Best Propane Heaters of 2025

Mark Greer Avatar
Mark Greer
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Propane heaters are a popular choice for heating up outdoor spaces during the colder months. They are fueled by propane gas, which is stored in a tank and burned to produce heat. These heaters come in various sizes and styles, including tabletop and free-standing models, making them a versatile option for different types of outdoor spaces. Propane heaters are convenient and easy to use, providing instant heat with the flick of a switch. They are also an energy-efficient choice, as they produce heat without wasting energy on heating the surrounding air.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater Cover#TOP 1
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater
ftb score rating icon9.9
Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater Cover#TOP 2
Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater
ftb score rating icon9.8
Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 Heater Cover#TOP 3
Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 Heater
ftb score rating icon9.6

Top 10 Propane Heaters

Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

Amazon Basics
62108
Slate Gray
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater Cover
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Wheels, Commercial & Residential, Slate Gray, with water tank, 32.1 x 32.1 x 91.3 inches (LxWxH)
ftb score rating icon9.9
FTB Score

The Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater is a powerful outdoor gas heater that can provide heat up to a 9-foot radius, making it ideal for both commercial cafes and restaurants or home patios. Made with aluminum, plastic, and steel with a powder-coated finish, this patio heater features an easy one-touch ignition button, adjustable temperature knob, tilt safety auto-shut off valve, water box for weighting the base, and wheel kit for easy movement. It requires a 20lb liquid propane gas tank (not included) and measures 32.12 x 32.12 x 91.3 inches (LxWxH) and weighs 38 pounds.

What We Like
Effective heat output
Easy assembly process
Attractive design
Sturdy base option
Good for outdoor use
What We Don't Like
Time-consuming protective film removal
Base fill hole could be larger
#TOP 2

Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater

F232000
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater Cover
Mr. Heater MH-F232000 Portable Buddy 9,000 BTU Propane Gas Radiant Heater with Piezo Igniter for Outdoor Camping, Job Site, Hunting, and Tailgates
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

The Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater is a great choice for those looking for a safe and efficient way to heat up their space. It is approved for indoor/outdoor use and is nearly 100-percent efficient. It has a low-oxygen safety shut-off system and a fold-down handle for easy portability. It is also equipped with a swivel-out regulator and can connect to a propane tank (not included).

What We Like
Great heat output
Easy to use
Portable and compact
Good for emergencies
Safety features included
What We Don't Like
Shorter propane tank life
Requires additional fan for some
#TOP 3

Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 Heater

F299730
White
Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 Heater Cover
Mr. Heater F299730 30,000 BTU Blue Flame Vent Free Propane Heater For Cold Rooms, Additions, Sun Rooms Cabins & Garage - White
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

The Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 Heater is a 30,000 BTU Liquid Propane heater that can heat spaces up to 750 square feet. It features a blue flame burner for even convection heat, an automatic low oxygen shut-off system, and thermostat, legs, and wall mounting hardware. Customers love its easy setup, portability, and heat output, though some have noted that it is expensive and requires additional fittings and accessories to use.

What We Like
Easy to set up
Great heat output
Compact and space-efficient
Reliable safety features
Thermostat-controlled operation
What We Don't Like
Somewhat noisy operation
Limited return window
#TOP 4

Mr. Heater Corporation F299720 Vent-Free 20,000 BTU Blue Flame Propane Heater

F299720
Multicolor
Large
Mr. Heater Corporation F299720 Vent-Free 20,000 BTU Blue Flame Propane Heater Cover
Mr. Heater MHVFBF20LPT 20,000 BTU Blue Flame Vent Free Propane Heater For Cold Rooms, Additions, Sun Rooms Cabins & Garage - White
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

The Mr. Heater Corporation F299720 Vent-Free 20,000 BTU Blue Flame Propane Heater is a great choice for those looking for a powerful and efficient heating solution. It features a convenient top-mounted comfort control adjustable thermostat, battery operated electronic ignition, and an ODS low oxygen safety shut-off control. It is 99.9% efficient and requires no venting or chimney. Customers have praised its performance, ease of installation, and thermostat accuracy. The only downside is that it does not come with a tempered glass shield to protect the burner area.

