Best Infrared Outdoor Heater for Patios and Decks

Infrared outdoor heaters provide direct, energy-efficient warmth for patios, decks, restaurants, and garages by heating people and objects rather than the air. Below is a quick comparison of selected infrared outdoor heaters chosen for coverage, mounting flexibility, power levels, and weather protection.

Product Power / Modes Mounting Weather Rating
Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon 900W / 1200W / 1500W Wall/Ceiling IP55
Dr. Infrared 10,260 BTU / 3000W 3000W (2 power levels) Ceiling/Wall IP55
EAST OAK Patio Heater 1000–1500W (3 settings) Wall or Free-Standing IP65
VAGKRI Outdoor Heaters 700W / 1000W / 1500W Wall or Tripod IP65
Paraheeter Electric Outdoor Heater 1500W Wall / Ceiling / Tripod CSA Certified (safety)

Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater

Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater

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Designed For Indoor And Outdoor Use. The DR-238 carries an IP55 rating making it suitable for covered patios, decks, and indoor spaces. Its carbon infrared element delivers clean, odorless heat.

Multiple Power Settings. Offers three power levels — 900W, 1200W, and 1500W — to match varying outdoor conditions and energy needs.

Plug-And-Play Design. Runs on standard 120V power and includes a remote for convenient operation. The combination of instant infrared warmth and easy installation suits home patios and small commercial spaces.

Dr. Infrared 10,260 BTU Infrared Heater 3000W

Dr. Infrared 10,260 BTU Infrared Heater 3000W

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High-Power Commercial-Capable Output. This model uses a 3000W carbon infrared element rated at 10,260 BTU, suitable for larger patios, open restaurants, and workshops where higher heat output is required.

Voltage And Installation. Operates at 220–240V and includes mounting hardware for ceiling or wall installation. A remote control enables switching between power levels and standby mode.

Weatherproof For Outdoor Use. With an IP55 rating and odorless infrared heating, it targets people and surfaces directly, making it practical for semi-open outdoor dining and commercial spaces.

EAST OAK Patio Heater Wall Mounted & Standing

EAST OAK Patio Heater

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Fast, Low-Glare Infrared Lamp. EAST OAK uses a patented ULG gold-coated lamp that claims near-instant heat and a softer visual output by reducing glare while maintaining effective radiant heating.

Adjustable Settings And Timer. Features three heat settings (1000W–1500W) and a 24-hour timer, with LED readout for easy control. Coverage estimates range between roughly 65–97 sq ft depending on conditions.

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IP65 Rated. The IP65 protection level indicates stronger resistance to water and dust, suitable for uncovered or partially exposed outdoor settings when properly mounted.

VAGKRI Outdoor Heater With Remote And Tripod

VAGKRI Outdoor Heater

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Versatile Mounting Options. This VAGKRI model offers both wall-mount and tripod stand installation, allowing placement flexibility for patios, garages, or temporary outdoor setups.

Three Power Levels And Instant Warmth. Provides 700W, 1000W, and 1500W settings and advertises near-instant heating using infrared technology. Includes remote control and timing features for convenience.

IP65 Waterproof. Rated IP65, suitable for outdoor use with enhanced protection against water jets and dust ingress, making it a resilient option for exposed locations when installed per manufacturer guidance.

Paraheeter Electric Outdoor Heater With Tripod

Paraheeter Electric Outdoor Heater

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Multiple Installation Modes. Paraheeter supplies mounting hardware plus an adjustable tripod so the unit can serve as a wall, ceiling, or free-standing heater for flexible placement.

Carbon Infrared Heating. Uses carbon infrared elements that warm objects directly rather than heating ambient air, which can be more efficient for outdoor use in breezy conditions.

Safety And Certification. Includes a protective metal grille, grounded plug, and automatic shut-off features for tip-over incidents. The product notes CSA certification and focuses on ease of assembly and safety protections.

Buying Guide: How To Choose An Infrared Outdoor Heater

Choosing the right infrared outdoor heater involves matching power, coverage, mounting, weather protection, and safety to your intended use. Below are key factors to evaluate.

Heating Power And Coverage

  • Wattage And BTU: Higher wattage or BTU ratings deliver stronger heating and larger coverage. Small patios typically need 1000–1500W units; larger or commercial spaces may require 3000W or multiple units.
  • Effective Range: Infrared heaters warm people and surfaces in a directional pattern. Review manufacturer coverage estimates but expect actual range to vary with wind, ambient temperature, and placement height.

Mounting Options And Placement

  • Wall Or Ceiling Mount: Best for permanent installations and commercial patios where you want a fixed, protected heater. Ceiling mounts often provide broader coverage.
  • Tripod / Free-Standing: Offers portability and adjustable direction. Useful for temporary setups or moving heat to different areas.
  • Height And Angle: Follow manufacturer recommendations for mounting height and tilt to optimize radiant coverage and avoid glare or hot spots.

Weatherproofing And Durability

  • IP Ratings: IP55 is suitable for sheltered outdoor use; IP65 offers stronger protection against water jets and dust and is preferable for more exposed locations.
  • Materials: Look for corrosion-resistant housing and secure mounts if the heater will be used year-round outdoors.

Energy Efficiency And Heat Type

  • Infrared vs. Convection: Infrared heats people and objects directly and is more efficient outdoors because it doesn’t rely on heating air. Carbon infrared elements typically offer fast warm-up and consistent output.
  • Power Settings: Multiple power levels let you balance warmth and energy use. Memory and timer features can reduce wasted runtime.

Safety Features And Certifications

  • Tip-Over And Overheat Protection: Essential for freestanding units. These cut power automatically in unsafe conditions.
  • Grounded Plug And Grilles: Protective grilles and grounded plugs reduce electrical and contact risks.
  • Certifications: ETL, CSA, or equivalent marks indicate compliance with safety standards for electrical appliances.

Controls And Convenience

  • Remote Control: Useful for adjusting power and timers without reaching the unit, especially for ceiling-mounted heaters.
  • Timers And Memory: 24-hour timers and memory functions improve convenience and can save energy by automating run times.

Installation And Maintenance

  • Professional Wiring: High-voltage models (220–240V) may require professional installation and dedicated circuits; verify electrical requirements before purchase.
  • Maintenance: Clean grilles and keep elements free of debris. Check mounting hardware periodically for corrosion or loosening.

Comparison Perspectives

  • Residential Afternoons/Nights: 1000–1500W models with IP55–IP65 and flexible mounting (wall or tripod) fit most homes.
  • Commercial Patios and Larger Spaces: Higher-output 3000W models or multiple units provide coverage for restaurant terraces or large open areas.
  • Portability vs Permanence: Tripods or freestanding heaters offer mobility; ceiling/wall-mounted units are less obtrusive and can deliver more even coverage for fixed seating.

Match the heater’s power, weather rating, mounting style, and safety certifications to your space and usage patterns. Proper placement and adherence to installation guidelines will maximize comfort and longevity while minimizing energy use.

Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices

  1. 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.
  2. Check for Rebates
    Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

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