If you’re looking to stay cozy outdoors during the fall and winter seasons, or keep your garage from being freezing cold, you should consider getting the right outdoor heater. These heaters, which run on electricity, propane, or natural gas, can warm up your patio, balcony, yard, or even your camping spot.
The 3 Common Types of Outdoor Heaters
Outdoor heaters use propane, natural gas, or electricity as their energy source, each having its own pros and cons:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Propane |
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| Electric |
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| Natural Gas |
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8 Factors to Consider When Buying
Keep these factors in mind when shopping for an outdoor heater:
- Heating Efficiency: Measured in BTU (British Thermal Units), this indicates the heat output of the heater. A higher BTU means stronger heating capability. For an area of 100-150 sq ft, you’ll need about 5,000 BTU, and for every additional 50 sq ft, add about 1,000 BTU.
- Energy Type: Weigh the pros and cons of different energy sources based on your specific needs and environment.
- Size and Space Compatibility: Choose a heater that fits the size of your balcony or outdoor area. Larger heaters are better for more spacious areas.
- Portability and Installation: Some heaters are designed for mobility, while others are for fixed installation. Consider whether you’ll need to move your heater often.
- Safety Features: Look for heaters with safety shut-off, tip-over protection, and control panels.
- Durability and Maintenance: Opt for heaters made from durable materials and consider ease of maintenance and cleaning.
- Aesthetics and Style: Heaters come in various designs, from traditional mushroom-style to wall-mounted, tabletop, pyramid-shaped, and fire pits. Choose a style that complements your outdoor décor and furniture.
- Price and Budget: High-end models may offer more features and efficiency but can be more expensive.
4 Recommended Compact Heaters
AgiiMan Indoor/Outdoor Heater
The AgiiMan is an energy-efficient, dual-purpose electric heater that can also function as a fan. It’s suitable for greenhouses, patios, garages, offices
- BTU: Approximately 5,120 (1,500 W).
- Power Source: Electricity.
- Size and Weight: 6″ deep x 7.5″ wide x 9.8″ tall, weighing 3.1 pounds.
Pros:
- Available in 4 colors, compact size suitable for small spaces.
- Quick 2-second heating.
- Three settings to accommodate different temperature needs.
- Built-in overheat protection system automatically shuts off the heater when it gets too hot.
- Energy-efficient design to reduce electricity costs.
Cons:
- Not suitable for large spaces.
East Oak Tabletop Heater
The East Oak mini mushroom tabletop propane heater offers efficient heat output and rapid heating capabilities. It evenly distributes heat in a 360-degree radius, heating up a 4.5-foot space, making it perfect for small outdoor areas. It excels in portability, safety features, and heating effectiveness. The base includes a magnetic door design for holding a 1.02-pound propane tank.
- BTU: 11,000.
- Fuel Source: Propane.
- Size and Weight: 20.87″ long x 13.15″ wide x 37.4″ tall, weighing 15 pounds.
Pros:
- Available in 2 colors. Easy assembly and operation, portable.
- Built-in weighted ring on the base for stability, less likely to tip over.
- Tilt-safety sensor for valve, auto-shutoff, and oxygen depletion protection.
- Made of 304 stainless steel, heat-resistant, rust-resistant, and cold-resistant.
- High-quality construction ensures durability and long-lasting use.
- One-touch ignition with different heating modes.
Cons:
- Not suitable for use in large indoor or outdoor areas.
- Windy conditions may affect heat distribution.
Briza Infrared Dual-Use Heater
The Briza infrared heater is versatile, designed to stand on its own or be wall-mounted. Infrared radiation is easily absorbed by nearby objects or bodies, gradually raising the ambient temperature and body heat. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and comes with a portable, adjustable tripod and hardware for wall or ceiling installation. It offers three heat settings of 900, 1,200, or 1,500 watts.
- BTU: Approximately 5,120 (1,500 W).
- Power Source: Electricity.
- Size and Weight: 35.5″ long x 4″ wide x 4″ tall (excluding the tripod), weighing 6.6 pounds.
Pros:
- IP55 protection rating, resistant to rain, snow, sand, and dust.
- Equipped with a tip-over sensor, automatically shuts off when knocked over.
- Comes with a remote control and a 1-9 hour timer.
- Three heat intensities to meet various needs.
- Very low glare, quick 3-second heating.
Cons:
- Takes up more space compared to the previous two models.
- Some users reported high power consumption.
Black+Decker Hanging Heater
This is an electric heater designed for outdoor ceiling or eave installation. It uses powerful infrared halogen lamps as the heating element, warming up a 56-square-foot area. The aluminum housing comes with a black powder coating and includes hanging hooks and chains for installation.
