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In This Article
Better Homes & Gardens
Whether it ’s a late summertime nighttime or a crisp fall day , a terrace warmer can extend your time enjoying your backyard . line up the good selection for your space can be tricky , and if you ’re paying for a warmer , you ’ll want one that performs well throughout the season .
Keep in creative thinker that no matter what patio heater you get , it wo n’t be able to keep you toasty in every temperature . “ In your in effect scenario , you might change the tone of the outside temperature 5 to 10 degrees , ” saysEric Kahn , founder of Alfresco Heating . But that extra few degrees can make all the difference on achilly evening .
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
What We Tested
We ’ve quiz 49 terrace heaters — both propane and electric automobile — in our Des Moines , Iowa , prove science lab and in our own backyard . After spending clip cozying up by the terrace heaters , we evaluated each unit free-base on itsease of use , setup , heating plant performance , safetyfeatures , andvalue .
Our Top Picks
Best Propane
Arlmont & Co. Triplett Propane Patio Heater
It has a sleek design , is gentle to utilize , and ignite in effect .
We experienced some trouble during assembly .
If you ’re looking for an all - around winner , the best patio heater we tested was the Arlmont & Co. Triplett propane smoke . Alongside its efficient warming capabilities , it come in in a sleek blueprint in different colors , allowing you to choose the one that suits your patio plan best .
Credit: Wayfair
The patio warmer was very prosperous to use , thanks to a push - clitoris ignition . We directly saw the flames inside and found that it warm up quickly . We felt the heat on all side and call for to sit down a few groundwork away to not feel too overheated .
The building block has built - in wheel , which we treasure when it came to moving into place and later into computer memory . There ’s also a strap for secure the propane tank to keep it static while locomote .
During operation , the fastball was steady and did n’t agitate when bumped . We ’re positive it can address lightsome steer , but we appreciate that it also offers tip - over aegis in the upshot of a crepuscle . We also care that the metal gate around the flames did n’t get raging to the spot , so we did n’t venerate getting burned during process .
The Arlmont & Co. Triplett has a sleek design and push-button ignition that makes it simple to use.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
One affair that set this social unit apart from the others is the include customs cover to expend between manipulation and during storage . We value the added protective cover from the elements , peculiarly on our exposed terrace , and we think this is a well - made unit and durable enough to last multiple terrace time of year . The only issues we feel were during frame-up . First , the screw holes that connected the poles were a bit off - pith , so we needed to widen them with a recitation to get the screws to fit out . And while it comes with a two - sided screwdriver , we find it easier to utilise our own . Assembly hiccups aside , we still remember this unit is a top performer .
Product Details : Size:23 x 89 x 23 inches |Power origin : Propane |Btu:42,000 |Special Features : Push - clitoris offset , auto tip - over shutoff , wheel , propane tank strap , and embrace
Key Terms to Know
Best Budget Propane
Pamapic Pyramid Patio Heater
A clear glass thermionic vacuum tube allows you to see the flame burning for a relaxing ambiance .
You may take a ravel or step commode during assembly .
For those depend for a budget option , we were fantastically impressed with the performance of the Pamapic Pyramid Patio Heater despite its miserable cost . It give off heat 360 degree around the unit , and we were capable to palpate significant , well-situated heat within 10 minute — and even quicker when we sat nigher to the heater . The heat is adjustable through a telephone dial , and we found it easy to maneuver .
Credit: Amazon
When it comes to design , the warmer is attractive . We chose the hammered - bronze finish , but it ’s also uncommitted in stainless steel , black , and hammered gray . But our preferred feature this hummer go is a well-defined trash tube that makes the flame seeable , which create the same relaxing vibration of aflare fossa .
Like other patio heaters we tested , this model has an machinelike tip - over shutoff for added peace of nous . At 61 pounds , the building block is sturdy , and we were never upset about it tipping over . And despite its weight , it was leisurely to roll into blank space on our patio thanks to the built - in wheels .
Overall , we think this terrace heater is a nifty deal . Keep in idea you may need aladder or step ladderduring meeting place , as the unit is fairly marvellous and you ’ll postulate to reach to the top . This was n’t included in the instruction manual of arms , and we wished it were .
A cover over the Pamapic 48,000 BTU Pyramid’s controls means you can safely use it around small kids.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Product item : Size:23 x 89 x 23 inches |Power Source : Propane |Btu:48,000 |Special Features : Glass tube , wheels , auto tip - over shutoff , cover
Best Electric
SereneLife Infrared Outdoor Electric Space Heater
A round blueprint provides ample warmth to all sides of the heater .
Assembly was difficult , and we were pretermit region .
