Best Outdoor Space Heater Options for Patios and Garages

Choosing the right outdoor space heater depends on area size, fuel type, portability, and safety features. Below is a quick comparison of five well-reviewed heaters selected for patios, garages, and semi-enclosed outdoor spaces.

Product	Type	Notable Features
Riseon 1500W Electric Patio Heater	Electric PTC	Remote, 3 heating modes, overheat protection
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX	Propane Radiant	4,000–9,000 BTU, tip-over safety, piezo igniter
AgiiMan 1500W Electric Patio Heater	Electric Ceramic	Digital thermostat, compact mountable design
Dr Infrared DR-238 Carbon Infrared	Carbon Infrared (Electric)	IP55 rated for outdoor use, 3 power settings, remote
EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater	Propane Tower	High BTU output, commercial design, wheels

Riseon 1500W Electric Patio Heater With Remote

Check Price on Amazon

The Riseon model is a 1500W electric PTC ceramic heater intended for sheltered patios, garages, and indoor/outdoor transitional spaces. It includes a remote and touch controls for convenience.

Key features listed: three modes (ECO/Low/Mid/High), thermostat control that cycles heating based on set temperature, and an overheat protection system with child lock and tip-resist brace. The ECO mode cycles to save energy, while the High mode provides continuous heat when the thermostat is set to maximum.

Suitable Use Cases: Best for small to medium sheltered outdoor areas and enclosed garages where 120V power is available and fast, controlled electric heat is preferred over combustion-based options.

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy MH9BX Propane Radiant Heater

Check Price on Amazon

The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy is a compact propane radiant heater that produces between 4,000 and 9,000 BTU, designed to heat up to roughly 225 sq. ft. Radiant heaters warm objects and people directly, rather than heating large volumes of air.

Notable features: advanced infrared technology, improved tip-over safety switch, and a durable Piezo igniter that provides matchless ignition. The tip-over safety engages audibly if the unit is disturbed, enhancing on-site safety in workshops or camps.

Suitable Use Cases: Well-suited for open garages, covered patios, job sites, and camping where portability and higher localized heat output are needed and where propane use is acceptable in semi-enclosed settings following ventilation guidelines.

AgiiMan 1500W Electric Patio Heater With Digital Thermostat

Check Price on Amazon

AgiiMan’s 1500W unit uses a ceramic heating element and integrated fan to speed heat distribution. The digital thermostat provides precise control between 40–108°F and a safety cutoff at 167°F.

Key features: rapid ceramic warming, integrated fan for 30% faster distribution, digital thermostat accuracy, and overheat protection. The compact footprint and rubber-grip bracket allow mounting on different surfaces, making it versatile for garages, tents, and RVs.

Suitable Use Cases: Ideal where precise temperature control and mounting options matter—for instance, small workshops, greenhouses, and covered patio spaces requiring consistent ambient temperatures.

Dr Infrared DR-238 Carbon Infrared Outdoor Heater

Check Price on Amazon

The Dr Infrared DR-238 is a carbon infrared heater designed and rated for both indoor and outdoor use with an IP55 rating, indicating water resistance suitable for sheltered outdoor spaces.

Features include clean, instant infrared heat, three power settings (900W/1200W/1500W), and remote control. Infrared systems efficiently transfer heat to objects and people and are often perceived as more comfortable in breezy outdoor settings because they don’t try to heat all the air.

Suitable Use Cases: Well-suited to patios, decks, and commercial open-air restaurant setups where occasional moisture exposure and remote convenience are considerations.

EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater With Table Design

Check Price on Amazon

The EAST OAK is a high-output propane 50,000 BTU standing patio heater with a round table top and double-layer stainless steel burner. It’s designed for larger outdoor areas and commercial applications.

Highlighted features: powerful heat coverage up to a 20-foot diameter, 304 stainless steel double-layer mesh for durability, ETL certification, and caster wheels for mobility. The larger burner and reflector design aim to spread heat over wider seating areas compared with small electric units.

Suitable Use Cases: Best for larger open patios, commercial terraces, and settings where high BTU output and wide-area coverage are required and propane fuel is practical and safe to use outdoors.

