Patio Heaters: Extend Your Outdoor Season by Months
A patio heater turns a three-season deck into a four-season living space. When the temperature drops below 60°F, a single propane heater producing 36,000–40,000 BTU can keep a 10–15 foot radius comfortable enough to sit outside without a jacket.
Three Styles, Different Use Cases
Standing patio heaters are the classic tall-mushroom design. They radiate heat downward in a wide cone, covering the most ground area. Wheels on the base make them easy to reposition as your seating arrangement changes. Best for: large open patios, restaurant terraces, and any space where you want one heater to cover a big area.
Tabletop heaters are compact propane units that sit directly on a dining table or side table. They produce less heat than standing models but put it exactly where you need it — at seated height. Best for: small patios, balconies, outdoor dining where one table needs warmth.
Hanging heaters mount to a pergola, covered patio ceiling, or wall bracket. They save floor space entirely and direct heat downward onto a specific seating zone. Best for: covered patios with limited floor area, permanent installations.
BTU and Coverage
BALI OUTDOORS standing heaters produce 36,000–40,000 BTU. In still air, that heats a circle roughly 10–15 feet in diameter. Wind reduces effective range — on a breezy evening, position the heater upwind of your seating or use a windbreak.
Tabletop models produce 10,000–15,000 BTU and heat a 3–5 foot radius. They run on 1 lb propane canisters (2–4 hours per canister) or adapt to a 20 lb tank with a hose extension.
Safety Features
All models include an anti-tilt shut-off valve — if the heater tips more than 15 degrees from vertical, the gas cuts automatically. The control knob has a positive off position, and the burner assembly is fully enclosed to prevent direct flame contact.
For covered patios, maintain at least 3 feet of overhead clearance between the heater top and the ceiling or any combustible surface. Check local fire codes for specific requirements in your area.
Fuel Economy
A standing heater on high burns through a 20 lb propane tank in roughly 8–10 hours. On medium, you can stretch that to 12–15 hours. At current propane prices, that works out to about $2–3 per hour of heating.
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Guides
Pillar guide: How to Choose a Patio Heater — the complete selection guide for style, BTU, and placement.