[​9 Best Efficient] Patio Heaters to Beat the Chill

The winter months can be brutal, especially when you are outside on your patio. If you have a patio that is exposed to the elements, it can be difficult to stay warm and comfortable all day long.

A great way to combat this problem is by using an efficient patio heater. There are many on the market today but not all of them are created equal.

On top of fuel type, you also have to consider the design. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. Whether you’re shopping on a budget or you want a premium design, there’s one here for every need.

In this blog post, we will share some of the best models of efficient heaters for your patio.

9 Best Efficient Patio Heaters to Beat the Chill

Patio heaters are great for providing warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space. And, they can be a nice addition to any party or gathering you may have outside!

1. Best Efficient Patio Heater Hampton Bay 48000 Btu Stainless Steel Patio Heater

2. Best Design FOOWIN Pyramid Patio Propane Heater, 2 in 1 Patio Propane Heater

3. Best Infrared Patio Heater Trustech Space Heater Infrared Heater w/Remote

4. Best Commercial Heater Terra Hiker 55,000 BTUs Outdoor Patio Heater

5. Best Table Patio Heater Hiland HLDS032-B Table Top Portable Heater

6. Best Fire Pit Propane Heater Golden Flame Fire-Table and Patio Heater

7. Best Portable Patio Heater Briza 1500 w Infrared Patio Heater – Electric Patio Heater

8. Best Wall Mounted Patio Heater Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Heater

9. Best Seller Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

Types Of Patio Heaters

Generally speaking, there are three main types: propane, infrared quartz (or natural gas), and electric patio heaters. Each one has its own pros and cons that we will explore below.

Propane Patio Heater

​The most common and efficient patio heater is the traditional propane heater. While these units are very powerful in heating up a large area fast – as well as having high BTU output levels – they do come with some downsides like being more expensive than other options.

Infrared Quartz Patio Heaters ​

​The next type is infrared quartz patio heaters. They are very popular because they emit a more natural, pleasant light compared to propane or electric options – which gives them an edge at parties where people may not be too keen on partying in “red” lights!​

Unfortunately, though, these units also come with their own downsides – mainly that they have less wattage output levels than other heater types; so you can’t expect as much power when it comes to heating up your outdoor space.

In addition, while this is usually only an issue for larger patios/decks, there’s no way to adjust (turn down) the temperature on these types of heaters.

Electric Patio Heaters ​

One last option is the electric patio heater.​ Electric heating options don’t have any fuel requirements – which makes them easier to use than propane and infrared quartz units.

However, they also can be lower in wattage output levels (compared with other forms) – so you will need a larger area for this type of heater to work effectively. They are safe around children though as there’s no open flame involved.

Another advantage to consider is that electric heaters usually come with safety features like automatic shut-off when tipped over or overheated!

Unfortunately, because electricity costs may be higher where your home is located compared with gas/propane prices, it may cost more to operate them over time.

9 Best Efficient Patio Heaters to Beat the Chill

Patio heaters are great for providing warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space. And, they can be a nice addition to any party or gathering you may have outside!

1. Best Efficient Patio Heater Hampton Bay 48000 Btu Stainless Steel Patio Heater

2. Best Design FOOWIN Pyramid Patio Propane Heater, 2 in 1 Patio Propane Heater

3. Best Infrared Patio Heater Trustech Space Heater Infrared Heater w/Remote

4. Best Commercial Heater Terra Hiker 55,000 BTUs Outdoor Patio Heater

5. Best Table Patio Heater Hiland HLDS032-B Table Top Portable Heater

6. Best Fire Pit Propane Heater Golden Flame Fire-Table and Patio Heater

7. Best Portable Patio Heater Briza 1500 w Infrared Patio Heater – Electric Patio Heater

8. Best Wall Mounted Patio Heater Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Heater

9. Best Seller Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

1. Hampton Bay 48000 Btu

The Hampton Bay 48000 Btu Stainless Steel Patio Heater is a great way to add warmth and comfort to your patio.

This outdoor heater is very efficient and features a classic design that will blend with any outdoor decor. The Hampton Bay 48000 Btu Stainless Steel Patio Heater also has wheels, making it easy to move around the patio.

The stainless steel burner and frame are built for durability and long-lasting use. To set up this heater, simply unpack it from the box, connect the legs using the included hardware, fill with propane, and turn it on.

2. FOOWIN Pyramid Patio Propane Heater 2 in 1

The FOOWIN Pyramid Propane Patio Heater is a 2-in-1 heater that combines the best of both worlds.

This efficient patio heater is designed to be used in two different ways: as a freestanding patio heater and as an attachable tabletop propane heater. When you want to use it as a free-standing patio propane heater, simply set it up and light the unit with the push of a button.