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Outdoor Space Heater

Selecting a heater involves evaluating fuel type, heating method, coverage area, safety features, portability, and weather resistance. Below are the core considerations to compare across models and use scenarios.

Fuel Type And Operating Environment

• Electric Heaters (Ceramic/PTC/Infrared): Require a 120V outlet. They are generally safer for semi-enclosed spaces, produce no combustion byproducts, and offer precise thermostat control. Ideal for covered patios, garages, and greenhouses.
• Propane Heaters (Radiant/Tower): Provide higher localized or wide-area heat output without electrical power. Use outdoors or in well-ventilated covered areas only. Better for large open patios, commercial areas, and off-grid situations.

Heating Method: Infrared Vs. Convection Vs. Radiant

• Infrared/Carbon/Quartz: Heat objects and people directly; effective in breezy or semi-open environments since they don’t need to heat all the air.
• Convection/Ceramic/PTC: Warm the surrounding air and rely on fans or natural circulation. Good for enclosed or semi-enclosed garages and greenhouses where maintaining ambient air temp matters.
• Radiant (Propane): Offers sun-like warmth and high output; good for quick localized comfort but requires safe ventilation outdoors.

Coverage Area And Output

• Match the heater’s rated area or BTU/wattage to your space. Electric 1500W units generally suit small-to-medium sheltered areas, while high-BTU propane towers cover large open patios.
• Consider placement and reflectors: tower designs and heaters with reflectors spread heat broadly; radiant units focus heat in a specific direction.

Safety Features And Certifications

• Look For overheat protection, tip-over/shutoff switches, child lock, and ETL or similar certifications. For outdoor-rated units, confirm IP rating or explicit outdoor suitability.
• For propane models, ensure reliable ignition systems and audible/visual feedback for safety mechanisms.

Portability, Mounting, And Installation

• Portable heaters are easier to move but may require stable placement to avoid tipping. Some electric units offer mounting brackets for wall or tent use.
• Tower heaters often include wheels for repositioning; check assembly complexity and maintenance needs (e.g., burner cleaning for propane towers).

Weather Resistance And Durability

• For outdoor use, prioritize units with IP ratings, stainless steel components, or manufacturer statements confirming outdoor suitability.
• Consider corrosion resistance, especially near coastal environments, and whether a heater should be covered or stored during heavy rain.

Operational Costs And Energy Considerations

• Electric heaters provide predictable energy draw (wattage x hours) and are generally cheaper to operate for small areas; propane gives high heat but fuel costs vary.
• Thermostat-controlled and ECO modes can reduce runtime and energy use by cycling heat rather than running continuously.

Comfort And Noise

• Ceramic and PTC heaters with fans may produce audible noise; check decibel expectations if using in quiet outdoor dining or office-adjacent spaces.
• Infrared and propane radiant units are often quieter because they rely less on fans.

Comparison Perspectives

• Small, Sheltered Patio Or Garage: A 1500W electric ceramic/infrared unit with thermostat (e.g., AgiiMan, Riseon) offers safe, controlled heat and easier installation.
• Large Open Patio Or Commercial Space: A high-BTU propane tower (e.g., EAST OAK) or multiple infrared modules provide broader coverage and higher output.
• Portable, Off-Grid, Or Job Site: Propane radiant heaters like Mr. Heater Portable Buddy deliver immediate localized warmth without needing electricity.
• Weather-Exposed But Covered Patios: Choose models with outdoor ratings (IP55 or explicit manufacturer outdoor approvals) such as the Dr Infrared DR-238 for durability in damp conditions.

Maintenance And Lifespan

• Electric heaters require minimal maintenance beyond cleaning dust and confirming wiring integrity. Check PTC/ceramic element lifespan and fan longevity.
• Propane heaters require burner inspections, regulator checks, and winter storage to prevent rust and fuel-line issues.

Final Selection Checklist

• Is your space enclosed, semi-enclosed, or fully open?
• Do you have reliable electrical access, or do you need off-grid fuel?
• How many square feet need consistent warmth, and is directional heat acceptable?
• Which safety features and certifications are present for your chosen environment?
• Is portability or a fixed installation more important?