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The short answer: Choose propane if you need intense, portable heat without an outlet, and you’re comfortable managing fuel and ventilation. Choose electric if you have a covered patio with access to an outlet, want low maintenance, and prefer zero emissions indoors. Your decision hinges on your patio setup, budget, and how you plan to use the heater.
Propane heaters typically produce more BTU (British Thermal Units) than electric models, often ranging from 30,000 to 46,000 BTU. This translates to a larger heat radius, usually 10 to 15 feet from the unit. They warm up quickly and can handle open, breezy areas effectively. Electric heaters, on the other hand, are measured in watts (1,500 watts equals about 5,100 BTU). Most electric patio heaters stay around 1,500 watts, which covers a smaller area, roughly 6 to 10 feet, and they work best in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces where heat can be retained.
If you have a wide open deck or a large backyard, propane will give you the consistent, high-output warmth you need. For a compact balcony or a sheltered corner, electric can be sufficient and more efficient.
Initial purchase prices vary widely. Basic propane heaters are budget-friendly, while electric models are often cheaper for simple stand-up units. However, ongoing costs differ significantly. A 20-pound propane tank, which is mid-range to refill, will give you about 10 to 12 hours of heating on high (depending on BTU rating). That equates to a moderate hourly cost. Electric heaters, if you use a typical 1,500-watt model, cost less per hour based on average electricity rates. So electric is cheaper to run, but you must be near an outlet.
Also consider installation costs. Electric heaters that are hardwired may require an electrician, adding a premium to the upfront price. Propane heaters require no installation, just tank connection and a safe spot. Over a full winter season, electric often wins on operating cost, but propane may save you the hassle of wiring.
Propane heaters are inherently portable because they don’t need to be tethered to a power source. You can move them around the patio, to a poolside, or even tailgating. They are heavier, typically 40 to 60 pounds, and require a stable surface, plus you must secure the tank. Electric heaters vary: some are freestanding with a plug, but they are limited by cord length, usually 6 to 10 feet. If you have exterior outlets, you can move them within that radius. Hardwired electric heaters are fixed permanently.
If you like to rearrange your outdoor furniture or host events in different spots, propane offers maximum flexibility. If you never move the heater, electric’s limitations are no issue.
Propane heaters burn fuel, producing carbon monoxide and other gases. They must be used outdoors or in well-ventilated areas, never inside a closed tent or garage. They also have an open flame, so keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. Electric heaters have no combustion, so they produce no carbon monoxide, and they are generally safer to touch (though the heating element gets hot). However, they are a fire risk if misuse occurs, so always follow safety instructions and keep them dry.
Environmentally, electric heaters are greener if your electricity comes from renewable sources. Propane is a fossil fuel, though it burns cleaner than many alternatives. For eco-conscious users, electric is the obvious choice, especially with solar panels.
Propane heaters require more upkeep: checking for gas leaks, cleaning the burner and pilot tube, and storing tanks properly. Over time, the thermocouple and regulator may need replacement. With proper care, a propane heater can last 10 to 15 years. Electric heaters are nearly maintenance-free; just wipe the reflector and ensure the cord is intact. They have a similar lifespan. If you dread maintenance, electric is simpler.
Choose propane if you have a large open patio, need portability, or often host parties where you want a strong heat source. It’s also great for uncovered spaces and for people who don’t have outdoor outlets. Choose electric if you have a covered porch or a smaller space, want to plug in and forget, or if you prefer not to deal with fuel tanks. Electric is also the only safe option for indoor use (like a sunroom) with proper clearance.
For a more detailed comparison of specific models, check out our best patio heaters buying guide to see top picks in each category.
Getting the size right matters more than the fuel type. A heater that is too small will leave you cold, while one that is too large wastes fuel or electricity and can make a small area uncomfortably hot. Start by measuring the area you want to heat. For propane, a typical 30,000 to 46,000 BTU unit will comfortably warm a circle about 10 to 15 feet in diameter when there is little wind. If your patio is larger, you may need two heaters or a single high-output model placed centrally. Electric heaters at 1,500 watts usually cover a 6 to 10 foot circle, so they suit intimate seating groups rather than whole patios.
Placement is equally important. Propane heaters work best when positioned so the radiant heat hits people directly, not just the air. Put them at an angle rather than straight overhead. Keep them at least 3 feet from walls, ceilings, and flammable objects. Electric heaters rely on reflection, so aim the reflector toward the seating area and avoid placing them where a strong breeze will blow the heat away. In windy spots, propane’s higher output will cope better, but you may still need a windbreak. For either type, never block the air intake or exhaust, and always follow the manufacturer’s clearance guidelines.
One frequent mistake is buying an electric heater for an open, exposed patio. Electric models struggle in breezy conditions because their heat is easily dispersed. If your patio is not sheltered, propane is usually the better choice. Another error is underestimating fuel management. Propane tanks run out at inconvenient times, so it is wise to keep a spare tank or refill before a gathering. Also, some buyers forget that propane heaters need ventilation. Using one in a screened-in porch with poor airflow can be dangerous. Always ensure fresh air can circulate.
On the electric side, many people overlook the electrical load. A 1,500-watt heater draws a lot of current. If you plug it into a circuit that already powers other appliances, you may trip a breaker. Check that your outdoor outlet is on a dedicated circuit or at least not shared with high-draw devices. Extension cords are another pitfall: use only heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords, and never daisy-chain them. Finally, don’t assume a heater is weatherproof. Most are water-resistant, not waterproof. Store them under cover when not in use, and never operate them in rain or snow unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.
Patio heaters are not the only way to extend your outdoor season. Fire pits and chimineas offer ambiance and warmth, though they produce smoke and require more attention. Infrared heaters, whether propane or electric, heat objects rather than air and can be more efficient in drafty areas. If you only need warmth for one or two people, a heated blanket or a good jacket may be enough. Also consider a pergola with a retractable roof or side screens to retain heat; sometimes a physical barrier is more effective than a bigger heater.
There are situations where buying a patio heater is not the best move. If you live in a region with mild winters, you may only use it a handful of times, making the storage hassle outweigh the benefit. If your patio is tiny and fully enclosed, a small electric space heater might suffice. If you rent and cannot install a hardwired unit or store a propane tank, a plug-in electric model is your only option. And if you are looking for a primary heat source for an indoor room, neither type is a substitute for a proper heating system. Use them as supplemental warmth only.
Yes, but only if there is adequate ventilation and at least 3 feet of clearance from the ceiling and walls. Never use it in a completely enclosed space.
Most electric heaters have automatic shutoff features, but it’s not recommended to leave any heater unattended. Turn it off when you’re not nearby.
If you use a heater only a few times a month, the difference is small. But for regular use, electric will generally save you money on fuel costs.
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