All things are not created equal and freestanding patio heaters are no exception. This is why we have provided you a list of the best freestanding patio heaters. There are several things you should consider when choosing an outdoor patio heater including the type, the size and design of your patio, the design of the patio heater, and the price. Before buying a patio heater make sure you are aware of the following differences:
Type Of Power
Freestanding patio heaters can be powered by propane, natural gas, or electricity. We do not suggest electricity as they really don’t produce the heat as propane and natural gas freestanding patio heaters. Electric corded freestanding patio heaters usually produce less than 10,000 btu’s which is minimal, especially when used outdoors. Propane freestanding patio heaters usually produce between 30,000-50,000 btu’s which is adequate for a medium sized deck. Natural Gas Freestanding Propane heaters usually produce greater than 50,000 btu’s.
Propane Freestanding Patio Heaters
- Portable
- Best price for heat output
- Produce a large amount of heat instantly upon ignition
- Easy to maintain
- Simple repairs
- Highest cost of power
- 1 Propane tank will last approximately 10 hours of use
- Outside temperatures below 40ºF will lower heat output of unit
Natural Gas Freestanding Patio Heaters
- Lowest Cost Of Operation
- Produce a large amount of heat instantly upon ignition
- Constant Fuel Supply
- Should be professionally installed
- Not portable
- Must have natural gas at residence
- Higher priced
Electric Freestanding Patio Heaters
- Cheapest Option
- Zero Emissions
- No professional installation require
- Least amount of heat produced
- Higher cost to operate than natural gas
- Need direct electricity connection
Choosing the Right Size Freestanding Patio Heater For Your Patio
Consider the size of your patio and whether or not your patio is covered when choosing the right patio heater for deck or patio. Most natural gas an propane patio heaters recommend a 3 foot clearance for roofs or covered decks and a 24″ clearance of combustibles on each side of the heater.
Freestanding heaters work best in covered areas and if your deck is small or medium deck one propane freestanding patio heater should be sufficient as long as it is somewhat close to the seating area. On average they produce 30,000-50,000 BTU’s.
Price of Freestanding Patio Heaters
Choosing a patio heater based of price should be your last reason for making the decision. Prices range from less than $100 up to several thousand dollars. We believe propane freestanding patio heaters are the best price dollar for dollar due to the portability and heat production.
The Best Freestanding Patio Heaters - Our Recommendations
Target 
shopperschoice.com 
AppliancesConnection.com 
Newegg.com 
Amazon.com The Fire Sense 60485 propane fueled patio heater is less than $200 and produces 46,000 BTU’s which is adequate for most decks. It is easily portable (on wheels) and has a auto shut-off tilt valve in case it is knocked over. The produced heat is radiated at an optimum angle thru the conical design of the burner head.
The difference between the Bromic and other heaters that have domes to cover the heating element, the Bromic has a38,500 BTU infrared directional standing heating element does lose it’s heat vertically. Because of the design the hot air does not rise yet actually heats at the levels where people are standing or seated.
