Best Patio Heaters, Fire Pits, and Grills for Backyard Season
Heat is what stretches patio season into fall. Before buying, check your local fire rules and your HOA. Many towns limit open wood fires, and you should never run a fire pit or heater directly on a wood or composite deck without a rated heat shield or pad. Also keep the clearances in the manual. They're there for a reason.
Picking the right one
- Smokeless-style fire pit: real flames with less smoke in your face.
- Propane patio heater: warmth at the flip of a switch, and nothing to clean up.
- Pellet grill: set-and-forget smoking, and it doubles as a gathering spot.
Our picks
Fire pit
Solo Stove fire pit
Designed for less smoke. Pair it with a heat-deflecting pad on decks.
Check price →We pick products based on research and hands-on experience. Brands don't pay for placement.