Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly option that won't cost you electric bills. It has multiple heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move about the garden.
Gas patio heaters can put out lots of warmth across a larger area, but will require a regular refill of propane or natural gas. This is a great option for large gardens with plenty of outdoor seating and couches.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra red models. They are more affordable than gas-powered models and, in the event you pick wisely, have lower running costs too. You don't need to refill a tank of propane and there's little assembly required.
The top ones come with remote controls to make the operation simple and have an LED light integrated to provide ambiance. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It makes use of circular filaments to emit infrared mediumwave heat over a table sized area. It has easy-to-use heating settings and a 360deg rotation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500W infra-red heater, which makes use of an aluminum reflector to create a focused beam of heat to the area you prefer to be in.
Both models are efficient and emit a clear warm glow, however the Herschel has a sleeker look that is better suited to modern gardens or if you're looking to incorporate it into your outdoor furniture. It can also be used with home automation systems that allow you to set the brightness and temperature you prefer which can save more energy over the long haul.
It's worth bearing in mind that while infrared heat is efficient, it only warms objects and people in front of the heater and will lose its effect in the event that you move away. It won't also heat your patio if the winds blow it around.
Gas heaters, on contrary, can heat a larger area if they are not moved. They can also be fitted with a shield to ensure they stay in place. These heaters are often located in pub gardens and provide a warm "burning log" look that is suitable in any décor.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient and can also generate more noise and smog. Unlike propane that is stored in a cylinder that will require refilling after it has run out the majority of electric heaters don't require refilling at all, and are more environmentally friendly. Also, keep in mind that a gas-powered heater produces more heat than a comparable electric model and is likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
It's the perfect time to invest in heaters for your patio as Summer slows down and evenings get colder. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space for longer. There are many options available, whether you choose gas or electric, from small tabletop models to large floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as a decked backyard.
Gas heaters are more expensive to purchase however they can 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 generate". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling, and will last approximately 13 hours.
Unlike gas, electric heaters use radiant heat to warm objects and people instead of air. Therefore, they are much cheaper to run and have an incredibly smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much easier to use - simply connect them to the power source and turn them on, whereas you'll need to create an open flame or wait for a propane heater to warm up.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a variety of settings, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. Fireplaces And Stoves come with a dimming switch that allows you to control how bright the light is. They can be used in an open or closed space. They're also more compact than gas models and can be easily moved around, which is great if you have to move the heater from one area of your garden to another.
These heaters are plugged in and require an extension cord that is approved for outdoor use. The majority of electric heaters aren't 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 careful to avoid blocking any outdoor sockets nearby or leaving the extension lead trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized if you like the style of a gas heater but don't want to be restricted by its placement or wish to reduce your costs. These patio heaters are powered by electricity and are able to heat quickly. They can be controlled with a remote or switch. These are also cheaper to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
The Kettler model is a stylish choice that will look amazing with your furniture made of rattan. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used all year round. Its IP55 rating means it's safe against windblown rain and dust (although we don't recommend using the hose of a high-pressure model at it). This model also comes with three heating levels to fit your needs, as well with a timer that shuts off between 1-9 hours.
Another option for those who do not want to be restricted by the positioning of gas heaters on their patios is this electric model from Blumfeldt. It comes in two sizes and includes many features, such as a timer remote control, as well as 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace of mind, but we wouldn't recommend letting it get too wet as this may impact on the performance and longevity of the heater.
This portable patio heater is popular with customers who prefer to manage their heating. With a remote, two heating settings, and the ability to switch the light on and off from a distance, it's very easy to use. It also comes with an integrated safety feature that will shut off the unit in the event that it's knocked over.
Electric patio heaters emit no carbon monoxide, unlike gas heaters for patios. This makes them a great choice for pet owners or young children who have not yet developed the maturity to understand the dangers associated with being close to a fire. These models are ideal for gazebos and large outdoor areas, since they are able to quickly warm up an area up to 15m2. They're light and easy to move around and a lot of them come with an remote control so that you can adjust settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After the summer has ended, and your kids have returned to school, it's the perfect time to think about adding some warmth to your outdoor space. If you're looking for a freestanding model or one that's wall-mounted, there's plenty to pick from the electric range.
This popular option offers low operating costs and the benefits of heating. It can be hung on the wall or on the floor, making it ideal for gazebos, covered porches and small gardens where a freestanding unit might appear too big. It also comes with the option of adjusting the temperature. Some users say it's a Goldilocks choice, since it's just warm enough to cut the chill, but not too hot.
The major benefit of using an electric patio heater is that it can be put in a small space, such as garages that are covered as it doesn't release harmful gases like carbon monoxide or other gases that are dangerous to your health. In contrast, gas heaters should be installed in open spaces that have adequate ventilation or they risk contaminating your home.
However, the drawback is that electric models are generally more expensive than gas ones. They're also more difficult to transport as they require access to an electrical outlet. This is particularly crucial when you reside in an area that has expensive energy charges.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas heaters however, there are plenty of choices in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some can be used to hang from parasols or awnings, and you can even locate a few that run off a rechargeable battery.
This is a good option when you're looking for an infrared heater that is affordable to operate. It's available in two sizes and has many options such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use temperature settings. It's also rated IP44, which means it can withstand splashes of water as well as light rain.