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Enjoy Chilly Evenings Outside With the Best Patio Heater

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By Old House Journal Review Team
13 Aug 2022

When the weather starts to turn chilly, there’s nothing better than spending an evening outside on the patio. But if you don’t have an outdoor heater, you might be shivering long before the night is over. With the top of the line patio heaters of 2023, you can spend quality time outdoors with the people you love.

A patio heater is a great way to keep yourself warm and comfortable while enjoying the outdoors. This buying guide will discuss some of the top heaters on the market and help you decide which one is right for you! You’re sure to find one that keeps you warm and makes your evenings brighter.

Best Overall
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Amazon Basics Patio Heater
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Top Portable
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Pamapic Patio Heater
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Best Automatic
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Sunjoy Patio Heater
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Easy-To-Assemble
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FDW Patio Heater
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Top Design
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Hiland Patio Heater
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The Great Patio Heaters You Can Buy In 2023

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Best Overall :

Amazon Basics Patio Heater

Buy on AmazonCheck Price On Walmart

If you’re looking for a heater that will keep you warm all night long, the Amazon Basics Patio Heater is the one for you. With 46,000 BTUs, it provides heat up to a nine-foot radius, making it ideal for commercial and residential use. The powder-coated finish makes it durable and weather-resistant, while the easy-to-use ignition system makes it a breeze to start up. The included cover protects against rain, snow, and other outdoor elements. So whether you’re looking to extend your patio season or stay warm on a chilly night, this outdoor heater has you covered.

Pros
  • Has temperature control option
  • Includes a chain to support the tank
  • A durable finish protects it against weathering
Cons
  • Heater cover is sold separately
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Top Portable :

Pamapic Patio Heater

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If you’re looking for a patio heater that will keep you warm all night long, then the Pamapic Patio Heater is the one for you. With its variable heat setting and built-in control valve, you can easily adjust the temperature to your liking. Plus, the pulse ignition system makes it quick and easy to start. It’s 89.4 inches tall and gives an aesthetic look to your patio. And if you’re worried about the wind, no problem! Just zip up the included pyramid heater cover, and you’re good to go. So don’t let the cold weather keep you from enjoying your patio. Trust us — your party guests will thank you.

Pros
  • Auto-shutoff feature when the heater is tilted
  • Comes with a protective cover
  • Easy to attach and remove the propane tank
Cons
  • Requires two people for assembly
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Best Automatic :

Sunjoy Patio Heater

Buy on Amazon

If you’re looking for a patio heater that is both durable and stylish, then the Sunjoy Patio Heater is the perfect choice for you. Its efficient heat conversion makes it highly resistant to melting and burning and is designed for long-term use. The heater also has an easy ignition, so you can enjoy all the heat you need for your outdoor gathering with just a simple push of the igniter button. And if you ever accidentally tip over the patio heater, don’t worry! The built-in safety shut-off valve will automatically turn off the patio heater. The patio heater has built-in wheels, making it easy to move to calibrate your patio to your desired level of coziness. 

Pros
  • The rust-resistant finish doesn’t need maintenance
  • Easy to use with a single ignite button
  • You can easily move it
Cons
  • Difficult to set up alone
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Easy-To-Assemble :

FDW Patio Heater

Buy on Amazon

FDW patio heaters are the perfect way to enjoy chilly evenings outside! Its high output of 41,000 BTUs will keep you warm all night long. The heater is made of high-quality stainless steel and has a safety shut-off valve to prevent accidental fires. The heating element doesn’t melt or burn easily, so you can enjoy your heater for years. The quality materials and construction ensure that your heater stays protected against all weather conditions. So whether you’re enjoying a night out on the patio or fishing with friends, these patio heaters are the perfect way to stay warm all winter long!

Pros
  • Can be used anywhere outdoors
  • The wheeled design makes it very portable
  • Easy to adjust valve hole
Cons
  • Has fragile reflector plates
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Top Design :

Hiland Patio Heater

Buy on Amazon

Looking for a heater that will keep you warm all night long? Look no further than the Hiland patio heater. This heater is 89 inches tall and has a two-piece quartz glass tube heater that will provide heat in every direction. The 40,000 BTU output will keep you cozy on those chilly evenings. You can easily get lost in its mesmerizing flame and make it the center of attention at any gathering. The outdoor heater also has a durable wheeled base for easy mobility. So don’t let the cold weather keep you from enjoying your patio!

