Introduction

Spending time outdoors is great, but when the temperature drops, it can put a damper on your patio hangs. Outdoor ceiling heaters allow you to comfortably extend the outdoor living season and entertain guests in your outdoor space long after summer ends.

This guide looks at five of the top-rated outdoor ceiling heaters on the market for 2023. We cover standout features, pros and cons, and key specifications to consider for each model. Read on to discover which outdoor ceiling heater could work best for your needs and budget this year and keep your outdoor oasis warm and welcoming even on chilly nights.

Table of Contents

• Bromic Smart-Heat Electric Ceiling Heater
• Fire Sense Commercial Grade Steel Heater
• Heatstrip Cascade Heavy-Duty Exterior Heater
• Ener-G+ 4800W Meridian Infrared Heater
• Thermofilm Radiant Quartz Ceiling Mount
• FAQs
• The Verdict

1 Bromic Smart-Heat Electric Ceiling Heater

The Bromic Smart-Heat is a sleek and modern-looking electric ceiling heater that blends nicely into your outdoor décor. It provides targeted heat control through its integrated WiFi and touch panel dimmer, allowing you to adjust warmth levels from your phone.

Standout Features:

• Advanced carbon fiber heating elements
• 1500W power
• Modern, low-profile design
• WiFi app and voice control
• Integrated dimmer touch panel

PROS:	CONS:
Heats up to 18-foot diameter Energy efficient Nearly silent when operating Easy installation Advanced safety features	Expensive Only comes in black

Specifications:

• Materials: Aluminum, carbon fiber
• Heat coverage diameter: 18 feet
• Mounting: Ceiling flush mount
• Heat output: 1500W
• Dimensions: 23.6 x 23.6 x 3.6 inches
• Weight: 15 pounds
• Warranty: 2 years

The Smart-Heat from Bromic checks all the boxes in terms of looks, smart features, safety, energy efficiency, and heating power. It comes at a premium price but is worth it for the high-quality materials and coverage area it provides for outdoor lounging well into the cold seasons.

2 Fire Sense Commercial Grade Steel Heater

With rugged steel construction and wide-span heat, the Fire Sense Commercial Grade model is built to last. It offers versatile ceiling, wall, or pole mounting and puts out plenty of warmth for large gatherings.

Standout Features:

• Durable and weatherproof steel housing
• Commercial-grade construction
• 46,000 BTU output
• Optional wall/pole mount kit

PROS:	CONS:
Heats up to a 20-foot diameter High heat output Can use propane or natural gas Safety auto shut-off 1-year warranty	Basic manual controls On the heavy side at 85 pounds

Specifications:

• Materials: Steel
• Heat coverage diameter: 20 feet
• Mounting: Ceiling (wall/pole optional)
• Heat output: 46,000 BTUs
• Dimensions: 37 x 8 x 38 inches
• Weight: 85 pounds
• Warranty: 1 year

With some of the highest heating specs in its class and versatile mounting options, the Fire Sense Commercial Grade unit is one of the top heavy-duty performers that stand up to repeated use and large coverage demands. It lacks some of the fancy features of other heaters but more than makes up for it in power and durability.

3 Heatstrip Cascade Heavy-Duty Exterior Heater

Boasting commercial-grade stainless steel, the Cascade from Heatstrip drives consistent, uniform heat coverage over large spaces. Its modern rounded design and neutral color options fit a variety of outdoor aesthetics beautifully.

Standout Features:

• Commercial-grade 304 stainless steel
• Curved space-age exterior
• Covers 26-foot diameter
• Optional light kit available

PROS:	CONS:
4 heat settings Whisper-quiet operation Cool-touch exterior Year-round outdoor rating Attractive modern design	Expensive Bulky at 17 inches deep

Specifications:

• Materials: 304 stainless steel
• Heat coverage diameter: 26 feet
• Mounting: Ceiling flush mount
• Heat output: 50,000 BTUs
• Dimensions: 35.4 x 35.4 x 17 inches
• Weight: 88 pounds
• Warranty: 1 year

With the largest coverage area in our reviews, the Cascade stainless steel model from Heatstrip puts out an incredible 50,000 BTUs for heating broad outdoor living areas. Its high-end construction and availability in three neutral colors let it disappear beautifully into your outdoor décor while you enjoy cozy warmth long into the evening.

