Best Outdoor Heater Commercial Options for Patios and Restaurants

Choosing the right commercial outdoor heater depends on venue size, fuel type, mobility, and coverage. The table below summarizes the five commercial-grade options reviewed in this guide to help you compare key specs at a glance.

Product	Type	Output	Mobility / Mount
Amazon Basics Outdoor Propane Patio Heater	Standing Gas Heater	46,000 BTU	Wheels, freestanding
EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater (Round Table)	Standing Gas Heater	50,000 BTU	Wheels, freestanding
EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater 48,000 BTU	Pyramid Propane Heater (Quartz Tube)	48,000 BTU	Wheels, freestanding
Muskoka SunWave 3000W Infrared Patio Heater	Electric Infrared (hardwired or plug)	~11,028 BTU equivalent	Ceiling or wall mount; remote
Dr. Infrared 10,260 BTU Heater (3000W)	Electric Infrared (220–240V)	10,260 BTU	Wall or ceiling mount; weatherproof

Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

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The Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU outdoor propane heater is a common commercial choice for cafes, restaurants, and patios that need a mobile gas heater. Its listed features include a one-touch ignition, wheels for relocation, and an adjustable control knob for managing output.

Performance: The rated 46,000 BTU output is designed to provide heat up to roughly a 9-foot radius under typical outdoor conditions. The simple control knob supports incremental adjustments to match seating density and wind.

Practicality: With a water tank base and integrated wheels, the unit is intended for frequent repositioning. The one-touch ignition reduces staff training time. Recommended for locations that allow propane use and require fast, direct heat for seated guests.

EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater With Round Table Design

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The EAST OAK 50,000 BTU model features a double-layer stainless steel burner and a round table design suited to commercial settings. Manufacturer claims include ETL certification, a double-layer heating mesh for durability, and wheels for movement.

Performance: At 50,000 BTU, this heater targets larger seating areas, with manufacturer guidance indicating effective spread up to a 20-foot diameter from the central position. The double-layer mesh aims to extend burner life and provide consistent output.

Durability & Setup: The use of 304 stainless steel in the mesh and a partly preassembled design reduces installation time. The round table top adds utility for guests and offers a stable base. Suited for restaurants and venues requiring robust, long-running propane heating.

EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater 48,000 BTU Quartz Tube

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The EAST OAK Pyramid 48,000 BTU is a quartz tube propane heater designed to combine visual flair and functional output. Features highlighted include CSA certification, a premium powder-coated aluminum body, a 4.7-inch quartz glass tube, and a patented embossed design.

Performance & Visuals: With 48,000 BTU output, it is marketed for rapid heating and up to a 10–20-foot effective zone depending on conditions. The visible flame through the quartz tube adds ambiance while producing radiant heat suitable for outdoor dining spaces where aesthetics matter.

Maintenance & Safety: The quartz tube and powder-coated finish are intended for outdoor durability. The heater includes standard safety features typical of propane pyramid designs. Useful for venues seeking both performance and a decorative centerpiece.

Commercial SunWave 3000 Watt Infrared Patio Heater Tungsten Ultra Quartz

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The Muskoka SunWave 3000W is an electric infrared patio heater using a low-glare tungsten quartz element. Key features include a wireless remote, three heat levels, and claims of improved ambient heating efficiency.

Performance: The 3000W rating converts roughly to an 11,028 BTU equivalent, focusing heat directionally rather than heating large air volumes. Infrared heaters warm people and surfaces directly, which can be more efficient on windy terraces or semi-enclosed patios.

Installation & Control: This unit is commonly ceiling- or wall-mounted and includes a remote for convenient operation. It suits venues with electrical infrastructure and where indoor-grade emissions from gas heaters are restricted or where flame/propane is not desirable.

Dr. Infrared Heater 10,260 BTU Infrared Heater (3000W)

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The Dr. Infrared 3000W model is a weatherproof infrared heater with an IP55 rating, designed for wall or ceiling mounting. Features include instant carbon infrared heating, remote control, two power levels, and suitability for both indoor and outdoor use.

Performance & Use Cases: At approximately 10,260 BTU, this unit delivers targeted radiant heat ideal for sheltered patios, covered walkways, and partially enclosed dining areas. The odorless infrared output is favorable for indoor-adjacent commercial uses where combustion emissions are discouraged.

