Choosing the right natural gas infrared patio heater can extend your outdoor season and provide targeted warmth. Below is a concise comparison of five relevant models, followed by individual product overviews and a detailed buying guide to help you match features to your space.
| Product | Brand | Coverage / Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Sunpak S25NGBLK Natural Gas Infrared Patio Heater | SUNPAK | Ideal for 7.5–9.5 ft mounting; ~10 ft x 10 ft coverage |
| Bromic Smart-Heat Platinum 500 Radiant Infrared Patio Heater | Bromic Heating | Brushed stainless steel, tinted ceramic glass, wind resistant |
| SUNPAK Model S34 Two Stage 25k–34k BTU Infrared Heater | SUNPAK | Two-stage output, black finish |
| Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 30,000 BTU Natural Gas Infrared Wall Heater | Dyna-Glo | Infrared radiation, up to 1,000 sq. ft. coverage |
| Fire Sense 61445 Natural Gas Patio Heater 45,000 BTU | Fire Sense | High-output stainless steel unit with electric ignition |
Content Navigation
- Sunpak S25NGBLK Natural Gas Infrared Patio Heater
- Bromic Heating BH0110003-1 Smart-Heat Platinum 500
- SUNPAK S34 Two Stage Hardwired Natural Gas Patio Heater
- Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 30,000 BTU Natural Gas Infrared Wall Heater
- Fire Sense 61445 Natural Gas Patio Heater 45,000 BTU
- Buying Guide: Choosing A Natural Gas Infrared Patio Heater
Sunpak S25NGBLK Natural Gas Infrared Patio Heater
This Sunpak model is designed specifically for common patio mounting heights. The manufacturer lists it as perfect for 7.5 ft to 9.5 ft mounting heights and provides approximately 10 ft x 10 ft heat coverage. The listing notes images may vary by size or color, so verify the model details before purchasing.
Key attributes include an infrared burner system that directs heat to people and objects rather than heating ambient air. The specified coverage makes it suitable for small-to-medium outdoor seating areas or under covered patios with standard ceiling heights. Installation typically requires a hardwired gas connection and appropriate mounting hardware.
Bromic Heating BH0110003-1 Smart-Heat Platinum 500
The Bromic Smart-Heat Platinum 500 is a high-end radiant infrared patio heater described with contemporary brushed stainless steel and tinted ceramic glass. The unit features a radiant infrared burner that provides fast direct warmth and is engineered to be wind resistant up to 12 miles per hour, which helps maintain comfort in breezier outdoor settings.
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This model emphasizes design and focused radiant output, making it suitable for patios where both appearance and efficient targeted heat are priorities. As a natural gas radiant heater, it rapidly warms people and surfaces, minimizing wasted energy. Installation requires appropriate gas plumbing and professional mounting for optimal performance and safety.
SUNPAK S34 Two Stage Hardwired Natural Gas Patio Heater
The SUNPAK S34 is a two-stage hardwired infrared outdoor heater offering 25,000 to 34,000 BTU in a black finish. Two-stage control allows operators to select a lower or higher output depending on conditions, improving flexibility for variable outdoor temperatures and occupancy.
Two-stage burners can yield energy savings by running at reduced output when full power is unnecessary. This model’s higher BTU range expands effective coverage compared with smaller units, making it suitable for medium to larger patio zones when mounted at recommended heights. Proper gas connection and professional installation are recommended.
Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 30,000 BTU Natural Gas Infrared Wall Heater
The Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 uses infrared technology to radiate heat to objects first, similar to sunlight, and is listed to deliver up to 30,000 BTU/hr, with claimed coverage up to 1,000 sq. ft. The manufacturer notes the unit is natural gas ready and does not permit fuel conversion.
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This wall-mounted infrared heater is designed for larger outdoor or semi-enclosed spaces where object-level warmth is effective. The radiative method is efficient outdoors because it reduces heat loss to air movement. Confirm local codes for wall-mounted gas appliances and ensure proper clearances during install.
Fire Sense 61445 Natural Gas Patio Heater 45,000 BTU
The Fire Sense 61445 is a high-output natural gas patio heater with 45,000 BTU and an electronic ignition system. The product description highlights heavy-duty stainless steel construction, a tip-over protection system, and a supplied connection line and mounting plate.
Because of its higher BTU output, this unit is intended for larger patios or areas where strong localized warmth is needed. The electronic ignition provides convenient start-up, while the stainless components prioritize outdoor durability. Proper anchoring, gas connection, and adherence to safety clearances are important for reliable operation.
Buying Guide: Choosing A Natural Gas Infrared Patio Heater
Selecting the right natural gas infrared patio heater involves multiple technical and practical factors. The sections below outline key considerations to compare models objectively.
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Heating Method And Efficiency
- Infrared Radiant Heat Warms People And Objects Directly: Infrared heaters heat surfaces and people rather than the air, making them effective outdoors or in semi-open patios where convection losses are high.
- BTU Output BTU indicates gross heat potential. Higher BTU units cover larger areas but may consume more gas; match BTU to patio size and typical wind exposure.
Coverage And Mounting Height
- Effective Coverage Manufacturers often list approximate coverage (feet or square footage). Use these as a baseline and consider wind and layout which reduce effective range.
- Mounting Options Ceiling, wall, or hanging mounts change how heat projects. Verify recommended mounting heights (many Sunpak models specify 7.5–9.5 ft, for example).
Durability And Materials
- Outdoor Construction Stainless steel and weather-resistant finishes help resist corrosion.
- Protective Components Tinted ceramic glass, aluminized casings, and robust burners add longevity and controlled heat dispersion.
Controls, Staging, And Ignition
- Two-Stage Or Variable Output Allows running at a lower setting for energy savings and comfort flexibility.
- Ignition Type Electronic ignition provides quick starts; pilotless designs avoid continuously burning pilot flames.
- Smart Controls Some premium models offer remote or automatic control for convenience and scheduling.
Safety Features And Compliance
- Tip-Over And Flame Safeguards Look for models with shut-off systems or safety sensors.
- Ventilation And Local Codes Natural gas appliances must comply with local building and fuel codes. Verify whether the heater is intended for outdoor use only or rated for enclosed/semi-enclosed spaces.
- Clearances Follow manufacturer-specified clearances to combustibles and maintain recommended distances from fixtures and furniture.
Installation And Fuel Supply
- Hardwired Gas Connection Most natural gas infrared heaters need a fixed gas line and professional installation; plan for plumber or licensed installer costs and permits.
- Mounting Hardware Confirm included mounting plates or brackets and whether additional reinforcement is needed for ceiling or wall structures.
Environmental Conditions
- Wind Resistance Wind reduces perceived warmth; choose units with focused radiant output or wind-resistant designs if your patio is exposed.
- Temperature Range Higher BTU and focused radiant beams perform better in colder climates; in mild climates, lower-output units may suffice.
Maintenance And Serviceability
- Accessible Components Burner access, replaceable igniters, and protective grills simplify maintenance.
- Warranty And Parts Check warranty terms and availability of replacement parts, especially for burners and ceramic elements.
Comparison Perspectives
- Design-Focused Buyers Premium finishes and ceramic glass (e.g., Bromic) prioritize aesthetics and tailored warmth.
- High Output Requirements For large or open patios, units with higher BTU (e.g., Fire Sense 45k or SUNPAK S34 at 34k) provide stronger localized heat.
- Energy and Flexibility Two-stage models and infrared technology combine efficient operation with flexible comfort control.