Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget buy that won't increase your electric bills. It has different heat settings as well as overheat protection. It's also easy to move around your garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out a lot of warmth over a larger area, but they will require regular refills of natural gas or propane. This is a great choice for large gardens with plenty of outdoor seating and couches.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. These heaters are more affordable than gas-powered models, and, if you select wisely they'll have lower operating costs too. You don't need to replenish a tank of propane, and there's no assembly required.
The best ones have a remote control that makes operations easy, and an LED light integrated to create ambiance. One of our top picks from German company Herschel makes use of a circular carbon filament to release mediumwave infrared warmth across a table-sized area. It includes easy-to-use settings for heat and 360deg oscillation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500W infra red heater, which uses an aluminium reflector to direct the beam of heat to the area you prefer to be in.
Both models are efficient and emit a clean, cosy glow, but the Herschel is more sleek that's more suited to modern gardens or if you're looking to incorporate it into your furniture for your outdoor space. It can be integrated into home automation systems, allowing you to select the desired intensity and temperature. This could save energy over time.
You must be aware that infrared heaters are efficient but they only heat things and people who are in direct contact with the heater. They lose their effectiveness when you move away. It won't also provide heat to your patio if winds blow it around.
Gas heaters, on the contrary, can heat a larger area when they aren't moved. They can also be equipped with a shield to help keep them in place. They are usually found in pub garden and provide a warm "burning log" effect that looks great in any design.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient and can also generate more noise and smog. Electric heaters are greener than propane, which must be refilled after running out. Gas heaters are more expensive and generate more heat.
2. Gas heaters
As the summer winds down and evenings turn a little chilly it's a good the perfect time to get a patio heater to keep you warm and comfortable. There are plenty of options to choose from depending on whether you want gas or electric, from small tabletop models up to floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces like a decked backyard.
Although gas heaters are cheaper to purchase than some electric models however, they can be costly to run. In fact, according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most inefficient when it comes to both the amount of heat they generate and the energy they consume". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling, and will last approximately 13 hours.
Unlike gas, however electric heaters make use of radiant heat to warm objects and people instead of air. As a result, they are less expensive to run and have a much smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much easier to use. Plug them in and they'll turn on.
Electric heaters for outdoor use can be used in a variety of settings including bars, restaurants 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 in an open or closed space. They are also smaller than gas models and can be easily moved around, which is great for when you need to move the heater from one part of your garden to another.
The downside of these heaters is that they have to be plugged in, which means that you'll need an outlet for power and an extension lead certified to be used with outdoor equipment. Most electric heaters are not permitted to have an extension lead longer than 1.8m. This is to ensure that they comply with safety standards. It is also important to be aware of blocking any outdoor sockets nearby or leaving the extension lead trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized to complement the look of a gas-powered heater but do not want to be limited by its placement or wish to reduce your costs. Powered by electricity, they're quick to heat up and easy to operate at the flick of a button or remote. They're also cheaper to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
This model from Kettler is a stylish and attractive option that won't be out of place in your rattan garden furniture and is fully weatherproof for use all year round. Its IP55 rating means it's protected against dust and rain that is blown in from the wind (although we wouldn't recommend aiming an hose with high pressure at it). The model also comes with three levels of heating to fit your space, as well with a timer that shuts off between 1-9 hours.
Another alternative for those who don't want to be restricted by the positioning of gas heaters on their patios is this electric model made by Blumfeldt. It comes in two sizes and has multiple features, such as remote control as well as a timer shut off function and 360deg oscillation. It also has splash-proofing to give you peace of mind. However, we do not recommend that you let it get wet for excessively as this could impact the performance and longevity of the heater.
A popular choice with many customers, this portable patio heater is a budget-friendly choice for those who prefer to control their heating. It's easy to use and comes with an adjustable remote, two temperature settings, as well as the ability to turn on or off the light from an extended distance. It also has a built-in safety feature that turns off the unit when it's tipped over.
Unlike a gas patio heater, electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide, which is why they're an ideal choice for those with pets or children who are not yet old enough to understand the dangers of being close to flames. These models are ideal for gazebos and large outdoor areas, since they are able to quickly warm up an area of up to 15 square meters. These models are lightweight and easy-to-move, and some have remotes that let you adjust the temperature from your seat.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When summer is over and the kids are back to school, it's time to consider adding some heat to your outside space. Whether you're after a freestanding model or one that is wall-mounted, there's plenty to choose from in the electric range.
This popular option offers the advantages of a gas heater and low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or positioned on an elevated base which makes it perfect for gazebos and covered porches, as well as small gardens where a freestanding model might look too big. It comes with an adjustable remote control that can be used to alter the temperature. The majority of users describe it as an Goldilocks choice, as it's warm enough to ease the chill but not too hot.
The main advantage of using an electric patio heater is that it can be put in a small area, such as a covered porch or garage, because it doesn't emit pollutants like carbon monoxide or other gases that can be harmful to your health. Gas heaters, on the contrary, should be placed in a space that is open and has sufficient ventilation to ensure that they don't pollute your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. Electric models are also more difficult to transport and require an electrical outlet. This is particularly crucial for those who reside in an area that has expensive energy charges.
Electric heaters are not as powerful as gas heaters however, there are plenty of choices in the PS50 to PS200 price range. waterproof electric patio heaters can be used to hang from awnings or parasols and you can also locate a few that run on rechargeable batteries.
If you're looking for an infrared option that's cheap to run it's a good option. It comes in two sizes and comes with a range of features like 360deg rotation and easy-to use heat settings. It is also classified as IP44 which means that it is able to withstand moderate rain and splashes liquid.