Well, spring is here. That means summer’s close behind. And while these seasons are associated with warming temperatures, we’d be remiss to claim there aren’t still some cool nights and chills when the sun goes down.
What better way to offset the chills and create an amazing outdoor atmosphere than by using propane patio heaters. These heaters are elegantly designed to fit most aesthetics and they’re great for adding a touch of warmth to your outdoor spot.
We’ve taken a look at the heaters available and created comprehensive propane patio heater reviews to help you with the outdoor heater buying process.
We’ve utilized our experience to analyze and compare features such as design, BTUs, and mobility to determine the top 10 heaters on the market. By providing these reviews, we hope to aid you in finding the perfect heater for your space.
Best Propane Patio Heaters:
1. Hiland HLDSO1-GTSS 91-Inch Tall Quartz Glass Tube Heater
This next model in review is another Hiland Patio Heaters model and it could be the propane patio heater out there. This heater, the Quartz Glass Tube Patio Heater, takes on a form like that of the pyramidal heater reviewed at number five.
Like that model, the tank is held in an enclosed base that extends roughly a third of the way up the unit. The remainder of the unit is a quartz glass tube encased by horizontal caging bars with a heating vent at the top.
And of course, like all of the heaters in these reviews, there’s a reflector cap preventing the heat from escaping directly upward.
This model by Hiland Patio Heaters is one of the sharpest models reviewed thus far. Its stainless steel finish is ideal for modern spaces. With its many features, such as the quartz tube-enclosed flame, this heater is one to consider.
The Hiland Patio Heaters Quartz Glass Tube Patio Heater is a great heater for those interested in the pyramidal shape and a crisp, modern-looking steel unit. The stainless steel construction helps reflect the flame inside of the tube, causing the heater to give off a decent amount of light.
So not only are you getting heating, you’re getting a firelight source, setting a cozy outdoor mood without the effort of an actual fire.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can be moved around/transported
- Easy access housing door
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Entertaining and bright flame display
- Very tall (91″)
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Lower BTU rating than the non-pyramidal heaters
2. Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Wheels
The next propane patio heater is the AmazonBasics Commercial Patio Heater. Joining the ranks of commercial patio heaters with propane fueling, this unit is very similar in design to the aforementioned hOmeLabs model.
The AmazonBasics model too has a cylindrical base with the heating unit attached at the top, similar to a lamp head connecting to its base. The heating unit is known to function at a high enough level that it’s even suitable for winter outdoor events.
Constructed from steel, this unit will hold its integrity over time. Contemporary in design, as many AmazonBasics products are, this unit rocks a powder-coated slate-grey finish. This patio heater is also designed for ease of use.
AmazonBasics typically provides highly functional items and they’ve done just that with this commercial patio heater. Its high strength makes it great for those who make the party last all night or who desire a year-round outdoor heating option.
The stainless steel construction ensures that the heater will stand the test of the elements and time. And lastly, having wheels allows you to move around and take the heat with you.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can easily be moved around
- Piezo ignition makes starting simple
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Large heating diameter
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Should be secured when not in use
3. Patio Heater Tall Hammered Finish Garden Outdoor Heater Propane
The next heater, the FDW Patio Heater, is another good option for patio heating in the form of traditional heaters. It carries the same cylindrical base shape connecting a lamp-like heating unit via a neck/pole.
This model has a nice hammered bronze finish that extends from the base up to the bottom of the heating unit. This gives it less of an industrial look, helping to create a comfortable mood in your space.
The wheels make it another viable option for a portable propane patio heater. There’s much to like about this model from FDW.
This model from FDW is great for smaller patios and spaces. While the unit is still rather tall, its heating range is considerably weaker than similar competing models. Therefore, it’s perfect for those small spaces used for evening sitting and relaxing.
It’s a well-designed heater and the hammered bronze finish up to the bottom of the heating unit allows it to fit in almost any yard/space smoothly.
