Best Built in Patio Heater Options for Outdoor Spaces

Choosing a built-in or permanent patio heater can extend your outdoor season and increase usable space. The table below summarizes five top heaters from the provided list, highlighting type, heating method, and suitability so you can compare at a glance.

Product	Type	Heat Source	Best For
EAST OAK Wall Mounted & Standing 1500W	Wall-Mountable Electric	Infrared Electric	Permanent Mounted Patio, Porch
Dr Infrared Heater DR-268	Indoor/Outdoor Electric	Infrared/Electric	Greenhouse, Garage, Enclosed Porch
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU	Freestanding Propane	Gas (Propane)	Commercial Patio, Mobile Use
Hykolity Pyramid 48,000 BTU	Freestanding Propane	Gas (Propane)	Decorative Patio, Backyard
EAST OAK 50,000 BTU With Sand Box	Freestanding Propane With Table	Gas (Propane)	Stable Outdoor Areas, Windy Conditions

EAST OAK Wall Mounted & Standing 1500W Electric Patio Heater

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This wall-mounted and free-standing infrared heater offers instant radiant warmth with a gold-coated heating lamp. The unit is rated IP65 waterproof & dustproof, allowing for outdoor placement under covered patios or semi-exposed porches. Three heat settings (1000W, 1200W, 1500W) and a 24-hour timer give precise control over runtime and output.

Features highlighted by the manufacturer include 1-second startup, low-glare operation via a 20-layer gold coating, and several safety protections such as tip-over and overheating safeguards. Multiple mounting options are supported, which suits built-in installations where a wall or ceiling mount is preferred for a clean, permanent look.

Dr Infrared Heater DR-268 Smart Greenhouse Heater

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The DR-268 is a digital, temperature-controlled infrared heater designed for greenhouse and utility spaces but suitable for enclosed porches. It is rated water resistant (IPX5/IP55) for humid or moist environments and provides odorless infrared heat.

Key features include a built-in digital thermostat with a corded probe for accurate sensing, selectable Auto or Manual modes, and multiple mounting options (wall, ceiling, or hanging). For built-in applications that require precise temperature control and weather resistance, this model targets scenarios where maintaining a consistent ambient temperature matters.

Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

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This 46,000 BTU propane heater is geared toward both commercial and residential patios. It features a one-touch ignition button and wheels for portability. Rated to heat approximately a 9-foot radius, it is a high-output gas option when permanent wiring or mounted electric heaters are not desired.

Manufacturer features include soothing warmth suited for seating areas, an adjustable temperature knob for controlling output, and a design focused on fast startups. While not a hard-wired built-in heater, it is commonly used as a semi-permanent solution in outdoor dining areas where gas-fired heat is preferred for coverage and mobility.

Hykolity Pyramid 48,000 BTU Glass Tube Propane Heater

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The Hykolity Pyramid heater offers a decorative glass-tube flame and 48,000 BTU output. It runs on a standard 20 lb propane tank and includes variable heat settings and an easy-access side door for tank changes. The design is tall and visually striking for outdoor gatherings.

Manufacturer features highlight up to 8–10 hours runtime with a standard tank, detachable wheels for mobility, and user-adjustable heat. For spaces where ambiance and visible flame are important, this propane pyramid heater is a practical freestanding alternative to built-in electric units.

EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater With Sand Box Table Design

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This EAST OAK model delivers 50,000 BTU from a central location and adds a stability-enhancing sand/water ballast (tested up to ~26.45 lbs). The heater uses a double-layer 304 stainless steel burner mesh for durability and increased life span.

Manufacturer features emphasize improved wind resistance thanks to a conical barrel design, CSA & ETL certification for safety, and wheels for maneuvering. It is optimized for spaces where a robust, wind-resistant freestanding heater is required, and the weighted base mimics some benefits of a built-in installation by improving stability in open areas.

Buying Guide For Built-In And Permanent Patio Heaters

Selecting a heater depends on installation type, energy source, safety, and coverage. Below are the key considerations to weigh before choosing a built-in or permanently mounted patio heater.

1. Heater Type And Installation

• Wall-Mounted Electric Infrared: Best for covered patios and where hardwiring is feasible. Provides directional radiant heat and minimal wind loss.
• Ceiling-Mounted Or Hanging: Good for permanent installations over dining or seating areas; requires structural support and electrical access.
• Freestanding Propane: Provides high BTU output without wiring but is not truly ‘built-in’. May be acceptable where permanent electrical installation is impractical.
• Pellet And Wood-Based: Offers ambience and flame effects but requires fuel handling and more maintenance.

2. Heat Output And Coverage

• BTU ratings for gas units (e.g., 46,000–50,000 BTU) indicate large-area coverage; however, effective warming depends on wind, seating arrangement, and openness.
• Electric infrared heaters list wattage and approximate square-foot coverage; they heat people and objects directly rather than heating air.

3. Weather Resistance And IP Ratings

• For semi-exposed installations, choose heaters with an IP65 or similar rating for dust and water protection.
• Propane units are weather-resilient but should be secured or placed in sheltered spots during high winds.

4. Mounting, Clearance, And Safety

• Verify manufacturer-specified clearance distances from combustibles for gas units and mounting requirements for electric units.
• Consider models with tip-over switches, auto-shutoff, and overheat protection for safer built-in or semi-permanent use.

5. Controls, Thermostat, And Energy Efficiency

• Built-in thermostats or digital controllers allow precise temperature management and can reduce runtime.
• Infrared heaters convert nearly all energy into directed heat, which can be more efficient for targeted comfort compared with heating large volumes of air.

6. Mobility Versus Permanence

• If you plan a permanent mount, choose an electric model that supports wall or ceiling mounting and proper wiring.
• For flexible layouts or seasonal rearrangement, consider propane models with wheels or lighter electric units that can be repositioned.

7. Aesthetic And Ambiance

• Glass-tube pyramids and pellet stoves provide visible flames and ambiance; electric infrared models emphasize subtle warmth without light or flame.
• Match the heater style to patio furniture, canopy design, and desired ambiance for cohesive outdoor design.

8. Noise, Maintenance, And Fuel Considerations

• Electric infrared models are generally quiet and low-maintenance. Gas heaters require occasional cleaning of burner components and safe fuel storage.
• Pellet and wood-fueled heaters need ash removal and fuel replenishment.

9. Compliance And Certifications

• Check for ETL, CSA, or UL listings when selecting for commercial or high-traffic residential use. Certifications indicate independent testing for safety and performance.

Comparison Perspectives To Inform Choice

• Performance Focus: Gas units offer higher BTUs for open-air heating; electric infrared delivers efficient comfort in sheltered installations.
• Installation Complexity: Hardwired electric models require professional installation; propane units are plug-and-play but need safe tank placement.
• Long-Term Cost: Consider fuel cost, electricity rates, maintenance, and durability when evaluating lifetime operating expense.
• Safety & Environment: Infrared electric heaters emit no combustion byproducts at point-of-use; gas heaters require ventilation and safe fuel handling.