By: Nick Janco, NFI Certified Master Hearth Professional
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Whether you’re hosting friends on a crisp evening, enjoying a quiet morning coffee outside, or looking to extend the use of your patio well beyond summer, a quality patio heater makes all the difference.
But with so many brands on the market — each offering different fuel types, heat outputs, designs, and features — choosing the best one for your outdoor space can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we’ll break down what truly sets the best patio heater brands apart, from durability and performance to efficiency, safety, and long-term value.
In This Article
Bromic
Bromic is known for manufacturing high-quality patio heaters that are perfect for luxury outdoor areas. If you aren’t able to hide your patio heater, Bromic offers a variety of seamless and stylish designs that won’t interrupt the flow of your space. Plus, Bromic’s dual-element electric heaters only need one electrical conduit line, which means minimal installation and less intrusion into your space.
If you live in an area with fluctuating temperatures or harsh weather, electric heaters from Bromic are an excellent option. They feature intuitive controls that regulate electricity flowing to your heater, allowing you to precisely set the heat whenever you need to.
Bromic’s gas heaters are ideal for windy weather conditions. While the average gas patio heater can operate in winds of 6-7 mph, Bromic’s Platinum Series gas heaters are rated for winds of up to 13 mph!
If you live in a coastal saltwater environment and you’re considering a Bromic heater, please call our NFI Certified experts at 800-919-1904 before you purchase. We’ll make sure you select a model that can outlast the elements in your area.
Infratech
Infratech has been creating top-notch electric infrared patio heaters since the mid-20th century. Great for outdoor entertaining, their revolutionary heaters use medium-wave infrared heat to create a soothing glow that sets a relaxing mood, unlike the harsh light of short-wave heaters. Infratech’s high-end heaters also feature strong, stainless steel designs that stand up to corrosive elements.
Infratech controls are advanced, yet simple to use. If you need to set up multiple heaters or heating zones in your outdoor area, you’ll find Infratech very helpful. Using just one control panel, you can manage all your heaters. All the controls are UL-listed and can integrate with your smart home system. You can turn your heaters on with your smart device, even when you’re still out shopping for the party.
Infratech heaters can also be flush mounted into a ceiling for a clean, seamless look that’s barely noticeable. Installing your heaters flush to the ceiling also gives you more room between the heater and any flammable materials underneath it, such as furniture or plants.
Detroit Radiant Products
Renowned for their exceptional quality and innovative designs, Detroit Radiant patio heaters use infrared heating to directly warm people, floors, walls, and other surfaces without heating the air first. The result is instant warmth, similar to the feeling of sunlight.
Available in a wide range of sizes, finishes, and mounting options, you can easily find a heater that fits your space and matches your patio decor. Every heater is designed to be energy efficient, reducing your carbon footprint and saving you money on energy costs.
How to Keep Your Patio Comfortable
FAQs
Only electric patio heaters can be used indoors and in enclosed spaces — like garages, covered patios, and gazebos. Gas patio heaters are only approved for outdoor use and must have sufficient airflow.
Lifespan varies by type and care:
- Electric heaters often last longer due to fewer moving parts.
- Propane and natural gas units may last ~5–10+ years depending on maintenance and weather exposure.
Proper storage during off-seasons extends life.
Larger outdoor spaces or areas with windy weather conditions may require multiple heaters or higher-output models for even and effective warmth.
Smaller patios are typically warm enough with just one patio heater.
The cost of running a patio heater depends on the fuel type you’re using.
Propane tanks typically last 8–16 hours or more, depending on size and heat setting. Electric heaters cost more per hour of use compared to some gas models due to electricity rates.
Specific costs vary by heater size and energy prices.
We're Here to Help
The perfect patio heater is waiting for you at Woodland Direct—just call (800) 919-1904 and tell our Master Hearth Professionals exactly what you need.
More Resources
Head over to our Patio Heater Buying Guide to learn even more about patio heaters.
Read all about electric, Propane, & Natural Gas patio heaters to find the best heater for your space.
Check out our Patio Heater FAQ page for answers to your top patio heater questions.
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Nick Janco is a seasoned Technical Sales Representative with a decade of experience at Woodland Direct. As an NFI-Certified Master Hearth Professional, Nick is dedicated to helping his clients seamlessly integrate fire features into their homes, ensuring every detail is perfectly executed. While he's trained to assist with any fire-related project, Nick specializes in patio heaters. He's helped thousands of satisfied clients find the best heating solutions, offering valuable design, safety, and installation advice. Outside of work, Nick often spends time on the green enjoying a round of golf with his 5-year-old son. Call Nick or one of our experts in fire at 800.919.1904. |
