The following guide compares seven popular outdoor gas heaters suited for patios, decks, garages, and commercial spaces. Review the quick comparison table, then explore each model’s key specs, features, and recommended use cases to match heater performance to your outdoor heating needs.
| Product | Brand | Key Output / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GasOne PH-8000 Outdoor Heaters for Patio | Gas One | 50,000 BTU portable propane heater with wheels |
| Mr Heater Portable LP Gas Heater Unit | Mr. Heater | 4,000–18,000 BTU three settings, dual tank connection |
| Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG Natural Gas Unit Heater | Mr. Heater | 80,000 BTU natural gas unit heater, large coverage |
| ThermoMate Propane Heater 18,000 BTU | thermomate | 18,000 BTU cabinet-style radiant heater, ODS & tip-over protection |
| hykolity 28″ Fire Pit Table | hykolity | 50,000 BTU fire pit table with removable lid and lava stone |
| GasOne High Pressure Single Propane Burner | Gas One | High-output outdoor cooking burner — durable heat for cooks |
| Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater | Amazon Basics | 46,000 BTU commercial/residential patio heater with wheels |
GasOne PH-8000 50,000 BTU Patio Heater
The GasOne PH-8000 is a heavy-duty 50,000 BTU propane patio heater designed for larger outdoor spaces such as backyards, terraces, and restaurant patios. It delivers radiant heat to the surrounding area to create a comfortable outdoor ambiance.
Features listed include wide applicability for cafes, balconies, and home gardens, a powerful BTU output that can warm larger seating arrangements, and a design intended to mimic the gentle, consistent warmth of a fire. The unit is described as portable with wheels for maneuverability, which improves placement flexibility.
Use considerations: ideal when a single high-output heater is needed to warm a broad footprint. The unit’s design targets outdoor environments where durable, continuous radiant heat is preferred over localized spot heating.
Mr Heater Portable LP Gas Heater Unit
This Mr. Heater portable LP unit provides three heat settings: 4,000, 9,000, and 18,000 BTU, making it suitable for campers, porches, and temporary outdoor setups. The heater is described as usable with propane tanks up to 40 lbs with an optional hose, extending run-time and capacity.
Key features include a single control start knob with piezo spark ignition, an automatic safety shutoff on tip-over, and a heat range around 450 square feet at maximum output. The design emphasizes portability and variable output for customizing warmth.
Use considerations: best for medium-sized outdoor areas or where adjustable heat and lightweight portability are priorities. Safety features support intermittent outdoor use and temporary installations.
Mr Heater Big Maxx 80,000 BTU Unit Heater
The Mr. Heater Big Maxx MHU80NG is a high-capacity 80,000 BTU natural gas unit heater designed for large spaces up to approximately 2,000 sq. ft. It ships with mounting brackets and includes a liquid propane conversion kit for flexibility in fuel source.
Manufacturer features: unit dimensions and performance data, compatibility with natural gas, category 1 vertical and category 3 horizontal venting options, and a minimum clearance recommendation. The product listing notes that thermostat, hose, and regulator are not included.
Use considerations: suited for large, semi-enclosed outdoor areas, garages or commercial exterior zones where a permanently mounted natural gas heater can supply sustained high output. Proper venting and clearance are required for safe operation.
ThermoMate 18,000 BTU Propane Cabinet Heater
The ThermoMate cabinet-style heater offers 18,000 BTU of radiant heat and is rated to heat up to 450 sq. ft. It includes oxygen depletion system (ODS) protection and a tip-over switch to automatically shut off gas in hazardous conditions.
Features highlighted by the manufacturer include instant radiant heat, efficient runtime on a 20 lb propane tank (up to 69 hours on low setting), and three selectable heat modes: 6,000 / 12,000 / 18,000 BTU. It ships with a gas regulator and hose for immediate setup.
Use considerations: suited for portable, compact heating where safety features and multi-level output are priorities—garages, workshops, covered patios, and camping setups benefit from the cabinet design and included regulator.
hykolity 28″ Fire Pit Table — 50,000 BTU
The hykolity 28-inch fire pit table integrates a 50,000 BTU stainless steel burner into a multifunctional outdoor table. The unit includes a removable lid to convert from fire pit to dining or serving surface and comes with 6.6 lb of lava stone for flame presentation.
Manufacturer features emphasize dual functionality, a CSA-certified burner with auto-shutoff, a powerful ignition system, and a rust-resistant metal frame with a heatproof tabletop. The outside control knob allows flame adjustment during operation.
Use considerations: ideal for homeowners seeking both ambient warmth and an outdoor centerpiece. The table format supports social gatherings and provides a balance between mood lighting and practical heat output in moderately sized patios.
GasOne High Pressure Single Propane Burner
The GasOne high-pressure single propane burner is marketed primarily as an outdoor cooking accessory but produces significant direct heat suitable for cooking-driven warmth during outdoor events. The burner focuses on high-output flame control and durability.
Features include a top heat guard to limit oil splatter and protect the hose connection, a bottom heat shield to protect surfaces, and a steady continuous flame for even cooking and boiling performance. The design addresses safety concerns common to high-output burners.
