The 7 Best Outdoor Heaters for Open Spaces 2023
Introduction
Making the most out of patios, gardens, community parks or restaurants during colder months requires a heavy-duty outdoor heater that can withstand the elements while warming those expansive gathering areas. This 3,400+ word guide covers the top-rated outdoor heaters specifically designed for heating big open spaces, so you can determine which model best fits your needs.
You’ll get in-depth analysis of product performance, features, pros and cons, and other considerations to pick the right open-air heating solution for your situation. Read on to discover which outdoor heaters deliver the power, durability and size to transform your outdoor venues into comfortable year-round destinations.
Table of Contents
- Best Overall: Thermo Tiki Deluxe Pyramid Propane Patio Heater
- Best Value: Hiland Pyramid Style Propane Patio Heater
- Most Unique Design: Fire Sense Hammer Tone Commercial Patio Heater
- Best Wind Resistance: Thermo Tiki Wind Guard Propane Patio Torch
- Best Electric: Dr. Infrared Carbon Infrared Outdoor Quartz Patio Heater
- Best Tabletop: AZ Electric Tabletop Stainless Steel Patio Heater
- Most Stylish: Fire Sense Avon Gold Stainless Steel Patio Heater
Top 2 Outdoor Space Heater Picks
This guide will lay out specifications for 7 recommended outdoor heaters for warming large open areas during any season, allowing you to compare which heater best fits your needs. Continue reading for full details or skip ahead to the “Best Overall” and “Best Value” picks if you just want our top recommendations now.
1 Best Overall: Thermo Tiki Deluxe Pyramid Propane Patio Heater
| PROS: | CONS: |
| Very high 50,000 BTU heat output Heats up to 15-foot diameter Auto safety shut-off if tipped 28 color options available | Expensive price tag Heavy at 85 pounds |
Specs:
- Stainless steel mesh emitter & burner
- Aluminum pyramid design over 6 feet tall
- Tempered glass tube enclosure
With unmatched power and durable construction that withstands the rigors of outdoor placement, the Thermo Tiki Deluxe Pyramid Propane Patio Heater is the best overall choice. This robust unit produces an exceptional 50,000 BTUs to comfortably heat areas up to 15 feet across – perfect for patios, decks, gardens and commercial spaces.
The tempered glass tube enclosure protects the vibrant flame while amplifying heat output through a greenhouse effect. Stainless steel components resist corrosion and wear. The reliable pyramid design stands over 6 feet tall while still allowing adjustability via heat/flame control knobs.
While heavy at 85 pounds and requiring a 20 pound propane tank (not included), the power and quality can’t be beaten. With availability in 28 colors, it also complements any existing décor beautifully. We confidently rate this workhorse heater #1 for large outdoor venue heating needs.
2 Best Value: Hiland Pyramid Style Propane Patio Heater
| PROS: | CONS: |
| Powerful 40,000 BTU heat output Heats areas 15 feet diameter Safety auto tip-over shut-off Stainless steel emitter and burner Integrated wheels for mobility | Tall, tip-prone pyramid shape No wind shield |
Specs:
- Steel frame in hammered bronze
- Aluminum base with wheels
- Over 87 inches tall
With the second highest heat output at a more affordable price point, the Hiland Pyramid Style Propane Patio Heater offers serious warmth for the money. The ample 40,000 BTUs will comfortably heat spaces up to 15 feet across without breaking budgets.
The elegant pyramid steel frame comes finished in a temperature-resistant hammered bronze coating that withstands corrosion and scratches over years of use. Powered by propane from a 20 pound tank, the eco-friendly heater glows for up to 10 hours of heat thanks to an efficient piezo ignition system and adjustable heat settings. Sturdy built-in wheels allow easy repositioning.
Just note the slim pyramid architecture makes it more prone to tipping over in windy conditions. Still, this impressively powered unit outperforms competitors for value focused buyers.
3 Most Unique Design: Fire Sense Hammer Tone Commercial Patio Heater
| PROS: | CONS: |
| Beautiful oil-rubbed bronze finish Powerful 48,000 BTU heat radius Heats 20-foot diameter Wheels for mobility Safety auto shut-off | Expensive Heavy at 104 lbs |
Specs:
- Hammered bronze steel construction
- Commercial-grade stainless steel burner
- Steel pole and durable base
The Fire Sense Hammer Tone Commercial Patio Heater brings both beauty and power in a unique package. Beyond the high 48,000 BTU output warming areas up to 20 feet in diameter, the visually striking oil-rubbed bronze barrel gives off gorgeous ambient light from the dancing flames within.
This stylish barrel surrounds the commercial-grade stainless steel burner, protecting the heat while amplifying warmth consistency in the process. Despite its power, inside knobs allow heat adjustability from high down to low as desired. The sturdy steel pole base has built-in wheels for convenient mobility.
We love the eye-catching hammered barrel housing that takes this patio heater’s presence to the next level in terms of aesthetics. Just prepare to pay for the premium design and hefty weight. But for gorgeous looks and commercial-level heating capabilities, it delivers in one impressive package.
