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How Do Patio Heaters Work?

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5 min read
How Do Patio Heaters Work? image

Best Patio Heaters to Buy in October 2025

1 EAST OAK 48,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Round Table Design, Double-Layer Stainless Steel Burner and Wheels, Outdoor Patio Heater for Home and Commercial, Bronze

EAST OAK 48,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Round Table Design, Double-Layer Stainless Steel Burner and Wheels, Outdoor Patio Heater for Home and Commercial, Bronze

  • 48,000 BTU HEAT RADIUS: COMFORT IN AN 18-FT OUTDOOR SPACE.

  • DURABLE DOUBLE-LAYER HEATING MESH: 20% LONGER LIFE & SAFETY.

  • QUICK IGNITION & EASY OPERATION: START HEATING IN JUST 5 SECONDS!

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$104.99 $149.99
Save 30%
EAST OAK 48,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Round Table Design, Double-Layer Stainless Steel Burner and Wheels, Outdoor Patio Heater for Home and Commercial, Bronze
2 EAST OAK 48,000 BTU Pyramid Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Outdoor Heater with Wheels, Triple Safety Protection, 2025 Upgrade for Home, Backyard & Commercial Spaces, Bronze

EAST OAK 48,000 BTU Pyramid Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Outdoor Heater with Wheels, Triple Safety Protection, 2025 Upgrade for Home, Backyard & Commercial Spaces, Bronze

  • RAPID 48,000 BTU HEAT: QUICKLY WARMS OUTDOOR SPACES WITH PRECISE CONTROL.

  • STYLISH PYRAMID DESIGN: ELEGANT LOOK WITH ROBUST CONSTRUCTION FOR ANY PATIO.

  • TRIPLE SAFETY PROTECTION: ENJOY WORRY-FREE OPERATION WITH AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF FEATURES.

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$239.99 $269.99
Save 11%
EAST OAK 48,000 BTU Pyramid Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Outdoor Heater with Wheels, Triple Safety Protection, 2025 Upgrade for Home, Backyard & Commercial Spaces, Bronze
3 Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Wheels, Commercial & Residential, Slate Gray, with Water Tank, 32.1 x 32.1 x 91.3 inches (LxWxH)

Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Wheels, Commercial & Residential, Slate Gray, with Water Tank, 32.1 x 32.1 x 91.3 inches (LxWxH)

  • COZY OUTDOOR AMBIANCE WITH 46,000 BTUS FOR SPACIOUS WARMTH.
  • EASY ONE-TOUCH IGNITION AND WHEELS FOR EFFORTLESS MOBILITY.
  • SAFETY FIRST: AUTO-SHUT OFF, WEIGHED BASE, AND SECURE TANK CHAIN.
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$139.99
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Wheels, Commercial & Residential, Slate Gray, with Water Tank, 32.1 x 32.1 x 91.3 inches (LxWxH)
4 EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Round Table Design, Double-Layer Stainless Steel Burner and Wheels, Outdoor Patio Heater for Home and Commercial, Gray, 31.9 x 31.9 x 86.6 inches

EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Round Table Design, Double-Layer Stainless Steel Burner and Wheels, Outdoor Patio Heater for Home and Commercial, Gray, 31.9 x 31.9 x 86.6 inches

  • 50,000 BTU HEAT RADIUS: HEATS UP TO 18 FEET FOR COZY OUTDOOR GATHERINGS.
  • DURABLE DOUBLE-LAYER MESH: 20% LONGER LIFESPAN WITH SAFER, ROBUST BUILD.
  • EASY ASSEMBLY & MOBILITY: SET UP IN 30 MINS; MOVES EFFORTLESSLY ON WHEELS.
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$134.99 $149.99
Save 10%
EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Round Table Design, Double-Layer Stainless Steel Burner and Wheels, Outdoor Patio Heater for Home and Commercial, Gray, 31.9 x 31.9 x 86.6 inches
5 Pamapic Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Pyramid Flame Outdoor Heater with Cover, Quartz Glass Tube Hammered Bronze Tower Propane Outdoor Heater with Wheels

Pamapic Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Pyramid Flame Outdoor Heater with Cover, Quartz Glass Tube Hammered Bronze Tower Propane Outdoor Heater with Wheels

