Theyre also beneficial in warmer regions, day or night, during the winter months.

The weighted base and auto shutoff safety system ensure the heater wont tip over on your table. A sleek stainless steel patio heater will enhance the look of a contemporary home with modern dcor, while a cast-iron firepit would better suit a rustic cabin getaway. The heater has a clearly marked ignition mechanism that allows you to easily and safely start the heater. Delivering 42,000 BTUs, its got a rust-resistant golden finish, with an included cover. Most electric patio heaters are designed for use in sheltered patio conditions, like under a covered or enclosed patio. With 46,000 BTU output and stainless steel construction, it provides strong heat and looks classy. Producing a hefty 57,000 BTUs of heat, the Best Choice Products firepit table will keep outdoor diners toasty warm. And if thats not enough to keep you toasty in frigid conditions, you can check out our roundups of the best heated insoles, winter hats, heated socks, and even heated slippers to stay cozy. The hose presents a tripping hazard, and the exposed tank is unattractive. With its pyramid shape and glass tube running the center length of the stainless steel heater, it has a more modern look than the pole and saucer style of a traditional patio heater or a commercial patio heater. So, above all, make sure whatever outdoor heater you use, you keep it a safe distance away from your house, outdoor furniture and cushions or pillows, as well as trees, and make sure branches and leaves cant fall into the heater. Unfortunately, the base doesnt come with wheels, but at 33 pounds, its not too heavy to move around. Even in wintery weather, you can get together outdoors with friends if you have ways to take the chill out. Choose an option that best suits the level of desired heat output. Once heated, the lava rocks (included) will retain and radiate heat. Cordless drill-powered testing rig. Propane tanks arent heavy enough to keep your outdoor patio heater safe if a strong wind picks up. These are also known as mushroom-type heaters. You can get that same kind for your yard, and it comes in a variety of finishes and BTU capacities (the British Thermal Unit, a unit of heattypically 40,000 or more for an effective patio heater). Similar to the Hiland mushroom-style heater, Hampton Bays version offers 48,000 BTU of heat output. I was, however, pretty happy to see that Amazon sent not one, but two cheap wrenches to aid my efforts! Popular Mechanics participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. The directions were not clear, and it took a significant amount of time to put together. Although this patio heater isnt the most stylish, the Mr. Heater MH30TS is a simple, utilitarian model if youre more concerned with portability and efficiency than looks when working outdoors. Because a patio heater isn't necessarily made to warm at a distance, the useful range for most of them is about four feet. Stay cozy all year long with this affordable, yet powerful gas-powered pick. In his long tenure as Popular Mechanics senior test editor, Roy Berendsohn has tested a number of space heaters, including patio heaters, and provided his expert advice on propane versus electric heaters. We also found that it was awkward to place the propane tank inside the table after assembly. With no open flame, electric heaters may be safer than other types for some families both indoors and out. The few that did not would be a better option if the heater is placed and stored in a single location. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. This high-powered propane options has a slim space-saving design and a rust-resistant finish. Chance started working at CNET in 2015 from the Louisville office. Wood-burning firepits and fireplaces also span a large range in cost, from inexpensive firepits to high-end fireplaces permanently built into outdoor entertaining areas. The largest propane patio heaters can weigh 60 pounds or moreand thats not including the weight of a 20-pound propane tankso carrying one can quickly become cumbersome. Since then it's been tough to find in stock at a decent price, but as long as you can find it in this same price range, this freestanding heater is my top choice. Get the Outland Living Firebowl patio heater on Amazon and at Walmart. Of the traditional-style pole heaters, there was so little variation between the products -- from assembly to operation to looks -- that they might as well have all come from the same factory. Get the Hampton Bay patio heater on Amazon and at Walmart. While the glass tube of the Hiland heater still performs pretty well -- and looks neat -- having the heat dispersed along the length of the tube simply didn't warm me up as thoroughly. As with any other product that produces high heat, there are risks involved with using outdoor heaters for patios , and the risks differ a bit with each product type. Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. For those thinking of buying a patio heater, some questions are to be expected. Its height is adjustable from 4.5 feet to 7.2 feet with telescoping rods; it can be tilted 15 degrees up or 20 degrees down, and it can heat an area of about 15 square feet. This type of heater can generate a lot of heat, depending on the size of the firebox and the amount of wood it will hold. This patio heater is relatively compact and portable, measuring 13 inches high and 24 inches in diameter and weighing in at 34 pounds. Its wheeled base makes it easy for you to transport, and it comes with a little built-in table.