It has 48, 000 BTU’s of heating power which can heat up to 450 square feet. It has an adjustable thermostat and has an automatic tip-over safety shut-off. It also comes with a propane hose, and regulator so you can hook it up to your propane tank.

When you want to use it as a tabletop patio propane heater, simply attach the legs and adjust the propane flow.

3. Trustech Space Heater Infrared Heater

Infrared heaters have been used for years in the medical industry. They are effective, safe, and economical.

The Trustech Space Heater is one of the few infrared heaters on the market that has a remote control so you can change your settings from across the room. This heater will warm up to 100 sq ft and has 3 heating levels:

Low – High – Turbo with a 24-hour timer which allows you to set it before you go to bed or leave for work and it will shut off when your desired temperature is reached.

It also features an automatic safety shut-off when tipped over. I’ve had other infrared heaters where you have to run around the room and turn them off if they are accidentally bumped so this is a nice feature with little ones in the house.

It also features a fan-only mode so you can use it as a portable fan that will heat your room while being energy efficient.

4. Terra Hiker 55,000 BTUs Outdoor Patio Heater

The Terra Hiker Outdoor Patio Heater is a powerful 55,000 BTU outdoor patio heater. It features a wind-resistant design and has an output of up to 55,000 BTUs.

The Terra Hiker Outdoor Patio Heater is portable and can be easily transported from one location to another with the included wheel kit.

The Terra Hiker Outdoor Patio Heater is easy to install as it only takes 15 minutes for assembly and 5 minutes for installation. The Terra Hiker Outdoor Patio Heater uses propane gas which provides long-lasting heat without having to constantly refill.

The propane gas tank can last for up to 10 hours of continuous use, which is considerably longer than other heaters and fire pits available on the market today.

The Terra Hiker Outdoor Patio Heater has an adjustable flame control knob that allows you to adjust the height and intensity at which the heater operates as well as turn it off and on.

The Terra Hiker Outdoor Patio Heater is ETL approved and listed to the latest UL standards as approved by CSA International.

5. Hiland HLDS032-B Table Top Portable Heater

This portable heater is very efficient and the perfect addition to any patio looking for efficiency. It has a sleek stainless steel finish and solid construction that will last for years to come.

The built-in safety features ensure you are protected at all times, while the adjustable thermostat allows you to set the temperature based on your preference.

The Hiland HLDS032-B is an affordable way to heat any patio without having to worry about harmful gases or toxins being released into the air. This unit comes with a screen guard that protects against any human contact, and thermal shut-off adds an extra layer of protection.

This heater would be a great choice for patios, office buildings, warehouses, and small businesses that is looking for efficiency from their heater.

It is ideal for use in areas up to 300 square feet, making it versatile enough to work anywhere on your patio.

The simple design allows you to transport this unit quickly from one place to the next without sacrificing safety.

6. Golden Flame Fire-Table and Patio Heater

41,000 total BTUs

30,000 BTUs upper fire pit burner

11,000 BTUs infrared patio heater burner

The Golden Flame Fire Table is a unique fire table that offers a variety of features. The first feature that you will notice is the dual heat technology which allows for both radiant and convection heat to be emitted from the unit.

This means that you can enjoy your patio or backyard in any weather conditions, as this product will allow you to stay warm no matter what the temperature is outside! The second feature of this fire table is its ability to burn propane gas.

You will also notice the 304 stainless steel burner which is resistant to corrosion, rust, and most chemicals (including gasoline).

This feature ensures that your product will last for many years before needing replacement.

Finally, you have a beautiful top that is heat resistant up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

7. Briza 1500 w Infrared Patio Heater – Electric Patio Heater

The Briza Infrared Patio Heater is a portable patio heater that uses infrared technology to heat up to 200 square feet of space.

This heater is ideal for outdoor patios and decks during the winter months. It can also be used indoors in garages or workshops as well.

The Briza heats up quickly and efficiently thanks to its carbon infrared heating elements. It has an adjustable thermostat with four settings: high, medium, low, and off.

The unit comes with hardware for mounting on walls or columns. It also has a build-in timer to set from 1 -9 hours to automatically switch off

This heating element system tilts at a 45-degree angle to project heat downward.

Unique Heating Element Design: The unique design of the heating elements gives the Briza up to 80 percent more infrared output than other infrared heaters.

8. Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Heater

The Dr Infrared Heater is a great space heater for your patio, office, garage, or shop. It is made of durable and weatherproof aluminum.

This unit can be wall-mounted or ceiling mounted. Its high heat output makes it ideal for heating large areas with ease. The carbon infrared heating technology provides fast heat-up time and excellent long-lasting radiant heat that will last throughout the night.

The Dr Infrared Heater is also efficient and features a built-in thermostat that automatically turns off the unit when the desired temperature is reached. The heater also has a convenient on/off switch and tip-over switch, which gives you peace of mind.