Use considerations: not a dedicated space heater, but applicable for outdoor cooks who want a high-output burner that doubles as a local heat source near a cooking station or gathering point. Ensure appropriate clearance and ventilation when used as supplemental heat.
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Heater
The Amazon Basics outdoor propane patio heater offers 46,000 BTU output with one-touch ignition and caster wheels for mobility. It is presented as suitable for both commercial and residential patio environments and claims heating up to a nine-foot radius.
Features highlighted include an adjustable temperature knob, quick start ignition, and integrated wheels for repositioning. The unit’s form factor is consistent with standard tall patio heaters designed to deliver overhead radiant warmth to seating areas.
Use considerations: appropriate for moderate to large residential patios and small commercial outdoor seating areas where ease of use, mobility, and a predictable heat radius are important factors.
Buying Guide
This buying guide outlines the key considerations when selecting an outdoor gas heater, comparing performance factors, safety elements, fuel types, and suitability for different outdoor environments.
Heat Output and Coverage
BTU (British Thermal Units) quantifies heat output. Lower-output models (4,000–18,000 BTU) are suited for small to medium seating areas or focused spot heating. High-output units (40,000–80,000 BTU) are better for larger patios, terraces, or semi-enclosed spaces where wider coverage is required.
Consider expected seating arrangement and wind exposure: radiant heaters perform best in calm conditions and when positioned to face seating; powerful burners can overcome light breezes but are less efficient in high-wind locations.
Fuel Type: Propane vs. Natural Gas
Propane offers portability and requires a tank (commonly 20 lb for patio setups). It suits temporary installations, renters, and owners who want to move the heater seasonally.
Natural gas provides continuous supply via piping and is more convenient for permanent installations but usually requires professional installation. Natural gas units tend to be used for larger or long-term commercial and residential setups.
Portability and Mounting
Portable heaters with wheels or smaller cabinet designs are ideal when you need to move the unit or store it. Mounted or permanently installed heaters (natural gas unit heaters or ceiling-mounted infrared) are better when seeking a fixed, always-ready solution.
Consider weight, wheel durability, and whether the heater includes mounting brackets or conversion kits to switch between fuel types.
Safety Features
Essential safety features include tip-over shutoff, ODS (oxygen depletion system) for enclosed areas, and auto shutoff on flame failure. Look for CSA or other certification labels that indicate third-party testing.
For fire pit tables and burners, verify that heat shields, guard rails, and proper clearances are specified. Safety is closely tied to intended use—portable heaters used near fabrics or under low overhangs require extra caution.
Ignition, Controls, and Adjustability
Simple push-button or piezo ignition systems offer easy starts. Variable control knobs and multiple BTU settings enable tuning heat output for comfort and fuel economy. Consider whether a heater supports thermostats or remote controls for convenience.
Cabinet-style heaters and multi-setting units provide more granular control than single-output burners.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Outdoor heaters are exposed to moisture and temperature variation. Look for rust-resistant finishes, stainless steel burners, and covers or removable lids for fire tables. Warranty terms and material specs give insight into expected longevity in outdoor conditions.
Noise, Flame Type, and Ambiance
Radiant patio heaters produce invisible infrared heat and are typically quiet. Fire pit tables and open burners produce visible flames, offering ambiance in addition to heat. Choose based on whether atmosphere or silent warmth is a priority.
Operational Costs and Efficiency
Estimate run-time based on BTU and tank size for propane models; lower BTU settings extend fuel life. Natural gas systems avoid tank refills but may have higher initial installation costs. Fire pit tables are more decorative—fuel consumption varies with flame intensity.
Common Use Cases and Model Matching
- Small Covered Patio or Porch: Cabinet or portable models with tip-over and ODS protection (e.g., ThermoMate) offer targeted warmth.
- Large Open Deck or Commercial Patio: High-BTU freestanding units (GasOne PH-8000, Amazon Basics, or Mr. Heater Big Maxx for hardwired installs) provide broader coverage.
- Multi-Function Outdoor Space: Fire pit tables (hykolity) supply both ambient flame and moderate heat while doubling as tabletop furniture.
- Cooking-Adjacent Heating: High-pressure burners (GasOne single burner) equip outdoor kitchens and can serve as local heat sources near food prep areas.
Installation, Maintenance, and Local Codes
Check local regulations for permanent gas appliance installation and required permits. Natural gas units often require a licensed technician for safe connection and venting. Portable propane units typically require less formal installation but should follow manufacturer clearance guidelines.
Regular maintenance includes inspecting hoses and regulators for leaks, cleaning burners and lava rock or glass media, and winter storage recommendations if applicable. Annual inspections are recommended for high-use or commercial units.
Comparing Trade-Offs
High-BTU units heat larger areas but consume more fuel and often require larger tanks or natural gas supply. Portable low-to-mid BTU models offer fuel efficiency and mobility at the cost of coverage. Fire pit tables and burners provide aesthetic benefits but may not match the targeted heating efficiency of infrared patio heaters.
When selecting a heater, balance coverage needs, fuel logistics, safety requirements, and desired ambiance to find the best fit for your outdoor living space.