  • VARIABLE HEAT SETTINGS FOR PERSONALIZED COMFORT IN ANY OUTDOOR SETTING.
  • MESMERIZING GLASS FLAME TUBE ENHANCES ATMOSPHERE AND INVITES GATHERINGS.
  • SAFETY FEATURES AND EASY ACCESS TO PROPANE TANK ENSURE WORRY-FREE USE.
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$199.99 $309.99
Save 35%
Pamapic Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Pyramid Flame Outdoor Heater with Cover, Quartz Glass Tube Hammered Bronze Tower Propane Outdoor Heater with Wheels
6 EAST OAK 55,000 BTU Patio Heater with Sand Box, Table Design, Thicker Stainless Steel Burner, Wheels, Triple Protection System, Propane Outdoor Heater for Home and Residential, Commercial Grade, Brown

EAST OAK 55,000 BTU Patio Heater with Sand Box, Table Design, Thicker Stainless Steel Burner, Wheels, Triple Protection System, Propane Outdoor Heater for Home and Residential, Commercial Grade, Brown

  • 55,000 BTU POWER: HEATS UP TO A 20-FOOT DIAMETER FOR OUTDOOR COMFORT.
  • DURABLE DESIGN: DOUBLE-LAYER HEATING MESH OFFERS 20% LONGER LIFESPAN.
  • USER-FRIENDLY FEATURES: EASY IGNITION AND PORTABLE FOR QUICK SETUP.
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$189.99
EAST OAK 55,000 BTU Patio Heater with Sand Box, Table Design, Thicker Stainless Steel Burner, Wheels, Triple Protection System, Propane Outdoor Heater for Home and Residential, Commercial Grade, Brown
7 Hykolity Pyramid Patio Heater, 48000 BTU Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater with Wheels and Cover, Outdoor Propane Heaters for Patio, Backyard, Garden, Porch, and Pool, Bronze

Hykolity Pyramid Patio Heater, 48000 BTU Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater with Wheels and Cover, Outdoor Propane Heaters for Patio, Backyard, Garden, Porch, and Pool, Bronze

  • STYLISH 90-INCH DESIGN WITH GLASS TUBE ENHANCES OUTDOOR AESTHETICS.
  • POWERFUL 48,000 BTU OUTPUT PROVIDES WARMTH FOR UP TO 10 HOURS.
  • SAFETY FEATURES INCLUDE ANTI-TILT DEVICE AND WATERPROOF COVER.
BUY & SAVE
$259.99
Hykolity Pyramid Patio Heater, 48000 BTU Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater with Wheels and Cover, Outdoor Propane Heaters for Patio, Backyard, Garden, Porch, and Pool, Bronze
8 EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Heater for Commercial & Residential, Triple Protection System, With Wheels, 2024 Upgrade, Bronze

EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Heater for Commercial & Residential, Triple Protection System, With Wheels, 2024 Upgrade, Bronze

  • 48,000 BTU POWER: ENJOY CUSTOMIZED HEAT FOR ANY OUTDOOR SPACE.
  • PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: DURABLE, RUST-RESISTANT DESIGN FOR ALL SEASONS.
  • TRIPLE SAFETY FEATURES: EXTRA PROTECTION FOR WORRY-FREE OUTDOOR USE.
BUY & SAVE
$269.99
EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Heater for Commercial & Residential, Triple Protection System, With Wheels, 2024 Upgrade, Bronze
9 EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Heater, Triple Protection System, With Wheels, Outdoor Heater for Commercial & Residential, Brown

EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Heater, Triple Protection System, With Wheels, Outdoor Heater for Commercial & Residential, Brown

  • RAPID 48,000 BTU HEAT: HEATS QUICKLY IN 5 MINS, COVERING 10 FT DIAMETER.
  • TRIPLE SAFETY PROTECTION: ANTI-TIP & AUTOMATIC GAS SHUT-OFF FOR PEACE OF MIND.
  • STYLISH AND DURABLE DESIGN: PREMIUM MATERIALS AND ELEGANT PYRAMID SHAPE ENHANCE OUTDOOR AESTHETICS.
BUY & SAVE
$299.99
EAST OAK Pyramid Patio Heater, 48,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater, Quartz Glass Tube Propane Heater, Triple Protection System, With Wheels, Outdoor Heater for Commercial & Residential, Brown
10 Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4,000-9,000 BTU Indoor-Safe Propane Radiant Heater For Campers, Workshops, Job Sites, Patios & More - Red, Black

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4,000-9,000 BTU Indoor-Safe Propane Radiant Heater For Campers, Workshops, Job Sites, Patios & More - Red, Black

  • EXPERIENCE COZY WARMTH WITH ADVANCED INFRARED TECHNOLOGY!
  • SAFE OPERATION WITH IMPROVED TIP-OVER SAFETY SWITCH!
  • QUICK IGNITION WITH DURABLE PIEZO IGNITER-NO MATCHES NEEDED!
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$84.99
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4,000-9,000 BTU Indoor-Safe Propane Radiant Heater For Campers, Workshops, Job Sites, Patios & More - Red, Black
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Patio heaters are devices designed to provide warmth in outdoor spaces such as patios, decks, or courtyards. They work on the principle of radiant heat transfer, which involves transferring heat directly to objects in its path.

