The term “2kW patio heater” typically refers to electric patio heaters around 2,000 watts that deliver focused infrared warmth for small to medium outdoor areas. Below is a concise comparison of relevant electric and high-output gas heaters from Amazon so you can weigh power, coverage, portability, and safety. The list includes electric infrared models closest to 2kW and several powerful gas alternatives often chosen for larger outdoor spaces.
| Product | Type | Key Power / Output | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| EAST OAK Wall Mounted & Standing Infrared Electric Heater | Electric Infrared | 1000–1500W (3 settings) | Covered patios, small outdoor rooms, indoor/outdoor use |
| Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater | Electric Infrared | 900–1500W (3 settings) | Patios, restaurants, garages with IP55 rating |
| EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater (Round Table Design) | Propane / Gas | 50,000 BTU | Large open patios, commercial use |
| Hykolity Pyramid 48,000 BTU Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater | Propane / Gas | 48,000 BTU | Decorative backyard heating, long run times |
| Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Heater | Propane / Gas | 46,000 BTU | Residential and light commercial patios |
Content Navigation
- EAST OAK Wall Mounted & Standing Infrared Electric Heater
- Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater
- EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater With Round Table Design
- Hykolity Pyramid Patio Heater, 48000 BTU Glass Tube
- Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater
- Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Patio Heater
EAST OAK Wall Mounted & Standing Infrared Electric Heater
This EAST OAK model is an infrared electric heater rated at three heat settings (1000W, 1200W, 1500W). It uses a gold-coated heating lamp designed for rapid radiant warmth and reduced glare. The unit provides instant heat delivery and is rated for both indoor and outdoor use with IP65 water and dust protection.
- Heating Coverage: Approximately 64–97 sq ft depending on mounting and heat setting.
- Controls: LED display with 24-hour timer and three heat settings for variable output.
- Safety: Tip-over and overheat protections; suitable for wall-mounted or standing installation.
- Use cases: Patio, balcony, garage, or semi-enclosed porch where a directed infrared source is preferred.
This model is closest to the 2kW category in concept (1500W top setting) and is aimed at efficient near-field heating rather than whole-yard warming.
Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater
The DR-238 is a carbon infrared electric heater offering three power settings (900W, 1200W, 1500W) and an IP55 rating for both indoor and outdoor applications. It provides clean, near-instant infrared heat and includes a remote control for convenient operation.
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- Durability: IP55 rating indicates dust protection and resistance to water jets, suitable for semi-exposed spaces.
- Control Options: Remote control and adjustable heating levels for adaptable comfort.
- Application: Restaurants, patios, garages, and decks where infrared spot heating is desired.
- Safety and Installation: Plug-and-go electric operation avoids open flames associated with gas heaters.
The DR-238 is practical for residential and light-commercial sites that require portable electric radiant heat without venting or fuel storage.
EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater With Round Table Design
This EAST OAK propane heater provides 50,000 BTU and is built for wide-area heating up to a 20-foot diameter from the central source. It features a double-layer 304 stainless steel burner mesh designed to increase durability and lifespan versus single-layer designs.
- Construction: Double-layer stainless steel mesh for improved longevity and heat distribution.
- Mobility & Setup: Includes wheels, round-table design, and partial pre-assembly for quicker installation.
- Certification: ETL listed for outdoor and commercial use.
- Use case: Large open patios, terraces, restaurants, and commercial outdoor seating.
As a gas heater, this model is suitable when open-flame, high-output warmth is required for larger groups and open-air settings.
Hykolity Pyramid Patio Heater, 48000 BTU Glass Tube
The Hykolity Pyramid is a tall, decorative propane heater with a glass tube exposing the flame and a 48,000 BTU output. It is designed for aesthetic appeal as well as functional warmth, offering long run times on a standard 20 lb propane tank.
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- Design: Glass tube with visible flame for ambiance and radiant heat distribution.
- Runtime: Stated continuous run of 8–10 hours on a standard propane tank.
- Adjustability: Variable heat settings via built-in control valve and accessible side door for tank replacement.