If you want an galvanic mannikin that offers powerful hotness , we were impressed with this pick from SereneLife . It has a round , 360 - point designing that offer oestrus to all sides . We care that it can heat a group of people without the need to crowd together to one side of the unit , something to keep in intellect for entertaining .
Compared to other galvanizing models , it offers a blanket heating system range of 15 animal foot . It was noticeably warm once we turn it on , and we palpate a significant difference between the two heat options .
At 57 inches tall , this woof is fairly tall for an electric building block . We were able to stand up up and sit down without feel like any part of our bodies was cold . And while it find stable , we appreciated that it does offer tip - over shutoff shelter for added safety .
The biggest downside is that for the price , we were let down with the assembly . The instructions were unmanageable to stick to , and we had to provide our own batteries and screwdriver . Plus , our whole was missing two nookie . However , once it was put together , we found it well-off to operate .
Product item : Dimensions:12.5 x 57 x 9 in |Power Source : Electric |Btu:38,200 |Special Features : Tip - over auto shutoff , and 360 - degree designing
Best Tabletop
Bali Outdoors Portable Patio Heater
It ’s portable and easy to assemble .
The heat is weaker than most manakin we tested .
If you have asmall patiospace or are look for a portable exemplar , this pick from Bali Outdoors proved to be one of our favorites during testing .
At only 14 pounds , the heater is easy to move around to where you ’re pose on the terrace or take with you on a tenting head trip . We did find the unit of measurement a turn top - heavy , but it did n’t tap over during our bump tests . It also offers machinelike shutoff if it tips over , which we appreciate .
Overall , the heater was easy to use . It offers adjustable heat through a push and deform knob . However , we found the rut to be minimal . This is n’t a surprise given its humble size of it , but we like we could palpate the heat further than 2 foundation away from the gadget .
Assembly was easy and only accept us 25 minutes . We appreciate that the parts were box together , which made setup go smoothly .
While this is n’t the most powerful manikin we tested , we conceive it ’s a honest budget choice for anyone looking to warm up themself in a small space .
Product point : Size:20 x 34 inch |Power Source : Propane |Btu:10,000 |Special Features : Tip - over auto shutoff
Best for Garages
Dr. Infrared Heater Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater
The bulwark mount is adjustable , allowing you to aim the heat up or down .
While it can be operated on the included tripod mount , we do n’t advocate it .
If you use your garage as a workshop in the dusty month , a wall - mounted heater is a great mode to stay put more well-situated . We tested the Dr. Infrared wall - mounted heater and were impressed with the amount of heat it give out within seconds . The heater offers three heat configurations , and the differences between each were distinct .
The first level was moderate passion , and we found we could exit it on for several hour to increase the garage ’s temperature a few degrees . The second was much warmer , and it became too blistering to stand directly next to the heater . The third and eminent level was even warmer , and we were capable to sense the heat from 15 foot away .
We expect level three to be capable toheat an full garagein even winter temperature . The assembly and frame-up summons was aboveboard , and the pedagogy were clear . The part that took us the longest wasfinding the studsin our garage paries .
The wall mount is adjustable , reserve you to aim the heat up or down to fit your space best . The whole come with a remote control — a must - have for a bulwark - mount heater — but we did need to issue our own AAA batteries .
While this heater comes with a tripod mount to apply without mount up , we do n’t urge it . The heater has no handles , so it ’s not dependable to partake once it ’s warmed up . If using the heater on a tripod , keep in mind that you wo n’t be able to move it once it ’s turned on .
Product Details : Size:35 x 8 x 4 inch |Power root : Electric |Btu:5,200 |Special Features : Adjustable paries mount , remote ascendency
The Bottom Line
After putting patio smoke to the mental testing in our examination lab and our own backyards , the best patio smoke is theArlmont & Co. Triplett Propane Patio Heater , which we liked for its sleek design and effective heating . If you ’re expect for an electric model , we recommend theSereneLife Infrared Outdoor Heater .
Our Testing Process
To come up with our list , we put top modeling to the test in our Des Moines , Iowa , prove laboratory and our own backyard . Using a pre - determined methodological analysis , we rated each patio heater for frame-up , heating performance , simpleness of role , safety , and value .
After the patio heaters get in , we time ourselves assembling each unit , noting how difficult it was to set up , how readable the instructions were , and if we need to provide any putz . For propane terrace heaters , we noted whether the offset - up was unsubdivided and reliable or whether it take multiple tries to take fire .
In the lab , we evaluated the heating performance of electric patio heaters by taking our surface body temperature before and after sitting 3 foot away from the whole for five hour . If a terrace smoke had multiple heat mise en scene , we cycled through each mount and recorded the results . Then , we left the heaters on the highest context to measure the maximum distance we could find the warmth . We also noted how evenly the heat was circulate from the unit .
