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9 Patio Heaters to Keep You Warm and Cozy When It's Cold Outside
Bring on the heat!
Chilly summer nights are no issue thanks to the best outdoor patio heaters on the market. And if aesthetics are your concern, don't worry because not all patio heaters are big, bulky, and imposing light fixtures that glow in an aggressive shade of orange. Some, in fact, are quite elegant and can only add to the style of your outdoor space.
Yes, we've found the best of the best including a sleek option designed to look like a towering floor lamp for an arc light-inspired alternative. And when fall and winter come along, these will be ready to help you lounge and relax outdoors when it's time to cozy up in a soft blanket. These picks are so good that even if the ground is covered in a thick layer of snow, you’ll actually want to hang outside this winter. You may not even notice the temperatures have dipped below freezing!
In case you're worried that your outdoor area is too small for a massive heater, don't stress. We spotlighted propane options that can safely squeeze into even the tiniest spaces. Did we mention that many of the choices are priced under $500? So whether you’re filling out your sprawling backyard with a Brutalist-style gem or huddling around an electric table that warms up at the touch of a button, you’re bound to find something that brings the heat in style. Trust us, your new outdoor heater will quickly become the hottest spot in your home.
East Oak Patio Heater
Pros
- Waterproof
- Three heat settings
Cons
- May be too heavy
With an on and off timer, remote control, and overheating protection, this compact patio heater is one of our favorites. It also has a USB port for charging your phone.
West Elm Standing Heater Lamp
Pros
- Sleek design
- Three heat settings
Cons
- Requires assembly
If we had to pick the most beautiful patio heater on the list, it would be this plug-in West Elm lamp with a steel and rubber body in a soft matte black. At first glance, it looks like a regular floor light, but it can warm up any space with 51,000 BTUs.
Amazon Basics Outdoor Propane Patio Heater
Pros
- Includes wheels
- Comes in multiple colors
- Adjustable temperature
Cons
- Complex assembly instructions
With a quick start ignition button and wheels for easy maneuvering, this heater is the epitome of convenience. A powerful 46,000 BTU makes it great for outdoor dining and entertaining.
Q-Stoves Q-Flame Portable Wood Pellet Outdoor Heater
Q-Stoves Q-Flame Portable Wood Pellet Outdoor Heater
Pros
- No propane or electricity required
- Burns up to four hours
- Adjustable feet that works on all surfaces
Cons
- May be difficult to clean
This old fashioned-looking stove looks like something you'd find in an early 20th-century lodge. However, it's designed with modern living in mind. For instance, it uses smokeless wood pellets that emit 106,000 BTUs to cover a 10-foot radius.
Sharper Image Outdoor Bistro Infrared Heated Table
Sharper Image Outdoor Bistro Infrared Heated Table
Pros
- Compact
- Quiet
- Bulb lasts 5,000 hours
Cons
- Seats only two people
We love a piece of furniture that works double-duty, which explains why this table-turned-patio heater ended up on our list. Plus, you can enjoy an al fresco meal or cocktail hour without burning your skin or clothes if you touch the heater. Just aim for the surface because we can't say the same of the base.
Bromic Eclipse Smart-Heat Portable Electric Patio Heater
Bromic Eclipse Smart-Heat Portable Electric Patio Heater
Pros
- Corrosion-resistant
- Dimmable
- Includes wheels
Cons
- Expensive
A unique take on the 1962 Arco floor lamp, this Bromic patio heater features dimmable LED lighting and an impressive reach when it comes to keeping the crowd warm.
Hampton Bay Stainless Steel Patio Heater
Hampton Bay Stainless Steel Patio Heater
Pros
- Includes wheels
- Anti-tilt weighted base
- Good heat throw
Cons
- Difficult to assemble
The stainless steel build of this heater is both sleek and durable, ready to last through the elements. It comes with an output of 48,000 BTU, allowing you to spend up to 10 hours relaxing outdoors.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy assembly
- Portable
Cons
- Doesn't last as long
If you're working with a smaller outdoor space or having an intimate backyard dinner, this outdoor patio heater is sized for tabletops without sacrificing power. Its bronze finish will blend in nicely with many outdoor furniture sets.
Frontgate Commercial Patio Heater
Frontgate Commercial Patio Heater
Pros
- Auto shut-off valve
- Heats up quickly
Cons
- Prone to tipping in wind
The powerful, long-lasting warmth of this heater is especially useful on cold nights. Says one reviewer: "We purchased this handsome heater to allow us to sit on our patio in the Rockies during winter months and because of its high quality, we are able do so."
What is the best outdoor heater for a covered porch?
If you're including an outdoor heater on a covered porch, be sure to measure the ceiling height. Put at least 12 inches between the top of the heater and the ceiling to avoid creating a fire hazard.
What is the most efficient outdoor heating?
The higher the BTUs, the more heat is generated. We'd suggest any heater with at least 30,000 BTUs. That way, whether you're sitting under it or a few feet away, you'll still feel warm.
Why trust us?
We do the research and find the best deals so that you don't have to! When it comes to finding quality products meant to keep you comfortable, we've done our homework!
Jessica Cherner is House Beautiful’s associate shopping editor and knows where to find the best high-low pieces for any room.
Janae McKenzie covers all things shopping for House Beautiful. As an associate shopping editor, she’s constantly scoping out the best finds for every part of your home. Janae holds an MA in journalism from the University of Missouri and has been published in Glamour, Food Network and Vox Magazine.
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