The best hanging patio heater is not only going to look great on your patio, but it’ll be easy to install and keep you warm through the frigid winter.
The best hanging patio heater I could find was the Westinghouse WES31-1544. It comes with 3 heat settings, remote control and is super easy to install.
Another great option is the Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238. It’s capable of being upgraded to a 240v version as well for more heat output and can be mounted on your wall or ceiling.
Below you’ll find all the reviews and alternative options.
Let’s get started.
Our Top Picks
Best Hanging Patio Heater
Key Features:
- 3 heat settings
- Weatherproof
- Remote control
This hanging patio heater is sure to keep you pleased this winter.
It has 3 heat settings of 700, 800, and 1500 watts giving you full control of the heat output.
You’re also going to love that it’s weatherproof, protecting this unit from being damaged during any wet or rainy environments.
It can also serve as a light for your patio as it has an LED light at the base of the unit.
Considering it uses infrared technology, you won’t have to deal with any noisy forced fans that can ruin nighttime conversations.
All you need to do to install this unit is hang it with the included hook and chain, and that’s it!
The best feature of this hanging patio heater is that it comes with a wireless remote control which most other patio heaters lack.
One thing to note is that this hanging patio heater isn’t going to be capable of heating larger spaces.
If you’re expected to heat a fairly large patio, you’ll want to opt for either a 240v or propane heater which will have more BTU output.
Overall though, with the included remote and being produced by the powerhouse brand Westinghouse, this is the best hanging patio heater I could find.
It’s important that if you have any issues down the road, that you aren’t buying a product from a no-name company that will not respond to your requests.
With this heater by Westinghouse, you won’t have any problem with customer support.
- Included wall and ceiling mounting bracket
- Can be easily installed
- For indoor and outdoor use
- Short cord
- Remote control can be a bit unresponsive
Runner Up Hanging Patio Heater
Key Features:
- 3 heating modes
- Lifespan up to 5000 hours
- Waterproof
This stylish patio heater also comes with 3 adjustable modes, letting you adjust the wattage from 600, 900, and 1500W depending on your preference.
It’s super easy to assemble and includes a rope switch for hanging.
You won’t have to deal with any noisy fans either, as this infrared heater directly heats your body and not the air in between.
It’s also IP55 waterproof which makes it a better option over the Westinghouse model if you’re in a more damp environment.
This electric patio heater also has safety features, shutting it off if it’s overheating.
You can also opt to use this patio heater for indoor heating if you decide that it’s not getting enough usage outdoors.
Some reviewers even use this as a garage heater, which makes this patio heater versatile.
I also found that customer service was great for this product. Many reviewers were surprised with how far the company was willing to go to make them happy.
While this patio heater doesn’t have a remote control, it is less than half the price of the Westinghouse and has a sleek aesthetic that is sure to please.
Like the Westinghouse though, you’re not going to get a ton of heat output with this product.
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor
- Instant heating
- Automatically shut off
- Puts out more light than heat
- Poor packaging
Best Budget Hanging Patio Heater
Key Features:
- 3 power settings
- Remote controlled
- Weatherproof aluminum
Another great budget option is the Dr. Heater Dr238. It comes in both 120v and 240v, giving you the flexibility of extra heating power.
The 120v version has 3 power settings of 900, 1200, and 1500W, giving you control over how hot you want it.
Compared to other patio heaters on this list, it can be mounted on a wall or even on a tripod, making this heater portable.
You’ll love the included remote control, powering this unit from anywhere on your patio.
It has an aluminum reflector that acts as a heat reflector, capturing more heat than other units.
If you’d like, you can also opt to use this patio heater for indoor and outdoor use. It’s perfect for not only a patio, but a garage as well.
If your patio is quite large, you can upgrade to the 3000W version which will give you much more heating capabilities over the 120v patio heaters on this list.
You will however need to have it wired to your electric system professionally which will drive the price up.
This patio heater is also weatherproof, preventing any damage should it get too wet.
It has a built-in timer as well as overheat protection should the infrared heater get too hot.
If you’re not wanting to spend a ton but want the flexibility this patio heater has to offer, it’s hard to go wrong with this choice.
I recommend the Dr. Heater DR238 quite often you’ll be able to mount it in a few different ways, giving you flexibility on how you heat your patio.
You can also opt to purchase two or three of these (and still spend less than some other patio heaters!) and get the heat exactly where you need it.
I would consider going with this option over a hanging patio heater myself. While it isn’t the most aesthetic option of the bunch, it does however
- Included wall and ceiling mounting bracket
- Can be easily installed
- For indoor and outdoor use
- Short cord
- Remote control can be a bit unresponsive
Also Great Budget Patio Heater
Key Features:
- 2 heat settings
- Remote control
- Durable powder-coated finish
You can still enjoy this fully featured budget outdoor patio heater if you’re limited on cash.
It comes with remote control, which allows you to turn this heater on/off without getting a stool or ladder out.
While it isn’t a hanging patio heater, you can hang it or install it on the wall or ceiling.
You can decide to use the low or high heat settings should you want to only take a little bit of the chill off.
This hanging patio heater also has overheat protection as well as an included timer which can help if you’re forgetful.
You can use it on a tripod, which is great if you want to bring it indoors or take it with you to a worksite.
Reviewers of this product mentioned they loved how easy it was to carry around and install.