Installation & Weather Resistance: The provided mounting hardware simplifies ceiling or wall installation. The IP55 weatherproof rating indicates protection against dust and water jets, making it appropriate for semi-exposed commercial locations when installed according to manufacturer guidance.

Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Commercial Outdoor Heater

Selecting a commercial outdoor heater requires matching heat output, energy source, placement, safety, and operational needs. Below are the core factors to compare across options.

1. Heat Output And Coverage

BTU vs. Wattage: Gas patio heaters often list BTU (e.g., 46,000–50,000 BTU) and aim to cover larger open areas. Electric infrared heaters are rated in watts (e.g., 3000W) and warm people and surfaces directly rather than heating air.

Coverage Estimates: Use manufacturer guidance and venue layout to estimate coverage. High BTU gas units typically cover wider radii but are affected by wind. Infrared units provide effective localized warmth, especially under awnings or overhangs.

2. Fuel Source And Infrastructure

Propane/Gas: Common for freestanding patio heaters. Pros: high output and mobility. Cons: fuel storage, refill logistics, and potential local restrictions.

Electric/Infrared: Pros: simpler operation, no combustion emissions, easier permitting in some areas. Cons: requires sufficient electrical capacity and delivers more directional heat.

3. Installation And Mobility

Freestanding With Wheels: Ideal for flexible seating and seasonal setups. Look for stable bases and wheel quality for frequent relocation.

Mounted Units: Wall or ceiling infrared heaters reduce floor clutter and are useful for permanent canopies. Confirm mounting hardware, electrical supply, and clearance requirements.

4. Durability And Materials

Corrosion Resistance: For outdoor commercial use, stainless steel burners, powder-coated housings, and robust meshes increase lifespan in moist or coastal environments.

Glass/Quartz Elements: Quartz tubes in pyramid heaters are decorative and radiate heat efficiently but need protection from impact and correct clearances.

5. Safety, Certification, And Regulations

Certifications: ETL, CSA, or other recognized safety listings indicate adherence to standards. Verify that the model is certified for commercial use where applicable.

Local Codes & Permits: Check municipality rules about outdoor gas appliances, flame displays, or fixed electrical heating installations before purchase and installation.

6. Operating Cost And Maintenance

Fuel Costs: Propane and natural gas have ongoing fuel costs and cylinder management. Consider contract delivery or refill frequency for busy venues.

Electric Costs: Electric heaters have predictable energy use based on wattage. Infrared heaters may reduce overall run time by delivering more direct comfort.

Maintenance: Inspect burners, ignition systems, and protective meshes for gas units. For electric units, verify element condition and moisture seals periodically.

7. Noise, Odor, And Guest Comfort

Combustion Odors: Gas heaters can emit faint combustion odors during ignition. For indoor-adjacent dining, electric infrared can avoid emissions entirely.

Wind Resilience: Radiant heaters (infrared) are less affected by wind compared to convective gas heat, which dissipates more readily in open-air conditions.

8. Aesthetics And Ambiance

Visual Features: Pyramid quartz tubes and visible flames add ambiance that can enhance guest experience. Consider how the heater’s appearance fits your venue’s branding.

Integration: Mounted infrared units are low-profile and can be hidden within architectural elements for a sleeker look.

9. Controls, Convenience, And Staff Use

Ignition & Controls: One-touch ignition and adjustable knobs simplify staff operation for gas units. Remote controls and multi-level settings on electric units allow easy adjustments from seating areas.

Automation: Some installations can integrate timers, thermostats, or smart controls to optimize run times and reduce operating costs.

10. Comparing Core Perspectives

• Cost Perspective: Consider initial purchase, installation, fuel/electricity, and maintenance over expected service life.
• Operational Perspective: Evaluate how quickly units heat, required staff interaction, and storage or mount points.
• Guest Experience Perspective: Factor in warmth distribution, ambiance, and potential odors or noise that affect comfort.
• Regulatory Perspective: Confirm compliance with local codes for flame/propane use or electrical load limitations for fixed infrared installations.

Use these considerations to shortlist heaters that match your venue’s size, layout, and operational model. Cross-reference manufacturer features and certification details before finalizing the purchase and consult licensed professionals for permanent installations or gas/electrical hookups.