5 Best Outdoor Heaters for Extended Gardening Seasons: Top Picks for Year-Round Comfort

Outdoor heaters extend the gardening season by providing warmth during cooler months. These devices allow plant enthusiasts to continue nurturing their gardens well into autumn and even winter.

By creating a comfortable environment, outdoor heaters enable gardeners to spend more time tending to their plants and enjoying their outdoor spaces.

When choosing an outdoor heater for gardening, consider factors like heat output, fuel type, and safety features.

The size of the area you need to heat and the typical weather conditions in your region are crucial considerations. Energy efficiency and ease of use also play important roles in selecting the right heater for your garden.

We tested numerous outdoor heaters to find the best options for extended gardening seasons. Our rigorous evaluation process focused on performance, durability, and user-friendliness to identify heaters that truly enhance the gardening experience.

Best Outdoor Heaters for Extended Gardening Seasons

We’ve carefully selected the top outdoor heaters to help gardeners extend their growing season. These reliable heating options provide warmth and comfort, allowing you to enjoy your garden for longer periods throughout the year.

VAGKRI Infrared Tower Heater

We recommend this versatile infrared heater for its rapid heating, multiple safety features, and adaptability to both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Pros

• Instant heating with adjustable power settings
• Multiple safety protections including tip-over and overheat
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use

Cons

• Relatively new product with limited long-term reliability data
• May require assembly upon arrival
• Higher price point compared to some basic heaters

We recently tried out the VAGKRI Infrared Tower Heater and were impressed by its performance. The 1500W heating element warms up almost instantly, providing immediate comfort in chilly outdoor areas.

We found the three power settings (600W, 900W, 1500W) particularly useful for adjusting the heat output to different conditions and spaces.

The heater’s design is sleek and modern, fitting well in various settings from patios to indoor rooms. Its 36-inch height and wide-angle heating range effectively distribute warmth over a good-sized area.

We appreciated the built-in carrying handle, which made moving the heater between locations a breeze.

Safety features are a strong point for this VAGKRI model. The automatic shut-off when tipped over gave us peace of mind, especially when using it around pets or children. The IPX5 waterproof rating also adds confidence for outdoor use.

While we haven’t had the chance to test its long-term durability, the initial build quality seems solid and well-thought-out.

Air Choice Compact Heater

We recommend this versatile and portable heater for its efficient heating capabilities and user-friendly design.

Pros

• Quick heating with adjustable modes
• Compact and easily portable
• Safety features including overheat protection

Cons

• Limited coverage area for larger spaces
• Plastic construction may affect durability
• Fan noise might be noticeable in quiet environments

We recently tried out the Air Choice Compact Heater and were impressed by its performance. The 1500W output provides rapid warmth, making it ideal for small greenhouses or outdoor workspaces.

Its lightweight design allowed us to move it effortlessly between different areas of our garden.

The three heating modes offer flexibility. We found the low setting sufficient for mild days, while the high setting quickly combated chilly temperatures. The fan-only option came in handy during warmer periods, providing a cool breeze.

Safety is a key feature of this heater. The overheat protection gave us peace of mind, automatically shutting off the unit to prevent any accidents. We appreciated the adjustable tilt, which let us direct heat precisely where needed. The simple two-button operation made it easy to use, even with gloved hands.

Riseon Portable Outdoor Heater

We highly recommend this versatile and efficient outdoor heater for its advanced features and safety measures.

Pros

• Fast heating with PTC ceramic technology
• Multiple modes and remote control
• Portable design with oscillation

Cons

• Limited coverage area (200 sq ft)
• May not be suitable for large outdoor spaces
• Requires electricity to operate

We recently tried out the Riseon Portable Outdoor Heater and were impressed by its performance. The PTC ceramic technology heats up in just 3 seconds, providing almost instant warmth. This feature came in handy during our chilly evening gardening sessions.

The heater’s multiple modes offer great flexibility. We particularly enjoyed the ECO mode, which maintained a comfortable temperature while conserving energy. The remote control made adjusting settings a breeze, especially when we were busy tending to plants.

Safety is a key feature of this heater. Its overheat protection and child lock function gave us peace of mind. We appreciated the flame-retardant material and tip-over protection, ensuring safe operation in various outdoor settings.

