Choosing the right outdoor heater can mean the difference between enjoying your patio into the night or bundling up inside. Below is a concise summary table of five relevant Amazon heater models selected for outdoor or semi-outdoor use, plus indoor oil radiators that may be used in sheltered outdoor spaces like enclosed patios or garages.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Oil Space Heater with Remote Control | Oil-Filled Radiator (Indoor) | Seven fins, 3 heat settings, thermostat |
| Dreo Oil Filled Radiator | Oil-Filled Radiator (Indoor) | Digital controls, child lock, 1500W |
| EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater | Propane Outdoor Patio Heater | 50,000 BTU, stainless steel mesh, wheels |
| Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared | Carbon Infrared (Indoor & IP55 Outdoor) | IP55-rated, 3 power settings, plug-and-go |
| Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater | Propane Outdoor Patio Heater | 46,000 BTU, one-touch ignition, wheels |
Content Navigation
- Amazon Basics Oil Space Heater With Remote Control
- Dreo Oil Filled Radiator, Electric Radiant Heaters
- EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater With Round Table Design
- Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater
- Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater With Wheels
- Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Outdoor Heater
Amazon Basics Oil Space Heater With Remote Control
This Amazon Basics oil-filled radiator uses seven wavy fins to retain and disperse heat, offering three power settings: High (1500W), Medium (900W), and Low (600W). An adjustable thermostat helps maintain target temperatures, while the oil-filled design provides long-lasting residual warmth even after the unit cycles off. Built-in safety features include tip-over protection and an ETL safety certificate. While primarily designed for indoor use, some owners place similar oil radiators in sheltered, dry outdoor spaces like enclosed porches or garages; exposure to rain or heavy humidity is not recommended. The portability makes it simple to move where extra warmth is needed, but verify manufacturer guidance before outdoor placement.
Dreo Oil Filled Radiator, Electric Radiant Heaters
The Dreo oil filled radiator is a digitally controlled indoor radiator with 1500W output, multiple modes including eco settings, a 24-hour timer, child lock, and tip-over/overheat protections. Dreo advertises improved heat dispersion via seven advanced fins and safety checks including a burn-proof plug and fire-resistant materials. This unit is designed for quiet, efficient indoor heating and excels in spaces where sustained radiant warmth is preferred. Like other oil-filled heaters, it may be suitable in protected outdoor enclosures but is not rated for direct outdoor exposure. Use in covered patios only if protected from wind and moisture and confirm warranty implications.
EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater With Round Table Design
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
The EAST OAK patio heater is a commercial-style propane heater delivering 50,000 BTU, designed to cover a large area—claimed up to a 20-foot diameter. Its double-layer 304 stainless steel heating mesh increases durability and heat output versus single-layer designs. The unit includes wheels for mobility and partial pre-assembly to reduce setup time. This heater is intended for outdoor and commercial use with ETL certification for safety. As a gas-powered radiant heater it provides instantaneous, high-output warmth and is appropriate for open patios, decks, and restaurant terraces. Required considerations include propane storage, ventilation, and stable placement to prevent tipping.
Dr Infrared Heater DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater
The Dr Infrared DR-238 is rated IP55 for indoor and outdoor use, making it an option for exposed patio applications where moisture resistance is important. It offers carbon infrared heat at three power settings: 900W, 1200W, and 1500W, runs on standard 120V, and is remote-controlled for convenience. Infrared heating warms objects and people directly rather than relying solely on air temperature, which can be efficient in open or semi-open outdoor settings. The unit is described as clean, instant, and odorless, suitable for patios, decks, garages, and restaurant use. Ensure protected electrical connections and follow IP rating guidance for placement.
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater With Wheels
This Amazon Basics outdoor propane heater provides 46,000 BTU of radiant heat suitable for patios and commercial outdoor seating. Features include a one-touch ignition button, wheels for easier movement, and an integrated water tank base for stability. It’s designed to heat a radius around nine feet and is well-suited to open-air environments where electric options may be limited. Propane patio heaters deliver high localized warmth quickly, but require safe handling, proper ventilation, and stable placement to reduce tipping risk. Regular maintenance of the burner and regulator is recommended to maintain performance and safety.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Outdoor Heater
Selecting the best outdoor heater involves matching heating type, coverage needs, safety, and installation logistics to your space. Below are the primary considerations to compare models effectively.
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
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.
Heating Type And How It Works
- Oil-Filled Radiators: Provide long-lasting radiant/convection heat and are best for enclosed or sheltered spaces. They retain heat after shutoff but are generally not rated for direct outdoor exposure.
- Infrared/Electric Heaters: Heat objects and people directly and are effective in semi-open spaces. Look for IP ratings (e.g., IP55) for moisture resistance when used outdoors.
- Propane/BTU Patio Heaters: Deliver high heat output and large-area coverage quickly, suitable for open-air patios but involve fuel storage and combustion safety considerations.
Coverage Area And Output
- Match the heater’s output to the intended area. Propane BTU ratings (e.g., 46k–50k BTU) cover larger, open spaces; wattage and infrared design determine effective reach for electric models.
- Consider focused heating vs. volumetric room heating. Infrared is directional; oil radiators are better for enclosed volume retention.
Weather Resistance And Installation
- For exposed patios, prioritize units with outdoor ratings (IP ratings for electric heaters) or explicitly listed outdoor use.
- Electric outdoor heaters need protected outlets and GFCI protection. Propane units need ventilation and a stable, non-flammable surface.
- Assess assembly and mobility: wheels and partial pre-assembly speed setup, while fixed or ceiling-mounted units require more planning.
Safety Features
- Look for tip-over protection, overheat cutoffs, thermal protection, and ETL/UL listings.
- For propane units, ensure regulator integrity, flame failure protection, and a weighted base to reduce tipping hazard.
- For outdoor electric use, ensure weatherproofing and secure wiring; avoid placing indoor-only oil radiators where they can contact moisture.
Energy Use And Cost Considerations
- Electric heaters provide controllable, instant heat but may be costlier to run at high wattages. Infrared can be efficient for targeted heating.
- Propane heaters have higher heat output for the cost but require fuel replacements and safe storage.
- Oil radiators hold heat and can reduce cycling, which may save energy in enclosed spaces but are not suitable for open-air outdoor heating.
Maintenance And Lifespan
- Keep burners, reflectors, and mesh clean on propane heaters for efficient flame performance.
- Protect electric components from moisture and inspect cords and plugs regularly.
- Oil-filled radiators generally require minimal maintenance but should be kept dry and upright to protect the reservoir and seals.
Comparison Perspectives
- Performance vs. Mobility: High-BTU propane units provide strong coverage but are heavier and fuel-dependent; electric and oil radiators are more portable.
- Open-Air vs. Enclosed Use: Use propane or infrared for open patios; use oil-filled radiators for enclosed or sheltered outdoor rooms.
- Instant Heat vs. Residual Warmth: Infrared and gas give immediate warmth; oil radiators provide long-lasting residual heat after shutoff.
- Safety vs. Output: Higher output heaters require more attention to safety features and installation standards.