The heater consists of a fuel source, usually propane or natural gas, and a burner or heating element. When the heater is turned on, the fuel source ignites, creating a flame that produces heat. This heat is then emitted in the form of infrared radiation, which travels through the air and heats up objects it comes into contact with.

The design of patio heaters typically includes a reflector or a heat deflector located above the burner. The purpose of this component is to direct the heat downwards and prevent heat loss in other directions. Additionally, some heaters have a protective screen or grill surrounding the burner to prevent direct contact with the flame.

To operate a patio heater, you typically need to connect it to a propane or natural gas source. The fuel flows through a regulator and control valve to control the heat output. The heat can be adjusted using a control knob or dial, allowing you to set the desired temperature or intensity.

Patio heaters are often equipped with safety features, such as a tilt switch, which automatically shuts off the heater if it tilts or falls over. This ensures that the flame is extinguished, reducing the risk of accidents or fire.

Overall, patio heaters are a convenient and efficient way to heat outdoor spaces, allowing you to enjoy your patio or outdoor area comfortably even during cooler seasons or in the evenings. They provide an immediate heat source without the need for preheating, making them a popular choice for outdoor gatherings, restaurants, or residential patios.

What is the average lifespan of a patio heater?

The average lifespan of a patio heater can vary depending on several factors such as quality, usage, maintenance, and brand. However, a well-maintained and high-quality patio heater usually has a lifespan of around 5 to 10 years. Regular cleaning, proper storage during harsh weather conditions, and following maintenance guidelines can help extend the lifespan of a patio heater.

Are patio heaters noisy?

Patio heaters can produce some noise due to the operation of the heating element and internal fan, but the noise level is typically low and not a significant disturbance. Some high-powered or industrial-style patio heaters may produce more noise than others. It is always advisable to check the noise level specifications of a specific patio heater before purchasing to ensure it meets your preferences or requirements.

Do patio heaters require any maintenance?

Yes, patio heaters do require some maintenance. Here are a few maintenance tasks that may be required:

  1. Regular cleaning: The exterior of the patio heater should be cleaned regularly to remove dust, dirt, or any debris that may accumulate on the surface. This can be done using a mild soap and water solution.
  2. Burner maintenance: The burner of the patio heater should be inspected and cleaned periodically to remove any blockages or clogs that may affect the flow of gas. This can be done by removing the burner assembly and using a wire brush or compressed air to clean it.
  3. Gas connections: The gas connections should be checked for any leaks or loose fittings. This can be done by applying a soapy water solution to the connections and observing if any bubbles form, indicating a leak. If there is a leak, professional assistance may be required to fix it.
  4. Storage: If the patio heater will not be used for an extended period, it is recommended to store it in a dry and covered area to protect it from the elements.
  5. Annual professional servicing: It is advisable to have the patio heater professionally serviced once a year. This can help identify any potential issues and ensure that the heater is in proper working condition.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for maintenance specific to your patio heater model.

How much heat does a patio heater produce?

The heat output of a patio heater can vary depending on the size and type of heater. Generally, most patio heaters have a heat output ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour. This level of heat is sufficient to warm an outdoor space of around 15 to 25 square feet. However, it's important to note that different patio heaters can have different heat outputs, so it's always a good idea to check the specifications of a specific model before purchasing.

How do patio heaters distribute heat?

Patio heaters distribute heat through either radiant heat or convection.

  1. Radiant Heat: Most patio heaters use radiant heat to distribute warmth. They generate heat from a heating element, such as a gas burner or an electric heating element, which emits infrared radiation. This radiation heats up nearby objects, people, and surfaces directly without warming the surrounding air. It is similar to the feeling of sitting in the sun on a cold day.
  2. Convection: Some patio heaters also utilize convection to distribute heat. These heaters heat the surrounding air directly and circulate it through a fan or natural air currents. The warm air rises and displaces the cooler air, gradually warming the entire space. Convection heaters are effective for larger patio areas or enclosed spaces.

Regardless of the method, patio heaters aim to create a comfortable outdoor environment by raising the temperature and providing a source of heat.

Do patio heaters come with any warranty or guarantee?

Yes, many patio heaters come with a warranty or guarantee. The specific terms and length of the warranty can vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the patio heater. It is recommended to check the product listing or contact the manufacturer/distributor to find out the exact warranty or guarantee details for a specific patio heater.