Choosing the right natural gas outdoor heater depends on whether you need ambient patio warmth or an outdoor-installed tankless unit for hot water. Below is a concise comparison of five relevant units selected from Amazon listings, including two patio heaters and three outdoor tankless water heaters.
| Product | Type | Key Output |
|---|---|---|
| Rinnai V53DeN Tankless Water Heater | Outdoor Tankless Water Heater | 5.3 GPM, tankless hot water |
| Rheem RTG-70XLN-3 Tankless Heater | Outdoor Tankless Water Heater | 7.0 GPM, high-efficiency |
| Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Tankless | Condensing Tankless (Indoor/Outdoor) | Up To 11.1 GPM, condensing efficiency |
| Fire Sense 61445 Patio Heater | Natural Gas Patio Heater | 45,000 BTU, stainless steel |
| Golden Flame XL-Series Patio Heater | Natural Gas Patio Heater | 45,000 BTU, 15-foot heat radius |
Rinnai V53DeN Tankless Water Heater
This Rinnai unit is a compact outdoor tankless natural gas water heater designed to deliver continuous hot water. It lists a 5.3 GPM flow rate suitable for small to medium households and outdoor installation where space or indoor venting is constrained.
- Unlimited Hot Water: Continuous supply for up to four appliances depending on demand.
- Energy Efficiency: Heats on demand to avoid standby losses.
- Durability: 10-year heat exchanger warranty for long-term reliability.
Intended Use: Outdoor-mounted hot water delivery for whole-house or point-of-use scenarios. Key considerations include local venting codes for outdoor units and professional gas-line hookup for safe operation.
Rheem RTG-70XLN-3 Tankless Heater
The Rheem RTG-70XLN-3 is a high-efficiency non-condensing outdoor tankless natural gas water heater with a 7.0 GPM capacity. It targets users who need higher flow rates for multiple simultaneous applications.
- Continuous Hot Water: Designed for whole-house comfort with multiple fixtures operating simultaneously.
- Energy Savings: Operates only when hot water is required, reducing energy consumption versus tank units.
- Water Saving Setting: Features a setting intended to lower water waste over time.
Intended Use: Exterior installation where a higher GPM is necessary. Non-condensing design simplifies venting but may be less efficient than condensing models in some climates.
Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Tankless
The Rinnai RX199iN is a condensing tankless heater that supports both indoor and outdoor installation with proper venting accessories. It provides up to 11.1 GPM and uses advanced controls and high efficiency technology.
- Versatile Installation: Indoor or outdoor capable with Versa Vent and required vent cap for outdoor use.
- High Flow Rate: Up to 11.1 GPM for multiple simultaneous fixtures.
- High Efficiency: Condensing design with a high UEF rating and features like Quick Flush for maintenance.
Intended Use: Larger homes or commercial settings where higher flow and condensing efficiency are priorities. Condensing units recover latent heat but require condensate management.
Fire Sense 61445 Natural Gas Patio Heater
The Fire Sense 61445 is a stainless steel natural gas patio heater built to provide ambient warmth to outdoor living areas. It lists a rated output of 45,000 BTU and includes an electric ignition system.
- High Heat Output: 45,000 BTU for extended outdoor coverage depending on layout and wind conditions.
- Electronic Ignition: Rapid start capability without manual lighting.
- Safety Features: Tip-over protection and heavy-duty construction with included connection line.
Intended Use: Patio and residential outdoor heating where fixed natural gas supply is available. Consider reflector placement and local clearance requirements when planning installation.
Golden Flame XL-Series Patio Heater
The Golden Flame XL-Series is an outdoor natural gas patio heater offering a 45,000 BTU output with a wide reflector designed to heat up to a 15-foot diameter area. It emphasizes starter convenience and built-in safety controls.
- Wide Coverage: Aluminum reflector and stainless steel burners intended to spread heat over larger areas.