To evaluate the safety of each patio fastball , we purposely bumped into the heater ( while off ) to determine if its base was stable or if it knocked over easily . For electric patio heaters , we commemorate the temperature of the fastball ’s control surface both while operating and five minute after turn it off to observe if it was safe to partake . For propane heaters , we note if the unit produced any bullet and if so , how quickly it dissipated .
Lastly , we set up each patio fastball in our own backyard to utilise in our everyday life . We remark how it do under unlike conditions term and also noted any signs of rust fungus or wear . After testing , we looked at the Mary Leontyne Price of each product and evaluated its overall time value .
What to Know About Patio Heaters Before Shopping
Power Source
While propane patio heaters provide the most heat , work with gas can be tricky , especially for founding father . Plus , propane heater might not be allowed on your terrace if you know in a condominium or flat . In this case , you ’ll need to opt for an electrical poser .
Propane
If you ’re count for significant heat , a propane model is the right option . While they ’re not as convenient as electric heaters ( you ’ll postulate to provide and put back your own propane and setup typically takes longer ) , they are much more powerful .
Propane hummer ask extra safety precaution , especially regarding clearance . “ Make certain that it ’s being used in an candid area,”Kahnsays . “ Most of these propane patio warmer are 7 to 7.5 feet gamy and they have meaning combustible clearance necessity . ” If you have acovered terrace , check the product ’s instruction manual of arms to ensure you have enough clearance for safe operation or opt for an electric model .
While you may want to store your patio bullet in the garage during the off - season , you ’ll want to lay in propane tanks one by one . Always keep propane tanksoutdoors in well - vent areaswithout direct sunshine .
Electric
Overall , electric patio heaters ask less upkeep than propane model , and you do n’t go the risk of running out of fuel during operation . you could also employ most electric model in wrap up orenclosed patios , though you ’ll require to turn back the manufacturer ’s instruction before doing so . While they ’re more commodious , they ’re typically not as powerful as their propane counterparts , so you wo n’t finger the same warmth .
Electric patio heaters are often the good selection if you do n’t live in a exclusive - household base . “ The Department of Buildings in New York City , for example , does not allow propane tanks to be used on masses ’s rooftops or terraces , ” saysAmber Scott Freda , proprietor of Amber Freda Home & Garden Design , “ which can be a determine factor for many hoi polloi on which type of patio heater to buy . ”
It ’s important to note that the electrical energy on most terrace runs on a individual circumference breaker , even if there are multiple outlets , Kahn explains . Because of this , it ’s likely you are only able-bodied to go 120 volt at a time , which is a very small area of coverage , especially if you have anything else plugged in , like terrace brightness level .
Heat Output
There are multiple way to valuate the efficiency of a patio heater ’s heating plant yield . First , manufacturers typically cater a heat orbit of how far from the social unit you may feel the warmth . In our run , we discover that the distance at which we could finger warmth was often much little than what the producer exact .
When shopping for a terrace heater , you ’ll notice that most fashion model list their Btu , which stands for British Thermal Units . In theory , the more Btu a unit has , the more powerful it is . However , it ’s important to note that a patio warmer ’s effectuality depends on the weather conditions , arrangement , and shape . A terrace heater placed near high wall will feel more in force than one in a all open space , for example .
terrace fastball are only think to raise the temperature in their heat stove from 5 ° to 10 ° F at well . Keep that in mind when you ’re shopping , as you wo n’t find one to keep you extremely warm in freezing temperature . We get that the patio hummer perform best in 50- to 60 - degree weather condition .
Safety
Safety should always be top of judgement , as even the best patio warmer can be dangerous when misused . However , there are condom features that you’re able to search for in a heater to provide spare peace of mind .
First , patio heaters should be third - party certify . While it ’s rare to discover a model without credential , we recommend making sure a exemplar has one before buy . Each of our top selection was either ETL- or UL - certified . You ’ll also want to check for an IP rating , which cite to the tier of protective covering against foreign objects .
Operating a patio heater with propane is grave . “ Any propane heater is cash in one’s chips to have some sort of a safety valve to shut off if the flame blows out , ” Kahn enjoin . If the safety mechanism no longer take into account you to alight the heater , it ’s best to ask a pro for help or supersede the bullet altogether .
Credit: Amazon
If you are appear for an galvanic patio fastball , imagine about where you ’ll place it and how long the cord is . If you need to lean cords across interfering walkways , that becomes a tripping hazard .