What We Like
Effective heating performance
Accurate thermostat control
Economical to operate
Easy maintenance
Versatile installation options
What We Don't Like
Minor noise during operation
Odor from burning propane
#TOP 5

Sunnydaze 125,000 BTU Propane Heater

BAO-149
125,000 BTUs
Sunnydaze 125,000 BTU Propane Heater Cover
Sunnydaze 125,000 BTU Forced Air Propane Heater for Garage, Warehouse, and Construction Jobsite - Torpedo Heater with Auto-Shutoff
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

The Sunnydaze Propane Heater is designed to keep you warm in chilly conditions. With a compact size and lightweight design, it's easy to move to wherever heat is needed most. This heater can effectively warm up to 3,200 square feet, making it perfect for large spaces. You’ll appreciate the direct spark ignition that allows for quick start-up and the variable heat control knob, giving you the flexibility to adjust the warmth to your liking. Ideal for outdoor use, it’s a reliable choice for construction sites or winter projects.

What We Like
Heats quickly
Simple to use
Good price
Effective for small areas
What We Don't Like
Runs out of propane quickly
Loud operation
#TOP 6

Dyna-Glo 50,000 to 80,000 BTU Propane Convection Heater

RMC-LPC80DG
Silver
80,000 BTUs
Dyna-Glo 50,000 to 80,000 BTU Propane Convection Heater Cover
Dyna-Glo RMC-LPC80DG 50,000 to 80,000 BTU Liquid Propane Convection Heater
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Dyna-Glo 50,000 to 80,000 BTU propane convection heater can heat up to 2,000 sq.ft. with continuously variable BTUs. It can be used for outdoor and indoor construction/commercial purposes with proper ventilation. The heater has a 360° heat radius and an inner windshield to provide even heating. The package includes a 10' hose and regulator.

What We Like
Effective heating output
Lightweight and portable
Adjustable temperature settings
Quick heating time
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Noise level on high setting
Thin sheet metal construction
#TOP 7

BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Propane Heater

WHD-0301
Black
85,000 BTU
BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Propane Heater Cover
BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Forced Air Propane Heater, Adjustable Portable Liquid Propane Torpedo Heater for Garage, Jobsite and Construction Sites, CSA Listed
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The BILT HARD Propane Heater is a powerful solution for heating large spaces, offering adjustable output of 50,000 to 85,000 BTUs to cover areas up to 2,125 square feet. Its fan-forced design ensures even heat distribution, keeping you comfortable wherever you are. You will appreciate its economical operation, running up to 8 hours on a low setting with a standard 20 lb. propane tank. Additionally, the heater operates quietly, making it perfect for job sites or events where noise is a concern. With easy electronic ignition, you can quickly set it up and enjoy warmth without hassle.

What We Like
Heats quickly
Easy to operate
Lightweight design
Good build quality
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
No shut off switch
High fuel consumption
#TOP 8

Mr. Heater 10,000 BTU Radiant Propane Heater

F299810
Multicolor
Mr. Heater 10,000 BTU Radiant Propane Heater Cover
Mr. Heater MHVFRD10LP 10,000 BTU Radiant Vent Free Propane Heater for Cold Rooms, Additions, Sun Rooms & Cabins - White
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Mr. Heater 10,000 BTU Radiant Propane Heater is a great choice for heating up to 250 square feet of space. It features a radiant heat burner and an automatic low oxygen shut-off system (ODS) for safety. It also includes legs and wall mounting hardware. Customers have praised its easy installation, value for money, and its ability to keep their homes warm during power outages. However, some customers have noted that it does not come with a thermostat, which can make it expensive to run.

What We Like
High heat output
Little propane consumption
Good for small spaces
Easy pilot light ignition
Well-made and durable
What We Don't Like
Manual igniter can be tricky
Requires additional plumbing parts
#TOP 9

Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heater

F274800
Red and Black
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heater Cover
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Indoor/Outdoor Portable Propane Heater
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heater is designed for convenience and performance, offering up to 18,000 BTUs of heat output and capable of heating up to 450 square feet of enclosed space. It features an easy-start four-position control, fold-down handle, swivel-out fuel connection and a large overall heating surface. It also has an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) and tip-over detection system for safety. Customers love it for its performance, portability, and safety features.