The LED display is clear and easy to read, even in low light conditions. We found the temperature range of 59°F to 95°F, adjustable in 1°F increments, to be more than sufficient for our needs. The 90° oscillation helped distribute heat evenly across our small greenhouse.

At just 3.8 lbs, we had no trouble moving this heater around. We tested it in our greenhouse, on the patio, and even inside a small garden tent. Its versatility makes it a great choice for gardeners looking to extend their growing season.

Air Choice Infrared Patio Heater

The Air Choice Infrared Patio Heater is a must-have for extending your outdoor season with its efficient heating and versatile design.

Pros

• Quick and even heat distribution
• Weather-resistant construction
• Lightweight and portable

Cons

• Limited heating range
• Requires overhead installation
• No remote control

We recently tried out the Air Choice Infrared Patio Heater, and it’s been a game-changer for our outdoor space. The 1500W halogen heating tube delivers warmth almost instantly, creating a cozy atmosphere on our patio. We appreciate how the 360° heat dispersion ensures everyone around feels comfortable.

The heater’s umbrella-shaped design isn’t just for looks. It effectively shields the unit from rain and snow, allowing us to use it year-round without worry. We’ve left it up during light showers, and it continued to function perfectly.

Setting up the heater was a breeze. The adjustable chain made it easy to find the right height for our gazebo. Operating it is simple too – just pull the cord, and you’re good to go. While we initially missed having a remote, we quickly got used to the straightforward on/off mechanism.

At only 3.8 lbs, we’ve found ourselves moving the heater between our patio and garage with ease. Its versatility is a big plus, especially when we need quick warmth in different areas. The silent operation is another feature we’ve come to love. It provides heat without any distracting noise, maintaining the peaceful ambiance of our outdoor gatherings.

Haoteey Tripod Infrared Heater

We highly recommend this versatile infrared heater for its excellent portability and powerful heating capabilities.

Pros

• Adjustable tripod for flexible positioning
• Remote control with timer and power settings
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use

Cons

• May require frequent repositioning for optimal coverage
• Limited heat range compared to larger patio heaters
• Tripod setup takes up floor space

We recently tried out the Haoteey Tripod Infrared Heater and were impressed by its quick heating performance. The carbon fiber heating tubes provided instant warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings in the garden. We appreciated the ability to adjust the height and angle, allowing us to direct heat exactly where needed.

The remote control proved incredibly convenient. We could easily switch between the three power settings and set the timer without leaving our seats. This feature came in handy when we wanted to conserve energy or ensure the heater turned off automatically after we went inside.

While using it outdoors, we noticed the sturdy construction held up well against light rain. The IPX4 waterproof rating gave us peace of mind. For indoor use, we mounted it on the wall of our workshop using the included brackets, freeing up floor space. The versatility of this heater makes it a valuable addition to any home, providing warmth wherever it’s needed most.

Buying Guide

When selecting an outdoor heater for extended gardening seasons, we recommend considering several key factors:

Heat Output

Look for heaters rated in BTUs (British Thermal Units). Higher BTU ratings generally indicate greater heating capacity. For outdoor spaces, aim for at least 40,000 BTUs.

Fuel Type

Common fuel options include:

• Propane
• Natural gas
• Electric

Each has pros and cons in terms of cost, convenience, and environmental impact. We suggest choosing based on your specific needs and available utilities.

Safety Features

Prioritize heaters with:

• Tip-over protection
• Automatic shut-off
• Cool-touch exteriors

These features help prevent accidents and ensure safe operation in outdoor environments.

Weather Resistance

For year-round use, opt for models with:

• Rust-resistant materials
• Waterproof controls
• Sturdy construction

This ensures durability and longevity in various weather conditions.

Coverage Area

Consider the size of your outdoor space. Heaters typically list their effective range in square feet. We recommend choosing a model that adequately covers your intended area.

Portability

If you plan to move the heater, look for:

• Lightweight designs
• Wheels or handles
• Easy assembly/disassembly

This allows for flexible placement and storage when not in use.

By carefully evaluating these factors, we can select an outdoor heater that best suits our gardening needs and extends our enjoyment of outdoor spaces.