Top patio heaters to extend the summer heat

Fall is knocking at our door already, and again we are left wondering where the summer went. Instead of resigning yourself to putting your patio furniture away for the season, consider an outdoor heater to keep you cozy, and free to enjoy a few more beautiful evenings in your backyard.

These are some of the internet's best reviewed outdoor heating solutions that could help squeeze a little more life out of your patio before you move inside for the winter.

Table Top Heaters – Uniflame 92000 Portable Outdoor Heater

A majority of online reviews rated the Uniflame 92000 tops for its affordable price, portability, and 11,000 BTUs. Before settling on a tabletop heater, remember that its heating radius is considerably smaller than a free-standing model. The Uniflame heats a 10-foot radius.

Free-Standing Propane Heater – Uniflame 200209 by Blue Rhino

at Venting Direct

This stainless steel free-standing patio heater was a recommendation from Bestcovery.com. They like its 20-feet heat diameter, stylish stainless steel frame, and automatic safety shutdown feature. Refillable propane tanks for heaters like this consume about 1lb of propane per hour.

Natural Gas – Paramount Natural Gas Patio Heater

at The Home Depot

Natural gas heaters offer the advantage of a constant source of fuel. The stainless steel Paramount offers 40,000 BTUs, adjustable heat control, a push button igniter and heats an impressive 21-feet diameter. If you already have a gas BBQ, you could conveniently share the same line by way of a splitter.

Electric Heater – Blue Rhino New Orleans Electric Heater

2 stores

This attractive New Orleans electric heater was another one of Bestcovery.com's top recommendations, and amazon.com's users rated it an impressive 4 out of 5 stars. This tabletop model is also available as a free-standing heat lamp.

Cover It Up - Veranda Stand-Up Patio Heater Cover

at The Home Depot

A good patio heater can be a hefty investment so it's important to protect yours from the elements. One homedepot.ca user gave this adjustable free-standing patio heater cover a 5 out of 5 star rating for its high-quality woven fabric and durable seams.

Firepit – Stars and Moon Firepit and Grill

at L.L.Bean, Inc.

This fire pit was received the best reviews in its category on consumersearch.com. The cut-outs throw pretty light, the basin accommodates plenty of wood, and the grill is an added bonus for food prep. Users gave it 4 out of 5 stars for its sturdiness and aesthetics.

Portable Outdoor Fireplace - 43-inch Chiminea

at Canadian Tire Corp

The advantage of the chiminea's design is that it directs smoke away from the people sitting around it. This metal and cast iron model radiates heat a full 360-degrees, as opposed to on only one side like most chimineas. Users gave it a 4.4 out of 5 star rating.