For a dining table or seating area with no wall or ceiling nearby. It hangs heat over the table, but has no controls beyond a switch.
Amazon $210The Fire Sense 02117 Pole Mounted is the better patio heater overall, rated 2.8 to 2.4. The Fire Sense 02117 Pole Mounted leads on safety. The Fire Sense 02117 Pole Mounted costs $29 less ($210 vs $239).
For renters or anyone who wants to move infrared heat around the patio. It pays a premium for the tripod over the wall mount version.
Amazon $239Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Fire Sense 02117 Pole Mounted for safety (tip-over shutoff, safety listed vs tip-over shutoff).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every electric patio heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Fire Sense 02117 Pole Mounted | Dr Infrared Heater DR-338 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.8/5 | 2.4/5 |
| Value 35% | 32 $41.03 per 1,000 BTU/h ($210, 5,120 BTU/h) | 26 $46.70 per 1,000 BTU/h ($239, 5,120 BTU/h) |
| Heat output 25% | 25 1,500 W | 25 1,500 W |
| Safety 20% | 100 tip-over shutoff, safety listed | 50 tip-over shutoff |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Fire Sense 02117 Pole Mounted | Dr Infrared Heater DR-338 | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Fuel | Electric | Electric |
| Power | 1,500 W | 1,500 W |
| Heated area | 9 ft across | - |
| Remote | No | Yes |
| Safety and build | ||
| Style | Standing | Standing |
| Tip-over shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| Safety listed | Yes | - |
| Ingress rating | - | IP55 |
| Weight | 52 lb | 6.5 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