- BTU: Approximately 5,118 (1500 watts).
- Power Source: Electricity.
- Size and Weight: 16.73″ x 16.73″ x 9.84″, weighing 4.96 pounds.
Pros:
- Easy installation, one-touch remote operation for convenience.
- Hanging design saves ground space.
- Quick heating for small areas.
- Halogen lamp heating element provides consistent heat output.
- 6-foot long power cord.
Cons:
- Only one heating setting, unable to adjust the temperature.
- Suitable for small-scale heating only, not suitable for large outdoor spaces.
4 Recommended Large Heaters
Amazon Basics Mushroom-Style Heater
This outdoor propane heater is a standard high-efficiency patio mushroom-style/tower heater, consisting of a circular base (able to accommodate a 20-pound propane tank), a metal pole, and a large burner. The control panel is located below the burner, allowing users to ignite the burner and adjust the flame size. At the top, there’s a circular metal heat reflector that reflects heat 360 degrees downwards into the surrounding area.
- BTU: 46,000, heating a radius of 9 feet.
- Power Source: Propane.
- Size and Weight: 32.1″ long x 32.1″ wide x 91.3″ tall, weighing 37 pounds.
Pros:
- Affordable price.
- Equipped with integrated wheels for easy mobility.
- Durable steel construction.
- Convenient one-touch electronic ignition system and adjustable temperature knob.
- Available in 3 color options to match your outdoor space.
- Tilt safety auto-cutoff valve; water tank for base weighting; chain for securing propane tank.
Cons:
- Dust cover not included.
- Appearance may not be as appealing as other tower-style heaters.
Pamapic Pyramid-Shaped Heater
The Pamapic outdoor heater is renowned for its captivating glass flame tube, offering a unique ambiance and visual delight that will surely catch the eye of your guests. Made of long-lasting stainless steel, it performs well in design and functionality. The base can accommodate a 20-pound propane tank, providing 360-degree directional warmth, perfect for extended evening use.
- BTU: 48,000, heating a 15-foot diameter area.
- Power Source: Propane.
- Size and Weight: 23″ deep x 23″ wide x 89″ tall, weighing 61.7 pounds.
Pros:
- Available in 8 colors, aesthetically pleasing and sturdy. Equipped with wheels for easy mobility.
- Simple assembly with clear instructions included.
- Stable structure, resistant to tipping over.
- Features auto-shutoff for flame, tip-over, and oxygen protection.
- Includes a waterproof dust cover.
- Easy-to-use pulse ignition, adjustable heat settings, and built-in control valve.
Cons:
- Some buyers dislike the location of the propane tank access point.
- Some users reported issues with the igniter, stability, and heating effectiveness that may need improvement.
Outland Living Fire Pit
This portable propane fire pit is designed for outdoor use and comes with UV and weather protection cover, a pre-installed 10-foot long hose and regulator, as well as a 6.6-pound natural lava rock set and a propane tank stabilizer ring for added convenience and safety. The durable steel structure with a powder-coated and enamel finish ensures product durability and stability in outdoor environments. Additionally, this fire pit requires no assembly, making it extremely user-friendly.
- BTU: 58,000.
- Power Source: 20-pound (approximately 5 gallons) propane tank.
- Size and Weight: 24″ long x 24″ wide x 13″ tall, weighing 34 pounds.
Pros:
- Easy to carry and set up, suitable for outdoor activities.
- High BTU output provides ample heat.
- Manual ignition and adjustable flame height.
- Offers a safe, spark-free, and smokeless flame.
- Natural lava rocks enhance the flickering effect.
- Sturdy and durable materials suitable for long-term outdoor use.
Cons:
- Relatively heavy.
- May not be suitable for small spaces.
Mr. Heater Propane Tank-Top Heater
The Mr. Heater propane 360-degree directional heater, designed for outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and outdoor gatherings, is favored for its efficient heating, cost-effectiveness, and portability. It’s compact in size, but its BTU output rivals larger heaters. If you don’t mind it directly mounted on a propane tank, it’s the most cost-effective choice.
- BTU: 45,000.
- Power Source: Liquid petroleum gas (propane).
- Size and Weight: 11.6 x 22.6 x 16.8 inches, weighing 5.5 pounds.
Pros:
- 360° heating, high BTU output for powerful heating.
- High-Medium-Low regulators: 45,000/36,000/30,000 BTU.
- Portable design, suitable for outdoor activities.
- Tilt safety auto-cutoff switch.
- Can be mounted on 20 – 100 pound propane cylinders.
Cons:
- Not for indoor use.
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