Best Electric Patio Heaters
It has a variety of temperature settings, and it protects your body from overheating. It is also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out a lot of warmth over a bigger area, but they will require a regular supply of propane or natural gas. This is a great solution for large gardens that have many outdoor sofas and seating.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of freestanding electric patio heaters that we tested were infra-red models. These heaters are more affordable than gas-powered models and, if you pick wisely they'll have lower operating costs as well. You don't need to replenish a tank of propane and there's not much assembly required.
The top ones come with remote controls for simple operation and a built-in LED light that provides ambience. One of our top picks is from German company Herschel. It makes use of circular filaments to emit infrared heat across an area that is the size of a table. It comes with easy-to-use heating settings and a 360deg rotation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infrared Heater is another great alternative. It utilizes an aluminum reflector that focuses the heat beams on your preferred location.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a soft and clean glow. However the Herschel is sleeker, making it more suitable for modern garden rooms, 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 your preferred brightness and temperature which can save more energy in the long run.
It is important to remember that even though infrared heating is effective, it only warms objects and people in front of the heater and will lose its effect 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 area if they aren't moved and can be fitted with a wind shield to ensure they stay in position. These heaters are often located in the pub garden and give off a cosy "burning log" look that is suitable in any design.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can produce a lot of smoke and noise when the flame is burning. Electric heaters are greener than propane, but they must be refilled after it runs out. It is important to remember that a gas heater produces more heat than an electric model and is likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
As Summer begins to wind down and the evenings get colder it's the perfect the time to purchase an outdoor heater that will keep you outdoors longer. Whether you opt for electric or gas there's plenty to choose from including small tabletop models to larger floor-standing models that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as decked gardens.
Gas heaters are more expensive to purchase however they can be more costly to operate. According to Heat Outdoors "they are amongst the most wasteful both in terms of energy they consume 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 people and objects rather than air. Electric heaters are less expensive to run, and they have a lower carbon footprint. They are also much simpler to use. You can simply plug them in, and they'll start to turn on.
Electric heaters for outdoor use can be utilized in a variety of settings such as bars, restaurants, and private gardens. Certain models come with a built-in dimming switch that permits you to control how bright the light is. They can be used in a closed or open space. They are also smaller than gas models and can be moved easily. This is a great feature if you need to move your heater from one part of your garden to another.
The drawback of these heaters is that they have to be plugged in to the power source, which means you'll need to have a power socket nearby and an extension lead rated to work with outdoor devices. To ensure safety standards are met, most electric heaters can't be supplied with an extension lead longer than 1.8m and you'll need to be careful not to block any nearby outdoor sockets or leave the cable in a trail where it could be an accident hazard.
3. Freestanding heaters
If you're a lover of the style of the gas heater, but don't want to be limited in the way it can be positioned or you want to cut costs, these freestanding electric patio heaters are a good option. They're powered by electricity, so they're quick to heat up and easy to operate with the flick of a button or remote. They are also less expensive to run than their gas-powered equivalents.
This model from Kettler is a stylish option that will look great with your furniture made of rattan. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used throughout the year. Its IP55 rating means it's safe against dust and wind-blown rain (although we wouldn't suggest 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.
This electric model by Blumfeldt is a different option for those who don't want to be restricted by the placement of a patio heater. It comes in two sizes and has many features, such as a timer remote control, a remote control, and 360-degree oscillation. It is also splash-proof to ensure your safety. But, we don't recommend that you let it get wet for excessively as this could affect the performance and life of the heater.
A top choice among many customers the portable patio heater is a good budget-friendly option for those who prefer to be in control of their heating. It's easy to use, with the remote control, two heat settings, and the ability to turn on and off the light from the distance. It also has an integrated safety feature that turns off the unit when it's tipped over.
Electric patio heaters don't emit carbon monoxide unlike gas patio heaters, making them a fantastic option for those with pets or young children who haven't yet reached the age where they can be aware of the dangers that come with being close to a flame. These models are also great for large outdoor gazebos or spaces as they can quickly warm up an area of 15m2. These models are light and easy-to-move, and some have remotes that let you control the temperature from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After the summer has ended, and your kids have returned to school, it's the perfect time for you to consider adding some heat to your outdoor space. Electric heaters are available in different designs that include freestanding models as well as wall-mounted models.
This popular option offers low operating costs and the functionality of a heater. It can be mounted on the wall or on a pedestal, which makes it perfect for gazebos, covered porches and small gardens where a freestanding unit might seem too large. It also has a remote control for adjusting the temperature. It is described by some as an Goldilocks choice because it's warm enough to decrease the chill, but not too hot.
The major benefit of an electric patio heater is that it can be placed in a confined area, such as garages that are covered since it doesn't emit pollutants like carbon monoxide or other gases that pose a threat to your health. In contrast, gas heaters should be placed in open areas with adequate ventilation or they risk contaminating your home.
However, the drawback is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas models. They're also less portable, requiring access to an electrical outlet. This is especially important for those who live in an area with high energy costs.
Electric heaters may not be as powerful as gas heaters however, there are many options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some are suitable for hanging from parasols or awnings, and you can even find a couple that work with rechargeable batteries.
If you're looking for an infrared device that is affordable to run, this is a good option. are electric patio heaters any good in two sizes and has various options such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heat settings. It's also classified as IP44 which means it is able to stand up to light rain and splashes of liquid.