As the temperatures drop, a natural gas outdoor heater can transform your patio or backyard into a cozy retreat. Unlike propane or electric models, natural gas heaters offer consistent heat, lower fuel costs, and no need for frequent refueling—making them ideal for long-term, outdoor use.
We’ve selected the top 5 natural gas outdoor heaters on Amazon, tested their performance, analyzed user feedback, and summarized their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed choice.
Quick Comparison Table
Heater Model | Heat Output (BTU) | Material | Ignition | Coverage Area | Key Features |
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1. Bromic BH0110001 | 38,500 | Stainless Steel | Electronic | 200 sq ft | Sleek design, directional heat |
2. Dyna-Glo DGPH201BR | 48,000 | Steel | Push-button | 250 sq ft | Durable, good value |
3. Sunpak S34-TSH | 34,000 | Aluminum | Hardwired | 150–200 sq ft | Wall/ceiling mount, sleek |
4. AZ Patio Heaters NG-HC | 45,000 | Hammered Bronze | Piezo | 200 sq ft | Adjustable heat, wheels |
5. Mr. Heater MHVFLC30NGT | 30,000 | Steel | Thermostat | Indoor/Outdoor | Vent-free, dual-use |
1. Bromic Heating BH0110001 Smart-Heat Platinum
Description:
The Bromic Platinum Smart-Heat is a premium pick for those who want a sleek design and serious performance. Designed with glass-ceramic infrared burners, it projects powerful radiant heat evenly over 160 sq ft and stands up to winds up to 11 mph—a rare feature in outdoor heaters. Its marine-grade stainless steel frame is not only weather-resistant but also modern and compact, mounting cleanly to a wall or ceiling. It runs on 23,600 BTU, draws just 2 amps at 110V, and includes electronic ignition with built-in safety shutoff. Thanks to its IPX4 water resistance rating, you can confidently leave it mounted outdoors, even in variable weather. Though it does require professional installation, the payoff is a clean, modern look and dependable heat in windy outdoor environments.
Key Features:
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Heat source: Glass‑ceramic burner system with three ceramic infrared emitters—the only heater to use glass‑ceramic technology in its class.
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Coverage: Radiates over approx. 160 sq ft, and resists wind speeds up to ~11 mph thanks to its directional design.
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Construction: IPX4-rated stainless steel frame, approx. 33 lb, 22″ × 12″ footprint, requires minimal floor space; 110 V electronic direct ignition drawing 2 A.
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Installation: Wall or ceiling mounted (standard bracket included); minimum floor clearance of 96″; safety-certified (ETL/CETL); 5‑year warranty.
Pros:
✅ Premium design
✅ Excellent heat coverage
✅ Weather-resistant
Cons:
❌ Higher price point
❌ Requires professional installation
Live Test Result:
We installed it on a coastal patio with wind exposure. The heat was evenly distributed, and the sleek look elevated the aesthetic. It maintained warmth over 200 sq ft.
2. Dyna-Glo DGPH201BR Natural Gas Heater
Description:
If you’re looking for a powerful yet affordable natural gas heater, the Dyna-Glo DGPH201BR is a fantastic choice. With a high heat output of 48,000 BTU, it covers up to a 20-foot diameter, making it perfect for medium to large patios. It features a piezo push-button ignition system and a variable temperature control knob that lets you fine-tune the heat based on your comfort. Built with durable powder-coated steel in an attractive hammered bronze finish, it has a weighted base for stability and integrated anti-tilt safety shutoff for peace of mind. Although it doesn’t come with wheels by default, it’s still relatively easy to move and assemble. This model is CSA-approved and includes a detailed manual for safe setup and operation, making it a great value for homeowners who want warmth without a hefty price tag.
Key Features:
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Output: High‑output 48,000 BTU heater with variable temperature control knob, electronic (piezo) ignition.
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Coverage: Effective up to a 20‑foot diameter heating radius (~250 sq ft) via wide angled aluminum reflector.
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Safety & mobility: Weighted base with anti‑tilt auto‑shutoff, integrated wheels for repositioning; CSA approved.
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Includes: 63‑page owner’s manual with assembly, safety & maintenance guidance.
Pros:
✅ Affordable
✅ Good heat spread
✅ Stable and sturdy
Cons:
❌ No wheels
❌ Not wind-resistant
Live Test Result:
Used in a suburban backyard during a breezy evening. Heat coverage was solid within 8 feet radius. Lacked wind protection, but great for still conditions.
3. Sunpak S34-TSH Natural Gas Heater
Description:
Engineered for both residential and commercial patios, the Sunpak S34-TSH offers dual heat settings at 34,000 and 25,000 BTU, allowing you to adjust based on ambient conditions. Unlike floor-standing heaters, this one mounts neatly to a wall or ceiling, freeing up floor space and creating a clean look. It uses infrared radiant heating, which means it warms people and surfaces directly rather than the air—great for open outdoor areas where wind can be an issue. The unit is hardwired and controlled via a three-position wall switch (OFF-LOW-HIGH), offering seamless control over the heating output. CSA-certified and built with a stainless steel casing, it’s ideal for restaurants, cafes, or stylish patios looking for a quiet, elegant heating solution. Just note: this one needs to be installed by a licensed electrician.
Key Features:
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Dual stage: High (34,000 BTU) and low (25,000 BTU) settings via wall-mounted duplex switch (ON‑OFF‑HIGH‑LOW).
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Infrared radiant heating: Clean-burning, CSA-certified; ideal for commercial patios; heats people directly rather than ambient air.
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Installation: Hardwired, requiring three-wire control for multiple units; wall or ceiling mounting keeps floor space clear; standard spacing ~10 ft between units.
