Natural Gas vs Wood Pellet Patio Heaters: Which Should You Buy?
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
Choosing between a natural gas vs wood pellet patio heater depends on your fuel access and heating style. Both units provide outdoor warmth for patios and decks. The main difference lies in how they burn fuel. One uses a continuous natural gas line for steady heat. The other burns wood pellets in a self-feeding hopper. You need to weigh convenience against ambiance when picking the right unit for your space.
Key differences
| Aspect | Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater | HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Wood Pellet |
| Heat Output | 13KW high / 5KW low | 70,000 BTU |
| Ignition Type | Piezo pulse | Match or lighter |
| Mount Type | Freestanding | Freestanding |
| Design Features | Telescopic height adjustment, 24ft hose | Glass viewing window, gravity-fed hopper |
| Construction Material | Metal | Powder-Coated Steel |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater if
- You want a heater with adjustable height to direct warmth precisely where you sit or stand.
- You prefer a piezo ignition system for quick, push-button startup without manual lighting.
- You need a long gas hose for flexible placement away from your gas line connection.
Choose HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater if
- You value the cozy ambiance of a visible flame through a glass viewing window.
- You want a gravity-fed system that automatically feeds pellets without constant refilling.
- You prefer a unit that delivers high BTU output to warm larger outdoor areas quickly.
Verdict: The natural gas heater suits those who prioritize adjustable height and easy ignition for frequent use. The wood pellet model is better for users who want visual flame ambiance and automatic fuel feeding. Choose based on whether you value convenience or atmosphere more.
Natural Gas vs Wood Pellet Heaters
Fuel Type and Supply
Product A, the Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater, runs on natural gas. It includes a 24-foot hose and fittings, allowing you to connect directly to a fixed gas line. This setup provides continuous heating without the need to refill tanks. Product B, the HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater, uses wood pellets. It features a 20-pound hopper with a gravity-fed system. This design offers hands-free operation as pellets drop into the burn chamber. You must replenish pellets periodically, but you avoid the infrastructure needed for a gas line.
Heat Output and Power
Product A offers dual-level radiant heat with a high power setting of 13KW and a low setting of 5KW. It uses piezo pulse ignition for fast startup. Product B delivers a rated 70,000 BTU of heat output. The manufacturer states this output warms over 100 square feet, claiming it is approximately double the output of standard propane heaters. While Product A provides adjustable power levels, Product B focuses on a single high-output setting. Both units aim to provide substantial warmth for outdoor gatherings, but they use different metrics to describe their heating capacity.
Mount Type and Portability
Product A is a freestanding unit with a telescopic pole that adjusts height between 55 inches and 78.7 inches. This adjustability allows you to direct radiant warmth exactly where needed. It weighs 33 pounds and includes a weighted base for stability against light wind. Product B is also freestanding but is designed for easy movement. It weighs 40 pounds and includes built-in dual wheels. This feature makes it simple to move around patios, decks, or tailgates. Product A is better for fixed height adjustment, while Product B wins for easy repositioning.
Design and Build Material
Product A is constructed from weather-resistant premium metal with a bronze finish. It is anti-rust and durable for year-round outdoor use. The unit features a wide reflector to evenly distribute heat. Product B is built with a heavy-duty powder-coated steel body. It includes a large steel chimney, a stainless reflector, and a high-temperature black coating. It also features a glass viewing window that lets you enjoy the glow of the flames. Product B offers a more rustic aesthetic with the flame window, while Product A provides a sleek, adjustable metal design.
Safety and Ignition Features
Product A is cETL certified and includes triple safety protection: anti-tilt, hypoxia, and flameout protection. It automatically cuts off the gas supply if risk conditions are detected. Ignition is achieved via a piezo pulse mechanism for quick startup. Product B uses a simple match or lighter for ignition. It does not list specific safety certifications or automatic shutoff features in the provided data. The gravity-fed pellet system provides consistent heat, but the manual ignition and lack of listed safety sensors make Product A the safer choice for unattended operation.
Choose the Right Outdoor Heater
Users with fixed gas lines wanting adjustable heat
This natural gas model includes a 24-foot hose for direct line connection. You can adjust the height between 55 and 78.7 inches to target warmth precisely. It offers dual heating modes at 13KW and 5KW. The cETL certification ensures safety with anti-tilt and flameout protection. The telescopic design saves storage space when not in use.
Those seeking high BTU output and ambiance
This wood pellet heater delivers 70,000 BTU to warm over 100 square feet. The gravity-fed hopper holds 20 pounds of pellets for consistent heat. A glass viewing window adds visual appeal. It features a powder-coated steel body for durability. Dual wheels make it easy to move around your patio or deck as needed.