It should be noted that the reflector dome/cap has a large diameter and is also more sharply designed than others, sporting a steel finish in that portion of the heater.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can easily be moved around/transported
- Ignition is simple
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Sharp appearance/design
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Lower BTU rating than similarly functioning models
- Much smaller heating diameter than similar models
4. Hiland HLDS01-SSHGT 48,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater
This next unit, the Hiland Patio Heater (HLDS01-SSHGT), is a well-designed, stainless steel propane patio heater. This model, in comparison to similar competing models, looks more like a piece of usable furniture than merely a heating unit.
This look is accomplished by interrupting the hammered bronze coating with layers and rims of stainless steel. Aiding the unit’s furniture-like feel is an attachable table with a similar bronze coating and steel edging.
Sporting the traditional cylindrical base and neck connected to the heating unit and cap, there’s not much separating it from the competition in terms of function. However, it does have a leg up in a few spots.
The Hiland Patio Heater is ideal for those who are looking for a more ‘done up’ look for their heater. Many of the models in review so far have been single-colored or have had a single finish. This unit breaks up that monotonous streak by providing a heating option with a little more aesthetic character.
While it does have an appealing furniture-like appearance, it will certainly not be the best fit for every space.
Although its heating range is unknown, the model has a pretty high BTU rating, matching the highest of the heaters in review. With its bold appearance and strong output, this model is great for livening your space.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can easily be moved around/transported
- Ignition is simple
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Two-tone finish
- A small, adjustable table adds extra utility
- Manufacturer defect warranty
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Unknown heating range (though with its high BTU rating, it’s likely similar to other equally sized models)
5. Belleze Outdoor Patio Heater with Wheels Portable
The next patio heater in review is the Belleze Premium Outdoor Patio Heater. This is another great option in the traditional style. Like a majority of the options on this review list, this heater has a hammered bronze color finish.
It also has the common cylindrical base and neck extending from that to the heating unit at the top.
This heater from Belleze is one of the strongest heaters in review as well. While it’s fairly common in appearance and form, its heat output matches the highest rating on this list of reviews (48,000).
This unit from Belleze is great for those looking for strong heat output for entertaining and hosting in big spaces. While its heating range is only 15 feet in diameter, its high BTU rating ties it as the strongest on the list. Its steel body will also hold up to the elements well, making it a viable candidate for those who live in areas with expectedly harsher weather.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can easily be moved around/transported
- Piezo ignition is simple
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Steel construction stands up to salt and weather
- Strongest heater in review
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Should only be used outdoors
6. Hiland HLDSO1-GTCB 91-Inch Tall Quartz Glass Tube Heater
The next standing propane patio heater in review is unique so far on the list. The Hiland HLDSO1-GTCB Pyramid Patio Propane Heater is unique because of its pyramidal shape, offering a new aesthetic that has thus far evaded the list.
Its unique and sharp design is intended to be a bit of an artistic take on heating your patio, with it likely becoming a centerpiece of attention. The glass tube that extends from the tank-holding base through to the top of the pyramid houses a large flame when the unit is on, creating a dazzling spectacle.
The unit itself is constructed from durable, Hammered Silver. The outer casing of the pyramidal shape is encaged to prevent things, such as your precious fingers, from getting too close to the flame-filled, heat-emitting tube.
The Hiland HLDSO1-GTCB Pyramid Patio Propane Heater is more than ideal for those looking for heaters with a little flare.
Its appearance alone is a reason to consider this unit. Add in its success of function and you’ve got a delightfully enjoyable patio heater on your hands.
Pros
-
- Easy to use
- Can be moved around/transported
- Easy access housing door
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Entertaining and elegant flame display
- The tallest heater in review to this point
Cons
- Some assembly required
7. Fire Sense 62555 All Seasons Patio Heater With Wheels
If you need a tall propane patio heater with a table, this next option may be for you. The Fire Sense Patio Heater is similar in form and function to the previously reviewed heaters, bearing a cylindrical base body with a neck extending to a lamp-looking heating unit.
