The Best Propane Heaters
If you've ever longed to get some fresh air but the temperature was too low, you can probably imagine just how awesome propane heaters can be. These reliable tools are fantastic at providing a simmering warmth in even frigid outdoor weather. But not all propane heaters are as well-made as others, which is why we've made this list of the best ones to take to your backyard, campsite, and other outdoor haunts of choice. Read on and cuddle up.
What to Look For
Three major factors guided us when asking whether these propane heaters deserved a spot on our list: Does it provide good heat? Is it safe and reliable? Is the price fair for the quality? And can they be set up relatively easily? We found a few propane heaters that brought the heat and won our recommendations. The trusty Amazon Basics won our top spot thanks to their heater’s good heat output and convenient wheeled setup. We also had to give major praise for Mr. Heater’s option, which provided all the warmth and functionality of larger propane heaters in a small, compact package. Keep reading to find out which other propane heaters made the cut.
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Propane Heater
Crank up the comfort
Amazon Basics does it again by providing a product that outclasses most other propane heaters at a lower cost. It comes with a variety of convenient features, such as a water-weighted base and wheels for easy transportation. It also provides heat within a 9-foot radius and has an automatic shutoff switch that activates if the heater is tilted or otherwise disrupted. This provides everything we were looking for in propane heaters, and we’re sure you’ll love it too.
Pros
- It comes in a variety of colors and designs in case you want to match it to the aesthetic of your patio.
- Whether you choose the powder-coated or the stainless-steel variety, both are well-made and durable.
- It’s more affordable than many comparable options.
Cons
- The assembly instructions can be confusing to follow.
EAST OAK 50,000 BTU Outdoor Patio Heater With Table Design
Simple warmth in a snap
This is one of the most well-designed propane heaters on the market. The incredible 18-foot radius of heat spreads evenly, and it has holes for installing a water box if you want to increase the humidity. Add in the tabletop and wheels for added mobility, and you have the total package. For covering large areas in a convenient fashion, few other propane heaters can compare.
Pros
- With wheels and a weight of roughly 40 pounds, it’s easy to move around.
- The instructions are well-written, making assembly a straightforward process.
- Made with stainless steel, it can handle outdoor elements easily without rusting.
- The heat emanates from the top, so you can rest drinks and other things on the flat tabletop surface without risk.
Cons
- You have to buy a cover separately.
Mr. Heater MH60QFAV Portable Propane Heater
The mover and the shaker
Though small in stature, the sheer power of Mr. Heater’s entry puts many full-sized propane heaters to shame. An impressive 60,000 BTU of heat can warm over fifteen-hundred square feet, making this handheld heater exponentially more powerful than almost all of its competitors. It even manages to run more quietly while producing greater output, thanks to cutting-edge QBT technology. For portability mixed with power that outclasses even jumbo propane heaters, this one can’t be beaten.
Pros
- Its economy of gas usage makes it a great backup option for heating homes during an emergency.
- The cylindrical nature of the tank allows it to directly heat specific surfaces.
- This is also an excellent option for construction sites and outdoor work.
- With one 20-pound propane tank, it can last about 14 hours.
Cons
- It can take some time to heat larger areas to full capacity.
Avenlur Outdoor Patio Propane Space Heater
Beat the weather
A cover is essential for any propane heaters you may use outdoors, and this choice comes with one included. These pyramid-shaped heaters are made with combustion-proof tubing, an automatic shutoff mechanism for tilting, and wheels for easy transportation. And with a high-quality cover that capably drapes the entire heater, this is one of the most all-inclusive packages on the market. This is an excellent choice for homeowners who don’t want to make more than one shopping trip for their heater.
Pros
- The design is more aesthetically pleasing than that of many other propane heaters.
- It provides excellent heat within its radius, and even the “low” setting is an appropriate level for many occasions.
Cons
- The directions are written in a somewhat confusing manner.
FDW Tall Outdoor Propane Heater
High heat, low price
If you find yourself unable to afford most propane heaters that catch your eye, give this one a shot. FDW gives you all the essentials for this type of heater, including a weighted base, good heat output at 41,000 BTU, and a set of wheels to help get it in place. And considering the easy assembly, this heater has almost no downsides.
Pros
- It’s super fuel-efficient, which expands its value-saving properties even further.
- The sleek, minimal design lets you blend it in with the rest of your patio or turn it into a conversation piece, depending on your preference.
Cons
- Many surfaces can heat up to very high temperatures, so you need to be careful not to touch them when it’s on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What advantages do propane heaters have over electric ones?
Propane heaters run entirely on tanks of propane that aren’t connected to any household utilities, so you never have to worry about them failing if the power goes out. Plus, the warmth of natural gas has a certain type of coziness and comfort that electric heat can’t quite match.
Is it necessary to apply covers to propane heaters?
While not 100% essential, it’s a good idea to get a cover for your heater if you keep it outdoors permanently. These heaters can suffer from an inclement climate as much as any other appliance, and spending a little extra on a reliable cover is a great way to ensure they keep you warm for a long time to come.
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