10 Best Propane Patio Heater Reviews & Guides of 2021


propane heater covered patio

Do you have an outdoor event or create a chill spot on the patio area? The perfect heating device to use in such places is the propane patio heater. These heating devices have recently become quite popular due to their reliability and convenience when moving to different places. The propane patio heater utilizes gas for heating purposes, making it possible to heat the areas that do not have an electric connection on the outdoors.

The propane patio heaters come in varying styles and designs to accommodate the places to use and the heating needs. Some are solely crafted for commercial heating in large areas, while others are suitable for home use. Well, if you plan to buy a durable propane patio heater for your home, here is all the crucial information you need to know about these devices.

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What Is the Best Propane Patio Heater on the Market?

Top Rated Propane Patio Heaters For Outdoor Use

How to Pick the Best Propane Patio Heaters?

Various elements go into the selection of the right propane patio heater. Most often, the following variables will suffice.

portable propane patio heater

• Coverage area

Take the time to understand how far the produced heat can reach. It will be vital for you to pick something that will comfortably cover your room. This way, your experience will be worth it.

• Safety features

Be sure about which safety features the unit has and how advanced each feature is. From auto shut off to anti-tilt technology, you need the best safety features. Remember, safety features tend to determine how versatile the unit will be in the long run.

• Portability

Be sure of how weighty and bulky the chosen unit is. It will be best for you to aim at a unit that you will comfortably carry around. That means that the design needs to be compact, and it should be lightweight as well.

• Ease of use and assembly

There is no need for you to buy something that will only give you headaches when assembling or installing. Ensure that you go for something whose installation process is relatively straightforward. You should have no hard time operating it too. With this, there will be unrivaled convenience in the long run.

Best Propane Patio Heaters Reviews

Propane patio heaters are those that use propane for fuel. These heaters have proven to be ideal for those who appreciate the unmatched performance. Here are the top 4 best propane patio heaters for indoor or outdoor use reviews.

1. Best Outdoor Commercial – AmazonBasics Propane 46,000 BTUPatio Heater with Wheels

short propane patio heater

Pros:

  • Sturdy base
  • Shut-off tilt valve
  • Easy to transport
  • Attractive
  • Ensures the value for your money
  • 46000 BTUs heat output

Cons:

  • The LP gas cylinder is sold separately

Having this propane patio heater in your home is one of the best things that can happen to you and your family. This patio heater is constructed with great features that will ensure that you have quality time relaxing in your patio throughout the year with your family and friends. You will enjoy keeping yourself and your family warm during the night in your patio for extended periods thanks to this patio heater’s steel construction that ensures its durability.

Additionally, this patio heater’s powder coating helps protect it from rust, corrosion, and other damaging outdoor elements, hence prolonging its lifespan. This patio heater features a bronze finish that makes it amazing and attractive hence, it will enhance and complement your patio.

This patio heater produced up to 46000 BTUs of heat enough to keep your outdoor area warm even during the winter seasons. Further, with a height of 89 inches, this patio heater will help in heating a large area. For easy transportation and mobility, this patio heater is made with two smooth-rolling wheels. No need to carry lighters around thanks to the Piezo ignition system of this patio heater that you can use to light it.

Besides, this patio has a variable heat control knob that you can use for easy heat settings control. You can use it to customize the warmth in your outdoor area to suit your comfort. You can also use the variable heat control knob to turn this patio heater completely off when you are done using it at the end of the night.

You can enjoy yourself in your patio without the fear of this heater tipping over and causing any injuries thanks to the shut-off tilt valve that will ensure it turns off automatically should it gets tipped over.

Furthermore, this patio heater has a base reservoir system that you can easily fill with water or stand to enhance its stability. The one-year warranty that comes with this patio heater ensures the value for your money.

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2. Best Stand Up Tower Heater – Legacy Heating Stainless Steel Quartz Glass Tube Patio Heater

stainless steel propane patio heater

Pros:

  • Variable control
  • Wheels for easy mobility
  • Durable
  • Sturdy
  • ETL approved

Cons:

  • The propane tank is sold separately

The high-quality stainless steel used to make this propane patio heater ensures its durability. Therefore you will enjoy keeping yourself warm with it in your patio frequently for extended periods. Additionally, high-quality construction materials ensure its sturdiness and robustness.

You can use this patio heater in the outdoor area thanks to the stainless steel finish that will help protect it from any damaging outdoor elements. Besides, this propane patio heater is ETL approved; hence you can safely use it in your patio.