Theyre among the least expensive to operate, but you may require a licensed plumber for installation. The 9 Best Gas Patio Heaters for Outdoor Entertaining, Bromic Heating Portable 38500 BTU Patio Heater, Fire Sense 10,000 BTU Table Top Patio Heater, Hampton Bay 48000 Btu Stainless Steel Patio Heater. We tested each heaters ability to heat by gauging the farthest distance one needed to stand from each unit in order to stay warm. The heater offers an easy push-and-hold sparking ignition button and weighs just 5.85 pounds (without the propane cylinder). It throws heat, too. The unit measures 35 inches long by 8 inches tall and weighs just 8 pounds, making it well suited to installation on a wall or ceiling (mounting brackets included). These two top picks will help keep your family and guests warm on the patio while complementing most outdoor decor. For extra durability in high winds, you can fill its hollow base with sand, though we liked how easy it was to move around with the wheeled base. Its built almost identically to the Hiland heater, with a couple of exceptions. When it comes to patio heaters, one size does not fit all.

A variety of patio heater styles can add a unique aesthetic to a backyard oasis. For each model, we compared its BTU power, heating area, overall price, construction and finish, durability, and portability. Just keep in mind that wind can blow out most of these heaters burners, so choose a semi-protected spot or stay inside on gusty nights. One downside to this model is that it's a little less of a portable patio heater than some others; it's heavy, and even though it has wheels, it's unnerving rolling the glass tube across a rough surface like concrete. However, some electric heaters are designed to be safe even if mounted on a wall or ceiling, so it depends on the type. The ability to move a patio heater from one side of the patio to the other or relocate it near a pool will be simpler if the unit includes wheels. Depending on the power of the heating element, a patio heater can radiate heat 4 to 12 feet or even farther. Initially, I picked the Hiland HLDS01-GTCB pyramid patio heater as the best model I tested. It's compact, easy to carry and will take up less storage space during the warmer months.

The thermocouples, starting one foot away from the burner, are each placed in one-foot intervals. Its wheel ensure maximum portability to place it right where you need the heat the most. Also, remember that the best electric patio heater includes a power cord, so its necessary to have at least one outdoor electrical outlet. We loved the portability of the little heater. Due to the risk of carbon monoxide buildup, dont use exterior propane heaters in an enclosed area, such as a greenhouse or enclosed patio, unless a clear safety feature is built into the unit to prevent operation under insufficient oxygen levels. Pricing for this one seems to vary, but generally it's under $250. Instead of a larger 20-pound tank, this model requires a 1-pound propane canister that will last for about three hours. This unit required minimal assembly, and it offered decent heat output. Theres no need to buy fuel for electric patio heaters, but plan to replace the heating lamps occasionally. The Hiland was one of the best-performing; the Amazon 62516 was one of the worst. The more BTUs, the betterbut youll still have to dress appropriately if you want to spent time outside in the winter. Being outdoors is a natural mood elevator even when the temperature drops after you pick the best patio heater for your home. But when I tested them, it was clear that the Hiland and Amazon model 62516 -- despite being nearly identical pyramid-style tube heaters -- weren't alike. When I was sitting next to one, I felt comfortably warm. When the temperatures drop and a chill is in the air, having a source of outdoor heat will make outdoor activities more enjoyable. And like similar patio heaters, a 20-pound propane tank can last for up to 10 hours of use. Unlike a space heater, which blows air across a hot electric coil to warm the air, a patio heater projects an infrared beam that travels through the air without heating it. Shop your favorite products and well find the best deal with a single click. BobVila.com and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Overall, its a good heater if you do not plan to move it often. Get the Pamapic patio heater on Amazon and at Walmart. The level of difficulty was roughly on par with assembling Ikea furniture: there were manuals that occasionally needed a little interpretation. As I mentioned earlier, a lot of the heaters were similar. In addition to relying on Roy Berendsohns expert advice and testing of a few patio heaters, we recommend the nine gas patio heaters below based on research from five other expert sources, including Good Housekeeping, Toms Guide, and Wirecutter. But they are usually smaller and not as powerful, so an electric patio heater may not generate as much heat as its propane cousin. By the time I got to the last of the pole heaters, I was a pro and it was a breeze. Manufacturers reduce the risk of burns by encasing patio heaters in materials that remain cool to the touch or placing the heating element above a level where humans can reach it (in the case of tower-style heaters). All outdoor heaters should come with built-in safety features to shut down the heat supply if the unit tips over, but dont depend solely on that. Scientists Turn Dead Spiders Into Creepy Grippers, Pentagon: Aid for Ukraine Crushes Russian Morale, The Zodiac Killer, the Secret SR-72, and More, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. The patio heaters were rated by their BTU output, maneuverability, and overall style. The best patio heater can enable you to not only stay outside later during nice weather but also extend outdoor sessions into the colder seasons without worrying about your guests comfort. Its well-designed and easy to use, boasting a piezoelectric ignition for quick, easy starts and auto-shutoff if the heater tilts, plus a built-in control valve for regulating temperature. The propane cylinder isnt included, but once you connect one, the MH30T can heat from 8,000 to 30,000 BTUs with an easy push-button start. However, the heat emitted from the firepit is excellent, and its portability makes it an attractive option for those who prefer not to deal with wood fires. Heavy duty wheels make it easy to position anywhere outside, and the Piezo ignition switch will have it up and running in an instant.