This powerful outdoor space heater can be used for heating up to approximately 100 square feet.

9. Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

The Amazon efficient Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Metal Stand is extremely easy to set up.

All you do is attach the propane tank, turn it on and ignite it – it comes with an ignition button that makes this process even easier. It has a powerful output of 46,000 BTUs and can heat up a large area because of its adjustable head that allows for full range coverage.

The heater itself is made out of heavy-duty metal so you don’t have to worry about it falling over or blowing away in strong winds, and includes a sturdy base for added stability. This product also earned excellent consumer reviews.

The Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Metal Stand is well worth its price because it’s efficient, easy to set up, and will last you for years due to its heavy-duty construction. Plus, it has an adjustable head so you can aim the heat exactly where you want it.

How Many BTU Do I Need For My Patio Heater?

Patio heaters produce heat in units of BTUs. The higher the number of BTUs, the more heat is produced from the unit.

It can be difficult trying to pick out the right size heater, but choosing one with too high of a BTU limit might not heat your space effectively.

The table below helps determine how many BTUs are needed for your patio heater based on its area.

Area Per sqr Feet	Recommended Heater BTUs
100-150 sq. ft.	5,000 BTUs
150-250 sq. ft.	6,000 BTUs
250-300 sq. ft.	7,000 BTUs
300-350 sq. ft.	8,000 BTUs
350-400 sq. ft.	9,000 BTUs
400-450 sq. ft.	10,000 BTUs
450-550 sq. ft.	12,000 BTUs
550-700 sq. ft.	14,000 BTUs
700-1,000 sq. ft.	18,000 BTUs
1,000-1,200 sq. ft.	21,000 BTUs
1,200-1,400 sq. ft.	23,000 BTUs
1,400-1,500 sq. ft.	24,000 BTUs
1,500-2,000 sq. ft.	30,000 BTUs
2,000-2,500 sq. ft.	34,000 BTUs

How To Choose A Efficient Patio Heater?

Winter is fast approaching. Are you getting ready for it by choosing the best patio heater for your home?

Here are some things you need to consider in order to choose an efficient Patio Heater that will suit your needs:

Know The Fuel You Need For Your Patio Heater: Gas, Propane, or Electric? All three fuel types have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are still undecided as to which is best for you, here is how they stack up compared to each other:

Electric

This type of patio heater usually comes with an electric cord attached to it. It can be plugged directly into any standard 110 volt AC household outlet but cannot be used outdoors if there is no electrical power source available.

More expensive ones will come with an outdoor-rated power cord. Although it is safer to use, this type of patio heater takes the longest to heat up and also takes a long time for the internal fan to circulate the heat around you.

Gas

This patio heater usually can be moved from one place to another and runs on a propane tank or natural gas.

It is more expensive than an electric Patio Heater but gives you more control over its settings as well as faster heating times since your energy source comes from inside the patio heater itself instead of being wired into an electrical outlet outside of your home or under your umbrella.

Propane

The main benefit of using this type of fuel in an efficient Patio Heater is that there are no wires attached to it. It also heats up faster than an Electric Patio Heater since it is fueled by propane which produces natural gas.

Propane is also the cheapest patio heater fuel and most efficient, although you will need to deal with purchasing and replacing tanks every so often if you want to keep your heat source running smoothly.

Size Matters

One of the most important things to consider before you make a purchase is how big or small your patio space is and how many people will be sharing that space with you when the cold weather sets in.

If your space can fit a large patio heater then do not hesitate to choose one that has more BTUs (British Thermal Units). This number tells us how much power the heater can produce in terms of heat output.

The size of your patio heater should also be proportional to the size of your umbrella. You will not want a large patio heater under a small one and vice versa.

Construction

The material that your efficient Patio Heater is made out of will say a lot about its durability, how easy it is to maintain, and how long it will last in between cleanings or repairs as well as how much heat it can potentially produce.

Generally speaking, metal Patio Heaters are usually more expensive than plastic ones but they tend to retain heat longer since the internal metals are denser so they take longer to cool down compared to their lightweight counterparts.

This does NOT mean that plastic patio heaters do not work because they can still put off plenty of heat at times for those frosty autumns and winter nights.

Weight

The weight of an efficient Patio Heater can have an impact on your comfort levels as well. Some people like to carry around smaller patio heaters so they can be moved from place to place without straining their backs unnecessarily in the process.

Others prefer larger or heavier patio heaters because it gives them more stability, especially during those harsh winds we see much more often during the winter months (those who live somewhere colder than us probably get this all year round).

On the other hand, if you are one of those people who spend most of their time with a laptop or iPad underneath an umbrella then you may want to consider getting something lighter since these things tend to become very top-heavy when the fuel tanks are filled.