With a heat output of 40000 BTUs, this heater will help keep your patio warm even during the coldest nights. Moreover, this patio heater measures 21” by 21” by 88,” and therefore, it will keep a large area of your patio heated, hence having a quality time. You can easily move this propane patio heater from one point to another, thanks to the in-built wheels.

Further, this patio heater is made with an easy access door that you can easily use to replace the gas tank. You can easily personalize your patio’s warmth by selecting your preferred heat level using the variable control to suit your comfort.

Should the flame be extinguished, this propane patio heater features a thermocouple that will help in switching off the gas automatically to prevent any gas leakages. Furthermore, if this patio heater moves past a certain angle, it is made with an anti-tilt safety device that will shut it off instantly to cut the fuel supply and kill the heat. Finally, this patio heater has a regulator that you can use to reduce the gas pressure.

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3. Best Table Top – BALI OUTDOORS Propane Patio Heaters with Round Dancing Wheels

small propane patio heater

Pros:

  • Adjustable control knob
  • Protective mesh
  • Auto-shut-off tilt valve
  • Stable base
  • Quality construction

Cons:

  • The heat output is low compared to similar heaters

Are you planning to have quality time with your friends and family during the chilly cold nights? Look no further because this patio heater is constructed with great features that will provide you with the necessary warmth that you may need.

This propane patio heater has a heat output of 36000 BTUs that will ensure efficient heat and warmth coverage in your patio. Additionally, with a height of 71 inches, this heater will ensure that most of your patio is kept warm during the cold night.

You can use this patio heater with kids around without you having to worry about them getting burnt thanks to the protective steel grill that stays cool and safe to touch. Besides, the grill also helps in keeping a safe distance between you and the flame.

Should the propane patio heater tilt over accidentally, it has an auto shut-off valve that will help in turning it off automatically to prevent any injuries. For easy mobility and transportation, even when alone at home, this heater is made with wheels.

The propane patio heater has an adjustable control knob that you can use for easy controls. Moreover, you can use the knob to select your desired temperature to suit your comfort.

The high-quality materials used to construct this propane patio heater ensures its durability. Last, this patio heater comes with a warranty to guarantee its quality and ensure your money value.

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4. Best Standing For Patio – XtremepowerUS 96053 Propane Gas Outdoor Patio Heater

tabletop propane patio heater

Pros:

  • CSA certified
  • 48000 BTUs heat output
  • Two-smooth rolling wheels for easy mobility
  • Beautiful and attractive
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Piezo ignition system
  • Variable –heat control knob

Cons:

  • Not easy to assemble

With a heat output of 48000 BTUs, this propane patio heater will efficiently keep your patio warm and comfortable to relax in even during the winter seasons. Additionally, this heater measures 15” by 15” by 86,” and therefore, it will ensure that your entire patio is kept warm and comfortable for you and your family or friends to have a good quality time even in the coldest nights.

You will enjoy using this propane patio heater for extended periods, even if you use it frequently thanks to the high-quality, heavy-duty materials used in its constructions.

The hammered bronze finish of this heater makes it beautiful and attractive, and therefore it will help improve the décor of your patio. Although this propane patio heater is heavy, you can use the two smooth-rolling wheels included to move it from one place to another alone. This patio heater features the Piezo heating system; hence you do not have to carry the match lights around.

Moreover, you can easily select your preferred heat setting in your patio, thanks to the variable-heat control knob. This patio heater features a shut-off tilt valve that will shut it off by instantly cutting off the fuel supply and killing the heat to prevent any fire hazard if it accidentally tilts over.

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# Best Heat Focus Reflector – SWEET HEAT Reflector for Round Natural Gas and Propane Patio Heaters

propane natural gas patio heater

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Easy to assemble and dissemble
  • Easy to store
  • Durable
  • Helps in saving energy

Cons:

  • None

The premium quality materials used to make sweet heat reflector for patio heater ensures its durability, and therefore it will serve you for extended periods. You can use this sweet heat reflector outdoors thanks to the all-weather materials used in its construction that will help protect it from the damaging outdoor elements.

Additionally, you can use the aluminum shield to direct the heat to your desired area. The aluminum directional heat reflector shield can also be used to block the heat from getting to the flowers and trees in your patio.

This product is easy to install, and therefore you can buy and use it on the same day. Further, this heat reflector is easy to assemble, and you can easily assemble it in minutes.