4 Ener-G+ 4800W Meridian Infrared Heater

Providing instant, targeted heat with energy-efficient infrared technology, the Meridian from Ener-G+ features slimwave quartz tubes that generate gentle warmth across patios and outdoor rooms.

Standout Features:

• Infrared quartz glass tubes
• Instant, direct warmth
• Ceiling or wall mounting
• IP55 weatherproof rating

PROS:	CONS:
Lower running costs Fast heat and cool down Good for sporadic heating Smaller hot zone ideal for tables Safety auto shut-off	Low overall BTU output Visible component design

Specifications:

• Materials: Steel, glass
• Heat coverage diameter: 11 feet
• Mounting: Ceiling or wall
• Heat output: 4800W
• Dimensions: 45.3 x 8.3 x 4.3 inches
• Weight: 26 pounds
• Warranty: 1 year

If you want targeted infrared warmth for smaller outdoor spaces like patios and balconies, the stylish and efficient Meridian delivers. It focuses heat directly where you want it without wasting energy warming the surrounding air. Quick to turn on and off, it works nicely for periodic heating needs.

5 Thermofilm Radiant Quartz Ceiling Mount

Providing instant radiant heat with energy-saving quartz glass tube technology, this Thermofilm model offers an adjustable louver system to direct warmth right where your outdoor living space needs it most.

Standout Features:

• Quartz glass tube heating
• Adjustable louvers
• Overheat auto shut-off
• IP55 weatherproof rating

PROS:	CONS:
Energy efficient Louvers direct heat zone Good for intermittent heat Easy installation Wall mounting option	Lower BTU than steel models Visible component design

Specifications:

• Materials: Steel, glass
• Heat coverage diameter: 10 feet
• Mounting: Ceiling (wall optional)
• Heat output: 3500W
• Dimensions: 43.3 x 7.9 x 3.9 inches
• Weight: 22 pounds
• Warranty: 1 year

For focused warming of smaller outdoor living spaces, the Thermofilm radiant quartz heater delivers instant, targeted heat without breaking the bank. The adjustable louver feature lets you channel warmth exactly where you want it, perfect for periodic patio use on cooler evenings.

FAQs

What are the main types of outdoor ceiling heaters?

The most common outdoor ceiling heater fuel types are electric, natural gas, propane, and infrared/quartz. Electric heaters offer convenient plugin operation while gas/propane models provide greater heating output for larger areas. Infrared and quartz glass heaters focus instant warmth directly onto outdoor living spaces.

What size heater do I need?

Choose your heater based on the square footage you aim to heat. Standard electric patio heaters warm 6-to-10-foot diameters while more powerful propane/gas models can heat 20-foot-plus diameters comfortably. Focus infrared for targeted tabletop heating.

What are key safety features to look for?

Quality heaters have integrated auto shut-off switches that activate if sensors detect overheating, tipping, or other irregular operation. Wall/ceiling-mounted units should have cool-touch exteriors. Check product specs for independent safety certifications like UL, IPX4, etc.

How difficult is installation?

Most outdoor ceiling heaters include mounting hardware for attaching directly to ceilings or walls. Flush/recessed models usually require professional installation. Read specs carefully and confirm your DIY abilities before purchasing. Consider hiring an electrician or handyman for gas piping, wiring, ventilation, etc. if needed.

Should I buy a warranty?

While many quality heaters come with at least a 1-year warranty, extended protection of 3-to-5 years can provide great peace of mind on pricier products given their year-round outdoor operation. Price out add-on warranty options when available for your desired heater.

The Verdict

Update your outdoor living space with one of these top-rated patio heaters and enjoy cooler temp gatherings from the comfort of your yard. From smart electric models like the Bromic Smart-Heat to powerful options like the Fire Sense Commercial Grade or sleek infrared quartz systems from Thermofilm and Ener-G+, there’s an outdoor ceiling heater here to meet any budget or coverage need.