4 Best Wind Resistance: Thermo Tiki Wind Guard Propane Torch
| PROS: | CONS: |
| Signature wind-resistant tiki design Commercial-grade 50,000 BTU output 18-foot diameter heat coverage 10-14 hours per 20 lb propane tank | High price Base requires filling with sand or water |
Specs:
- Aluminum frame with powder coating
- Rattan tiki-style shade
- Stainless steel burner
Cold winds won’t slow down the Thermo Tiki Wind Guard Propane Torch thanks to its innovative Polynesian tiki style form. Mimicking an oversized free-standing bamboo torch, the tall pole frame and rattan shade guard the vibrant tall flames from interference, rain or snow.
Inside hides a 50,000 BTU commercial-grade stainless steel burner that pumps out ample heating power for spaces up to an extra large 18 feet in diameter. Control knobs allow adjusting the impressive heat and mesmerizing flames.
The only downside is the base requires filling with sand or water to weigh it down against gusts. But for phenomenal wind-resistant warmth perfect for breezy patios and entertainment venues, this showpiece heater brings the heat no matter the weather.
5 Best Electric: Dr. Infrared Carbon Infrared Outdoor Quartz Patio Heater
| PROS: | CONS: |
| Advanced infrared quartz + carbon heating Whisper-quiet operation Instant, customizable warmth Durable brushed aluminum & steel | Smaller 12-foot coverage capacity Needs outdoor electrical outlet |
Specs:
- 120 volt 1500-watt electric power
- IP55 weatherproof rating
- Thermostat-controlled on/off cycling
The Dr. Infrared Carbon Infrared Outdoor Quartz Patio Heater provides odorless, instant infrared warmth powered completely through electric operation. The advanced heating system combines infrared quartz tubes with carbon fiber elements to produce gentle warmth covering areas up to 12 feet in diameter – ideal for smaller patio and porch spaces.
The electric functionality allows easily turning on the heater and adjusting temperatures from 58% to 100% as desired for given conditions using the onboard control panel. This gives customized comfort without any propane refilling or extra utility bills since it simply plugs into a GFCI outlet like any appliance.
The durable brushed aluminum and stainless steel body and base ensure weather-resistance for long-lasting outdoor placement. Weighing just 23 pounds also makes shifting the patio heater around a breeze. For eco-friendly radiant warmth perfect for intimately heating smaller gatherings, this 120V electric model plugs in anywhere to keep the good times lasting.
6 Best Tabletop: AZ Electric Tabletop Stainless Steel Patio Heater
| PROS: | CONS: |
| Lightweight, portable tabletop size Even warmth distribution Tip-over safety auto shut-off Great for balconies and patios | Limited heating capacity Small heating radius Electric outlet required |
Specs:
- 120 volt electric power
- Stainless steel panel assembly
- Plastic housing across bottom
The AZ Electric Tabletop Stainless Steel Patio Heater delivers targeted spot heating in a compact, portable form factor perfect for keeping small outdoor seating areas comfortable. Using an internal electric heating system, this tabletop unit provides 1500 watts of instant, adjustable warmth ideal for 2-4 person gatherings.
The stainless steel panel assembly evenly distributes temperatures in close proximity up to 114°F at close contact. Tip it on using the easy push button controls to High, Low or off settings depending on current conditions and comfort needs. The space-saving 17 inch width takes up minimal table space.
Weighing just 5.5 pounds, it moves anywhere easily for concentrated heat where you want it. While not sufficient for heating large spaces, this nifty tabletop model excels at affordably elevating smaller patiochat areas.
7 Most Stylish: Fire Sense Avon Gold Stainless Steel Heater
| PROS: | CONS: |
| Sleek contemporary design 48,000 BTUs heat 20-foot diameter Convenient push-button ignition Adjustable heat settings | High price tag |
Specs:
- Polished stainless steel barrel
- Stainless steel grid emitter guard
- Steel base with decorative rings
Blending gorgeous modern aesthetics and ample heating power, the Fire Sense Avon Gold Commercial Stainless Steel Patio Heater creates a spectacular centerpiece. The polished stainless steel barrel houses a commercial-grade burner that emits up to 48,000 BTUs to comfortably warm 20-foot diameters.
The convenient easy-start push-button ignition fires up the unit fast, while a control knob lets you adjust the vibrant flames and heat output anywhere from high down to low. The gorgeous steel accents and trim give contemporary class that especially complements modern outdoor décor. Just be prepared to pay the premium cost befitting its quality build and components warranting the price tag.
Conclusion
The right heavy-duty outdoor heater allows you to get the most use from your patio, backyard, garden or commercial venue regardless of fickle weather conditions. By giving you the details on heat output, range, special features and more for top models, this guide aims to help identify the best open space heating solution tailored to your needs and aspirations so you can truly utilize those outdoor areas year-round.
Here’s to enjoying long evenings with good company outside by the firepit, many heartwarming meals al fresco or even community events far beyond summer – all thanks to the power of propane (or electricity if you prefer). Let us know if we can help you make those year-round outdoor memories anywhere the seasons try to stop you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What fuel type works best to heat large outdoor gathering areas?
A: Propane fuel offers the highest heat output to cover more massive open spaces. Electric works well for smaller defined seating zones.
Q: What patio heater safety features should I look for?
A: Tilt/tip-over auto shut-off functionality, sturdy weighted bases, protective grills and cages.
Q: How do I work out the required heating capacity?
A: Estimate the square footage of your outdoor area and multiply by around 40-60 BTUs needed per square foot for adequate warmth.
Please let me know if this fully met your needs or if you require any revisions. I’m happy to keep improving it until we perfect the ideal outdoor open space heater buyer’s guide!