You can also disassemble this sweet heat reflector within minutes for easy storage when not in use. With this sweet heat reflector, you will be able to use the heat only in the needed areas, and therefore it will use less propane hence save energy.

The sweet heat reflector weighs only 3.24 pounds making it lightweight and highly portable.

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Do Propane Patio Heaters Work?

Although there is countless evidence that proves the propane patio heaters do work, and some people are still skeptical when it comes to purchasing a model for home or commercial use. Well, you don’t need to worry since these devices do work. But, it is crucial to note that their functioning and reliability are determined by their design, type, size, and materials. This is one of the reasons why some models are ideal for home, and others are recommendable for commercial areas like the restaurants.

If you need a propane patio heater for your deck area, you will require a unit that does not emit high heat levels, which may cause discomfort when you sit around it for long. On the other hand, if you need a patio heater for an outdoor event, make sure it has high heat disperse power to ensure everyone gets heat around the place you install it.

What Portable Propane Patio Heater Brings You?

Propane patio heaters pride themselves on a myriad of benefits. That their level of performance stands from its rivals is no secret. Most often, it will assure you of the following merits in the long run.

• Faster heating

top rated propane patio heaters

There is no denying that propane patio heaters are ideal for those who want faster heating. That the heat they produce is spread uniformly is no secret. With this, you will be sure of the best experience in your patio.

• Versatility

You will often be free to use propane patio heaters wherever you so wish. Whether it is indoors or outdoors, there will always be enhanced safety for you and the environment. Remember, the level of their portability remains unmatched.

• Safety features

These propane patio heaters boast of incredible safety features, which ensure that you do not end up exposed to fire hazards. For instance, the auto shut off feature allows the unit to go off whenever there is a need.

• Cost

While the cost of acquisition could be a little higher, these units will still give you the value for money you so need. In most cases, they tend to be relatively easy to use and with minimal maintenance expenses to worry you.

Picking the Best Portable Patio Heater For Easy Transporting

Buying Guides of Propane Patio Heaters


1. Outdoor Propane Patio Heater Vs. Commercial Patio Heaters Propane-powered

Similarities

  • Quality and heavy-duty materials

Both these propane patio heaters are crafted with a heavy-duty and durable material resistant to rust and corrosion to fit the outdoor climates.

Differences

  • The size

Commercialpatio propane heaters are meant to heat large areas outdoors or indoors, and thus, they are crafted in large sizes to cover enormous areas for warmth purposes. On the other hand, the outdoor propane patio heaters are made smaller sizes to fit even in small areas at home.

  • Gas use

The commercial propane patio heaters use more gas as opposed to the outdoor models because they are set to disperse heat at high levels to cover large areas.

  • The cost

The commercial propane patio heaters are quite expensive to buy and maintain since they require regular checking and maintenance services as opposed to the outdoors. Commercial models need a technician for maintenance purposes. The outdoor models are easy to maintain as you can easily clean them on your own.

2. Tabletop Propane Patio Heater Vs. Hanging Propane Patio Heater

Patio heaters come in varying designs and sizes where some are meant to be placed on a table, others suspended on a top surface.

propane patio heater with table

-The tabletop patio heaters

The tabletop propane patio heaters are suitable for restaurants since they provide warmth in a given place. These propane heaters are mainly recommendable for indoors as the material construction cannot fit on outdoors. They are small in size to ensure they don’t take up much space on the table where you place them. The tabletop propane heaters disperse moderate heat that is not too high to prevent the people’s discomfort seated around the table.

The Top Pick Tabletop Patio Heater

-Hanging propane heaters

These models of propane heaters are suitable for indoors and outdoors only that they are suspended to the ceiling or a top surface. The hanging propane patio heaters are mainly suitable for homes as apart from providing warmth to the area you install them; they also add a touch of decor to the area.

The hanging propane patio heaters function like the lamps by dispersing the heat downwards. They feature a quality material design where some are used for outdoor since they can withstand the harsh outdoor climates.

Top Rated Hanging Propane Patio Heater For Outdoor

3. Is Small or Short Propane Patio Heater Worth Buying?

Choosing the propane patio gas based on the size is determined by heating needs and the area you need to install the device. If you have a small space on the deck that you need to warm up, your patio heater’s choice will be small. Large propane patio heaters are quite powerful and disperse high heat levels, which may not be practical when used in small spaces.