The ignitor and setting knob are also located at the top of the neck right below the heating unit, just as in the previously reviewed heater products. This model, however, comes with a table that is adjustable in height and presents a little additional utility on top of the heating.
Like the Sunjoy Lawrence model reviewed at number three, this Fire Sense model has a design/color finish extending from and including the body, up to the base of the heating unit. Designed to stand the test of time and weather, this model sports steel construction.
The Fire Sense Patio Heater is an ideal choice for those looking for some added usefulness in their heater. While heating the space alone is surely an awesome feat, it’s even more awesome to be able to sit your phone or drink on the little table that attaches to the unit.
Much like the Sunjoy Lawrence model, the extended design/color finish makes it slightly more aesthetically pleasing than some of the competition.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can easily be moved around/transported
- Piezo ignition makes starting simple
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Has an attachable table (added utility)
Cons
- Some assembly required
- The unit should be secured when not in use
8. LAUSAINT HOME 48000BTU Patio Heater with Wheels
This next unit, the LAUSAINT HOME Outdoor Patio Heater, is certainly among the top outdoor patio heaters. Carrying the traditional shape, it has a sturdy base accompanied by a lamp-like head that serves as the heating unit.
Unlike the previous two heaters in review, this model utilizes iron in its construction in addition to steel. The base is comprised of iron while the heating head parts are made from steel. The reflector dome/head of the LAUSAINT HOME is double-layered as well, making it sturdier than its counterparts.
This unit is also designed with an appealing elegance. You can set it in your yard or on your patio at any time without creating an obtrusive eyesore. Its black hammered finish suits almost any space.
The LAUSAINT HOME Outdoor Patio Heater is perhaps the most aesthetically pleasing unit reviewed to this point. With the hammered bronze finish extending up to the heating unit, it’s the only model so far that has a decoratively finished neck. The LAUSAINT HOME is ideal for those who weigh design more heavily in their decisions.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can easily be moved around or transported
- Piezo ignition makes starting simple
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Very large heating diameter
- The strongest unit reviewed to this point
- Can be screwed into position (brackets attaching to unit and ground)
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Warranty/product protection costs extra
9. hOmeLabs Gas Patio Heater
This model sports the more common patio heater design of a cylindrical base with a lamp-like head. Crafted from stainless steel parts, this heater model by hOmeLabs is durable and ready to stand up to the elements.
It also has a high BTU (British thermal unit) rating. A large BTU rating is generally associated with the ability to produce high amounts of heat output. In addition to its function, this model is designed to elegantly fit into any patio or yard space. It’s a great mood-setter.
The reflector dome piece is a great addition to the unit as well as it ensures most of the heat working upward is sent back down to warm your area. With its sleek design and ability to be rolled around, this patio heater is great for those who expect to use its heater in more than one place.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can be moved around
- The sand reservoir adds weight to keep the heater in place
Cons
- Assembly required
10. AZ Patio HLDS01-CBT-SCR Tall Outdoor Patio Heater
Sitting at the first spot in these outdoor propane patio heaters reviews is the AZ Patio Heaters Tall Patio Heater with Table. This AZ Patio Heaters model is similar to the traditional, lamp-style standing heater. It has a cylindrical base with a neck/pole extending up to the heating unit.
This model also comes with an adjustable table attachment. This table sits right above the base.
The patio heater and the attachable table both have a hammered bronze, powder-coated finish. This gives the model as a whole a sleek look, making it a good fit for contemporary spaces. Like the heaters reviewed thus far, this model by AZ Patio Heaters is durable and feature-packed.
This AZ Patio Heaters Tall Patio Heater with Table is a convenient outdoor heating option. The unit is fairly tall and its black, sleek appearance makes it a viable fit for various spaces. It has a large heating diameter and outpaces the competition in this category.
