Best Electric Patio Heaters
It has a variety of temperature settings, and it shields your body from overheating. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can put out lots of warmth across a larger area, but it will require a regular refill of natural gas or propane. It's a great option for large gardens that have lots of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of the freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra red models. These heaters are more affordable than the gas-powered models and, if you pick carefully they will have lower operating costs, too. There's no need to refill a tank of propane and there's not much assembly involved.
The best ones have remote controls to make operations easy, and an LED light built in for ambience. One of our top picks from German company Herschel, uses a circular carbon filament to emit mediumwave infrared heat across a table-sized area. It includes easy-to-use settings for heat and 360deg oscillation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infrared Heater is another great alternative. It uses an aluminum reflector to direct the beams of heat on your favorite spot.
Both models are efficient and emit a clear warm glow, however the Herschel has a sleeker look that is better suited to modern garden rooms or if you want to incorporate it with your furniture for your outdoor space. It can be integrated with home automation systems that allow you to select your preferred brightness and temperature. This could help you save money over time.
It is important to know that infrared heaters work but only heat objects and people who are directly in contact with the heater. They lose their effectiveness when you leave. It will also not heat your patio if the wind blows it around.
Gas heaters, on contrary, can heat more space in the event that they are not moved. They can also be fitted with shields to help keep them in place. They are typically located in the pub garden and create a cozy "burning log" effect that looks great in any decor.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient, and they can also create more noise and smog. Contrary to propane, which is stored in a cylinder and will need to be refilled when it is depleted Most electric heaters do not require refilling at all and are more eco-friendly. Gas heaters are more expensive and generate a higher degree of heat.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to purchase patio heaters as the summer winds down and evenings become somewhat chilly. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space longer. There are a variety of options available regardless of whether you opt for gas or electric, ranging from small tabletop models to floor-standing units designed to heat large outdoor spaces like a decked backyard.
Gas heaters are more expensive to buy, but they can also be more costly to operate. According to Heat Outdoors "they are amongst the most wasteful both in terms of the amount of energy they consume as well as the heat they produce". A typical 13kg calor cylinder gas is priced at PS90 new or PS50 to refill, and will last approximately 13 hours of heating.
Unlike gas, however, electric heaters use radiant heat to warm objects and people rather than the air. As a result, they are much cheaper to run and leave an incredibly smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They're also much simpler to use. Simply plug them in and switch them on, while you'll need to create a fire or wait for a propane model to heat up.
Electric heaters for outdoor use can be used in a variety of settings such as bars, restaurants, and private gardens. Certain models come with a built-in dimming switch, which allows you to control how bright the light is. They can be used either in an open or closed space. They're also smaller than gas models and are able to be moved around which is ideal if you have to move the heater from one part of your garden to another.
These heaters are plugged in and require an extension cord rated for outdoor equipment. To ensure safety standards are met electrical heaters aren't able to be supplied with an attached lead that exceeds 1.8m and you'll need to be cautious not to block any outdoor sockets nearby or leave the cable in a trail where it could pose an injury risk.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be used if you like the style of a gas heater but don't wish to be limited by its placement or wish to reduce your costs. These heaters are powered by electricity and can heat up quickly. They can be operated via a switch or remote. They're also more affordable to run than gas-powered counterparts.
The Kettler model is a stylish selection that looks fantastic with your rattan furniture. It's also weatherproof and can be used all year. Its IP55 rating means that it's protected against dust and rain that is blown in from the wind (although we wouldn't suggest aiming 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 don't want to be restricted by the position of a gas patio heater is this electric model from Blumfeldt. It is available in two sizes and comes with numerous features, including 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, although we wouldn't advise letting it get too wet as this may impact on the performance and longevity of the heater.
This portable heater for patios is popular with customers who prefer to control their heating. With a remote, 2 heat settings and the ability to switch the light on or off from the distance, it's 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.
As opposed to updated blog post don't release any carbon monoxide. Therefore, they're an ideal choice for families with pets or small children who aren't old enough to comprehend the dangers of standing too close to flames. These models are great for gazebos or large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly heat an area up to 15m2. These models are light and easy-to-move, and some have an remote that lets you adjust the temperature from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After summer is over and kids are back at school it's time to think about adding some heat to your outside space. Whether you're after a freestanding model or one that can be wall-mounted, there's plenty of options to choose from in the electric range.
This popular choice is a combination of the benefits of a gas heater with low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or positioned on an elevated base, making it ideal for covered porches and gazebos and also smaller gardens where a freestanding model could appear too large. It also comes with a remote control for adjusting the temperature. It is described by some as an Goldilocks choice because it's warm enough to ease the chill but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are perfect for spaces that are small such as garages and covered porches since they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. By contrast, gas heaters are best placed in open areas with adequate ventilation or risk contaminating your home.
However, the downside is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas models. Electric models are also less portable and require an electrical outlet. That's particularly important for those who reside in a region that has expensive energy charges.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas ones however, there are plenty of choices in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some are suitable for hanging from awnings or parasols, and you can also find heaters that operate on rechargeable batteries.
This is a great option for those looking for an infrared heating system that's cost-effective to run. It's available in two sizes and offers a range of features, including 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heat settings. It is also certified IP44 which means it can withstand small drops of rain and splashes of liquid.