Best Electric Patio Heaters
It has a variety of temperature settings, and it protects you from overheating. It is also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out lots of warmth over a larger area, but they will require a regular refill of propane or natural gas. It's a good option for large gardens with lots of seating areas and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters that we test were infra red models. They are more affordable than gas-powered models and, in the event you pick wisely, have lower running costs too. There's also no assembly required and you won't need to refill a propane tank.
The top models come with the remote control for effortless operation and a built-in LED light to provide ambience. One of our top picks is 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 has easy-to-use heating settings as well as 360deg rotation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infra-red Heating System is another great option. It uses an aluminum reflector that focuses the beams of heat on your favorite area.
Both models are efficient and emit a crisp, cosy glow, but the Herschel has a sleeker look that's more suited to modern gardens or if you want to blend it into your outdoor furniture. It can be integrated with home automation systems, allowing you to select your preferred intensity and temperature. This could help you save money over time.
You should be aware that infrared heaters work but only heat objects and people who are directly in contact with the heater. They cease to work when you leave. It will also not provide heat to your patio if winds blow it around.
On the other side, gas heaters can warm up a much larger area if they aren't moved, and they can be equipped with a wind-shield to keep them in place. They're often found in pub gardens and offer a warm 'burning log' effect that looks good in a variety of decors.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can produce lots of smog and noise when the flame is burning. Unlike propane, which is stored in a cylinder that requires refilling when it is depleted, most electric heaters don't require refilling at all and are more environmentally friendly. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce more heat.
2. Gas heaters
As the summer winds down and the evenings become colder it's a good time to invest in a patio heater to keep you outdoors longer. There are a variety of options available, whether you choose gas or electric, from small tabletop models to large floor-standing units designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as a decked backyard.
Gas heaters are more expensive to purchase however they can be more expensive to operate. According to Heat Outdoors "they are amongst the most inefficient both in terms of energy they consume as well as the heat they generate". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and will last for 13 hours.
Electric heaters are, unlike gas, rely on radiant heat instead of air to warm objects and humans. Therefore, they are much cheaper to run and leave a much smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much simpler to use. You can simply plug them in and they'll turn on.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a variety of settings, from restaurants to bars to private gardens. They can be used in open or closed spaces, and some come with a built-in dimmer switch to allow you to control the brightness of the light. They're also smaller than gas models and are able to be moved around, which is great for when you need to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.
The heaters are connected to the power source and require an extension cord approved for outdoor use. Most electric heaters aren't allowed 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 careful to avoid blocking any sockets that are located outside or leaving the extension lead trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters are ideal to complement the look of a gas heater but do not want to be restricted by its location or to lower your expenses. These heaters for patios are powered by electricity and are able to heat quickly. They can be controlled via a switch or remote. They're also less expensive to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
The Kettler model is a stylish selection that will look fantastic with your furniture made of rattan. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used all year. Its IP55 rating means that it's protected against windblown rain and dust (although we don't recommend using the hose of a high-pressure model at it). This model comes with three heating levels that can be adjusted to suit your needs, as well as an automatic timer between 1-9 hours.
This electric model made by Blumfeldt is a different option for those who don't want to be limited by the position of a patio heater. It is available in two sizes and comes with multiple features, such as a remote control as well as a timer shut off function and a 360deg oscillation. It's also splash-proof to ensure your peace of mind, but we wouldn't recommend getting it too wet, as this can impact on the efficiency and life span of the heater.
A favorite choice for many customers, this portable patio heater is a great budget-friendly option for those who want to be in control of their heating. It's user-friendly with a remote control, 2 heating settings, and the ability to turn on and off the light from an extended distance. It also comes with an integrated safety feature that will shut off the unit in the event that it's tipped over.
Unlike a gas patio heater electric models don't release any carbon monoxide, which is why they're an ideal choice for families with pets or small children who are not yet old enough to comprehend the dangers of being close to flames. These models are also ideal for large outdoor gazebos and areas because they have the ability to quickly warm up an area of 15m2. These models are lightweight and easy to move. Some have a remote so you can alter the temperature from your seat.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
Once summer is over and the kids are back at school it's time to consider adding some warmth to your outdoor space. Whether you're after a freestanding model or one that is wall-mounted, there's plenty of options to pick from within the electric range.
This popular model is a combination of the benefits of a gas heater along with low running costs. It can be mounted on the wall or on a pedestal, making it perfect for covered porches, gazebos and small gardens, in which a freestanding model might appear too big. It also has an adjustable remote control that can be used to adjust the temperature. It is described by some as an Goldilocks choice, as it's warm enough to reduce the chill, but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are perfect for confined spaces, such as garages or covered porches, because they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. Gas heaters, on contrary, must be installed in an open area with sufficient ventilation to ensure that they don't pollute your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. They're also less portable as they require access to an electrical outlet. This is especially important for those who live in an area where energy costs are expensive.
free standing electric patio heaters of electric heaters is that it's not as strong as a gas one, but there are a lot of options in the PS50-PS200 price bracket to choose from. Some are suited for hanging from parasols or awnings, and you can also locate a few that run with rechargeable batteries.
This is a good option when you're looking for an infrared heater that is affordable to run. It's available in two sizes, and has a variety of features like 360deg rotation and easy-to use temperature settings. It is also classified as IP44 which means that it can withstand small drops of rain and splashes of liquid.