Global Industrial
A leading source for industrial-grade heating systems and HVAC solutions.
When the temperatures drop, comfort and productivity can take a hit—whether you’re running a warehouse, managing a jobsite, or simply trying to enjoy your patio. That’s where heaters come in—not just any heaters, but the right ones for your unique space and needs.
With so many types of heaters available today—industrial, portable, infrared, electric, and outdoor—it’s easy to get lost in the heatwave of options. This guide will help you understand the different types of heating solutions, how they work, and where to find the best ones online.
Here’s a list of the most common types of outdoor heaters, along with clear definitions to help shoppers understand their options:
Definition: Standalone heaters powered by propane gas tanks. Often designed with a base, pole, and a heating element at the top (mushroom-style)
Best for: Patios, decks, or outdoor dining areas without electrical outlets.
Pros: Portable, quick heat, no wiring needed
Cons: Requires tank refills. areas.
Definition: Similar to propane heaters but connected directly to a natural gas line.
Best for: Permanent outdoor setups.
Pros: No need for refueling, cost-effective long-term.
Cons: Requires professional installation and is not portable. areas.
Definition: Plug-in units that use infrared or radiant heat to warm people and surfaces, not the air.
Best for: Covered patios, indoor/outdoor hybrid spaces.
Pros: Safe for indoor use, no emissions, easy operation.
Cons: Requires access to an outlet, may not cover large areas.
Definition: A sub-type of electric heaters that emit infrared rays to warm objects and people directly.
Best for: Windy or semi-enclosed outdoor spaces.
Pros: Efficient, silent, focused heating.
Cons: Heat doesn't travel far; placement is key.
Definition: Electric or gas heaters mounted to walls or ceilings for a clean, space-saving design.
Best for: Restaurants, commercial patios, covered outdoor areas.
Pros: Saves floor space, sleek design.
Cons: Installation required; less flexible than portable models.
Definition: Open fire sources typically fueled by wood, propane, or natural gas.
Best for: Gatherings, ambiance, backyard lounges.
Pros: Aesthetic appeal, warmth, can double as a cooking source
Cons: Requires supervision, not ideal for small patios.
Definition: Freestanding front-loading fireplaces with a vertical chimney.
Best for: Rustic patios or decorative outdoor spaces.
Pros: Charming design, directional heating.
Cons: Limited heat range, less portable.
Definition: Small propane or electric heaters that sit on top of a table.
Best for: Small group settings or compact patios.
Pros: Portable, convenient, stylish
Cons: Limited heat output and range.
Definition: Heavy-duty units designed for large areas like restaurants or event venues.
Best for: Hospitality industry, large gatherings.
Pros: High BTU output, durable.
Cons: Costlier, bulkier.
| Heater Type | Best For | Fuel/Energy | Coverage Area | Portability | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forced Air | Warehouses, Garages | Electric, Gas | Large | High | Yes |
| Infrared | Job Sites, Open Areas | Electric, Gas | Targeted | Low | Yes |
| Convection | Enclosed Rooms | Electric | Medium | Low | Yes |
| Electric | Offices, Small Workshops | Electric | Small-Medium | High | Yes |
| Propane Patio | Backyards, Restaurants | Propane | Medium-Large | Medium | Yes |
| Wall-mounted Infrared | Patios, Outdoor Walls | Electric | Targeted | Fixed | Yes |
These heavy-duty heaters are designed to warm up large areas like workshops, garages, warehouses, and loading docks.
Facilities, factories, shipping centers, and construction zones.
Compact, plug-and-play solutions for smaller spaces or temporary heating.
Offices, basements, small workshops.
Enjoy year-round outdoor living with heating designed for patios, decks, and open-air seating areas.
Restaurants, backyards, event venues, or commercial patios.
Here are trusted industrial and retail websites where you can explore a wide range of heaters:
A leading source for industrial-grade heating systems and HVAC solutions.
Reliable supply of heavy-duty heaters for commercial and maintenance needs.
Excellent outdoor and patio heating collection.
Stylish, functional patio heaters perfect for entertaining spaces.
Focused on industrial and business-use heating.
Convenient retail solutions with in-store pickup options.
| Heater Type | Average Price Range | Best Time to Buy | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Propane Forced-Air Heater (red unit) |
$150 – $450 | Late Spring to Early Summer | Off-season deals when demand drops after winter |
|
Electric Portable Space Heater (black box) |
$30 – $120 | Early Fall or Off-Season | Many retailers promote sales before peak heating season |
|
Quartz Infrared Heater (tall glowing panel) |
$100 – $300 | End of Winter Clearance (Feb–Mar) | Retailers clear inventory for spring appliances |
|
Stainless Steel Patio Heater (tall tower) |
$120 – $400 | Late Summer / Early Fall | Pre-season sales before outdoor entertaining ramps up |
Choosing a heater isn't just about staying warm—it's about enhancing comfort, productivity, and energy efficiency. Whether you're heating a warehouse floor or hosting guests on your patio, the right heater makes all the difference. Remember to always follow local regulations, especially when using gas or propane units. Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and positioning are key for safety and performance.
| Heater Type | Portability | Heat Output | Usage Area | Power Source | Safety Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Propane Patio Heater | Portable | High | Outdoor only | Gas refill | Yes |
| Natural Gas Patio Heater | Fixed | Very Low | Outdoor only | Permanent gas line | Yes |
| Electric Patio Heater | Fixed/Portable | Medium | Indoor/Outdoor | Plug-in | Low |
| Infrared Heater | Fixed/Portable | Medium | Indoor/Outdoor | Plug-in | Low |
| Wall/Ceiling-Mounted | Fixed | Medium-High | Indoor/Outdoor | Wired install | Low |
| Fire Pit | Portable/Fixed | Medium | Outdoor only | Wood/Propane | High |
| Chiminea | Fixed | Low-Medium | Outdoor only | Wood | Medium |
| Tabletop Heater | Portable | Low | Outdoor only | Small propane/electric | Low |
| Commercial Outdoor Heater | Fixed | Very High | Outdoor only | Propane/Natural Gas | Yes |