The start of cold weather often means the end of spending time outdoors, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you spent time mowing your lawn, tending your garden and tidying up your backyard, you should get to show it off for more than a few months of the year. Plus, entertaining outside means less mess to clean up inside. But how do you convince guests to take their drinks and food outdoors when the weather is chilly? With a patio heater.
As the easiest (and shockingly affordable) answer to entertaining outdoors in chilly weather, patio heaters are mobile, simple to use, and can cover large areas of open space. They’re not only great for entertaining groups, but we also like using our patio heater to keep us warm while having our morning coffee outside and providing an extra layer of heat when sipping a nightcap in the backyard.
From large outdoor events and backyard parties to getting a few more months of use out of your deck, a patio heater is the easiest way to enjoy the fresh air after the sun has gone down.
1. Hiland Propane Patio Heater
The Hiland Propane Patio Heater combines power and style. Packing an impressive 48,000 BTUs, the Hiland is powerful enough to produce a heat source that users can feel up to 12 feet away. A removable table that sits above the tank storage provides a convenient place for users to place drinks or small dishes. An anti-tilt safety switch is built-in, and the unit includes a CSA thermocouple. Thoughtful add-ons like wheels for easy mobility and a burner cover are all included in this stylish patio heater. The 87-inch-tall Hiland can fit any standard 20-pound propane tank (not included).
Pros: Features a 360-degree table for drinks, anti-tilt safety switch, includes burner cover.
Cons: Limited color options.
2. Thermo Tiki Outdoor Propane Patio Heater
Keep your outdoor space warm and stylish by using the Thermo Tiki Outdoor Propane Patio Heater. The attractive outdoor heater has a faux-flame look that is soothing to watch and keeps users warm when temperatures cool. The professional-grade heater stands 90 inches tall and has built-in storage space to house a 20-pound propane tank for fuel (must be purchased separately). The Thermo Tiki has a range of 15 feet and pushes out 38,000 BTU of heat. Compliant with ANSI, CE, and CSA standards and specifications, the heater has a built-in safety valve that will automatically shut off the fuel supply should the heater be tipped over. We also like that the Thermo Tiki has wheels for easy portability.
Pros: Functional decor piece, professional-grade quality, built-in safety valve.
Cons: The Thermo Tiki works best at a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit and above.
3. Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater
Stay warm while watching a little league game in the stands, in the comfort of your own backyard, or while camping, hunting or fishing with the Texsport Portable Outdoor Propane Heater. Easily pairing with a 16.4-ounce. or 14.1-ounce disposable propane tank (not included), the fan design of the Texasport helps push out heat and warm those in close proximity. The control knob allows users to adjust the 2,890 BTU output. An aluminum reflector with a safety grid and an auto-shutoff valve for when the flame goes out provides users with an added peace of mind. A large foldaway padded foot base provides stability in an outdoor setting. A durable stainless steel burner and copper hardware come together to create a long-lasting portable heat source.
Pros: Lightweight and portable, ideal for camping or using at home, include several safety features.
Cons: The head of the heater is not adjustable and cannot be angled.