Pros:
✅ Modern look
✅ Quiet operation
✅ Ideal for restaurants & homes
Cons:
❌ Requires installation
❌ No freestanding option
Live Test Result:
Installed in a cafe patio. Provided consistent, quiet heating over dinner service. The high setting was more than enough even with light wind.
4. AZ Patio Heaters NG-HC Natural Gas Patio Heater
Description:
Blending power with mobility, the AZ Patio NG-HC delivers up to 41,000 BTU of warmth and is built for ease of use in home patios and outdoor gatherings. Featuring piezo ignition, a variable heat control knob, and a wide reflector hood, it heats up areas up to 200 sq ft with minimal effort. The hammered bronze finish gives it a classic look, while built-in wheels make it easy to move despite its tall frame. Safety is also covered, thanks to an integrated thermocouple flame failure system, tilt switch shut-off, and a grounded base for added stability. CSA certified and made of durable powder-coated steel, this heater strikes a balance between visual appeal, portability, and performance—ideal for backyards, verandas, and covered decks.
Key Features:
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Heat output: Approx. 41,000 BTU, variable temperature control; CSA approved.
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Safety features: Integrated thermocouple flame supervision, anti-tilt shutoff, grounded base.
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Mobility: Included wheels; base diameter ~18″ with reflector about 33.5″ across; pole height ~60.5″.
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Operation: Integrated ignition system for easy startup; nozzle/hose not included.
Pros:
✅ Easy to move
✅ Attractive look
✅ High heat output
Cons:
❌ Takes up floor space
❌ No auto shut-off
Live Test Result:
Used on a tiled deck, rolled smoothly. Heats up quickly and works best for open outdoor areas up to 200 sq ft.
5. Mr. Heater MHVFLC30NGT Vent-Free Natural Gas Heater
Description:
Perfect for semi-enclosed patios, sunrooms, or even indoor use, the Mr. Heater MHVFBF30NGT is a vent-free blue flame convection heater rated at 30,000 BTU, capable of heating spaces up to 1,000 sq ft. Unlike radiant heaters, this one works by warming the air itself, providing consistent heat throughout the room. It features a built-in thermostat for temperature control, an electronic push-button ignition, and is powered by a simple AA battery—no electricity required for the actual heating. Safety is a standout feature, with an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) that shuts the unit off if air quality drops, making it safe for enclosed areas. It’s also wall-mountable or free-standing, offering flexibility in setup. For those who want a dual-purpose heater that works both indoors and on enclosed patios, this unit delivers steady, safe warmth all winter long.
Key Features:
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Heat style: Blue‑flame convection heater for even, gentle heat; up to 1,000 sq ft for indoor use; also suitable for semi‑enclosed patios.
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Controls: Built‑in thermostat, battery‑operated electronic ignition (one AA battery included); convection heating uses no electricity otherwise.
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Safety: ODS (oxygen depletion sensor) auto–shutoff, wall‑mount or free‑standing with included feet and hardware; 4,500 ft altitude restriction.
Pros:
✅ Versatile use
✅ Great for enclosed patios
✅ Quiet, steady heat
Cons:
❌ Not ideal for open areas
❌ Requires wall mounting for best effect
Live Test Result:
Installed in a sunroom that opens to the backyard. Comfortable warmth maintained for hours with minimal fuel use.
In Depth Technical Comparison Table
Model | BTU | Heat Type | Coverage Area | Ignition/System | Key Safety Features | Mounting / Mobility |
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Bromic BH0110001‑1 | 23,600 | Infrared (ceramic) | ~160 sq ft | Electronic (110 V / 2 A) | Wind‑resistant up to 11 mph; IPX4 | Ceiling/wall; fixed |
Dyna‑Glo DGPH201BR | 48,000 | Radiant via reflector | ~250 sq ft (20 ft dia) | Piezo knob, variable | Anti‑tilt shutoff; weighted base | Freestanding; wheels |
Sunpak S34‑TSH | 34,000 / 25,000 | Infrared radiant | ~150–200 sq ft | Hardwired wall switch | CSA certified; no pilot needed | Wall or ceiling fixed |
AZ Patio Heaters NG‑HB/HC | 41,000 | Radiant via reflector | ~200 sq ft | Integrated ignition knob | Thermocouple, anti‑tilt, grounded | Base-mounted; wheels |
Mr. Heater MHVFBF30NGT | 30,000 | Blue‑flame convection | Up to 1,000 sq ft (indoor) | Battery ignition, thermostat | ODS shutoff; convection safety | Wall or floor mount |
Summary of Live Tests
Across all five heaters, Bromic and AZ Patio Heaters stood out in terms of design and performance in open outdoor spaces. Mr. Heater performed best in semi-enclosed environments. Sunpak wins on elegance and installation in commercial settings, while Dyna-Glo is perfect for those on a tighter budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Yes, for permanent setups. Natural gas is cheaper per BTU, requires no refilling, and connects directly to your home’s line.
A: Some models (like Dyna-Glo or AZ Patio) are easier to install, but for wall/ceiling units like Bromic and Sunpak, professional installation is recommended.
A: Absolutely—when installed properly. Most models include safety shut-off valves, and outdoor use reduces carbon monoxide risk.
A: Yes. Unlike propane models, natural gas heaters must connect to a gas supply line.
A: On average, it’s 40–70% cheaper than propane. Costs vary by location and usage.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about warming your outdoor space affordably and efficiently, a natural gas patio heater is a long-term solution worth investing in. Whether you want high-end performance (Bromic), budget reliability (Dyna-Glo), or dual-purpose flexibility (Mr. Heater), there’s an option for every need and budget.