- Easy Ignition: Rapid spark electronic ignition and pilotless burner design for simpler start-up.
- Safety & Stability: Anti-tilt shut-off, weighted base with capacity for additional ballast for windy conditions.
Intended Use: Larger patios, restaurants, or commercial outdoor spaces where a stable, high-output heater is needed and a natural gas connection exists.
Buying Guide
Selecting a natural gas outdoor heater requires matching the device type to the heating goal: ambient space heating versus on-demand hot water. The following considerations apply to both patio heaters and outdoor tankless water heaters and will help align product selection with site requirements.
Type And Primary Function
Determine whether you need an ambient patio heater to warm people outdoors or an outdoor tankless water heater to supply domestic hot water. Patio heaters are rated in BTU and designed with reflectors and safety features for open-air comfort. Tankless units are rated in GPM and BTU input and focus on continuous hot water delivery.
Heat Output And Coverage
For patio heaters, compare BTU output and reflector design. Higher BTU and larger reflectors increase the effective radius but do not guarantee uniform comfort in windy conditions. Manufacturer-stated coverage (e.g., 15-foot diameter) should be validated against your layout and local wind exposure.
For tankless water heaters, use the GPM rating to size units against expected simultaneous fixture use. 5–7 GPM commonly serves 2–4 fixtures; 10+ GPM models support larger homes or multiple bathrooms.
Efficiency And Operating Cost
Condensing tankless models recover extra heat and usually provide higher UEF ratings, which can reduce gas consumption. Non-condensing units often require simpler venting but are typically less efficient. For patio heaters, operating cost scales with BTU output and run time; consistent use increases gas consumption accordingly.
Installation Requirements
Natural gas supply lines, shutoff valves, and qualified gas fitting are required for both categories. Outdoor tankless units may have specific venting caps or accessories; some condensing models require condensate lines and frost protection in cold climates. Patio heaters require a fixed natural gas connection or appropriate hose and regulator products for portable models.
Safety Features
Look for tip-over or anti-tilt shut-off sensors in patio heaters and automatic shutoff for flame failure. Tankless water heaters should include flame failure protection, overheat protection, and freeze protection if installed outdoors. Review listed safety certifications and CSA or ANSI compliance where applicable.
Durability And Weather Resistance
Outdoor-rated heaters and water heaters should specify corrosion-resistant materials, stainless burners, and appropriate IP ratings for exposure. Portable patio heaters benefit from weighted bases or the ability to add ballast for wind stability. Tankless outdoor models may cite wind protection, IPX ratings, and freeze resistance.
Controls And Usability
Electronic ignition and simple control knobs improve start-up for patio heaters. Tankless heaters may offer digital temperature displays, remote controllers, modulating gas flow, and smart modules for remote monitoring. Consider whether user interfaces meet installation and household needs.
Maintenance And Serviceability
Patio heaters require periodic burner and reflector inspection and may need burner cleaning. Tankless units need descaling or flushing based on water hardness, and condensing models require condensate management. Check warranty terms (e.g., heat exchanger warranty) and local service availability.
Comparison Perspectives
- Performance vs. Efficiency: Higher BTU/GPM delivers power but may increase gas use. Condensing tankless models balance higher efficiency with installation complexity.
- Coverage vs. Wind Exposure: Open-air coverage claims assume low wind. For windy sites, choose higher output or localized wind barriers rather than relying solely on BTU ratings.
- Portability vs. Permanence: Fixed natural gas patio heaters provide stable long-term heating; portable models can be moved but may need flexible supply connections and weigh-down mechanisms for safety.
- Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Savings: Condensing tankless units often cost more upfront but reduce operating costs. Patio heater selection should factor expected run hours and usage patterns.
Final Practical Checks
Before purchase, verify local building codes and gas-line requirements, confirm clearance and placement recommendations, and plan for professional installation for all natural gas appliances. Use the manufacturer’s specification sheet to match unit ratings to your household or outdoor space needs.