When the weather turns cool and crisp, you can be left with an empty patio void of all the fun you once had. If you live where winter lasts three to four months or more, your outdoor space might sit vacant until spring comes around again.
The best pyramid patio heater for most people is the Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater. It offers a high heat output, an impressive heat range, a reliable igniter, a safety auto shut-off tilt valve, and a one-year warranty against any manufacturer’s defects.
The only instances in which I wouldn’t recommend the Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG are if:
- You have a large patio or deck. Go with the KEZATO Outdoor Pyramid Patio Heater (available on Amazon).
- You’re on a tight budget. Go with the Pamapic Patio Heater, 42,000 BTU Pyramid Flame Patio Outdoor Heater (available on Amazon).
- You want a patio heater with lower heat output. Go with the Thermo Tiki Deluxe Propane Outdoor Patio Heater (available on Amazon).
- You need a patio heater for outdoor parties. Go with the Avenlur Outdoor Patio Propane Heater (available on Amazon).
In this article, I’ll first take you through what you should consider when buying a pyramid patio heater. I’ll also show how each of my picks scores in these categories, and I’ll also discuss why the Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater is the best choice for most people, and the alternatives that are better options in certain situations.
Best Overall: Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater (40,000BTU)
The stunning Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater from Hiland is the best option for most people.
With a butane heat output of 40,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs), it’s one of the most powerful patio heaters on the market. It can efficiently heat a large patio or deck with a heat range of up to 10 sq feet (0.92 sq m). The clearance needed is 36″ (91.44 cm) from the top and 24″ (60.96 cm) from the sides.
The Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG uses a 20-pound (9.07 kg) propane tank (not included) that is hidden from sight via an access door and has a runtime of up to 10 hours on high mode. It has a reliable igniter that makes lighting the patio heater a breeze.
A safety auto shut-off tilt valve also kicks in when the heater is tilted more than 5 degrees, making it a great choice if you have kids or pets running around.
This patio heater comes with a one-year warranty against the manufacturer’s defects, which is excellent considering the reasonable price. It also has an impressive review rating on Amazon with 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 customers.
Bottom line: I highly recommend the Hiland Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater if you are looking for a high-quality and powerful patio heater at a reasonable price. It’s a great all-round patio heater that will keep you and your guests warm for many years.
Pros
- Ease of mobility: The patio heater weighs 65 lbs (29.48kg) and comes with a wheel kit, so you can easily move it around your outdoor space.
- Latest in design and heat: The Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG has a stylish design that will complement any outdoor décor theme. The heater also has a Quartz Glass Tube Flame Heater that provides warmth in every direction and adds a touch of ambiance to your outdoor gatherings.
- Stunning finish: This patio heater is made with a hammered bronze finish, which adds a touch of elegance to its design.
- Safe to use: The patio heater has a safety auto shut-off tilt valve that kicks in when the unit is tilted more than 5 degrees.
- CSA certified: The patio heater meets all the stringent safety and quality standards set by the Canadian Standards Association, a well-respected third-party testing organization.
Cons
- No cover included: You’ll need to buy a separate patio heater cover to keep the unit in top condition.
- Not suitable for large gatherings. Although this patio heater is ideal for small groups, it won’t provide enough heat for a large outdoor gathering.
Best Bang for Your Buck: Pamapic Patio Heater, 42,000 BTU Pyramid Flame Patio Outdoor Heater
Next up on my list is the Pamapic Patio Heater. This patio heater is excellent if you’re looking for an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on features.
The Pamapic Patio Heater has a heat output of 42,000 BTUs. A metal reflector shield helps to direct the heat downward, providing warmth for up to 115 sq ft (10.68 sq m). The patio heater also has an easy-to-use ignition system and a built-in control valve that allows you to regulate the temperature.
The patio heater runs on a 20-pound (9.07 kg) propane tank (not included) and comes with a free cover, which is a nice bonus considering the low price.
Bottom line: The Pamapic Patio Heater is an effective, affordable, and durable patio heater that will provide years of warmth and enjoyment. It offers all the features you need in a patio heater, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Good value for money: The Pamapic Patio Heater is one of the most affordable patio heaters on the market without sacrificing quality or features.
- Patio heater cover included: The cover is made from a heavyweight, water-resistant PU fabric that will protect your patio heater from the elements.
