Whether you are entertaining guests in the backyard or you own a restaurant and want to keep your customers warm, outdoor space heaters can be a great way to take advantage of more time outdoors even when it starts to get chilly. You will want a space heater to be high quality as well as economical, especially if you will be needing multiple outdoor space heaters.
We have pulled together the best outdoor space heaters for the money in multiple designs and styles so you can choose which one works best for your yard and needs. Outdoor space heaters do not have to be very expensive in order to get the job done of keeping you and your friends warm as you continue to enjoy your evening outside year-round.
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The Best Outdoor Space Heaters
All of our selections have been chosen with quality and price in mind. When choosing a space heater, some may be slightly more expensive than others, but the real attention should be paid to the features that each of the heaters provides. The price is important, but these have been specifically selected because they will be long-lasting and fulfill your outdoor heating needs.
We have chosen the 8 best outdoor space heaters that will provide optimal results and be worth the investment. These outdoor space heaters range in type, functionality, and are catered towards different consumers, giving you lots of options regardless of your outdoor patio heating needs.
AmazonBasics Commercial Outdoor Patio Heater
With the simple mushroom heater design, the AmazonBasics Commercial Outdoor Patio Heater can be used in almost any application to heat an area. The powder-coated finish on the metal gives it a modern look and also works to prevent rust or damage. The heating radius is up to 18 feet with a heat output of 46,000 BTUs and is simple to turn on and off with a push of a button.
We recommend this outdoor heater for both residential and commercial settings because it offers great warmth creation (without being overwhelming) and is sturdy and durable. It can provide large areas with heat, allowing you to limit the number you’ll need, especially in a commercial setting.
What We Like
- The space heater comes in multiple colors to best match your outdoor furniture and color scheme
- Wheel assembly is included, allowing you to wheel the heater easily to your desired location
- Incredibly easy to ignite and turn off with a simple Piezo ignition
- Allows for different heat settings to keep yourself at the desired level of warmth and energy use
What We Don’t
- The instructions can be slightly confusing, and your own wrenches will work better than those provided
- The heater is very tall, which may take away from some of the heating impact for those sitting down or in shorter areas
Air Choice Patio Heater (Ceiling Mounted)
Unlike the free-standing patio heaters that are very common, the Air Choice Patio Heater is used by being suspended from a ceiling, gazebo, or other structure to provide the area with heat. This can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications to heat a wide area below. The heater can heat a room in just 3 seconds without the overwhelming heat casting down.
We recommend this product for homeowners who want a versatile outdoor space heater. It is particularly useful for covered patios and gazebos as the heater must attach to something above. This will give an even distribution of heat to all under it.
What We Like
- The heater automatically turns off if tipped over as a safety precaution
- Sitting under 4 pounds, this is a lightweight heater that can easily be hung from anywhere
- The heater’s simple design is both useful and visually appealing, offering heat as well as light to an outdoor space
- They offer a two-year warranty on their product in the event that it stops working properly
What We Don’t
- It can only be used in locations that have a structure to secure it to from above
Air Choice Outdoor Electric Heater
Unlike many of the gas-operated outdoor heaters, the Air Choice Outdoor Electric Heater does not burn any fuels to operate. It is also focused on energy saving, offering three heating intensities for any heat preference as well as energy regulation to save electricity. This is a standing heater that can be adjusted in height, depending on your needs.
We recommend this for anyone that wants to heat a space quickly. This heater is designed for residential use and can be utilized both indoors and outdoors.
What We Like
- You can adjust the angle of the heater to cast heat in your desired direction
- The heater is weather and dust-proof for safety, allowing the heater to be protected in many conditions
- The heater will shut off if it is tipped over or senses overheating
- Two-year warranty is available as well as responsive customer service for help
What We Don’t
- Due to it being electric, a power source is required, and you will need to connect the cord to an outlet
- This heater is more expensive than many of the others we recommend but is still a high-quality purchase
TRUSTECH Patio Heater
The TRUSTECH Patio Heater is a wall-mounted heater that can provide you with warmth indoors and outdoors. It is easily mounted to any wall that allows for drilling, making it easy to add to most patio spaces. This will give you more room for guests on the patio and will provide a more even distribution of heat.
Made with aluminum, it is durable and sturdy for outdoor environments. We recommend this for both small and large areas that want to be fully heat covered. It also offers adjustable heat settings to save energy.
What We Like
- Uses remote control technology, so you never have to climb up the heater especially in more difficult locations
- LCD display shows the temperature at all times for tinkering and adjusting
- Timer settings will allow you to use for desired time period with automatic shut off
- Can provide heat to an area in only 3 seconds
What We Don’t
- As an electric heater, it will require proximity to a power source
- It may not be the most visually appealing or discrete in design to some users
PAMAPIC Patio Heater
The gas-powered PAMAPIC Patio Heaters are made of stainless steel, making them a durable and attractive addition to your yard with a powder-coating on the outside. Offering up to 18 feet of heat in every direction, the heater will provide ample and steady heat to large outdoor spaces. It is also easy to transport with a wheel system for any location.
We recommend this heater for both residential and commercial spaces as it is tall enough to not interfere with those walking around and can provide plenty of heat for lots of people.
What We Like
- The heater is easily ignited with the piezo igniter button for convenience
- Unlike many space heaters that require complete top removal to replace gas tank, the PAMAPIC has a door for easy tank replacement
- Comes with a patio cover to protect it from the elements when not in use
- You can adjust the heat setting to your desired preference
What We Don’t
- The bottom of the base is not weighted, making it necessary to add additional weight in windier conditions
Belleze Outdoor Patio Heater
With a range of 15 feet for heating, the Belleze Outdoor Patio Heater is offered in seven different colors to match any outdoor patio and its furniture. The piezo ignition system makes it easy to start and allows for heat adjustments to your preference. This is one of the best value patio heaters for the amount of heat it gives off at its price point.