Maintenance

This goes without saying but how long should you expect to spend maintaining your patio heater before it needs to be replaced?

Some parts are more easily replaceable compared to others, especially those with electrical components that become faulty after a few years of extensive use.

Manuals are usually shipped with most Patio Heaters and feature simple DIY maintenance techniques such as cleaning out any clogged dust filters or making sure they stay clear so less debris will fly into the internal fan when you turn on your patio heater.

You can also check your heat exchanger coils if there is dust caked onto them since this will affect the overall output of warmth from your heater.

Most high-end models come with electronic components which can often be fixed by taking them apart and replacing problematic wires or other components.

Replacing Parts

Some patio heaters may come with certain parts that are replaceable and others that cannot be replaced at all.

For example, if your patio heater’s fan stops spinning without warning then you will probably need to purchase a new Patio Heater entirely since the fan is usually attached to the main body of the heater itself.

You can also find replacement hoses, fans, and cables relatively easily on online marketplaces like eBay but do your research beforehand and make sure what you are buying will work with your particular model of Patio Heater.

Most internal circuitry can only handle so much amperage as well before it starts to malfunction even if you are using the correct cable for your Patio Heater so be careful what you buy since some cables can have a wide range of resistances to amperage (also known as Ohms Law).

Are Propane or Electric Patio Heaters Better?

Propane patio heaters typically have larger heating areas with more BTU power than their electric counterparts, making them especially best for outdoor heat like decks and patios where larger gatherings are common.

They’re also commonly found on patios of restaurants and pubs where outdoor seating is available to customers.

It’s no wonder that electric patio heaters are quickly becoming the indoor alternative to traditional patio fireplaces and cast iron stove-style heaters.

In an effort to provide some insight into this heated argument, we’ve compiled a list of comparisons between these two types of heaters. Read below for more information.

Energy Usage

Both propane gas and electrical energy have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to energy consumption. Electric patio heaters require a constant supply of electricity in order to work.

The amount of watts required by an electric heater is usually stated as being “1500 Watts” or more. This means that you’ll be able to run the heater for five hours per every 1000 watt-hours of electricity that it consumes, but this may vary depending on the exact model and size of your electric patio heater.

Propane gas patio heaters are slightly different when it comes to energy usage because they’re equipped with a regulator which controls the amount of gas flow into the unit itself.

The size and power of your propane tank will determine how long you can operate your propane heater before having to refill or replace it with another full tank. For example, a 20lb propane tank will typically last about 10 – 12 hours with most patio heaters.

The cost of propane gas is also substantially lower than the cost of electricity, which makes it more financially feasible for homeowners who wish to rely primarily on the sun and/or wind to heat their patios when possible.

Aesthetic Appeal

After calculating the differences in energy usage, we can now determine that electric patio heaters are generally less expensive to run on an hourly basis than propane units are.

This means that if you’re looking for value-oriented patio heating without too much concern for how much your unit costs to operate, then choosing an electric heater is probably right for you.

However, aesthetics should still be taken into account. Propane patio heaters are designed to maintain a flame that is visible to the human eye, whereas electric patio heaters do not produce an open fire.

For some customers, this is a drawback of electric patio heaters as they don’t provide any atmosphere beyond the fan and heating coils that are also present in the unit itself.

Ease of Utility

If you’re looking for an outdoor heating solution that’s easy to use on a daily basis, then propane-fueled units should be your top priority on your list.

Electric heating solutions require regular access to electricity in order to function properly and safely. This means that if there’s ever an outage or heavy weather condition which results in lost power, then your electric patio heater will have no way to stay on.

Propane patio heaters also don’t require an electrical outlet, which makes installation a breeze for homeowners who are looking for a simple do-it-yourself project. Some people find the exposed propane tank to be dangerous in certain weather conditions as it can become slippery and difficult to move around during colder days and nights.

Heat Distribution

If you’re concerned about warmth coming from your outdoor heating solution itself, then electric units should be your top choice.

Electric patio heaters often come with multiple heating coils inside which burn at varying points of high intensity.

This means that maximum heating is achieved much faster than it would be if you were using a propane unit or some other form of an open flame. Electric patio heaters can be mounted on any object which provides a sturdy and level surface to accept the TV grill and base of the heater itself.

Conclusion

With all that said, it’s important to keep in mind the factors you value most when deciding which type of patio heater is right for you and your home!

Your outdoor space’s size will play a big part as well – smaller patios may work better with infrared quartz or electric options; while larger spaces (like decks) might be better suited for propane heaters.

If a party atmosphere is what you are after – then either infrared quartz or propane option would probably fit best given their light colors/effects.

And finally, if heating up your outdoor space quickly is a top priority, you should consider getting one of the propane models instead!