Your options for heating outdoor spaces

May 27, 2026

outdoor sitting space with metal chairs and tables

To enjoy your backyard all year round, it’s good to know your options for heating outdoor spaces. There are multiple
choices of outdoor heater depending on price range, style and efficiency. While a classic fire pit can be a fun
addition to your outdoor living space, consider some of these outdoor heater options for keeping your yard or patio
warm:

Outdoor propane heaters

When acquiring your outdoor heating equipment, ensure its capacity is enough to warm the entire area. Outdoor patio
heaters that use propane are given a BTU (British Thermal Unit) number, which measures thermal energy. The larger
the space, the higher amount of BTUs you’ll need.

Heat from the top

Outdoor heaters usually have exposed coils that produce heat. While these can seem hazardous, mounting the heating
unit up high on a wall or ceiling is a perfectly safe option. These types of heaters often come with equipment for
easy installation, and tend to be quieter than other heating choices.

Secret centerpiece

Why not try hiding a heater in your outdoor furniture? For example, try a table with a propane tank hidden behind
cabinets below. In the cooler months when you don’t need the heat, you can use a metal cover that sits flush with
the tabletop. This means you can have a fun portable fireplace for cold nights, and a useful furniture piece for any
other time of the year.

Electric umbrella heater – and other electric options

Electric umbrella heaters are efficient heaters often used at restaurants and commercial areas. The burners often
have multiple temperature settings and are perfect for keeping warm as the sun sets. This type of outdoor patio
heater comes in both electric and gas-burning varieties, depending on the amount of space you need to heat.

There are many factors to consider when choosing between outdoor heaters. Whether you choose a propane heater or
electric heater, you’ll find there are plenty of options for keeping you warm outside on chilly nights.