10 Best Propane Patio Heater [Buyer Guide]
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A propane patio heater can be an excellent addition to any garden or commercial space, like a halogen heater, especially if you plan to entertain guests or feel the cold easily. Here in the UK, the weather can be incredibly temperamental – even in the summer months. So, investing in a propane patio heater can enable you to live the alfresco lifestyle for as long as possible, without catching a cold.
We’ve taken the time to review the top 10 patio heaters on the market, taking into account their key features and aesthetics, as well as other specifications that may be important when making a purchase. For example, the size of your outdoor space. Although this may sound obvious, it’s crucial to consider the size of your outdoor space before you buy your heater. Some propane heaters on the market can produce a naked flame, and although this is aesthetically pleasing – it can be a fire hazard if the space you have is small, or you have a lot of other furniture which could catch alight. You may also wish to consider things such as the height of your propane heater – as heaters that are lower are more prone to hazard from pets and small children due to wandering fingers, but taller heaters out of reach can often be safer. Similarly, if you have a covered patio area – you want to ensure that your heater isn’t too long as this may burn your patio covering.
Along with these crucial buyer considerations, we’ve also included a further detailed buyer guide with more to look out for. We’ve also included an FAQ at the bottom of the page to answer any burning questions that you may still have after reading the product reviews! So, if you want to learn a little bite more before you buy – keep on reading!
Glow Warm 13kw Gas Patio Heater
The Glow Warm 13kw Gas Patio Heater is a robust propane patio heater which comes with its own hose and propane regulator. Easy to set up and run, this style of patio heater has a thick, strong base as well as a sheltered heater area with a clear lid. Stylish and modern, this not only acts as a source of warmth but can also work as a centrepiece in your garden, especially if you have bar stools/chairs or rattan furniture. Overall, a great investment if you plan to spend your summer evenings and crisp spring days outdoors.
Key Features:
Easy to use propane patio heater
Stylish and modern design
Sturdy base made with high-quality rattan
Specification:
Brand
Real Glow
Colour
Silver
Height
2.24 m
Material
Metal and rattan
Pros
Great for those who want a centrepiece propane patio heater
Cons
May be too big for some
Nother 48000 BTU Patio Heater
The Nother 48000 BTU Patio Heater is a durable and stylish propane patio heater, with a powder coating finish. Made with predominantly stainless steel, this heater has 18ft of heating range with controllable temperature. The heater can work well in larger gardens or commercial areas, and has wheels attached so you can move it with ease – as well as storing it when it’s not in use. With adjustable valves and a safety auto shut, you can be confident that this propane patio heater will keep you warm, safe and secure all year round.
Key Features:
Easy to use propane patio heater
Works in commercial stages as well as in your garden
Wheels attached making manoeuvring easier
Specification:
Brand
Nother
Material
Stainless steel
Power source
Gas powered
Weight
18.32 kg
Pros
Safety features mean that this would be suitable even for those with families
Cons
Size of heater may be too big for some
YSQ Commercial
The YSQ Commercial heater is a lightweight propane patio heater. It is made to fit on tabletops and other small places, whilst still emitting enough heat to keep you warm. It has adjustable heat settings which are easy to use, as well as safety protection so you don’t have to worry about burnout. This is one of the easier propane patio heaters to set up and get running, and you can rely on this to last you a long time due to the high-quality materials used to make this heater. It’s also waterproof – meaning you can still use this outdoors with temperamental weather.
Key Features:
Lightweight propane patio heater
Made with durable materials such as steel and aluminium
Ideal for smaller spaces or to be put on top of tables
Adjustable heat settings
Specification:
Brand
YSQ
Colour
Brown and silver
Material
Steel and aluminium
Pros
Size is perfect for those who don't need an industrial-seized propane patio heater
Cons
May be too small for some
LAZNG Garden Treasures Propane Patio Heater
The LAZNG Garden Treasures Propane Patio Heater is a sturdy but stylish propane patio heater that is a mixture of propane and butane. With two emitters in the design, you can be confident that this will extend the life of your heater overall. It has excellent features such as tilt switches and complete adjustable heat modes, this is perfect for mid-large sized gardens and some commercial spaces.
Key Features:
Sturdy design made with stainless steel
Mixture of propane and butane
Adjustable heat settings
Easy to use and maintain
Specification:
Brand
LAZNG
Material
Stainless steel
Colour
Silver and black
Weight
22 kg
Pros
Due to the overall size and design, this is versatile and can work both in commercial spaces or gardens
Cons
Mix of propane and butane may be too much effort for some
DDLL Portable Gas Patio Heater
The DDLL Portable Gas Patio Heater is a bright and vibrant propane patio heater which comes in a vivid orange colour, bold mesh caging and sturdy materials to bring this product together. It can be used in many ways such as heating, cooking or providing light during the evenings. Although aesthetically this would be less used in a commercial space, it is ideal for families or couples who are looking for a propane patio heater which has more than one use – thus getting the most for your money. It also has energy-saving options which is great if you’re looking to spend a minimal amount on propane to run this heater.
Key Features:
Lightweight propane patio heater
Multiple functionalities
Adjustable heat settings
Energy saving settings available
Specification:
Brand
DDL
Power source
Gas
Colour
Orange
Material
Steel/metal mix
Weight
3.5 kg
Pros
Great for those who want something that is multi-use and lightweight
Ideal for those who are looking to travel with their heater (camping etc)
Cons
Design and aesthetics may not be to everyone's taste
WUAZ Tabletop Gas Patio Heater
The WUAZ Tabletop Gas Patio Heater is the perfect companion for alfresco living. This propane patio heater is great for smaller spaces and tabletops due to the lightweight design. Easy to use, set up and maintain/clean, this can work really well in smaller gardens and spaces that don’t have the capacity to hold a tall propane patio heater which would take up the majority of the outdoor space available. It comes with multiple heat settings and is incredibly light to handle and carry.