This patio heater is recommended for both residential and commercial use. It has a wheel system for easy transport while still being heavy duty to hold its ground in the wind. This heater is ideal for larger outdoor spaces as it can provide ample heat to big spaces. This is a great space heater for entertaining larger groups outdoors.
What We Like
- The heater is aesthetically pleasing for outdoor spaces, not creating an unattractive focal point
- It is easy to assemble, allowing you to spend more time enjoying its heating abilities
- For the quality it brings in heating and durability, it is a great low-cost option
What We Don’t
- Some users have difficulty lighting the heater (make sure you have ample propane and it is attached correctly)
Fire Sense Table Top Patio Heater
If you want something a bit smaller and easier to transport, opt for the Fire Sense Table Top Patio Heater. It will give you ample heat people around a table and is durable with a weighted base. You can adjust the heat for desired warmth as well as gas saving to make the fuel last longer. This is an ideal solution for a bit of warmth without heating an entire area.
We recommend this for those wishing to warm a few people up as it gets chilly. The heating range is much smaller than larger outdoor patio heaters.
What We Like
- It is convenient and easily portable to use in any outdoor setting
- Easy assembly so you enjoy your heated area more quickly
What We Don’t
- The 1lb. propane tank does not last a long time (burns quickly), so we recommend getting a hose adapter and hooking it up to a larger tank
- Some users have difficulty getting the patio heater lit
Mr. Heater Multi-Use Outdoor Heater
If you need a heating solution for things other than a patio, such as camping, sporting events, garages, or job sites, then the Mr. Heater is a great heating option for you. It is small and convenient, being hooked up directly to a propane tank (mounts to a 20lb. propane tank). It has a 360-degree rotating burner that will provide heat in many directions to quickly heat a space.
You can adjust the heat settings, and it turns off automatically for safety. We recommend this product for users who will need heat in many unique applications. This could be used on a patio, but it is typically reserved for areas that need a bit more portability.
What We Like
- It easily starts every time with a push button valve system
- The heater is durable, being able to tip over without damage or excessive dents
- This is an incredibly diverse heating tool that can be used in many applications
What We Don’t
- This heater is not aesthetically appealing as it is designed simply to provide heat
- Because it produces propane gas, it cannot be used in a closed space. If being used in a garage, make sure there is a door open or great ventilation
What to Look for in An Outdoor Space Heater
Now that we have given you some great options for your space heating needs, it is important to identify what you should be looking for when making a purchase. This will be largely dependent on your desired needs for space heating, but there are some general decisions and considerations you should make when choosing.
Some of these considerations include:
- Power Source: You will have to decide whether you want a gas-powered or an electric outdoor heater. Gas-powered heaters are often more powerful and convenient in that they can be put anywhere without an outlet. Electric heaters are better for the environment as they do not burn gas. Both can provide quality heating sources.
- Scope of Heating: You will need to determine the range and power of the heating based on the size of the area you plan to heat. This is measured in BTUs of heat (British Thermal Unit used to measure energy). Greater BTUs will provide a greater heat source but also use up more gas and energy to heat the larger space.
- Variable Heating: Some space heaters may not give you options in choosing the intensity of heating. This not only impacts the amount of heat being released but the amount of energy that is used as well. Looking for variable heating is often preferred when choosing an outdoor space heater.
- Durability: Choose a space heater that will not weather easily and can withstand staying outdoors. This is usually stainless steel and powder-covered to protect the metal. Those with covers will help to increase the lifetime of your outdoor space heater.
- Portability: Many space heaters come with wheels or are light enough to transport easily. Having these additional features makes it much easier to put in your desired location without a huge hassle.
- Type of Heater: Based on your preferences, you will need to decide if you want a free-standing heater or one that is attached to a wall or ceiling. Free-standing heaters may give you more options, but also could be cumbersome or distracting in a space. Hanging heaters can often provide more even heating coverage and are out of the way.
- Value: You want to choose a space heater that not only provides the necessary features listed here, but at an attractive price point. Those listed throughout this article are provide top quality heating technology while being in a reasonable price range.
These are areas to consider when choosing an outdoor space heater. Those listed throughout this article hit the marks in almost all categories. You will want to pick one that is specific to your needs for heating outdoor spaces as well as caters to your desired budget. Most of the space heaters on this list fall within the same general quality and price range.
What Is the Best Outdoor Space Heater for The Money?
Choosing an outdoor space heater can be an overwhelming decision with the sheer number of heaters available on the market. You must first determine the details of your need for a heater and what you hope to accomplish in using it. Then you can pick from a variety that will satisfy those needs.
For the best free-standing outdoor space heater, we recommend the PAMAPIC Patio Heater. It is not only durable and aesthetically pleasing in your yard or outdoor space, but it offers easy propane tank replacement and a very wide scope of heating (up to 18 feet in diameter). It is heavy duty to handle wind and survive outdoors.
If you are looking for a hanging heater, we recommend the Air Choice Patio Heater. It is lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, provides ample heat and light for the given area, and offers useful safety features in the event that it is knocked over. This is a great solution to heat an area without the cumbersome size of a traditional space heater. Both of these heaters can be used in residential and commercial applications. You won’t go wrong with any of the heaters we’ve detailed for you, but these are our top picks to check out when you need to purchase an outdoor space heater. With all the considerations mapped out for you, you can now make an educated choice on the best outdoor heater for the money.
