Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget buy that won't add to your power bills. It comes with multiple heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move about the garden.
Gas patio heaters can push out lots of warmth over a bigger area, but will require a regular supply of propane or natural gas. This is a great choice for large gardens that have plenty of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of the freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra red models. They are more affordable than gas-powered models and, assuming you choose wisely, have lower running costs as well. It's also easy to install and you won't have to refill a propane tank.
The best ones feature a remote control for easy operation as well as an integrated LED light to create ambiance. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It uses a circular filament to radiate infrared mediumwave energy over an area that is the size of a table. It is easy to use heating settings as well as 360deg rotation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500 Watt infra-red heater, which utilizes an aluminium reflector to focus a focused beam of heat over the area you prefer to be in.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a cosy light that is clean and fresh. However the Herschel is more sleek and is more suited for modern-day garden spaces, or if you're looking to incorporate it into your outdoor furniture. It can be integrated into home automation systems, which allow you to select your preferred brightness and temperature. This could help you save money over time.
It is important to remember that although infrared heating is efficient but it only warms the objects and people directly in front of the heater and will not be effective when you move away. It also won't warm your patio if the winds blow it around.
On the other hand, gas heaters will heat up a larger space if they're not moved, and they can be equipped with a wind-shield to ensure they stay in their place. They are often found in pub gardens and offer a warm "burning log" effect that is attractive in a variety of decors.
Propane-powered heaters for patios are generally less efficient and produce lots of smog and noise when the flame burns. Unlike propane that is stored in a cylinder and will require refilling after it has run out Most electric heaters do not require refilling at all, and are more sustainable. You should also remember that a gas-powered heater produces more heat than an electric model and is more likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
It's the perfect time to invest in heaters for your patio as Summer is winding down and evenings turn somewhat chilly. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space for longer. If you decide to go with electric or gas, there's plenty on offer, from small tabletop units to larger floor-standing models that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces like a decked garden.
Gas heaters are more expensive to purchase, but they can also be more costly to operate. According to Heat Outdoors "they are amongst the most inefficient both in terms of energy they use and the heat they produce". A typical cylinder of calor gas costs PS90 new or PS50 to refill and lasts approximately 13 hours of heating.
Unlike gas electric heaters make use of radiant heat to warm people and objects instead of air. Electric heaters are cheaper to run, and they have a smaller carbon footprint. They're also a lot easier to use - simply plug them in and switch them on, while you'll need to create an open flame or wait for the propane model to heat up.
Electric heaters for outdoor use can be utilized in a variety of settings, including restaurants, bars and private gardens. Some models have a built-in dimming switch, which allows you to control the brightness the light is. They can be used either in a closed or open space. They are also smaller than gas models, and they can be moved easily. This is a great feature when you have to move your heater from one area of your garden to another.
The heaters are connected to the power source and require an extension cord that is suitable for outdoor use. Most electric heaters aren't permitted to have an extension lead that is longer than 1.8m. This is to be in line with safety standards. You'll also need to be aware of blocking any outdoor sockets nearby or leaving the cable trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
If you're a fan of the style of the gas heater, but don't want to be limited in the way it can be positioned or want to cut costs, these freestanding electric patio heaters are an alternative. These heaters are powered by electricity and can heat up quickly. They can be operated via a switch or remote. These are also cheaper to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
electric heater for outdoor patio from Kettler is nice-looking choice that won't look out of place in your garden furniture made of rattan and is fully weatherproof to be used all year. Its IP55 rating means that it's protected against windblown rain and dust (although we wouldn't recommend aiming a high-pressure hose at it). This model comes with three heating levels that can be adjusted according to your requirements, as well as an automatic timer that ranges from 1 to 9 hours.
Another alternative for those who aren't wishing to be limited by the position of gas heaters on their patios is this electric model made by Blumfeldt. It is available in two sizes and includes many features, such as a timer, remote control and 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof to ensure your peace of mind, although we wouldn't recommend getting it too wet, as this can affect the efficiency and life span of the heater.
The portable patio heater is a favorite among those who prefer to control their heating. It's easy to use and comes with the remote control, two temperature settings, as well as the ability to turn on and off the light from a distance. It also has an integrated safety feature that shuts off the unit if it's knocked over.
Electric patio heaters don't emit carbon monoxide, unlike gas patio heaters, making them a fantastic option for those with pets or children who haven't yet reached the maturity level to be aware of the dangers that come with being too close to a flame. These models are great for large outdoor gazebos or spaces, as they are able to quickly warm up an area of up to 15 square meters. These models are lightweight and easy to move. Some have remotes that let you alter the temperature from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After summer is over and kids are back at school it's time to think about adding some warmth to your outside space. Electric heaters come in different designs including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.
This popular option is a combination of the benefits of a gas heater with low operating costs. It can be mounted on the wall or placed on a pedestal, which makes it ideal for covered porches, gazebos and small gardens where a freestanding unit may appear too big. It has an adjustable remote control that can be used to alter the heat. Users describe it as a Goldilocks choice, as it is just warm enough to reduce the chill, but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are ideal for small spaces such as garages and covered porches because they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. Gas heaters, on contrary, should be installed in an open area with adequate ventilation to avoid contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than those powered by gas. Electric models are also less mobile and require an electrical outlet. This is especially important if you reside in a region that has high energy costs.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas heaters however, there are many options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some can be hung from parasols or awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
This is a great choice when you're looking for an infrared heater that's inexpensive to run. It's available in two sizes and has various features such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use temperature settings. It's also certified IP44, which means it can withstand splashes of water as well as light rain.