When the temperature drops but you’re not ready to give up your evening porch sessions, a good outdoor heater can be a game-changer. I’ve spent countless evenings testing heaters on my own covered porch, and let me tell you—not all heaters are created equal for this specific setup.
Covered porches present unique challenges: you need something that provides consistent warmth without creating safety hazards or requiring extensive ventilation. Through my testing, I’ve found that electric infrared heaters often outperform propane models in enclosed spaces, offering cleaner heat and easier installation. But if you’re dealing with a larger area or prefer the ambiance of a flame, propane options can work beautifully too.
After evaluating dozens of models and putting eight top contenders through their paces, I’m excited to share which heaters truly deliver on their promises and which might leave you shivering. Whether you’re looking for something permanent or portable, budget-friendly or premium, there’s an option here that will transform your covered porch into a year-round oasis.
Best Outdoor Heater for Covered Porch – 2025 Reviews
Dr Infrared Heater – Clean Instant Infrared Heat
This electric infrared heater delivers instant, odorless warmth perfect for covered porches where ventilation might be limited. With IP55 weatherproof rating, it’s safe for both indoor and outdoor use, and the included remote control lets you adjust settings from your comfortable seat.
The wall or ceiling mounting options mean it stays out of the way while providing consistent radiant heat that feels like sunshine even on the coldest evenings.
Briza Infrared Heater – Portable with Remote Control
Offering similar infrared technology to our top pick but at a more budget-friendly price, the Briza heater brings versatile heating to your covered porch. It comes with both mounting hardware for permanent installation and an adjustable tripod stand for portable use.
The built-in timer and safety tip-over protection make it worry-free for family use, while the carbon infrared technology provides that same sun-like warmth we love in covered spaces.
EAST OAK Patio Heater – High BTU with Table Top
If you need serious heating power for a larger covered porch, this 50,000 BTU propane heater delivers warmth across an impressive 20-foot diameter. The unique round table design doubles as a convenient surface for drinks and snacks while the double-layer stainless steel burner ensures efficient, durable performance.
With wheels for easy mobility and multiple safety features including tip-over protection, it brings commercial-grade heating to residential spaces without the commercial price tag.
Encyclpo Tower Heater – Fast Waterproof Heating
This sleek tower heater combines fast infrared heating with IPX5 waterproof protection, making it equally suitable for covered porches and indoor spaces. The 1500W output delivers instant warmth through carbon fiber heating wires, while the ultra-quiet operation ensures peaceful evenings.
With three heat levels and multiple safety protections including tip-over and overheat shutdown, it’s a worry-free solution for extending your porch season well into cooler months.
Lavalite Commercial Heater – Premium Flame Display
For those seeking a premium heating solution, this commercial-grade propane heater offers both exceptional performance and stunning visual appeal. The 56,000 BTU output combined with the beautiful borosilicate glass tube creates a warm, inviting atmosphere on any covered porch.
Crafted from 304 grade stainless steel with triple safety protection systems, it’s built to withstand years of use while providing reliable, efficient warmth for larger outdoor spaces.
Hykolity Pyramid Heater – Elegant Glass Tube Design
This pyramid-style propane heater combines aesthetic appeal with practical functionality for covered porch use. The 48,000 BTU output provides substantial warmth, while the clear glass tube and beautiful flame create a captivating visual element.
With included wheels for mobility and a waterproof cover for protection, it offers good value for those seeking both form and function in their outdoor heating solution.
Thermo Tiki Deluxe Heater – Dancing Flame Feature
Known for its distinctive dancing flame feature, this propane heater brings both warmth and ambiance to covered porch settings. The 38,000 BTU output provides comfortable heating for medium-sized areas, while the commercial-grade construction ensures durability.
With wheels for easy mobility and multiple safety certifications, it’s a reliable option for those who appreciate the visual appeal of a traditional flame heater.
Cuisinart Tabletop Heater – Compact and Portable
Perfect for smaller covered porches or as a supplemental heat source, this compact tabletop heater offers 11,000 BTUs of warmth in a portable package. The anti-tilt automatic shut-off and burner screen guard ensure safe operation, while the lightweight design makes it easy to move wherever needed.
Compatible with both 1-pound and 20-pound propane tanks, it provides flexibility for different usage scenarios and porch sizes.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
When we set out to find the best outdoor heaters for covered porches, we knew we needed to go beyond just reading spec sheets. We personally evaluated 8 different heaters across multiple seasons, testing them in real covered porch environments with varying sizes and layouts.
Our scoring system weights real-world performance at 70% of the total score, focusing on how well each heater actually works in covered porch conditions. The remaining 30% comes from innovation and competitive differentiation—those unique features that set certain models apart from the crowd.
For example, our top-rated Dr Infrared Heater scored an impressive 9.4/10 based on its instant heat delivery and weatherproof design, while the budget-friendly Briza Infrared Heater earned a solid 8.9/10 by offering similar features at a more accessible price point.
We paid particular attention to safety features, heating efficiency in semi-enclosed spaces, and ease of installation—factors that matter most when using heaters on covered porches. The score differences between products reflect genuine performance gaps we observed during testing, not just minor specification variations.
Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with data-driven insights rather than marketing hype, so you can choose the heater that will actually keep your covered porch comfortable when you need it most.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose an Outdoor Heater for Covered Porch
1. Electric vs Propane: Which is Better for Covered Porches?
This is the first decision you’ll need to make, and it largely depends on your porch setup and personal preferences. Electric infrared heaters are generally safer for covered spaces since they don’t produce emissions and require no ventilation. They’re also typically easier to install and operate. Propane heaters offer higher BTU output and don’t require electrical outlets, but they do need adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
For most covered porches, I recommend electric models unless you have a very large space or prefer the ambiance of a real flame. If you do choose propane, ensure your porch has good air circulation and never use it in completely enclosed spaces.
2. Understanding BTU and Wattage Requirements
Heating power is measured in BTUs for propane heaters and watts for electric models. As a general rule, you’ll need about 40-50 BTUs per square foot for propane heaters or 10 watts per square foot for electric models in covered porch situations. However, covered porches often retain heat better than open spaces, so you might get away with slightly less power.
For example, a 150-square-foot covered porch would need approximately 6,000-7,500 BTUs from a propane heater or 1,500 watts from an electric model. Remember that factors like ceiling height, insulation, and wind exposure can affect these requirements.
3. Safety Features You Shouldn't Compromise On
Safety is paramount when using heaters in covered spaces. Look for these essential features: Tip-over protection that automatically shuts off the heater if it gets knocked over. Overheat protection that prevents the unit from reaching dangerous temperatures. Flame-out protection for propane models that cuts off gas if the flame extinguishes unexpectedly.
Additionally, ensure any electric heater has proper weatherproof ratings (IP55 or higher) if it will be exposed to moisture, and always follow manufacturer guidelines for clearance distances from walls and furniture.
4. Installation and Mounting Options
How you plan to install your heater significantly impacts its effectiveness and convenience. Wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted heaters save floor space and provide overhead warmth that feels more natural. Free-standing models offer flexibility to move the heat where you need it. Tabletop units work well for small spaces but have limited coverage.
Consider your porch layout—if you have limited floor space, mounting options might be preferable. If you frequently rearrange furniture, a portable model with wheels could be more practical. Always check installation requirements before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your porch structure.
5. Weather Resistance and Durability
Even covered porches expose heaters to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and occasional weather elements. Look for stainless steel or aluminum construction that resists rust and corrosion. Weatherproof ratings like IP55 or IPX5 indicate the unit can handle rain and humidity without damage.
If you choose a propane heater, consider models with included covers for protection when not in use. For electric models, ensure all electrical components are properly sealed against moisture. Remember that durability often correlates with price—investing in a well-built heater typically pays off in longer service life.
6. Operating Costs and Fuel Considerations
The ongoing costs of operating your heater can vary significantly between models. Electric heaters generally have lower operating costs than propane, but this depends on your local electricity rates. Propane heaters require fuel tank replacements or refills, which can add up over time.
Consider how often you’ll use the heater—occasional users might prefer the convenience of electric models, while frequent users might appreciate the higher heat output of propane despite the ongoing fuel costs. Also factor in installation expenses for hardwired electric models versus the plug-and-play convenience of standard outlet models.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a propane heater on a covered porch?
Yes, you can use propane heaters on covered porches, but with important precautions. Always ensure adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup—this means your porch should have at least two open sides or excellent air circulation. Never use propane heaters in completely enclosed spaces, and always follow manufacturer safety guidelines regarding clearance from walls and ceilings.
2. How much area will an outdoor heater cover on a covered porch?
Coverage depends on the heater’s BTU output (for propane) or wattage (for electric), but covered porches typically require less heating power than open spaces since the cover helps retain warmth. As a general guideline, a 40,000 BTU propane heater or 1500W electric heater can comfortably cover 150-200 square feet in a covered porch setting. However, factors like ceiling height, insulation, and outdoor temperature will affect actual coverage.
3. Are electric outdoor heaters safe for covered porches?
Electric outdoor heaters are generally very safe for covered porch use when properly installed and used according to manufacturer instructions. Unlike propane models, they don’t produce emissions or require ventilation, making them ideal for semi-enclosed spaces. Look for models with safety certifications, tip-over protection, and weatherproof ratings to ensure maximum safety.
4. How do I maintain my outdoor heater for longevity?
Proper maintenance extends your heater’s life significantly. For propane heaters, regularly check connections for leaks, clean the burner and reflector surfaces, and store tanks properly when not in use. For electric heaters, keep the unit clean and dry, check cords for damage, and ensure mounting hardware remains secure. Both types benefit from regular inspection of safety features and using protective covers when stored outdoors.
5. What's the difference between infrared and radiant heaters?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences. Infrared heaters use electromagnetic radiation to heat objects and people directly, similar to sunlight—this makes them very efficient for outdoor use since they’re not heating the air. Radiant heaters typically refer to models that heat objects through thermal radiation, which can include both electric and propane options. In practice, most modern outdoor heaters use some form of infrared technology for better efficiency in open or covered outdoor spaces.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and evaluation, the Dr Infrared Heater emerges as our top choice for most covered porch situations thanks to its instant heat delivery, weatherproof design, and versatile mounting options. However, the best heater for your specific needs depends on your porch size, budget, and personal preferences.
If you’re working with a smaller budget, the Briza Infrared Heater offers outstanding value with similar features at a more accessible price point. For larger porches that need serious heating power, the EAST OAK Patio Heater delivers commercial-grade performance without the commercial price tag.
Remember that proper installation and safety practices are crucial when using any heater on a covered porch. Whichever model you choose, investing in a quality outdoor heater can transform your covered porch into a comfortable, usable space throughout much of the year, effectively extending your outdoor living season and creating wonderful memories with family and friends.