Pros
  • Mesmerizing flame display 
  • Has a hole for valve settings
  • Easy to move with portable wheels
Cons
  • Doesn’t come with the cover
 

Buying Guide To Finding a Patio Heater

With so many different patio heaters on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

What To Look For in a Patio Heater

When you’re shopping for an outdoor heater, there are a few things to keep in mind. 

Fuel type

First, you’ll want to decide what fuel type you prefer. Patio heaters can be powered by electricity, propane, or natural gas. 

An electric patio heater is a way to go if you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly option. These heaters don’t produce emissions, so they’re better for the environment. But they can be more expensive than other types of outdoor heaters. 

Propane heaters are a popular choice because they’re relatively inexpensive to operate. They also provide a consistent heat level, making them ideal for large patio areas. However, propane heaters produce emissions, so they’re not as eco-friendly as electric heaters. 

Natural gas heaters are another great option. They’re less expensive to operate than electric heaters and don’t emit heavy emissions. Remember that you’ll need to have a natural gas line installed in your patio area to use one of these patio heaters. 

Size

Once you’ve decided on a fuel type, you’ll want to consider the size of the patio heater. Patio heaters come in various sizes, so it’s essential to choose one that’s appropriate for the size of your patio. 

A tabletop heater might be the best option for you if you have a small patio. These patio heaters are compact and easy to move, so you can take them wherever you go. 

If you have a large patio, you’ll want to choose a patio heater that’s powerful enough to heat the entire area. Standing outdoor heaters are a good choice for large patio areas. They’re also easy to move, so you can position them wherever you need the most heat. 

Features

You’ll also want to consider the features of the patio heater. Some heaters come with built-in lighting, which can be helpful if you’re entertaining guests in the evening. Other heaters come with remote controls so that you can adjust the temperature from anywhere on your patio. 

Weight

Another essential factor to consider is the weight of the patio heater. If you plan on moving your heater around, you’ll want to choose a lighter model. Certain types of heaters can be pretty heavy, so check the weight before purchasing. You can even pick one with wheels, quickly moving it from one spot to another.

Standing Patio Heater vs. Pyramid Patio Heater

Now that you know what to look for in a patio heater, let’s take a closer look at two of the most popular heaters on the market: the standing patio heater and the pyramid patio heater.

The standing patio heater is a popular choice for large patio areas. The tall structure provides heat to people standing next to the heater and those sitting close to it. It also helps create a low dim light that’s perfect for getting cozy.

For small patio areas, many people prefer pyramid patio heaters. They’re easy to move and provide a consistent level of heat. Its triangular design is excellent for patio corners. You get the feeling of a campfire as you see the propane burning, and it’s good for party events. 

Safety Precautions When Using a Patio Heater

When using a patio heater, there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind. 

  • First, always make sure that the heater is turned off when you’re not using it. Patio heaters can be a fire hazard if they’re left on for too long. 
  • Second, never leave children or pets unattended near a heater. Patio heaters can get very hot, so keeping an eye on children and pets when they’re nearby is essential. 
  • Finally, always ensure the heater is placed on a level surface. Patio heaters may tip over if not placed on a level surface, so be sure to position them carefully.

People Also Asked

Q: Can I toast marshmallows on a patio heater?

A: No, you should never toast marshmallows on a heater. Patio heaters can get very hot, so it's important to keep them away from children and not encourage such behavior. 

Q: Is it safe to use a patio heater indoors?

A: No, these heaters should only be used outdoors. Patio heaters can be a fire hazard if used indoors, so it's essential to keep them outside. Indoor use also leads to a build-up of carbon dioxide which can be fatal without proper ventilation.

Q: How do I clean my patio heater?

A: Patio heaters should be cleaned regularly to prevent a build-up of dirt and debris. To clean your heater, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. You can also use a heater cover to keep it clean when not in use.

Heating Outdoors
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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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