Key Features:
Lightweight propane patio heater
Multiple heat settings
Easy to maintain and use
Specification:
Brand
WUAZ
Colour
Silver
Material
Stainless steel
Weight
9 kg
Fuel
Propane, Butane
Pros
Perfect for those who have smaller spaces due to size and weight
Cons
Not suitable for larger spaces or commercial areas
EWheelchair888 Outdoor Propane Heater Patio
The EWheelchair888 Outdoor Propane Heater Patio is a sturdy and stylish propane patio heater which can be an excellent heating solution all year round. Whether it’s turning it on in the summer evenings when the breeze starts to pick up, or in the winter when you want to entertain over the holiday period – this is a great option both for homes as well as smaller commercial spaces. The design includes safety features for overheating, as well as an explosion-proof tube, too. Made from high-quality materials, you can be confident that this propane patio heater will last for many, many years.
Key Features:
Easy to use propane patio heater
Multiple safety features
Designed to be used all year round
Stylish and robust design
Specification:
Brand
Ewheelchair888
Colour
Black
Material
Stainless steel
Weight
15kg
Pros
Size and safety features make this perfect both for commercial and personal use
Cons
Design and sizing may not be to everyone's taste
XKRSBS Outdoor Patio Heater
The XKRSBS Outdoor Patio Heater is an easy to assemble, DIY-friendly propane patio heater. This heater is made with durable, sturdy materials and can withstand windy and temperamental weather. With safety features included, you can be confident that you wont have any unexpected hazards from this heater such as burnout. In terms of the design, this could work well in a mid-large sized garden with a seating area, as well as a commercial space, too. This is family friendly.
Key Features:
Easy to assemble and use
Sturdy and robust design
Safety features to prevent burnout
Specification:
Brand
XKRSBS
Colour
Dark brown/copper
Material
Stainless steel
Height
88.6 in
Pros
Size and design works well in commercial or private spaces
Safety features give you complete peace of mind
Cons
Colour scheme and design may not be to everyone's taste
Guotail Patio Heater
The Guotail Patio Heater is a sturdy and durable propane patio heater which is perfect to use in the summer nights as well as the colder months, too. With easy installation instructions, this is perfect both for personal use in your garden as well as commercial spaces such as bars, restaurants and outdoor smoking areas. You can be assured that you’ll be completely safe around this heater, as there is a safety auto shut-off tilt valve, as well as adjustable warmth. Overall this is a reliable and well-designed patio heater which should last you for years to come.
Key Features:
Easy to install patio heater
Robust and durable materials used
Safety feature to guarantee peace of mind
Specification:
Brand
Guotail
Colour
Silver
Material
Stainless steel
Height
87 in
Pros
Heat settings and safety features make this a perfect all-rounder from winter through to summer
Cons
Size and design may not be to everyone's taste
Summary
As you can see, there are so many excellent options for you to choose from, and hopefully, you have a better idea of the varying patio heaters available and which type would work best for you. However, if you’re left scratching your head feeling more conflicted and confused than when you started, then you’re in the right place.
We’ve listed below a few things for you to consider before making your purchase, as well as a detailed FAQ below to answer any burning questions that you may have. So, have no fear – as hopefully, we’ll be able to help you make the right purchase by the time you’ve finished reading.
Outdoor space size
If you have a smaller space, you may want to consider a tabletop heater. Or, if you’re set on having a larger heater you may want to consider an electric patio heater to avoid any hazards that an open flame may cause. It’s also important to think about what you want your heater for, as if it’s mostly to brighten the space rather than add heat, you would be better off purchasing battery outdoor lights or garden string lights instead.
Propane patio heaters are also meant to be used purely in outdoor spaces only. So, if you want to use this in a shed or conservatory you may want to consider shed heaters or halogen heaters instead.
Height
Similar to the size of your garden, it’s important to factor in the height of your patio heater in particular. Most patio heaters have a narrow width, but the height should be considered – especially if you have a covered patio area, small children or pets.
FAQ
What is the best propane patio heater?
We’d be biased if we told you our favourite, especially as this boils down to personal preference. However, our favourite heaters are ones that have great safety features, are easy to use and can work in the average-sized garden!
These types of heaters are usually a lot more accessible in terms of price point, and are easier to operate due to them being lightweight and user-friendly.
Do propane patio heaters really work?
Yes, they do! Like a normal patio heater, these heaters work to offer warmth and light in an outdoor space all year round. The two main types are electric and gas (propane, butane etc).
Can a propane patio heater be used in a garage?
No. As these are powered by gas these can be dangerous when used in indoor spaces as there is no ventilation. Unless your garage is wide open and large enough to fit a propane patio heater, we recommend against it completely. You’re better off using an electric heater or wearing some layers instead.
A propane patio heaters dangerous?
They are only dangerous when not maintained properly or used indoors. So, make sure you take good care of your heater. If you find that your patio heater has continuous problems, you may have a faulty one. Ensure that you stop using it and contact your supplier immediately, as if it’s in its warranty period you will be eligible for a repair or even a full refund.
Can you use a patio heater under a covered patio?
You can, as long as there is ventilation and the heater isn’t too close to the covering which could cause a fire hazard. For example, if you have a canopy to keep rain from falling on you but it isn’t enclosed, then this is absolutely fine.
However, if you aim to use this in a covered patio that is small and with a lot of furniture, you may prefer to use a table top heater that is less likely to cause a hazard.