Customer service were great at replacing any patio heaters that had defects.
While this heater isn’t going to be great for larger areas, it’s still a great budget infrared patio heater that will keep you warm this winter.
You’ll also receive a 2-year warranty which is the highest I’ve seen so far when reviewing outdoor hanging patio heaters.
Consider these options over hanging heaters as you’ll be able to get closer to the heat if you decide to mount this on a tripod.
You’ll also be able to bring it inside with you to your garage if you decide to keep it mobile.
While hanging patio heaters do look great, they aren’t the best at heating larger areas. You won’t get much more heat output with this option, you will be able to get it closer to where you need it.
- Instant heating
- Overheating protection
- Includes mounting hardware
- Professional electrician may be required
- The brackets are a bit flimsy
Best Propane Patio Heater
Key Features:
- 40,000 BTU
- Wheeled base
- Uses a 20lb propane tank
If you have a large patio, then you can rely on this propane patio heater.
While it may not be able to be hung, you can’t get this type of heat output with anything but a fuel-based heater.
You’ll be able to get around 8-10 hours on high mode (40000 BTU) on the high setting.
I like that you can turn this patio heater into furniture that will enhance the decor of any patio.
The bottom has a wheeled base, allowing you to move it easily wherever you’d like.
If it gets knocked over, it’ll turn itself off. The ignition system is easy to use and reliable as well.
With its one-year warranty and increased heat output over 120v patio heaters, you should be able to heat a bigger space than most patio heaters on the market.
The biggest downside is that you’ll need to rely on purchasing propane if you don’t already carry some.
Some purchasers were disappointed with the heat radius that this patio heater provides. They were happier with how it looked than the heat output.
If however, you’re able to stand or sit near this heater, you shouldn’t have an issue staying warm.
One great feature that most don’t mention is how the flames add to the ambiance of your patio!
While the heat output isn’t the greatest, it will still be able to output a ton more heat than any 120v hanging patio heater on this list.
If heat is the only thing that you’re after, then a 120v heater is not going to cut it. Thankfully, you can rely on the high BTU output this propane heater provides.
You can also opt to purchase two or three if you’re wanting to heat every inch of your patio this winter.
While it can cost a bit more over time to use considering the propane, you will have a warmer patio over 120v heaters.
- Modern design
- Easy installation
- Safety auto shut off
- Some of the pieces do not sit flush with each other
- Propane tank is not included
Alternative Option
Key Features:
- Multi-directional radiant
- Uses a 20lb propane tank
- 3 heat settings
Another alternative option for your patio is to use a tank top heater.
It goes right on top of your gas tank and can provide up to 45,000 BTU.
The heat output is high for the size of this device.
It’s super easy to transport should you want to take this with you in the back of a truck to a jobsite.
You’ll get around 9.5 hours of run time on this heater.
Compared to a hanging patio heater, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the heat source rather than it being far away from where you’re sitting.
It also doesn’t use a fan, so just like infrared heaters, you won’t have any added noise.
This gas heater also comes with tip-over protection, keeping you safe should it be tipped over.
Reviewers mention how they were even 5 feet away from the heater on the lowest setting and it was enough heat, even on a windy day!
While you don’t get the convenience of an overhead heater or remote control, this versatile tank top heater can be more than enough in the right circumstances.
It’s also multi-use, so you can use it if you camp, go hiking or want to heat up your garage this winter.
Consider how often you’ll use your patio heater, and if you think that it’s only going to collect dust, then I’d go with an alternative option instead.
- No electricity needed
- Quiet radiant heat
- Tip-over safety shut-off switch
- Can be noisy
- Does not have a low setting that works
Alternative Option #2
Key Features:
- Aluminum surface
- High heat resistant caps
- Extended heat range
If you already have a gas or propane patio heater, then this heat-focusing reflector may be the addition you need.
What you do is place it on the side of your patio heater and you can redirect 50% of the heat that’s escaping from the end you aren’t facing.
You’ll be able to save on propane by increasing the heat output while reducing the intensity of flame for the same heat.
It comes with heavy-duty clamps that will ensure it stays tight.
You’ll also be able to block the heat from trees or walls, allowing more flexibility for where you can place your gas or patio heater.
With the ability to increase the heat range by up to 70%, you’ll get much more out of your gas or propane heater this winter.
Be aware that this doesn’t come with a heater, it’s simply an addon to help your patio heater perform better.
Some reviewers mention that if you are in a windy area, you will have trouble staying still and directing the heat.
While this isn’t a heater in itself, it’s sure to aid help you stay warm this winter in your favorite outdoor space.
- Easy installation
- Makes your propane last longer
- Durable construction
- A little pricey
- Can be noisy
Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening alone, these heaters provide ample warmth and create a cozy atmosphere. But what about the flooring and walls of your outdoor space?
If you’re in need of some inspiration for upgrading your hardscaping, you can check a variety of different wall suppliers which have a wide variety of blocks, bricks, and pavers to choose from.
From retaining walls to garden beds to outdoor fireplaces, their products can help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor space.
Final Thoughts
The best hanging patio heater I could find was the Westinghouse WES31-1544. It’s a brand-name patio heater, has a remote, and is easy to install.
You can also rely on the budget option Dr. Infrared Heater DR-238. I recommend it not only as a patio heater but for garages as well.