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Best Patio Heaters for 2026: Electric vs Gas Comparison Guide
As outdoor living season approaches, choosing the right patio heater can extend your usable outdoor time by months. But with electric, gas, and infrared options ranging from $270 to $5,700, how do you pick the right one?
This guide compares every type of patio heater we carry, explains the key differences, and helps you match the right heater to your space and budget.
Electric vs Gas Patio Heaters: Key Differences
| Feature | Electric Infrared | Gas (Natural/Propane) |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Output | 1,500W - 6,000W | 25,000 - 50,000+ BTU |
| Best For | Covered patios, enclosed spaces | Open patios, large uncovered areas |
| Installation | Hardwired (most models) | Gas line required |
| Operating Cost | $0.15-0.60/hr | $0.50-2.00/hr |
| Heat Range | 100-250 sq ft per unit | 200-400+ sq ft per unit |
| Wind Resistance | Moderate (radiant heat) | Good (higher BTU output) |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Annual gas line inspection |
Best Electric Patio Heaters
Bromic Heating (Premium)
Bromic Heating is the industry leader in design-forward electric patio heaters. Their lineup includes:
- Platinum Series ($1,483-$2,681) — Slim, low-profile design for upscale residential and commercial spaces. 2,300W to 4,500W.
- Platinum Marine ($3,624-$5,702) — Marine-grade 316 stainless steel for coastal and pool environments.
- Tungsten Series ($568-$1,089) — Industrial-modern design at more accessible prices. 4,000-6,000W.
- Eclipse Series ($2,609-$4,999) — Portable, design-statement heaters with twin pole and dimmer options.
- Cobalt Series ($568-$682) — Budget-friendly entry point at 4,000-6,000W.
Schwank (Commercial-Grade)
Schwank offers German-engineered electric heaters built for demanding commercial environments:
- ElectricSchwank Single Element ($835-$1,161) — 1,500W to 4,000W for focused zone heating.
- ElectricSchwank Dual Element ($1,059+) — 3,000W to 6,000W for wider coverage areas.
Dimplex (Versatile)
Dimplex outdoor heaters offer wall-mounted and portable options:
- DIR Series ($590-$1,340) — Wall-mounted electric infrared in 36" and 51" sizes.
- DSH Series ($610) — Compact wall-mounted option for smaller spaces.
- DLW Series ($900) — Versatile indoor/outdoor models.
Best Gas Patio Heaters
Schwank Gas Heaters
- SupremeSchwank ($3,473-$4,206) — The gold standard for commercial gas patio heating. Available in single and two-stage output.
- BistroSchwank ($3,169) — Designed specifically for restaurants and hospitality venues.
Bromic Gas Heaters
- Tungsten 300/500 ($1,775-$2,026) — Compact to mid-size gas heaters with modern design.
- Platinum 300/500 ($2,298-$2,580) — Premium gas heaters with sleek aesthetics.
- Tungsten Portable ($2,360) — Wheeled gas heater for flexible placement.
Dimplex Gas Heaters
- DGR Series ($1,200-$1,500) — Portable propane infrared heaters, no installation required.
How to Choose: Quick Decision Guide
- Covered patio, want sleek design: Bromic Platinum electric
- Covered patio, budget-conscious: Bromic Cobalt or Tungsten electric
- Open patio, maximum heat: Schwank SupremeSchwank gas
- Restaurant or commercial: Schwank gas or Bromic Platinum
- Coastal or pool area: Bromic Platinum Marine
- Portable, no installation: Dimplex DGR propane or Bromic Eclipse
- Wall-mounted, simple: Dimplex DIR Series electric
Browse our complete patio heater collection or contact us for help choosing the right heater for your outdoor space.
- Tags: bromic, buying guide, dimplex, electric heater, gas heater, outdoor heater, patio heater, schwank
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