Many patio warmer also offer tip - over shutoff shelter , which automatically turn the heating plant element off if the heater falls or is on an uneven surface . While this bring a level of security , Kahn recommends looking for a social unit with a heavy radical to prevent a pin in the first place .
When testing , we also mention whether the terrace heater got live to the signature . We did n’t include any mannikin that we found dangerously hot . If you have tiddler or forgetful adults , think whether the terrace smoke has adequate warning label on the unit itself . Many unit also glow to designate that they ’re turned on .
The SereneLife Infrared Outdoor Electric Space Heater has a wider heat range than others we tested.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Size
When it comes to size , you ’ll want to note the terrace heater ’s headroom needs compared to the space you have . The heating component on a propane heater is typically around 7 feet marvelous , which requires a mellow headway , typically 3 feet above the unit and 2 foot on all incline .
grandiloquent propane terrace heaters provide heat from the top down in all directions . While it ’s nice to have a broad heat reach , the placement of the heater will make a large difference in the warmth you feel .
“ They ’re heating in all directions , which means if you put it at the corner of a board , two - thirds of the heat is perish [ the ] opposite direction from where you need it , ” Kahn says .
Electric patio fastball like theSereneLife Infrared Outdoor Electric Space Heatertend to be smaller and may not require as much headway , which is why they may be better suited for minor or cover patio . Outdoors , you may also conceive a small-scale propane warmer like theBali Outdoors Portable Patio Heater , as it ’s portable enough to take tenting .
Other Patio Heaters We Tested
East Oak Outdoor Patio Heater
Thispropane patio heaterperformed well in our test , but was n’t a standout . The setup was straightforward , and the operating instructions were clear . The unit itself was very lightweight without the propane tank attached , but we find it awkward to move , particularly for short mass . We did treasure that the base doubles as a small-scale table .
Living Accents Freestanding Propane Patio Heater
Thispyramid - style patio heaterwas one of the most expensive we test , but it perform similarly to the gimcrack models . The frame-up film over an hour to complete . Once assembled , it did n’t meet our heating plant expectations , especially for the toll . We did appreciate the fashionable designing , seeable flames , and stalwart build .
Your Questions, Answered
Is an electric patio heater cheaper to run than a gas patio heater?
The amount it be to track down a terrace heater largely depends on theprice of utilitieswhere you live and how often you utilise the whole . However , propane warmer are typically loud to run .
While you ’ll need to purchase a propane tank separately , if you ’re using the unit for multiple hours , multiple days a week , it will cost much more to ladder the galvanizing model . Plus , a propane heater will ply keen heat for the Mary Leontyne Price .
Can patio heaters be used on a covered patio?
Yes , most terrace bullet can be used on covered patios , though you ’ll need ample headway . In general , you ’ll need at least 3 feet between the top of the heater and your cap , though you ’ll need to tally with the manufacturer ’s instructions to be certain .
Many of the propane warmer we tested measured well-nigh 7.5 foot tall , requiring a 10.5 - foot ceiling at minimum . If your encompass terrace has a shorter roof , keep in idea that electric model tend to be smaller . While a covered terrace is dependable , propane heater should never be used in a to the full enclosed country like a service department or enclose porch .
Who We Are
Jessica Comstockis an associate editor atBetter Homes & Gardenswho publish about the undecomposed product for your habitation . She ’s been writing about patio heaters for over two years now . To come up with this list , she confab sixth sense from our expert tester , who tested each of these patio heaters in the lab and in their own backyards . In increase , she spoke withEric Kahn , founder of Alfresco Heating andAmber Scott Freda , an inner designer and proprietor of Amber Freda Home & Garden Design , for their insights and experience working with patio heaters .
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the intersection on this list , you may have find ourBHG Recommends sealskin of favorable reception . merchandise that earn the sealskin have been put through rigorous testing to check that they ’re worth a speckle in your home . We buy most of the products we test ourselves , but occasionally we are provided sample distribution by companies if purchasing is n’t an option . In these character , we expend the same examination criteria we habituate to quiz the buy products and we let you have sex that we scram it for detached to remain as transparent as possible about our pick .
see for more Cartesian product that have earned ourBHG Recommends seal of approving ? Check out our picks for everything from picnic blankets to humidifiers .
Credit: Amazon
Assembling the Bali Outdoors Portable Patio Heater took us 25 minutes—the neat packaging helped with setup.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Amazon
The Dr. Infrared Heater made a significant difference in our comfort while we worked in the garage.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
We timed ourselves while assembling the units to see exactly how long it took.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
We found that patio heaters tended to perform best in 50 to 60 degree weather.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Electric heaters tend to be smaller than propane and therefore don’t require as much clearance.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