Its heat output (BTU), however, is considerably lower than the similarly functioning models in these reviews.
The added, attachable table is a nice extra, allowing for a place to sit drinks or devices, etc. While it’s weaker in terms of strength of heat output, there are plenty of positives in this heater making it worthy of consideration.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can easily be moved around/transported
- Ignition starting is simple
- Safety auto shut-off (if unit tips)
- Has an attachable table (added utility)
- Large heating diameter
Cons
- Assembly required
- Lower BTU rating than similarly functioning models
Tips on Choosing
Research and compare:
While reading reviews such as this one can be massively helpful, it’s also a great idea to compare products you’re considering with one another. By putting in the time to research the details of each product and putting them up against each other, you can gain a pretty good idea of which product suits your needs most appropriately.
Also, as part of researching, it’s generally good practice to look up and try to grasp terms and ideas associated with products that you aren’t already familiar with.
Get a hands-on feel:
While this may not be feasible for every reader, checking these things out in person can give you a good feel for whether or not it’s for you. As good as pictures are for showing us products and their details, nothing compares to standing with something and seeing how you feel about it.
By getting hands-on experience with some heater models, you’ll be able to figure out things such as what kind of ignition you like, what size feels right, etc. Ultimately, it will help you to bring forth the vision that you have in mind for your patio space or yard.
Rely on brands:
While heaters are not like sneakers and there is no clear-cut best choice in brand, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for brands that pop up frequently in your search for heaters. Generally speaking, brands with a more eminent online presence will be reliable. However, this doesn’t mean just flying into things blindfolded either.
If you do spot a brand you feel is reliable and runs a successful business, read their reviews, read the comment sections of their products, and do a quick search on them. Doing your independent homework on brands and their products is the best way to avoid any unwanted pitfalls.
Factors To Consider
Your patio/space:
The first factor to consider before buying a patio heater is the patio or yard area in which you intend to place the heater. You want to be sure that the space is accommodating a portable heater. This means ensuring there is ample height for the unit to operate as well as plenty of space around where the heater will be.
Heaters should generally be placed at least 30 inches from flammable materials. So butting a heater up against the edge of a flower bed probably won’t work out. Know your space because by doing so you are more readily able to discern between heaters that are and aren’t suitable for your needs.
Style:
The next factor to consider is style. Style encompasses many aspects of the patio heater. This is anything from the form of the heater to the finish. We encountered two forms of patio heaters in these reviews: the cylindrical, lamp-like heaters and the pyramidal heaters with tubes through the center.
The pyramidal heaters are slightly less effective heating-wise but they’re more elegantly designed and are more of a visual display than the traditional heaters. And while most of the units reviewed are constructed of steel, not all of them are. Also, many of the models we’ve covered in these reviews have a hammered bronze finish. This is a fairly neutral color for outdoors but it’s not for everyone.
Your preference plays a big role in which heater you decide to go with.
Strength of the heater:
Probably the most important factor to consider when shopping for a patio heater is the heater’s strength. While it could depend on the heater, the general rule of thumb is the higher the BTU rating, the more capable a unit is of heating a larger area. BTU ratings have a direct effect on each model’s heating range.
However, just because a unit is the strongest, it doesn’t mean it’s the one for your space. Remember your space needs to fit the heater just as the heater should fit your space.
Conclusion
These propane patio heater reviews should help you shop for the right patio heater with confidence. To conclude, the heater for you and your space may not be what’s considered the best of them all.
By learning the ins and outs of individual models and familiarizing yourself with the features that help them stand out from one another, you’re lessening the confusion and stress that can come with shopping for an item such as a patio heater.
These reviews list the propane patio heaters available. Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t explore more options. If anything, it will help you learn even more about heaters and their strengths and weaknesses. With the spring and summer seasons here and among us, it’s about time to get that perfect heater for your space.
There’s no time to waste, get an awesome portable patio heater for your space today!
