Cozy season is upon us—and that means there’s no better time of year to sit in a bundle of blankets next to an outdoor patio heater. From electric to propane and natural gas, there’s a wide array of different outdoor heater types. Find out which type will help you turn your outdoor space into the perfect warm, welcoming area in this outdoor heater buying guide.
Why are outdoor heaters so useful?
If you have a backyard space that you really enjoy, outdoor heaters extend the amount of time you get the most out of it. They’re a simple solution, but they can be quite impactful. Fall in Canada often officially starts towards the end of September. Depending on where you are, I find that the real chill doesn’t fully set in until January or February. A great outdoor heater sets you up to enjoy your outdoor spaces for one extra month or even more. They’re a great add-on that helps you get the most out of the outdoor spaces you love.
Beyond comfort, outdoor heaters are just cozy. They add a special kind of warmth and ambiance to backyard gatherings, even on cooler summer nights. There’s something special about sitting by an outdoor heater, whether it’s the fall solstice or you’re enjoying a late night meal outdoors in the middle of June.
Types of outdoor heaters & fire pits
The best outdoor heater for your backyard (or outdoor space) will vary depending on the space itself. There are three main types of outdoor heaters: electric patio heaters, propane patio heaters, and natural gas heaters. You can also add fire pit and fire pit tables in the mix. Here’s how they differ:
Electric patio heaters
Electric patio heaters are an easy-to-use outdoor heating option. They’re more modern than your other options, and they’re designed for portability and simplicity. With easy plug-in power and infrared heating technology, electric heaters are a great option for smaller spaces. They’re best for small patios and balconies. Not only are they a great option for apartments and condos, but they’re also often the only option due to building restrictions.
Propane patio heaters
Propane and natural gas heaters are the most common types of outdoor heaters. Reliable and powerful, they’re great for large patios and open spaces.
Unlike natural gas heaters, propane patio heaters are fuelled by interchangeable, refillable tanks of propane. Because they’re tank-based, the heaters themselves are portable. That makes their placement convenient and flexible. It can also minimize the amount of maintenance they need over time, as they’re easier to move into a shed or garage when not in use. If you’re in an area with a lot of rain, snow, or hail, being able to move your heater into a building (not just cover it up) can really help extend its lifespan.
Fire pits, fire pit tables, and other wood-burning heaters
Another super-cozy option for enjoying the outdoors is a fire pit or a fire pit table. These beautiful alternatives provide more than just heat—they also add comfort and ambiance. Fire pit tables are fun to watch as you sit around them at night. Fuelled by propane or wood, their warm flames dance in the wind and their ledges offer extra space for things like glasses and s’mores.
Wood-burning heaters (now typically sold as tent stoves or covered fire pit tables) are another type of outdoor heater. This style of heater was used before the invention of electricity and propane, but is much less common now due to convenience and safety risks. They need a much larger volume of fuel. While very pleasant to listen to, they’re also more unpredictable than other types of outdoor heaters.
Remember: If you’re using a wood burning outdoor heater or fire pit, make sure to use it in a cleared area (for instance, on dirt or patio tile) and check your local jurisdiction for restrictions and fire bans.
Natural gas heaters
Natural gas heaters are a permanent, cost-efficient way to add powerful heating to your fixed outdoor spaces. They’re a great addition to outdoor kitchens and living rooms, and they’re easy to use as they’re left hooked up all year round.
Key features to consider for your heater
Buying the right heater is all about considering your environment and its needs. Check the device’s features for the following aspects to get the most out of this outdoor heater buying guide:
Heating capacity
How many watts or BTUs are you looking for? It’s important to choose a heater that’s powerful enough to heat the entire area you’re looking to warm up (if the area is enclosed/semi-enclosed), or to choose a heater that’s powerful enough that you’ll be able to feel its warmth in an unenclosed space.
In general, companies recommend that you account for 20 BTUs per square foot. So, for a 5 ft by 10 ft patio, you’d need a 10,000 BTU patio heater to feel the heat throughout the area. Once the nights dip past 0 degrees, you’ll need a heater (or heaters) with roughly 30,000 BTUs of heating power to stay warm in the same space.
Portability and design
Are you looking for a tabletop, freestanding, or mounted heater? Tabletop heaters are great for smaller spaces (like balcony tables). Multiple freestanding heaters are the perfect choice for big backyards, and mounted heaters are great if you need a powerful, fixed option. Mounted heaters are popular for installing in covered patios.
Safety features
Does your device have CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approval? How about features like tip-over shutoff and safety grates?
For families with small children or pets, it’s important to choose a heater with an elevated heating element. Even with safety grates, heaters get very warm—and they can burn skin or fur. Similarly, in households that need clear pathways, it can be important to keep cords and heaters off the ground. In cases like these, freestanding propane heaters and mounted, electric ceiling heaters are great choices.
Ease of use
Does your heater use an ignition system or fuel type that works for your lifestyle? Is it difficult to turn on and light your heater? If fuel and ignition are a concern, opt for easy-to-use options like electric heaters. They’re easy to turn on and off and simple to install.
Matching your heater to your lifestyle
To find the best outdoor heater for your backyard or patio space, make sure to match your heater to your lifestyle.
1. Size your product by area: this is a great way to choose your heater’s fuel system. For smaller spaces, opt for an electric heater; for larger ones, choose natural gas or propane.
2. Narrow down your options based on use: Are you heating up an area for casual family get-togethers, or are you planning to have big parties all season long? Products like fire tables are awesome for seated weekend evenings, but multiple standing backyard heaters are better for large spaces and large groups.
3. Consider your budget for a heater: Are you looking for a portable, budget-friendly heater or are you making a long-term investment? Electric is often the best option for households on a budget, but natural gas offers a permanent solution with a higher upfront cost but lower running fees.
4. Consider your location: Electric heaters only work when the grid or your backup generator are working. If you need a solution that’ll work 24/7, no matter what, choose natural gas. As long as its hookup is functional, it’ll work. Natural gas heaters won’t be affected by electricity blackouts and their tank will never run empty, making them a pragmatic solution for areas with frequent blackouts.
Ready for the cozy season?
Check out Best Buy’s frequent seasonal promotions and sales to get the best deal possible on your heater, and make sure to take a quick peek into outdoor heater accessories at the same time. Heater styles slowly change through the years, so the best time to find a matching cover or extra propane hose for your heater is when you purchase it!