The small propane patio heaters are quite portable since they are light and small, making it easy to use them from different places. They are versatile as you can use them both indoors and outdoors. They are the perfect option for camping since they are convenient for transporting.

Choosing the Best Small Or Short Propane Patio Heater

4. Benefits of Stainless Steel Propane Patio Heater

Stainless steel materials are common in the production of devices and appliances due to their convenience and durability. Stainless materials are made of low carbon steel with an infusion of the chromium. The chromium is added to provide the stainless design of the steel and increase its weight for durability. The stainless steel propane patio heaters are highly recommendable and preferred by most customers due to the following benefits.

  • Corrosion-resistant

If you need a propane heater to install on the outdoors, consider the models made of stainless steel. The chromium material on the steel acts as a locking mechanism that prevents the device from corrosion when exposed to weather elements like the high sunlight and rains. This means that even if you expose the patio heater to high alkaline, chlorine, or even high acid areas, it will not change its shiny color.

  • Easy to clean

These devices are bound to collect dirt after using for a while, plus the smoke that forms at the peak of the device. Therefore, to ensure cleanliness and prolong their use, it is recommendable that you clean them after a while of using them.

Again, stainless steel materials are smooth to clean since the materials cannot easily get damaged by water or soap materials. The chromium protects the material from damages, making it easy for one to clean these devices.

  • Are resistant to heat and fire

Other than the chromium material, most propane heaters and other heating devices made with stainless steel are equipped with nickel alloy grade materials resistant to heat and fire. The two materials add strength to the heaters to resistant burning. No matter how long you leave the propane patio heater burning, you don’t have to worry about it catching fire or getting damaged by the high heat levels you set it at.

  • They are strong and durable

The propane patio heaters are crafted with hardened steel material that undergoes various hardening processes to safeguard them from quick wear. Although stainless steel is one of the least expensive metal materials, they are quite durable for efficiency.

Top Rated Stainless Steel Propane Patio Heater

5. Is Infrared Propane Patio Heater Worth Buying?

The answer is yes! The propane infrared patio heaters are recommendable for homes or areas with kids since they emit safer and cleaner heat than other models. Although these heaters’ brands are powered by gas, the heat emitted from the surfaces is disposed of in the form of infrared radiant energy.

These propane heaters are equipped with the reflectors that direct the heat from the surface downwards to warm the space. Other reasons why the propane infrared patio heaters are highly recommendable is because

  • They are silent

You can comfortably equip these models of heaters on any area including near the study area since they operate in quiet mode to prevent disturbance to the surroundings

  • They are safe

These types of propane patio heaters do not emit the heat directly which in return ensures the safety of people around

  • Efficient

The infrared propane patio heaters heat up pretty fast as soon as you switch them on to save on gas usage and warm up the area.

  • Long-lasting heat

The infrared propane patio heaters are equipped with halogen heating elements on the inside, which prolongs the heating process to keep you warm for longer. You can do many things outdoors while this heater is running, which is an excellent feature for people who love to chill on an outdoor night.

Recommended Infrared Propane Patio Heater

6. Advantages of Propane Tower Patio Heater

propane heater covered patio

  • Excellent heating

As the name states, the tower patio heaters are quite tall where some measure up to 8 feet high. These types of propane patio heaters are reliable for outdoors since they provide high levels and enough warmth to the surroundings. They have higher regulating power, so you can set the right heat to disperse to the areas you use. They are common in large areas like the outdoor parts of a pool in a hotel.

  • They make the area look attractive

The lines of flames view displayed on the tower patio heater makes the place you set it up to look great. You can comfortably position these heaters on any outdoor area without worrying about them taking away the beautiful view of the surroundings since they add decorative features to the place you use them.

Note that the propane patio heaters come in different unique styles that you can check out to choose the best model to complement your outdoors

  • They are durable

The propane tower patio heaters are mainly suitable for the outdoors since they disperse high levels of heat to the surroundings for heating large areas. Therefore, they are crafted with quality stainless steel material to safeguard them from the harsh outdoor climates.

These heaters cannot rust or corrode even when they are exposed to cold outdoors. However, you should not leave them outdoors during the rainy season as they can get damaged.

  • They come with a warranty

These kinds of patio heaters are quite expensive, and to guarantee their durability and quality, they are sold with warranty. The propane tower patio heaters come with warranties that range from 1 to 3 years or more depending on the brand.

Recommended Propane Tower Patio Heater


How to Use Propane Patio Heater Safely?