What We Like
Powerful heating capability
Versatile for indoor/outdoor use
Dual fuel capability
Portable and user-friendly
Safe with automatic shut-off
What We Don't Like
Propane usage can be high
Size and weight could be better
#TOP 10

Dura Heat GFA40 40,000 BTU Heater

GFA40/FA40DLX
White
Dura Heat GFA40 40,000 BTU Heater Cover
Dura Heat GFA40/FA40DLX 40,000 BTU Propane(LP) Forced Air Heater
ftb score rating icon9.1
FTB Score

The Dura Heat 40,000 BTU Heater is designed for efficient and straightforward heating. With a powerful output of 40,000 BTUs, it quickly warms up your space, making it ideal for outdoor events or workshops. You’ll appreciate its ease of use, allowing you to get warm without complicated setups. The heater runs on propane and can operate for up to 11 hours on a 20-pound cylinder, ensuring long-lasting warmth. Additionally, it features fan-forced air circulation, which distributes heat evenly throughout the area, enhancing comfort for you and your guests.

What We Like
Heats up quickly
Easy to ignite
Good for small spaces
Effective in cold environments
What We Don't Like
Slightly noisy operation
Buying Guide Image

Choosing the Best Propane Heaters to Build Your Dream Home

What You Need to Know Before Choosing a Propane Heater

Propane heaters are a great way to warm up your home or outdoor living space quickly and efficiently. But before you purchase one, it's important to understand how they work, what you should look for, and what types of propane heaters are available.

Understanding How Propane Heaters Work

Propane heaters are powered by propane, an odorless, clean-burning gas. They use a combustion process to heat up the air around them, making them an efficient and cost-effective way to provide heat.

Propane heaters come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can choose one that best fits your home or outdoor space. When shopping for a propane heater, make sure to consider the size of the space you want to heat. You'll also need to choose a heater that can be safely used in the area where you plan to place it.

What to Look for When Choosing a Propane Heater

When choosing a propane heater, there are a few things to keep in mind. You'll want to make sure the heater is designed for the type of fuel you plan to use. You'll also want to consider the size of the space you're trying to heat and the amount of heat you need.

You should also consider the safety features of the heater. Make sure the heater has an automatic shut-off feature and is approved for indoor or outdoor use, depending on where you plan to use it. Additionally, you should look for safety features such as a tip-over switch, which will shut off the heater if it gets knocked over.

Finally, you'll want to make sure the propane heater you choose is certified by a reputable testing organization. This will ensure that the heater meets all safety standards.

Types of Propane Heaters

There are several different types of propane heaters available, so you'll need to decide which one is best for you.

One of the most popular types of propane heaters is the wall-mounted heater. These heaters are usually mounted on an exterior wall, and they can be used to heat up an outdoor living space. They're generally safe to use indoors as well, but you should always check the heater's safety rating before using it inside your home.

Freestanding propane heaters are also popular. These are portable heaters that you can move around your home or outdoor space. They're great for providing additional heat in a specific area, but they don't provide as much heat as a wall-mounted heater.

Finally, you can also choose a propane heater with a built-in thermostat. These heaters will automatically adjust the temperature based on the settings you choose. This makes them great for providing consistent, comfortable heat throughout your home or outdoor space.

Conclusion

Propane heaters are a great way to heat up your home or outdoor living space quickly and efficiently. When choosing a propane heater, make sure to consider the size of the space you're trying to heat, the type of fuel you plan to use, and the safety features of the heater. Additionally, make sure the propane heater you choose is certified by a reputable testing organization. With the right propane heater, you can enjoy a warm and comfortable home or outdoor space all year long.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are propane heaters safe indoors?

Propane heaters can be used indoors as long as they are specifically designed for indoor use. It is important to follow propane safety precautions and use the heater according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safety.

2. What are the cons of propane heaters?

Some cons of propane heaters include higher upfront installation costs and lower BTU output compared to oil heaters. Converting to a propane heating system can be expensive, and propane doesn't produce the same amount of heat as oil.

3. How long does a 20 lb propane tank heater last?

A 20 lb propane tank, which contains about 4.7 gallons of fuel, can last up to 10 hours when used with an average portable propane patio heater. The cost to fill up a 20 lb propane tank is usually between $15 - $20, resulting in an average cost per hour of $1.5 - $2.

4. Can you leave a propane heater on all night?

Propane heaters should not be left on overnight. While they have thermostats and can be turned on or off manually or automatically, leaving them on for an extended period can be dangerous. Vented propane heaters can emit carbon monoxide and potentially cause fires.

5. Do you need ventilation when using a propane heater?

Yes, it is important to ensure proper ventilation when using a propane heater indoors. While indoor propane heaters generate less potentially deadly gas, adequate ventilation is still necessary to circulate the gas and prevent any buildup.

6. Is it worth switching from electric to propane?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating a home with propane costs less than heating with an electric system. Propane water heaters can also be more cost-effective, operating at a lower cost and heating water more quickly compared to electric water heaters.

