Best Gas Patio Heaters for Outdoor Spaces

Choosing the right gas patio heater depends on fuel type, BTU output, coverage area, and safety features. Below is a concise comparison of five top gas heaters selected for patio, backyard, and commercial outdoor use. This table highlights model, fuel type, and peak BTU to help you compare at a glance.

Model	Fuel Type	Peak BTU
GasOne PH-8000 Outdoor Heaters for Patio	Propane	50,000 BTU
Fire Sense 61445 Natural Gas Patio Heater	Natural Gas	45,000 BTU
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater	Propane	46,000 BTU
Golden Flame XL-Series Outdoor Natural Gas Patio Heater	Natural Gas	45,000 BTU
hykolity 28 Inch Fire Pit Table / 50,000 BTU	Propane	50,000 BTU

GasOne PH-8000 Outdoor Heaters For Patio – 50,000 BTU

Check Price on Amazon

The GasOne PH-8000 is a heavy-duty propane patio heater rated at 50,000 BTU. It is designed for larger outdoor areas such as terraces, cafes, and backyards. Key features include radiant heat delivery that mimics the feel of a fire and a portable design with wheels for relocation.

• Versatile Use: Suitable for patios, balconies, home gardens, and commercial outdoor seating.
• High Output: 50,000 BTU provides rapid, robust warmth for broader coverage.
• Mobility: Portable with wheels to move between seating zones.
• Ambiance: Radiant heat creates a cozy environment akin to a fire pit.

Installation typically requires a standard 20 lb propane tank and clearances per manufacturer guidance. This model emphasizes raw heat output and flexibility of placement for different event sizes.

Fire Sense 61445 Natural Gas Patio Heater 45,000 BTU

Check Price on Amazon

The Fire Sense 61445 is a natural gas patio heater built from heavy-duty stainless steel and rated at 45,000 BTU. It is aimed at residential and light commercial settings that have a natural gas line available.

• Electronic Ignition: Instant startup with an electric ignition system for quick operation.
• Durable Construction: Stainless steel body and burner components for longevity.
• Safety Feature: Tip-over protection system to automatically shut off if tilted.
• Connection: Includes connection line for linking to a natural gas supply.

This heater is ideal where a fixed natural gas line removes the need for propane tank changes. Its focus is reliable ignition and robust stainless steel durability, suited to locations requiring continuous service and easy activation.

Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

Check Price on Amazon

The Amazon Basics model offers 46,000 BTU output, one-touch ignition, and wheels for portability. It targets both commercial and residential users looking for a straightforward, no-frills heating solution.

• One-Touch Ignition: Quick start for immediate warmth.
• Mobility: Wheels that assist in moving the unit to the desired location.
• Coverage: Designed to heat a radius of roughly 9 feet, depending on conditions.
• Adjustable Control: A knob for modulating gas flow and heat output.

Amazon Basics emphasizes ease of use and dependable heating for outdoor dining or casual backyard use. The combination of BTU, ignition convenience, and portability makes it a practical general-purpose tower heater.

Golden Flame XL-Series Outdoor Natural Gas Patio Heater

Check Price on Amazon

Golden Flame’s XL-Series is a 45,000 BTU natural gas heater built for wide coverage. Its aluminum reflector and stainless steel burners aim to deliver heat over a large area, with features that improve stability and safety.

• Wide Coverage: Reflector hood and burner design can heat up to a large diameter area.
• Rapid Spark Ignition: Pilotless electronic ignition for fast startup and easy control.
• Anti-Tilt Safety: Automatic tilt sensor shuts off the burner if the unit tips.
• Weighted Base: Base reservoir for sand or added weight to increase wind stability.

This heater suits fixed outdoor entertainment areas where steady heat, safety, and low maintenance operation are priorities. The ability to add ballast in the base increases suitability for breezy environments.

hykolity 28 Inch Fire Pit Table, 50,000 BTU Patio Heater

Check Price on Amazon

The hykolity 28-inch fire pit table is a 2-in-1 solution combining a tabletop and a 50,000 BTU propane burner. It’s aimed at users seeking both heating performance and usable table surface for gatherings.

• Dual Function: Removable lid converts the burner to a flat table surface when not in use.
• Powerful Burner: 50,000 BTU stainless steel burner for strong warmth and efficient flame.
• Safety Certified: CSA-certified burner with auto-shutoff and ignition safety.
• Design: Lava stones and heatproof tabletop materials to enhance aesthetics and usability.