- Convenient wheel assembly: The patio heater has wheels for easy portability to move it around your outdoor space.
- Easy to assemble: The patio heater can be assembled in minutes, so you can start enjoying the warmth and ambiance right away.
- Mesmerizing flame: This patio heater provides a mesmerizing flame, thanks to the unique glass flame tube.
Cons
- Challenging to light with a match or lighter: The ignition system is located in the rear of the unit, making it difficult to light with a match or lighter.
- Many screws to assemble: Some customers have complained about the excessive amount of screws to assemble the heater.
Best For Large Spaces: KEZATO Outdoor Pyramid Patio Heater (48000 BTU)
The KEZATO Outdoor Pyramid Patio Heater is my top pick for large spaces. This patio heater has a heat output of 48,000 BTUs, making it powerful enough to heat an area of up to 200 sq ft (18.58 sq m).
The heater uses a standard 20 lb (9.07 kg) propane tank (not included) and has a built-in control valve that allows you to regulate the temperature. The patio heater also has wheels that make it easy to move around your outdoor space.
This patio heater’s stylish yet simple design is perfect for any outdoor setting. The flame inside the quartz glass tube will transform any space into a warm and inviting oasis.
Bottom line: The KEZATO Outdoor Pyramid Patio Heater is a practical and efficient way to heat large outdoor spaces. Its heat output and beautiful design make it perfect for use in commercial settings such as restaurants, cafes, and bars, where style and function are both critical.
Pros
- Instant heat: The KEZATO patio heater achieves maximum heat instantly so you can immediately enjoy its warmth and ambiance.
- Safety features: This patio heater will automatically shut off if it falls over, giving you peace of mind if you use it around kids or pets.
- Patio heater cover: The patio cover is water resistant, which is a nice bonus.
- ETL certified: As an ETL-certified (Electrical Testing Laboratories) patio heater, it offers excellent quality and safety features, and is safe for use in both residential and commercial settings.
Cons
- The gas hose nut must be tightened correctly: Since a propane tank powers the patio heater, it is vital to ensure that the gas hose nut is tightened correctly to avoid gas leaks.
- Can be too large for small outdoor spaces. This powerful patio heater can be too large and provide too much heat if you have a small patio or balcony.
Best for Ultra-Efficient Heating Coverage: Thermo Tiki Deluxe Propane Outdoor Patio Heater (38,000 BTUs)
The Thermo Tiki Deluxe Propane Outdoor Patio Heater is my top pick for ultra-efficient heating coverage.
This patio heater has a heat output of 38,000 BTUs produced by its ceramic-glass heating column. The column emits heat absorbed by objects and people, providing a comfortable and wide field of warmth up to a 15-foot (4.57m) diameter.
A pilot light ignites the ceramic-glass heating column, which glows red when turned on, and a protective mesh surrounds the heating element and the pilot light for safety. The patio heater also has an anti-tilt device that will shut it off if it tips over.
The Thermo Tiki patio heater is made of durable steel and aluminum with a powder-coated finish that is rust and corrosion resistant. It’s also easy to assemble, with no tools required.
Bottom line: The Thermo Tiki Deluxe Propane Outdoor Patio Heater is an excellent choice for those who want an ultra-efficient patio heater that will provide ample warmth for their outdoor space. The ceramic-glass heating column produces a wide field of heat, making it ideal for any size patio or deck.
Pros
- Durable: This heater’s powder-coated finish on the steel and aluminum frame can withstand the elements and resist rust and corrosion.
- Easy to assemble: Some customers have found the instruction manual very clear and straightforward, making the assembly process quick and easy.
- Safety: The patio heater has a built-in anti-tilt device that will automatically shut off if it tips over. A protective mesh screen also surrounds the pilot light and ceramic-glass heating column.
- ANSI, CE, and CSA certified: The American National Standards Institute, European CE, and Canadian Standards Association have all approved the Thermo Tiki patio heater as safe for use.
Cons
- Some may not have stainless steel hardware: A few customers have noted that the trim pieces, wheels, and the wire mesh covering the glass cylinder on their unit were not made of stainless steel as advertised. However, these parts are not critical to the function of the patio heater and are only cosmetic.