Having a heat source in an outdoor area offers the ability to entertain comfortably when the temperatures drop. Its ideal for RVs and camping and the perfect size to store in your car for unexpected events. Patio heaters are well suited to northern climates, where the mercury plunges as soon as the summer sun drops beneath the horizon. Some tabletop styles incorporate glass rocks that reflect various light colors, while others produce flickering flames that add a dreamy feel. Cozy Up: The Best Gas Fire Pits for Your Backyard or Patio | Relax Outside on One of These Outdoor Sectionals | 10 Camping Blankets for Warming Up Anywhere. Designed to make shopping easier. The maximum area a patio heater will comfortably heat depends on several variables. Gas heaters fueled by natural gas are more likely to be considered permanent fixtures on the patio than propane heaters because they connect to a homes natural gas line. When you choose a propane patio heater, youll have to regularly trade in the propane tank for a full one (which you can do at many hardware and home improvement stores). Manufacturers instructions should include this information, but as a rough rule of thumb, youll need at least two (sometimes three) feet of clearance above a mushroom-style heater if its going to be used under a roof. Make sure whatever unit you buy feels very sturdy and appropriate for the ground or surface youre using. When shopping for an electric patio heater, compare the heat output of different models, but keep in mind that a higher heat output means increased electricity usage and a larger electric bill. Propane patio heaters can warm up spaces quickly. This ODS sensor makes it possible to use the space heater in enclosed patios or tents without fear of depleted oxygen levels. Like the Fire Sense, it has a Piezo ignition system for a push-button start, requires a 20-pound propane tank, and has safety auto-shutoffs. We found the tank hose to be the biggest drawback. And while I like staring at the flame, this heater illuminates the surrounding area so much that you or your neighbors might find it too bright. That simple variation made all the difference, and it proved true among several of the identical pole heater models, too. To reduce smoke, burn only seasoned hardwoods, such as hickory, birch, and white ash. Overall, we found this heater to be convenient and efficient. However, we wish this unit came with a rain cover to help keep it clean when not in use. That revealed something that the thermocouples didn't: the traditional pole-style heaters give off a much more concentrated heat. This electric option offers modern features like a remote control, multiple power settings, and a 12 hour timer. Overall, the heat output was terrific, and the style is attractive. It also includes an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) that will turn off the heater if the oxygen level drops below 18.5 percent. This 40,000 BTU standing heater is priced around the middle of the pack and comes with a one-year limited warranty. The classic design of most patio heaters spreads heat widely in a radius around the center of the heater, which can be an inefficient method depending on where you place it. Depending on local building codes, running a natural gas line to the patio probably requires the services of a licensed plumber. In general, you can put a patio heater under a gazebo, roof, or another type of awning as long as theres enough clearance. There are heaters that reach higher temperatures at certain points, but this one has even heat distribution when you are near it. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. It's important to be able to raise the thermocouples quickly during the testing process. Spend more time outside this fall and winter with an outdoor propane heater. The steel-constructed heater offers a diameter of warmth between 10 and 12 feet around. Although it features an amazing design, we did find that the heat off the Pamapic Patio Heater wasnt quite as effective as a mushroom-style heater. Get the Mr. Heater patio heater at Amazonand The Home Depot. Copyright 2022 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Although its BTU is lower than some other models, its design directs that power more efficiently. Looking at all the points I measured within four feet, you'll see an average temperature increase of 4.59 degrees. None of the heaters I tested are going to sweat you out at long distances, but getting up next to one will certainly warm you up. An outdoor patio heater is a great way to get more use out of your porch, deck, or patio. Many feature the ability to adjust the heat outputturning down the heater if only a bit of warmth is necessary or running it on the highest setting to heat a wider area. We tested the top heaters based on heat output, use, and style. AZ Patio Heaters Hiland Freestanding Patio Heater, Hampton Bay 48000 Btu Stainless Steel Patio Heater, Pamapic Patio Heater 42,000 BTU Pyramid Flame. But thats far from your only option. It provides instant infrared heating at an output of 1,500 wattsnot as strong as most propane heaters, but simple plug-and-play use with remote control and a safety shutoff function.

Sitemap 26

best outdoor propane heater