Choosing the right infrared gas patio heater can extend outdoor seasons and improve comfort on patios, decks, and restaurants. The table below summarizes the five selected heaters from Amazon, focusing on natural gas, propane, and low-glare tungsten infrared options to match varied installation and performance needs.
| Product | Fuel / Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bromic Smart-Heat Platinum 500 | Natural Gas | Sleek stainless steel, radiant infrared burner |
| Sunpak S25NGBLK | Natural Gas | Designed for 7.5–9.5 ft mounting, ~10×10 ft coverage |
| Mr. Heater Vent Free Radiant 20,000 BTU | Natural Gas (Vent-Free) | 20,000 BTU radiant, low-oxygen shut-off |
| Avenger FBDTP30 Tank Top Heater | Propane | Portable double-burner, 30,000 BTU, tip-over safety |
| Muskoka SunWave Tungsten Ultra Quartz 3000W | Electric Tungsten Infrared | Low-glare quartz with remote and 3 power levels |
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Bromic Smart-Heat Platinum 500 Natural Gas
The Bromic Heating BH0110003-1 Smart-Heat Platinum 500 is a natural gas radiant infrared patio heater designed for permanent installation. Its brushed stainless steel housing and tinted ceramic glass deliver a contemporary look suited to commercial and high-end residential settings.
- Design: Sleek styling with corrosion-resistant finish for long-term outdoor appearance.
- Heating Method: Radiant infrared burner provides direct warmth to people and objects rather than heating air.
- Wind Performance: Built to resist wind up to 12 mph, maintaining output in breezy conditions.
Suitable for mounted ceiling or wall installations where natural gas lines are available. The radiant approach offers immediate, focused warmth ideal for seating areas. Installation requires qualified gas and structural work for safety and optimal performance.
Sunpak S25NGBLK Natural Gas Infrared Heater
The Sunpak S25NGBLK is a natural gas infrared patio heater intended for higher mounting heights, typically 7.5 to 9.5 feet. The unit is specified to cover roughly a 10 ft by 10 ft area, making it practical for small to medium outdoor seating zones.
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- Mount Height: Engineered for elevated mounting to distribute heat evenly over seated areas.
- Coverage: Approximate 10×10 ft effective heating footprint when mounted at recommended heights.
- Appearance Note: Product images may vary; confirm size and finish for match with installation site.
As a natural gas model, it is suited to locations with existing gas infrastructure. The design supports targeted radiant heating without heating large volumes of air, useful for open-air or semi-enclosed patios.
Mr. Heater Vent Free Radiant 20,000 BTU
The Mr. Heater MHVFRD20NGT is a vent-free radiant natural gas wall heater offering 20,000 BTU output. Vent-free operation means combustion gases are released directly into the installation space; local codes and ventilation requirements must be checked before use.
- Output & Coverage: 20,000 BTU intended to supplement heat across enclosed or semi-enclosed areas up to several hundred square feet.
- Safety: Features an automatic low-oxygen shut-off sensor to stop gas flow if oxygen drops below safe levels.
- Radiant Technology: Uses multiple burner tiles to provide sun-like radiant warmth to people and surfaces.
Vent-free units offer efficient heat without venting infrastructure, but they require adherence to local building codes and manufacturer clearance guidelines. Proper placement and monitoring are essential for safe operation.
Avenger Tank Top Propane Infra-Red Heater
The Avenger FBDTP30 is a portable propane tank-top infrared heater with double burners and up to 30,000 BTU output. It’s designed for temporary setups like camping, events, or movable patio heating near propane cylinders.
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- Portability: Mounts directly on many standard propane tanks for quick setup without electricity.
- Burner Control: Three temperature settings provide adjustable heat intensity for different conditions.
- Safety Features: Includes an automatic safety control valve and a tip-over shutoff for added protection.