- Mobility: Two detachable wheels for repositioning.
This heater is often chosen for backyard gatherings where both visual ambiance and substantial heat output are priorities.
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater
The Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU heater is a popular propane option for residential and light-commercial patios. It features one-touch ignition, wheels for maneuverability, and an adjustable temperature control knob.
- Heat Output: 46,000 BTU designed to heat up to roughly a 9-foot radius around the unit.
- Ease of Use: One-touch ignition and simple control knob for output adjustment.
- Mobility: Wheels for repositioning; designed for both home and patio seating areas in cafes and restaurants.
- Design Considerations: Typical tall, mushroom-style heater that radiates heat downward and outward.
As with other gas heaters, this model suits larger gatherings and open-air environments where electric supply or localized infrared heating is insufficient for area coverage.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Patio Heater
When selecting a patio heater, match the heater type and power to your space, installation preferences, and safety needs. Below are key considerations and comparison perspectives to guide purchase decisions.
1. Heater Type: Electric Infrared vs Gas (Propane/Natural Gas)
- Electric / Infrared: Provides focused radiant heat that warms people and objects directly. Best for covered or semi-enclosed spaces and locations where open flames or fuel storage are undesirable. Typically rated in watts (1000–2000W common for residential models).
- Gas (Propane/Natural Gas): Provides high BTU output for heating large open areas. Heat disperses from the source and covers wider radii. Requires fuel storage or gas lines and is suitable for fully open outdoor spaces.
2. Power And Coverage
- Electric Wattage: A 1500–2000W electric heater is suitable for spot heating (patio seating areas, small patios). Wattage correlates to intensity but the effective coverage depends on mounting height and directionality.
- BTU Rating: Gas heater BTUs indicate broad heating capacity. For example, 46,000–50,000 BTU units heat larger outdoor footprints but are less efficient in windy conditions or enclosed spaces.
3. Installation And Mobility
- Mounting: Wall-mounted electric units save floor space and provide directed warmth. Standing electric units and gas mushroom heaters are more mobile.
- Mobility: Wheels and lighter construction aid repositioning. Consider whether you need seasonal storage or frequent movement.
4. Safety And Certifications
- Water/Dust Ratings: Look for IP ratings (IP55/IP65) on electric heaters for outdoor durability.
- Safety Features: Automatic shut-off for tip-over, overheat protection, and flame failure devices on gas models are important features.
- Certifications: ETL/CSA listings indicate compliance with recognized safety standards for intended use.
5. Energy Use And Running Costs
- Electric Heaters: Wattage determines draw from the grid; 1500–2000W units are simple to operate with household outlets but run continuously while on.
- Gas Heaters: Provide high output per hour; fuel cost depends on propane or natural gas prices and runtime requirements. Consider runtime per tank and tank access.
6. Coverage Needs And Environment
- Wind And Open Space: Gas units with high BTU are better for fully open and windy areas; infrared loses effectiveness as wind increases.
- Enclosed Or Semi-Enclosed Spaces: Electric infrared heaters are safer and more efficient; gas should be avoided in enclosed spaces due to combustion byproducts.
7. Ambiance And Aesthetics
- Flame Visibility: Glass-tube pyramid propane heaters provide visible flames and ambiance while delivering heat.
- Discreet Heating: Electric units are often sleeker and produce minimal light, offering subtle heating without flame.
8. Maintenance And Longevity
- Electric: Minimal maintenance; keep elements and housing clean and protected from the elements.
- Gas: Regular checks of burners, valves, and hoses are recommended; protect against rust and store when not in use for long periods.
9. Practical Purchase Tips
- Measure the area you want to heat and choose a power level aligned with that square footage and exposure to wind.
- For multi-season use in semi-enclosed spaces, prioritize IP-rated electric models with timer and adjustable settings.
- For restaurants or large patios, pick gas units with higher BTU and commercial certifications.
- If portability is required, choose models with wheels or lighter tabletop designs for quick repositioning.
Use the comparison table and buying guide above to match heater type, output, safety, and installation to your specific outdoor environment and comfort needs.
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