Part of the reason you want to have a nice porch or backyard is getting to spend extra time outdoors, especially when you’re entertaining guests. Unfortunately, the outdoor experience isn’t quite as enjoyable when the temperature starts to drop, unless you already have outdoor heater handy.
These patio and backyard heating devices are specifically designed for use outdoors, so you can stay comfortable all year long. Outdoor heaters usually feature a stand-up or wall-mounted design and once turned on they radiate heat that will warm anyone in their immediate vicinity.
When it comes to picking out a solid outdoor heater, you’ll need to consider factors like whether or not you want a propane or electric heater, your desired power output, how much space you’re okay with it taking up, and, perhaps most importantly of all, its built-in safety features. If you want more control over the temperature on your porch or patio, it’s time to invest in an outdoor heater. Here, check out some of the best models on the market.
1. HomeLabs Gas Patio Heater
When you think about outdoor heaters, what you’re probably picturing is a mushroom-style heater, like this model from HomeLabs. Though it’s not the most powerful heater on this list, at 41,000 BTUs, its 32-inch reflector cap allows it to heat up to a 20-foot radius when connected to a 20-pound propane tank (which, like the other gas heaters on this list, doesn’t come included). That means you should only need one of the brand’s heaters to warm your entire patio. Other noteworthy features include an easy-ignite control nob, an adjustable beverage table and two wheels so you can move it when needed.
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2. Hiland Quartz Glass Tube Heater
If you can’t stand the idea of having a classic mushroom-style heater sitting in your backyard, this obelisk-like model from Hiland is an excellent alternative. The device’s angular design makes it perfect for more modern environments and its quart glass tube heater will add some visual pizzazz to a nighttime barbecue. It produces only 40,000 BTU, which is less powerful than the other propane options on this list, but should still be strong enough for early spring or late fall.
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3. Dr. Infrared Heater
If you have a covered outdoor space, like a porch, that you’re looking to heat, a wall-mounted device like this model by Dr. Infrared is just what you’re looking for. The electric heater isn’t particularly powerful, but it’ll warm up anyone near it on particularly cold nights. It also makes up for its lack of punch with some neat features, like remote operation, a timer and overheat protection.
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4. Amazon Basics Outdoor Patio Heater
There’s nothing fancy about Amazon’s own outdoor heater, but that’s a huge part of its charm. The traditional stand-up device can generate 46,000 BTU when connected to a 20-pound liquid propane tank, which is enough to heat anyone in a 9-foot radius. It doesn’t feature any of the high-tech features of some of the heaters on this list, but it’ll keep you warm when you’re feeling a chill and that’s what matters.
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