This model appeals to homeowners who want a centerpiece that combines social function and heating. Its tabletop integration supports outdoor dining or beverage placement while also delivering concentrated radiant heat.

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Gas Patio Heater

Selecting the right gas patio heater requires matching the heater’s design to your space, fuel availability, and safety needs. This guide breaks down the primary factors to evaluate before purchasing.

Fuel Type: Propane vs Natural Gas

Propane heaters use portable tanks and provide placement flexibility. They are common for temporary setups or locations without a gas line. Propane tanks require periodic replacement or refilling and slightly limit continuous runtime.

Natural Gas heaters connect to a permanent gas line, offering consistent fuel supply and lower ongoing maintenance of fuel. Installation typically requires a plumber or gas technician and is best for fixed patio or commercial installations.

BTU Rating And Coverage Area

BTU measures heat output. Higher BTU values generally provide heat over a larger area, but effectiveness depends on wind, ambient temperature, and reflector design.

• 18,000–25,000 BTU: Suitable for small, semi-enclosed patios or individual zones.
• 40,000–50,000 BTU: Good for larger patio areas, terraces, and restaurant outdoor seating.
• Reflectors and design influence effective radius more than raw BTU alone.

Heater Type And Placement

Tower heaters (tall parasol-style) direct radiant heat downward and outward, good for open spaces. Fire pit tables provide localized warmth and a horizontal heat source with social functionality. Mounted or ceiling heaters are ideal for permanently covered patios and reduce wind loss.

Ignition And Control Features

Consider the ignition type: electronic/pilotless ignition offers quick startups, while manual push-button systems are straightforward and easy to repair. Variable knobs or thermostatic controls give finer modulation over heat output and fuel consumption.

Safety Features

Essential safety elements include tip-over shutoff, flame failure valves, and CSA/UL certifications. For natural gas installations, proper fittings, and anti-leak components are critical. Weighted or ballast-capable bases increase stability in breezy conditions.

Durability And Materials

Stainless steel and aluminum reflectors resist corrosion and extend product life for outdoor use. Consider powder-coated finishes and rust-resistant materials for coastal or high-humidity climates.

Mobility And Installation

Wheels and removable components improve portability. For natural gas models, factor in professional installation costs and the permanence of location. Propane units typically need less setup but require safe tank handling and storage.

Noise, Emissions, And Regulations

Check local ordinances for open-flame devices in your municipality or HOA restrictions on commercial-style heaters. Natural gas tends to burn cleaner with fewer emissions, while propane may produce slightly more visible flames and byproducts.

Maintenance And Longevity

Routine maintenance includes burner cleaning, checking hoses and connections, and verifying ignition performance. Store or cover heaters during winter months when not in use. Replace worn regulator and hose components as recommended by the manufacturer.

Comparison Perspectives

For flexibility and portability, propane tower heaters and fire pit tables provide mobility and quick setup. For continuous, long-term outdoor heating in a fixed location, natural gas models reduce fuel handling and offer uninterrupted operation.

Choose a model with higher BTUs and a wide reflector for large open areas. For intimate patios, consider lower BTU units or fire tables that concentrate warmth directly around a seating group.

Accessories And Extras

Useful accessories include protective covers, wind guards, propane tank holders, and wheels or dolly kits. For fire pit tables, lava stones or glass beads can optimize flame appearance and heat distribution.

Installation And Safety Checklist

• Confirm adequate clearance to combustible materials per manufacturer instructions.
• Install on a stable, level surface; use ballast in base if provided.
• Use certified hoses, regulators, and connectors; inspect regularly for leaks.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and follow local code for outdoor heating devices.

Frequently Asked Considerations

Will wind reduce performance? Yes — wind disperses radiant heat and can extinguish flames; heavier bases or shields help.

Which is more economical? Natural gas often has lower operating cost per hour if a gas line is already installed, while propane has higher per-hour costs but requires no permanent installation.

How long will a propane tank last? Runtime depends on BTU output and tank size; higher BTU output reduces runtime on a given tank.

Use the factors above to align heater selection with your site conditions, fuel availability, safety requirements, and expected usage patterns. Comparing tower heaters, natural gas fixed units, and fire pit tables across these criteria will lead to a suitable, safe choice for maintaining comfort on your patio.