Outdoor-friendly electric fireplaces and portable heater-stoves can add ambiance and warmth to patios, covered porches, and semi-outdoor living spaces. Below is a quick comparison table of the selected models reviewed, followed by detailed product sections and a buying guide to help choose the right outdoor electric fireplace heater for your needs.
| Product | Type | Outdoor Ready | Heat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touchstone Sideline Outdoor 50″ | Wall-Mount Decorative | Yes (GFI Plug, Water Resistant) | No |
| Touchstone Sideline Smart 50″ | In-Wall Recessed Electric Fireplace | No (Indoor Designed) | Yes (1500W) |
| Duraflame Freestanding Stove | Portable Electric Stove Heater | No (Primarily Indoor) | Yes (Infrared, 1,000 sq ft) |
| VOLTORB Portable Fireplace Stove | Freestanding Electric Heater | Potential For Covered Outdoor Use | Yes (Infrared Elements) |
| Boomkool Portable Infrared Heater | Portable Far-Infrared Heater/Fireplace | Advertised For Courtyard Use | Yes (1300W Far-Infrared) |
Content Navigation
- Touchstone Sideline Outdoor 50″ Decorative Fireplace
- Touchstone Sideline Smart 50″ In-Wall Fireplace
- Duraflame Freestanding Electric Stove Heater
- VOLTORB Freestanding Portable Fireplace Heater
- Boomkool Space Heater With Far-Infrared And 3D Flame
- Buying Guide: How To Choose An Outdoor Electric Fireplace Heater
Touchstone Sideline Outdoor 50″ Decorative Fireplace
This Touchstone Sideline model is explicitly built for outdoor placement. It includes a GFI plug and is described as water resistant, making it suitable for covered patios or exterior walls. The unit is a slim 50 inches wide and designed to be wall mounted or recessed in compatible exterior surfaces.
Key listed features include the ability to hang on siding, brick, stucco, or stone and a decorative design with realistic 3-color flame options and choice of log or crystal media. Importantly, this model does not include a heater and is intended solely for decorative flame effects outdoors.
Use cases: ideal where a weather-rated visual fireplace is needed for ambiance without heat, or where a separate heater source will provide warmth.
Touchstone Sideline Smart 50″ In-Wall Fireplace
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
The Sideline Smart 50″ is an in-wall recessed electric fireplace featuring 30 realistic ember color/flame options and a built-in 1,500W heater with thermostat. It supports remote control and smart functions including Alexa/WiFi compatibility on some versions.
Listed operation and installation notes state the unit is ventless, installs between studs, and keeps sides and back cool to the touch when heating. The product is intended for interior recessed mounting; it is not advertised as outdoor-rated or weather resistant.
Practical considerations: this is a high-output in-wall option for indoor living areas or enclosed sunrooms where supplemental electric heat and adjustable flame aesthetics are required. For outdoor patio use, ensure protected and dry placement or choose a weather-rated enclosure.
Duraflame Freestanding Electric Stove Heater
Duraflame’s freestanding stove-style heater offers infrared heating for rooms up to 1,000 sq. ft. and a 3D flame effect with glowing logs. The design includes side viewing windows and a glass door that opens for a traditional stove look.
Features emphasize portability and supplemental heating to reduce central heating use. The infrared approach is designed to provide comfortable heat without excessive drying of air.
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
Deployment notes: while primarily an indoor portable heater, many users place similar freestanding units in covered outdoor or semi-enclosed spaces. Confirm manufacturer guidance and protection from direct rain before outdoor placement.
VOLTORB Freestanding Portable Fireplace Heater
The VOLTORB freestanding model highlights a 3-side panoramic flame view with adjustable brightness and a large LED display. It uses infrared quartz elements to spread heat quickly while preserving room humidity.
Included features: remote control with temperature, flame, and timer settings; multiple flame brightness levels; and three infrared heating elements for even heat distribution.
Practical use: this portable stove is versatile for moving between rooms and may be suitable for protected outdoor areas such as covered porches. Verify IP or manufacturer recommendations for any regular outdoor use.