Buyers prioritizing safety certifications and steady warmth
This unit is cETL certified with triple safety protections. It cuts gas automatically if tilted or if oxygen levels drop. The piezo pulse ignition provides fast startup. You get steady radiant heat without managing fuel refills. The weighted base adds stability against light wind, making it reliable for commercial or home patios.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater | Adjustable height natural gas heating | Check price of Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater on Amazon |
| 2 | HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater | cozy ambiance and high heat output | Check price of HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater on Amazon |
The products compared
Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater
Best for: Adjustable height natural gas heating
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Freestanding
- Ignition Type
- Piezo pulse
- Construction Material
- Metal
- Use
- Backyard, Garden, Commercial Use
- Color
- Brown
View on Amazon: Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater Affiliate link
This freestanding natural gas patio heater adjusts from 55 to 78.7 inches, directing radiant heat where you need it. It delivers 13KW of high power or 5KW of low power via piezo pulse ignition. The unit includes a 24-foot gas hose and weighs 33 pounds. Its cETL certification ensures safety with anti-tilt and flameout protection. It suits backyards or commercial dining areas.
Pros
- Telescopic height adjusts between 55 and 78.7 inches
- Includes a 24-foot natural gas hose
- Dual heating modes: 13KW high and 5KW low
- cETL certified with triple safety protections
- Piezo pulse ignition for rapid startup
Cons
- Manual piezo ignition requires repeated pushing
- Heavy 33-pound base limits portability
- Bronze metal finish may show weathering over time
Good fit if
- You need flexible heat height for seating or standing
- You want to avoid frequent propane tank refills
- You value certified safety features for outdoor use
Skip if
- You prefer electric heaters for easy installation
- You need remote control or smart app connectivity
- You require a portable unit under 20 pounds
Verdict: 55-78.7" Adjustable Natural Gas Heater offers reliable radiant warmth with adjustable height and robust safety features. It fits homeowners who want steady heat without propane tank management.
HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater
Best for: cozy ambiance and high heat output
- Fuel Type
- Wood Pellet (what this guide is about)
- Heat Output
- 70,000 BTU
- Ignition Type
- Match or lighter
- Construction Material
- Powder-Coated Steel
- Features
- Wheels
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater Affiliate link
The HEATAK CSL500 is a large, black wood pellet patio heater. It delivers 70,000 BTU of heat to warm over 100 square feet. The unit uses a gravity-fed system with a 20-pound hopper for consistent performance. You can ignite it with a match or lighter. It features a glass viewing window and dual wheels for portability. This heater suits those who want a cozy, flame-focused outdoor experience.
Pros
- 70,000 BTU heat output
- 20-pound gravity-fed hopper
- Glass viewing window
- Dual wheels for movement
Cons
- Manual match or lighter ignition
- Heavy at 40 pounds
- Large footprint at 80.1 inches wide
Good fit if
- You want a visible flame ambiance
- You prefer wood pellet fuel
- You need high heat output
Skip if
- You want automatic ignition
- You need a compact unit
- You prefer gas fuel
Verdict: HEATAK 70,000 BTU Wood Pellet Heater offers strong heat and a glass window for ambiance. It fits buyers who value visible flames and manual control over convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater | HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Wood Pellet |
| Heat Output | not stated | 70,000 BTU |
| Mount Type | Freestanding | not stated |
| Ignition Type | Piezo pulse | Match or lighter |
| Construction Material | Metal | Powder-Coated Steel |
| Features | not stated | Wheels |
| Use | Backyard, Garden, Commercial Use | not stated |
| Color | Brown | Black |
| Dimensions | 18.1 × 30.3 × 18.1 inches | 28.5 × 80.1 × 21.1 inches |
| Weight | 33 pounds | 40 pounds |
| Size | 18.1"D x 18.1"W x 30.3"H | Large |
| Model | JHY-2 | CSL500 |
Frequently asked questions
Does a natural gas patio heater require a propane tank?
No, it does not. The Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater connects directly to a fixed natural gas line using an included 24-foot hose. This setup eliminates the need to manage or refill heavy propane tanks. You get continuous heat without interruptions for refueling, making it ideal for long evening gatherings.
Can I adjust the height of a natural gas heater?
Yes, you can. The Brown Telescopic model features an adjustable height range from 55 to 78.7 inches. This telescopic design allows you to position the heat source at the optimal level for your space. You can raise or lower the unit to target warmth precisely where your guests are seated.
Do wood pellet heaters produce visible flames?
Yes, they do. The HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Patio Heater includes a glass window that showcases the burning pellets. This feature creates a cozy ambiance with visible flames. If you value the aesthetic appeal of a traditional fire alongside your heating needs, this wood pellet option provides that visual element.
How much heat does a wood pellet patio heater produce?
The HEATAK model delivers 70,000 BTU of heat output. This high rating ensures strong warmth for your outdoor area. You get significant thermal power from this wood pellet unit. It is designed to provide robust heating, making it suitable for larger patios or decks where intense warmth is required.
Is a natural gas heater heavy to move?
The Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater weighs 33 pounds. This weight makes it manageable for repositioning on a patio or deck. It is a freestanding unit, so you do not need to mount it. Its size and weight allow for stable placement while remaining light enough to adjust as needed.
What color options are available for these heaters?
The Brown Telescopic Natural Gas Patio Heater comes in a brown finish. The HEATAK 70K BTU Wood Pellet Heater is available in black. These color choices allow you to select a unit that complements your outdoor decor. Both models offer distinct visual styles to match different patio aesthetics.