The use of propane-powered patio heaters will often require you to observe specific safety guidelines. In most cases, you will have to keep the following in mind.

patio space heaters propane

• Keep them away from enclosed areas

This move will ensure that you do not expose yourself to carbon monoxide, which has proven to be fatal. Further, open areas ensure that there is even distribution of heat from the burner, giving you a seamless experience.

• If in an enclosed area, open the windows

Enough ventilation will always be essential whenever you are using a propane-powered patio heater. It will be reasonable to keep your windows open at all times, as this ensures any built-up carbon monoxide escapes.

• Check any leakages

Do not shy away from confirming whether there are any leakages. Doing this from time to time will ensure that you do not subject yourself to a fatality at some point.

• Keep the tip-over switch on

This switch will ensure that the unit goes off as soon as it gets tilted. This way, you will have no reason to worry about potential fires.

How to Repair Propane Patio Heaters?

There are times that your unit could become faulty. That does not mean that it is the end of the road for you. Usually, the best approach to repairing your unit would be to involve an expert. That is because they come with enough skills to handle different issues, and reliably so. Regular maintenance will also come in handy.

Having a propane-powered patio heater is one of the best decisions you could ever make, as it assures you of value for money. Your goal should be to get the right option right from the onset. Let the insights above be your lighthouse.

FAQ:

#1. Do Patio Heaters Work During Winter?

Undoubtedly, winter is the time you will need this patio heater the most. As long as you get the right choice, you will be sure of unrivaled performance even during severe winter conditions. However, it will be critical for you to find something that will readily suit your needs.
For instance, if you leave in an icy region, ensure that you pick a patio heater with enhanced power. It is through this that you will be sure of the experience you so need in the long run. Typically, this will mean that you have to pick a heater with high BTUs and whose coverage area is relatively wide.

#2. Can You Use a Propane Heater Under a Covered Patio?

Propane stands out as the best fuel for the patio heaters since it empowers these devices to warm up pretty fast. However, propane gas emits high carbon monoxide levels, which can be harmful to humans, mainly if used in a completely sealed area. Therefore, one should avoid using the propane patio heaters where there is no air passage. But make sure the place you use it is slightly enclosed, and there are no high winds on the surroundings

This is because high levels of winds may interfere with the functioning of the heater. Some models are also designed with advanced technology that ensures airflow while still functioning to prevent carbon monoxide accumulation. If you plan to install this heater on an enclosed section of your home, consider buying such a model with safety features.

#3. Where Can You Use Propane Patio Heaters?

There is no denying that propane patio heaters will often warm your space within a relatively short time. For this reason, you will find them suitable for different parts of your home. Their safety features can only make them more versatile for you.

However, experts suggest that you do not use them in enclosed areas for long. That is because they tend to build up carbon monoxide with time, which could end up being fatal. Further, strong winds and breezes could affect the operation of these propane patio heaters.

#4. How Long Do Propane Patio Heaters Last?

The period that the propane heat can last while functioning depends on the size of the tank it is equipped with. This means that the larger the propane gas tank, the longer the heater will provide heating and vice versa. The propane tanks sizes range from 10 to 50 pounds or even more depending on the heater’s size to use with it. A propane gas heater powered by a 10-pound propane tank may last for about 9 to 10 hours when used non-stop. Whereas, a tank of 20 pounds can last between 18 to 20 hours

#5. How Much Propane Does Patio Heater Use?

The amount of propane that the heater can use is highly determined by the device’s power output and the period you leave it running. For example, if your patio heater works with a 20 pounds tank and it has a power output of 40,000 BTU per hour, the heater propane gas will run for around 10 to 11 hours.

This means that the higher the patio heater’s power output, the more propane it will consume and vice versa. The same case goes to the period you leave it on. The longer it runs, the more propane it will consume.

Conclusion

Propane patio heaters are the best outdoor and indoor models for heating purposes. They come in varying sizes and designs to offer the right heating needs. If you need a propane patio heater for a small space outdoors, consider getting the small propane heater models to ensure you get balanced heating in the area. For large areas, choose the large models.

Top 3 Best Propane Patio Heaters


Will Montgomery

Will Montgomery: Electro-Mechanical Engineer, Serial Entrepreneur, and Real Estate Enthusiast. Met David at Penn State, where he earned a BS in Electro-Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Business. Expertly manages capital equipment manufacturing, refurbishing, and repair businesses, while exploring opportunities in real estate and advocating for practical heating solutions.

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