Best Outdoor Heater For Covered Patio

If you're looking to extend your outdoor living season, a patio heater is a great way to do it. Patio heaters can provide warmth and comfort on even the coldest nights, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space year-round. But with so many different patio heaters on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.

To help you make the best decision, we've put together a guide to the best outdoor heaters for covered patios. We'll cover the different types of patio heaters, the features to consider when choosing one, and our top picks for the best patio heaters on the market.

Types of Patio Heaters

There are three main types of patio heaters: gas, electric, and wood-burning.

Gas patio heaters are the most popular type, and for good reason. They're relatively inexpensive to operate, they produce a lot of heat, and they're easy to use. Gas patio heaters typically run on propane or natural gas, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes.
Electric patio heaters are a good option if you don't have access to a gas line. They're also relatively inexpensive to operate, and they're easy to use. However, electric patio heaters don't produce as much heat as gas patio heaters, and they can be more expensive to purchase.
Wood-burning patio heaters are a great option if you want to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. They produce a lot of heat, and they can be used to cook food. However, wood-burning patio heaters can be more expensive to operate than gas or electric patio heaters, and they require more maintenance.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Patio Heater

When choosing a patio heater, there are a few factors to consider:

Heat output: The heat output of a patio heater is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The higher the BTU rating, the more heat the patio heater will produce. If you have a large patio, you'll need a patio heater with a higher BTU rating.
Coverage area: The coverage area of a patio heater is the area that it can effectively heat. The coverage area of a patio heater will vary depending on the type of heater, the BTU rating, and the wind conditions.
Fuel type: Patio heaters can run on propane, natural gas, or wood. Propane and natural gas patio heaters are relatively inexpensive to operate, but wood-burning patio heaters can be more expensive.
Style: Patio heaters come in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary. Choose a style that complements your patio decor.
Price: Patio heaters range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping, and be prepared to pay more for a higher-quality heater.

Our Top Picks for the Best Patio Heaters

Now that you know what to look for in a patio heater, here are our top picks for the best patio heaters on the market:

Best overall: Fire Sense Hammered Copper Propane Patio Heater
Best budget: AmazonBasics Outdoor Patio Heater
Best electric: Infratech Dual Element Electric Patio Heater
Best wood-burning: Solo Stove Bonfire
Best for large patios: SunGlo Patio Heater

With so many great patio heaters on the market, you're sure to find one that's perfect for your needs. So get ready to enjoy your outdoor space all year round.