Best Natural Gas Outdoor Heater Options for Patios and Outdoor Spaces

Choosing the right outdoor heater depends on the space, fuel connection, and intended use. Below is a concise comparison of five natural gas outdoor-rated heaters, including two dedicated patio heaters and three outdoor tankless water heaters often installed where freeze protection and outdoor durability matter.

Product	Type	Output / Flow	Key Feature
Fire Sense 61445	Natural Gas Patio Heater	45,000 BTU	Electronic Ignition, Stainless Steel
Golden Flame XL-Series	Natural Gas Patio Heater	45,000 BTU	Anti-Tilt, Adjustable Heat
Rinnai V53DeN	Outdoor Tankless Water Heater	5.3 GPM	Compact Outdoor Installation
Rheem RTG-70XLN-3	Outdoor Tankless Water Heater	7.0 GPM	High Efficiency, Water-Saving Setting
LiberLive Outdoor Tankless	Outdoor Tankless Water Heater	Up To 5.3 GPM	IPX4 Weather Protection, Remote Controller

Fire Sense 61445 Patio Heater

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This stainless steel natural gas patio heater delivers 45,000 BTU of heat and is designed for residential outdoor use. The unit features an electronic ignition system for instant start and a durable stainless steel burner and double mantle heating grid for heat distribution. Built-in tip-over protection increases safety during operation. The heater includes a connection line and a heavy-duty mounting plate for installation options.

For property owners with a natural gas supply, this heater is presented as a high-output option. The stainless construction suggests corrosion resistance for outdoor exposure, while the electronic ignition reduces the need for manual lighting. Installation and ventilation clearances should be verified with local codes prior to use.

Golden Flame XL-Series Patio Heater

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The Golden Flame XL-Series outdoor heater provides 45,000 BTU with a wide reflector hood and stainless steel burners designed to heat areas up to a 15-foot diameter. It uses a rapid spark electronic ignition and a pilotless burner system when operating on natural gas. The variable heat control allows user adjustment from low to high output.

Safety features include an automatic tilt sensor that shuts off the burner if the unit tips, and a base enclosure for adding sand or weight to improve stability in breezy conditions. The model also claims water vapor release to mitigate dry air during operation. This unit suits commercial or residential patios where a stable, adjustable natural gas heater is needed.

Rinnai V53DeN Outdoor Tankless Heater

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The Rinnai V53DeN is an outdoor-rated natural gas tankless water heater delivering up to 5.3 GPM, suitable for serving multiple appliances or fixtures. The unit heats water on demand to reduce standby energy loss and is described as energy efficient for homeowners seeking continuous hot water.

Key attributes include a compact design for outdoor installation and a 10-year warranty on the heat exchanger, which addresses long-term durability. While primarily a water heater, its outdoor rating and robust construction make it an option where an outdoor heating appliance is required for hot water delivery to exterior or garage fixtures.

Rheem RTG-70XLN-3 Outdoor Tankless

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The Rheem RTG-70XLN-3 is a high-efficiency, non-condensing outdoor tankless water heater that provides up to 7.0 GPM. The manufacturer highlights continuous hot water capability even with multiple simultaneous applications like showers and dishwashers.

Features include an energy-saving design that runs only when needed and a water-saving setting intended to reduce household water use. As an outdoor unit, it removes the need for indoor venting and is positioned for customers valuing high flow rates and efficiency for whole-house hot water needs in climates where an outdoor install is appropriate.

LiberLive Outdoor Tankless Water Heater

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The LiberLive outdoor tankless unit offers up to 5.3 GPM and 130,000 BTUthickened corrosion-resistant materials, stainless steel vents, a DC fan, and IPX4 waterproofing for weather resistance.

Additional claims include wind, freeze, and sun protection and remote controller compatibility. This model is positioned for installations where exposure to elements is a concern and where homeowners want an outdoor-rated water heater designed to cope with varied weather conditions.

Buying Guide: How To Choose A Natural Gas Outdoor Heater

Selecting the right outdoor heater involves evaluating who will use the space, the heat output needed, installation logistics, fuel availability, and safety features. Below are the key considerations and comparison perspectives to guide a purchase decision.

Intended Use And Coverage Area

Define the primary purpose: warming a small patio, heating a large commercial seating area, or providing heated water outdoors. For space heating, patio heaters rated around 40,000–50,000 BTU typically cover a 10–15 foot radius. For outdoor hot water needs, look at GPM (gallons per minute) to match fixtures and simultaneous use.

Fuel Type And Connection

Natural gas requires a permanent line. Confirm access to a natural gas supply and compliance with local codes. If a portable option is needed, propane models exist; however, the listed products focus on natural gas and outdoor tankless units may require a gas line and proper venting provisions.

Fixed vs Portable And Installation Constraints

Patio heaters can be freestanding or permanently mounted. Freestanding models offer portability but require a steady base for stability; look for anti-tilt sensors and weighted bases. Tankless water heaters may be wall-mounted outdoors and require a gas line, water connections, and appropriate clearance for venting.

Heat Output, Flow Rate, And Efficiency

For space heaters, compare BTU ratings and reflector design to estimate the effective heated area. For water heaters, match GPM to your demand: single fixture use may need 2–3 GPM, multi-fixture or whole-house use often requires 5 GPM or more. Efficiency features can reduce fuel consumption and operating costs.

Durability And Weather Resistance

Outdoor appliances should include materials and ratings that resist corrosion and moisture. Look for stainless steel construction, IPX ratings, and weather-protection features. Tankless outdoor units often advertise freeze and wind protection which is critical in colder climates.

Safety Features

Key safety features include tip-over shutoff for freestanding patio heaters, flame failure devices, automatic shutoffs, and anti-freeze protections for water heaters. Verify that electrical ignition systems and any control modules meet local safety standards.

Controls, Ignition, And User Interface

Electronic or rapid-spark ignitions simplify startup. Variable heat controls and pilotless burners allow easier operation. For tankless water heaters, digital displays, remote controllers, and precise temperature control improve convenience and reduce scald risk.

Local Codes, Permits, And Professional Installation

Natural gas equipment often requires compliance with building codes and may need permits. Professional installation by a licensed plumber or HVAC technician is typically recommended to ensure proper gas line sizing, venting (if applicable), and safe operation.

Noise And Emissions

Consider combustion noise and any emissions characteristics. Condensing vs non-condensing tankless units have differing venting and efficiency characteristics. If noise is a concern for patios or commercial settings, review manufacturer specs for decibel data or customer reports.

Maintenance And Longevity

Look for warranties on key components such as heat exchangers and burners. Tankless water heaters may require periodic descaling in hard water areas. Stainless steel components and replaceable parts improve long-term serviceability.

Comparison Perspectives

• Residential Patio Heating: Choose a 40k–50k BTU stainless steel unit with electronic ignition and tip-over protection for backyard and deck use.
• Commercial Outdoor Seating: Prefer units with higher coverage reflectors, adjustable heat control, and stable mounting options; confirm local code allowances for heater placement.
• Outdoor Hot Water Needs: Select a tankless unit with GPM capacity matching simultaneous fixtures and features for freeze/wind protection if installed outdoors.
• Weather And Climate: In colder climates prioritize freeze protection and robust weatherproofing; in coastal areas prioritize corrosion-resistant materials.

Before purchasing, verify product specifications against your space requirements, confirm professional installation options, and ensure the unit meets local safety and installation codes. Reviewing manufacturer documentation and installation manuals will clarify compatibility and site preparation needs.