7. Which is cheaper to heat with, gas or propane?

Propane is more expensive than natural gas. Although natural gas burns faster than propane, it is still more cost-effective to heat with natural gas due to its lower price. To heat two spaces of the same size, you would need to use twice as much natural gas as propane.

8. How long will a 30000 BTU heater run on a 20 lb propane tank?

The runtime of a 30,000 BTU heater on a 20 lb propane tank can be calculated by dividing the total BTU of the tank (21,500 BTU per pound of propane) by the heater's BTU output. This calculation estimates the heater would run for approximately 14.34 hours if operated at full capacity all the time.

9. How long will a 15000 BTU heater run on a 20 lb propane tank?

A 15,000 BTU heater can run for up to 43 hours on a single 20 lb propane tank. The exact runtime may vary depending on factors such as the heater's efficiency and the heat setting used.

Editor's Notes

During our propane heater research, we found 25 propane heater products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 199,384 customer reviews through our big data system to write the propane heaters list. We found that most customers choose propane heaters with an average price of $157.21.

The propane heaters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of propane heaters, including Mr. Heater, Sunnydaze, Dyna-Glo, BILT HARD, Dura Heat. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mark Greer Avatar

Mark Greer has been an excellent residential carpenter for eight years in Los Angeles and has complete knowledge of woodworking, power tools, and home DIY. He never misses a chance of the lookout for new features and innovations in popular and novel home appliances as an insightful writer.

Propane Heaters Comparison Table

#TOP1
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater Cover
#TOP2
Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater Cover
#TOP3
Mr. Heater Corporation F299730 Heater Cover
#TOP4
Mr. Heater Corporation F299720 Vent-Free 20,000 BTU Blue Flame Propane Heater Cover
#TOP5
Sunnydaze 125,000 BTU Propane Heater Cover
#TOP6
Dyna-Glo 50,000 to 80,000 BTU Propane Convection Heater Cover
#TOP7
BILT HARD 85,000 BTU Propane Heater Cover
#TOP8
Mr. Heater 10,000 BTU Radiant Propane Heater Cover
#TOP9
Mr. Heater Big Buddy Portable Heater Cover
#TOP10
Dura Heat GFA40 40,000 BTU Heater Cover
BrandAmazon BasicsMr. HeaterMr. HeaterMr. HeaterSunnydazeDyna-GloBILT HARDMr. HeaterMr. HeaterDura Heat
Special FeatureWheelsLow-oxygen safety shut-off systemPortable, Low-Oxygen Safety ShutoffLow-Oxygen Safety ShutoffPortablePortablePortable, NoiselessAdjustable TemperaturePortable, Low-Oxygen Safety Shutoff, Tip-Over ProtectionPortable, Heavy Duty Fan Motor, Fast Heating
ColorSlate GrayRedWhiteMulticolorRedSilverBlackMulticolorRed and BlackWhite
Form FactorTowerTowerCabinetCabinetTorpedoStandard Upright HeaterDishFloor StandCompact and PortableCabinet
Indoor/Outdoor UsageOutdoorIndoorIndoorIndoorOutdoorIndoorOutdoorIndoorOutdoor, IndoorOutdoor, Indoor
Recommended Uses For ProductOutdoor HeatingOffice, Garage, Outdoor, Desk, IndoorGarage, GreenhouseHomeTentOutdoorGarageOffice, Home-Garage
Mounting TypeStandaloneFloor MountWall MountWall MountFloor MountFloor MountFloor MountFloor Mount, Wall Mount-Floor Mount
Heating Coverage9 feet225 sq ft750 sq ft500 sq ft3200 sq. ft20002125 square feet250 sq ft-1,000 sq. ft.
Fuel TypeGasPropanePropaneLiquid PropaneLiquefied Petroleum GasLiquid Propane GasPropanePropane-Propane
Item Weight36.9 pounds8.78 pounds26.8 pounds24.5 pounds15 pounds10.67 pounds20 pounds17.65 pounds-16.2 pounds
Room TypeOutdoorBedroom, Home OfficeLiving RoomLiving Room, BedroomYard, Outdoor, PatioBedroom, Home Office, Study Room-Living Room, Bedroom-Garage
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon9.9
ftb score rating icon9.8
ftb score rating icon9.6
ftb score rating icon9.6
ftb score rating icon9.5
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.3
ftb score rating icon9.1
Where to Buy