How to choose the best outdoor patio heater for you, according to landscape experts

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Baby, it’s cold outside (at least in much of the country). And while it might be tempting to hibernate, experts say that the best patio heater systems can, in fact, generate enough warmth that you should be able to enjoy your yard and deck even in the winter.

“After investing in your outdoor spaces, you want to get as much use from them as you can,” says Kevin Lenhart, design director at Yardzen. “Heaters offer a relatively inexpensive way to get a few more months out of your outdoor spaces.”

“Well-chosen and strategically placed outdoor heaters can turn outdoor spaces into cozy and inviting areas, extending their usability well into cooler months,” adds Coleman Cosby, Yardzen’s in-house contractor. “The right heater enhances ambiance by providing warmth, soft lighting and a focal point that encourages gathering.”

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Ready to take your backyard to the next, cozy level? Keep reading for outdoor heater tips from the pros, plus top-rated product picks.

More ways to handle winter weather:

How to choose the best outdoor heater

For medium to large spaces

Many restaurants use standalone propane heaters, for good reason. They provide a ton of warmth — and look good doing it. “For larger spaces, consider high-output propane or natural gas heaters with wide coverage or multiple units,” says Cosby. Adds Lenhart, “Many heaters sit directly on the ground. These offer flexibility — you can place them anywhere you like.” Bonus: When the season is over, many of these are easy to tuck into a side yard or corner of a garage because they’re tall and slender.

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For small spaces

You may want to go with a compact or tabletop electric heater, say our experts. Just keep in mind that they often have “limited heat output and are therefore best for small seating areas,” notes Cosby. Look for portable options with features like automatic shutoff — especially important for something that’s sitting on the floor and could accidentally be kicked over.

For maximizing vertical space

If you have a roof or awning, experts recommend taking advantage of the extra real estate. “I almost always suggest opting for a mounted heater over a standing one. There are meaningful benefits to keeping the floor clear of massive standing heaters, namely improved circulation and a more open sense of space,” says Lenhart. “Those with pergolas or other overhead structures may want to consider mounted heaters, such as Heatstrip infrared heaters, which are a great option for maximizing openness while keeping spaces warm.” Cosby also likes the idea of “recessed and wall mounted heaters for a minimal and integrated profile.”

For ambiance

As Lenhart notes, “fire pits have been hot for a while now.” They add warmth — and the live fire helps cozy up a seating area. Like with free-standing propane heaters, Cosby recommends reserving fire pits for medium to large areas. And, you’ll want to make sure it “has solid footing or a designated surface like a paver or compacted gravel,” says Lenhart, to reduce the risk of it tilting. For more tips, read our guide to the best fire pits of 2025.

Essential outdoor heater accessories

Cosby advises “protective covers to help prevent weather damage and storing heaters during extreme weather conditions.” And consider getting yourself a set of wheels if they’re not included with your heater. Adds Lenhart, “Some of us have the discipline to wheel a heater in and out every time you want to use it, but most people will find they use their heaters much more if it’s already in position ready to use. If your heater doesn’t have wheels, invest in a dolly to make it easier to move.”

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Factors to consider when choosing an outdoor heater

  • Fuel type: Electric outdoor heaters are “ideal for patios or enclosed areas due to lower emissions and easier installation,” explains Cosby. He notes that propane-fueled outdoor heaters tend to be portable and powerful, but require tank refills, while natural gas outdoor heaters are efficient for large spaces if you have a gas line. “They’re less portable, but you avoid the hassle of refilling propane tanks or running out of fuel.”

  • Placement/safety: No matter where you put your outdoor heater, ensure that it has a stable base, advises Cosby. “Check that it has solid footing or a designated surface like a paver or compacted gravel.” Prioritize safety features, like an automatic shutoff and, as Cosby cautions, always “maintain proper clearance from overhead obstructions and combustible materials.”

  • Weatherproofing: Lastly, prioritize heaters with rust-resistant finishes, like stainless steel and weatherproof components, says Cosby. Use protective covers to help prevent weather damage and store heaters during extreme weather conditions. This is especially true of tall, lightweight heaters that are more susceptible to falling when it’s windy.

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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