Boomkool Space Heater With Far-Infrared And 3D Flame
Boomkool markets this unit as a multifunctional electric fireplace heater suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and courtyards. It uses far-infrared heating with fast warm-up and a quiet, windless operation.
Notable claims include a 1300W far-infrared element, rapid heating within seconds, and an ability to maintain humidity. The product also states multifunction capability including high-temperature cooking surface use in some configurations.
Use guidance: the model’s courtyard mention suggests potential for use in sheltered outdoor spaces, but confirm local electrical and safety standards before outdoor deployment. Far-infrared heat works well in open or semi-open areas because it heats objects and people directly rather than just heating the air.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An Outdoor Electric Fireplace Heater
Choosing the right outdoor electric fireplace heater depends on where you want to use it, how much heat you need, and the environmental protection required. Below are the main factors to compare and verify before purchasing.
Outdoor Rating And Weather Protection
- Outdoor/Water-Resistant Certification: Look for units explicitly labeled for outdoor use, with GFCI plug protection and water-resistant housing for covered installations.
- Placement: Wall-mounted outdoor models require proper mounting hardware for siding, brick, or stucco and may need additional sealing or weatherproofing.
Heat Output And Coverage
- Wattage And BTU Equivalents: Most electric fireplaces list wattage (e.g., 1,000–1,500W). Higher wattage increases heat output but also energy draw.
- Coverage Area: Manufacturers often estimate room coverage (for example, 1,000 sq. ft.). In outdoor or semi-open areas, effective coverage will be significantly lower due to heat loss.
- Infrared vs Convection: Infrared heaters warm objects and people directly and can be more effective in semi-open spaces than convection models that heat air.
Portability And Installation
- Freestanding vs In-Wall/Wall-Mount: Freestanding units offer mobility and are easier to move to sheltered spots. In-wall and recessed units need planned installation and are usually indoor-rated.
- Power Requirements: Check cord length, plug type (GFCI for outdoors), and whether hard-wiring is supported. Confirm circuit amperage compatibility (15A vs 20A).
Flame Effects And Controls
- Flame-Only Mode: Many units offer a flame-only setting so you can enjoy ambience without heat during warmer weather.
- Adjustable Color/Intensity: Multiple flame colors and intensities provide customization for different moods.
- Remote, Timer, And Smart Controls: Remote control and timers add convenience. Smart/WiFi integration can be useful for indoor units integrated into home automation.
Safety Features
- Overheat Protection: Look for automatic shutoff if the unit overheats.
- Cool-To-Touch Surfaces: For wall-mounted units near furniture or glass, cool exterior surfaces reduce burn risk.
- GFCI Outlet/Plug: Essential for any outdoor electrical appliance to reduce shock risk in damp environments.
Energy Use And Operating Cost
- Wattage Impact: Higher wattage produces more heat but raises energy use. Using a heater as supplemental heat can reduce central heating bills if used strategically.
- Thermostat And Timer: Built-in thermostats and timers improve efficiency by limiting runtime to comfort needs.
Durability And Materials
- Housing And Finish: Metal housings and corrosion-resistant finishes perform better in humid or coastal climates.
- Quality Of Flame Media: Realistic logs, crystals, or driftwood options affect aesthetics and long-term appearance.
Practical Comparison Perspectives
- Ambiance vs Heat Priority: Choose a decorative outdoor-rated unit (like weather-resistant models) if ambiance is primary and you do not need heat. Choose infrared portable units if warmth in semi-open spaces is the main goal.
- Permanent Install vs Flex Use: Recessed or wall-mounted fireplaces suit permanent outdoor rooms and require planning. Freestanding units suit renters or those who want flexibility.
- Indoor-Compatible Units Outdoors: Some portable indoor units can be used briefly in covered outdoor areas but always follow manufacturer guidance and avoid exposure to moisture.
Final checklist before buying: confirm outdoor rating (if intended for exterior use), verify power and GFCI requirements, decide between infrared vs convection heating for your space, and evaluate mounting/portability needs. These steps will help match product features to your patio, porch, or semi-outdoor living area.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- 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. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - 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. - 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.