Best Patio Heaters for 2026: Propane Towers, Tank Tops, and Electric

Patio heaters extend the season on a deck or patio into the fall and early winter. Many are tall propane towers that run on a standard 20 lb grill tank. There are also compact tank-top heaters and plug-in electric infrared models. The right one depends on how much area you want to warm and what fuel you want to deal with.

The Picks at a Glance

The Picks

Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU - Our Pick

Per the listing, this propane tower puts out 46,000 BTU to heat up to a 9-foot radius (another color's listing says an 18-foot diameter, which is the same area). It has one-touch ignition, an adjustable heat knob, a tilt safety shutoff valve, wheels, a water box to weigh down the base, and a chain to secure the tank. It stands 91.3 inches tall and runs on a 20 lb propane tank, sold separately. It is sold by Amazon.

Nexgrill Sundara - Stainless Steel

Per the listing, the Sundara is a 92-inch stainless steel tower rated at 48,000 BTU. It has electronic push-button ignition, an adjustable control knob, an anti-tip sensor that shuts it off if it's knocked over, two wheels, and a lift-up cylinder for tank access. It uses a standard 20 lb tank. It is sold by Amazon.

Mr. Heater 45,000 BTU Tank Top - Portable

Instead of a tower, the Tank Top mounts directly on a 20 lb propane tank. Per the listing, it has high, medium, and low settings of 45,000, 36,000, and 30,000 BTU, a tip-over shutoff, and about 9.5 hours of run time on high. Mr. Heater describes it for outdoor heating, and the listing says outdoor use only. It suits tailgates, outdoor job sites, and open work areas where a tower is too bulky.

ThermoMate 1,500W - Electric

Per the listing, this infrared tower plugs into a standard 120V outlet and switches between 750 and 1,500 watts, covering up to 100 square feet. It is IP55 rated for water and dust, ETL certified, and has tip-over and overheat protection, a remote, and a 24-hour timer. It produces no combustion, but it warms a much smaller area than a propane tower. When we checked, it was sold by ThermoMate rather than Amazon.

Common Questions

How much area does a patio heater warm?

The Amazon Basics listing rates its 46,000 BTU tower for a 9-foot radius. Wind makes a big difference with any outdoor heater, so expect less in a breeze.

How long does a 20 lb tank last?

It depends on the heater and setting. Mr. Heater's Tank Top listing gives about 9.5 hours on high. Check each heater's listing or manual for its figure.

Can I use a patio heater in a garage?

Not a propane one - these are for open outdoor areas. For an enclosed space, use a heater the maker lists as indoor-safe, such as a Mr. Heater Buddy (see our propane heater guide), or an electric garage heater.

Bottom Line

The Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU for most patios, the Nexgrill Sundara for stainless steel, the Mr. Heater Tank Top for portable heat, and the ThermoMate when you want plug-in electric. Pair it with a fire pit for fall evenings outside.