Best for Outdoor Parties: Avenlur Outdoor Patio Propane Heater – 48,000 BTU Pyramid Patio Heater
LED lights create a festive and fun atmosphere for outdoor parties and gatherings. The Avenlur Outdoor Patio Propane Heater with Color Changing LED Lights is my top pick for outdoor parties.
This patio heater has a heat output of 48,000 BTUs, providing plenty of warmth for your guests up to 10 sq ft (0.92 sq m). The heat is generated by a propane tank (not included) that can power the unit for up to 10 hours on the high setting.
The simple ignition device makes it easy to light the patio heater, and a variable control knob allows you to adjust the temperature according to your needs. A battery is required for the ignition (not included), which is easy to insert into the ignitor.
Bottom Line: The Avenlur Outdoor Patio Propane Heater – 48,000 BTU Pyramid Patioater with Color Changing LED Lights is an excellent choice for those who want a patio heater that will add some fun and flair to their outdoor parties. The LED lights create a festive atmosphere, while the 48,000 BTU heat output will help keep your guests warm.
Pros
- Safety: This heater’s shut-off valve will cut the gas flow to the unit if there is a fire or excessive heat build-up. The same valve will shut the heater off if it falls or tips over.
- Easy to light: The heater has a pulse ignition device that makes igniting it fast and easy. A battery is required for the ignition (not included), which is easy to insert into the ignitor.
- Soothing heat: This patio heater emits heat evenly so that each guest is comfortable.
- Bonus cover: The patio heater comes with a bonus cover that helps protect it from the elements when not in use.
Cons
- Costly: As one of the more costly patio heater options, this unit may not be suitable for those on a budget.
- Not ideal for small spaces. Though this patio heater can help keep multiple guests warm outdoors, it might not be suitable if your patio or outdoor space is small.
Factors To Consider
There are two primary factors you’ll want to consider when choosing a patio heater:
- Heat output/Coverage area
- Cost
I’ll go over each of these factors in more detail below:
Heat Output/Coverage Area Comparison
| Patio Heater | Heat Output (BTU) | Coverage Area | Score |
| Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater | 40,000 | 10 sq ft (0.92 sq m) | 3/10 |
| Pamapic Patio Heater, 42,000 BTU Pyramid Flame Patio Outdoor Heater | 42,000 | 115 sq ft (10.68 sq ft) | 8/10 |
| KEZATO Outdoor Pyramid Patio Heater | 48,000 | 200 sq ft (18.58 sq ft) | 9/10 |
| Thermo Tiki Deluxe Propane Outdoor Patio Heater | 38000 | 15 ft (4.57 m) | 4/10 |
| Avenlur Outdoor Patio Propane Heater – 48,000 BTU Pyramid Patio Heater | 48,000 | 10 sq ft (0.92 sq ft) | 3/10 |
Winners: KEZATO Outdoor Pyramid Patio Heater, Pamapic Patio Heater, and 42,000 BTU Pyramid Flame Patio Outdoor Heater.
The higher the BTU rating, the more heat the unit will generate. The size of the coverage area is determined by the heat output of the patio heater. The higher the heat output, the larger the coverage area that the patio heater can heat.
However, it’s important to note that the patio heater will not necessarily heat the entire area to the same temperature. The temperature will be highest near the patio heater and will decrease the further away you get from the unit.
Here is a helpful article that shows how to calculate the BTU needed to heat your space.
Cost
A patio heater’s cost will depend on the heat output and coverage area. Generally, a patio heater with a higher heat output and coverage area will be more expensive than those with a lower heat output and coverage area.
However, other factors can affect the cost of a patio heater, such as the brand, features, and materials.
For example, a patio heater made with stainless steel will be more expensive than one made with aluminum.
Similarly, patio heaters from trusted brands will usually be more expensive than those from lesser-known brands. Trusted brands have a reputation for quality and durability, which comes at a higher price tag.
Conclusion
Considering all the factors that go into choosing a patio heater, including price, heat output, warranty, and a host of other factors, I’ve found that the best patio heater for most people is the Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater.
Compared to my other top picks in this article (and the many that didn’t make it), the Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater is the most preferred patio heater by the vast majority of users.
Check out the Hiland HLDSO1-WGTHG Pyramid Glass Tube Propane Patio Heater on Amazon now.
