the best height for a standing patio heater?
A: Most standard models stand between 7 and 9 feet tall. This height allows the reflector hood to spread heat down over a wide circle effectively.
Q: Are propane heaters noisy?
A: Modern propane heaters are generally quiet. You will hear the gentle hiss of the gas and the soft sound of the flame, but they do not usually have loud fans or motors.
Q: How much heat coverage should I expect?
A: A high-BTU heater (around 42,000 BTUs) can effectively heat a circle about 15 to 20 feet in diameter. Coverage is always best when there is little wind.
Q: Do I need to store the propane tank indoors during winter?
A: No. Propane tanks are safe to store outside year-round, even in freezing temperatures. Just ensure the tank valve is tightly closed when the heater is not connected.
Q: What is the main difference between stainless steel and powder-coated steel?
A: Stainless steel is inherently rust-proof and maintains its look longer. Powder-coated steel offers good protection, but deep damage to the coating can lead to rust spots appearing over time.
Q: Can I use a patio heater in a garage or enclosed porch?
A: Absolutely not. Propane heaters produce carbon monoxide, which is deadly in enclosed spaces. They must only be used outdoors with plenty of ventilation.
Q: How do I clean the reflector hood?
A: Turn the heater off and let it cool completely. Use a soft, damp cloth and mild soap to wipe down the surface. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, which can damage the finish.
Hi, Iโm Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking toolsโespecially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, youโll find it here. Iโm excited to be part of your woodworking journey!