Useful for users needing a non-permanent gas heating option. As with all propane devices, follow safe connection, storage, and ventilation practices. The swivel burner heads offer directional heating for targeted coverage.
Muskoka SunWave Tungsten Ultra Quartz Heater
Although electric, the Muskoka SunWave 3000W tungsten ultra quartz heater is relevant where gas supply is limited. It offers low-glare infrared heating with three power levels and a remote control for adjustable comfort.
- Control: Wireless remote and three heat settings for convenient adjustment from seating areas.
- Infrared Efficiency: Tungsten quartz elements designed to deliver focused radiant heat with reduced visible glow.
- Application: Suited to covered outdoor spaces or commercial patio environments requiring quieter, electric operation.
Electric infrared units eliminate on-site gas piping and combustion concerns. They are often chosen for retrofit installs where running gas lines is impractical.
Buying Guide For Infrared Gas Patio Heaters
This buying guide highlights the primary factors to evaluate when selecting a gas or gas-equivalent infrared patio heater. Consider installation, performance, safety, and long-term suitability for the space.
Fuel Type And Availability
Natural Gas: Ideal for permanent installs with an existing gas line and professional installation. Offers continuous fuel supply and lower operating intervention.
Propane: Suited to portable or temporary setups where natural gas is unavailable. Requires tank management and safe storage.
Electric Tungsten/Quartz: Not gas, but an alternative in locations without gas. Requires electrical supply and may have outlet power limitations.
Installation And Mounting
Permanent Mounts: Ceiling or wall-mounted natural gas heaters require professional gas and structural installation. Check clearances, gas pressure requirements, and local codes.
Portable Units: Tank-top propane heaters are easy to deploy but are less suitable for covered or wind-exposed spaces without appropriate safety measures.
Heating Technology And Coverage
Radiant Infrared: Heats people and objects directly—efficient in open-air environments. Choose based on mounting height and coverage radius.
BTU / Wattage: Higher BTU (gas) or wattage (electric) typically means greater reach. Match output to seating area size, wind exposure, and mounting height.
Wind Resistance And Outdoor Conditions
Wind reduces effective coverage. Models rated for wind resistance, such as those engineered for up to 12 mph performance, maintain more consistent output in breezy conditions. In exposed sites, aim for lower mounting heights and directional heaters to focus warmth.
Safety Features And Codes
Automatic Shutoff: Low-oxygen sensors, tip-over switches, and flame-sensing valves help prevent hazards.
Vent-Free Considerations: Vent-free gas heaters release combustion products into the space; consult local building codes and occupancy requirements before selecting.
Durability And Materials
Look for corrosion-resistant finishes like brushed stainless steel or durable powder coatings for long-term outdoor use. Ceramic glass and quality burner materials improve longevity and heat consistency.
Control And Adjustability
Remote controls, multi-stage heat settings, and integrated thermostats offer convenience and energy savings. For gas units, check whether modulation or multiple burners are available for finer control.
Maintenance And Serviceability
Periodic inspections of burners, pilot assemblies, and gas fittings are necessary. Choose heaters with accessible components and available replacement parts. Annual professional servicing is recommended for fixed gas installations.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.
Comparison Perspectives
- Performance vs. Portability: Natural gas fixed heaters provide continuous service and aesthetic integration; propane units prioritize mobility and quick deployment.
- Efficiency vs. Convenience: Vent-free gas yields high space efficiency but demands code compliance; electric infrared offers clean operation without combustion but depends on power availability.
- Visibility vs. Ambiance: Tungsten/quartz low-glare options reduce visible light for calmer ambiance; standard infrared burners may emit more glow but provide strong radiant warmth.
Key Questions To Ask Before Buying
- Is there access to natural gas, or is propane/electric a better fit?
- Will the unit be permanently mounted or moved seasonally?
- What coverage area and mounting height are required?
- Do local codes allow vent-free gas appliances in the intended location?
- Are service and replacement parts available locally for the selected brand?