Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly option that won't cost you power bills. It comes with different heat settings as well as overheat protection. It is also easy to move about the garden.
Gas patio heaters are a good option for large gardens that have plenty of seating outdoors and sofas. However, they'll need to be refilled regularly using natural gas or propane. It's an excellent choice for large gardens that have lots of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. These heaters are cheaper than the gas-powered models and, if you pick wisely they'll have lower operating costs too. There's no need to refill a tank of propane, and there's no assembly required.
The top ones come with remote controls for simple operation, as well as a built-in LED light to provide ambience. One of our top picks from German company Herschel utilizes circular carbon filaments to emit mediumwave infrared heat across a table-sized area. It is equipped with simple-to-use heat settings and 360deg oscillation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infra-red Heater is a different option. It uses an aluminum reflector that focuses the heat beams on your preferred area.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a clean, cosy glow, but 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, allowing you to select the desired temperature and brightness. This could save energy over time.
It is important to know that infrared heating devices are effective but they only heat things and people in direct contact with the heater. They lose their effectiveness when you move away. It won't also heat your patio if the winds blow it around.
Gas heaters on the contrary, will heat an area larger in the event that they are not moved. They can also be fitted with a shield to help keep them in place. electric garden patio heater located in pub gardens. They offer a warm 'burning log' look that's great in all decors.
Propane patio heaters can be less efficient, and can also produce a lot more smog and noise. In contrast to propane that is stored in a cylinder and requires refilling when it runs out, most electric heaters don't require refilling at all, and are more sustainable. You should also remember that a gas-powered heater produces more heat than a comparable electric model and is more likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
As Summer begins to wind down and the evenings become chilly, it might be the perfect time to get an outdoor heater that will keep you warm and comfortable. No matter if you choose electric or gas there's plenty to choose from, from small tabletop units to larger floor-standing models that are designed to heat large outdoor areas like a decked garden.
Gas heaters are more expensive to buy however, they can also be more expensive to operate. According to Heat Outdoors "they are amongst the most inefficient both in terms of the amount of energy they consume and the heat they produce". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and lasts approximately 13 hours.
Electric heaters, unlike gas, use radiant heat instead of air to heat objects and people. This means that they are less expensive to run and leave less carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much simpler to use. Plug them in, and they'll begin to heat up.
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 an integrated dimmer switch that will let you adjust the intensity of the light. They are also smaller than gas models and are able to be moved around which is great if you have to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.
These heaters are plugged in and require an extension cord that is approved for outdoor use. Most electric heaters are not allowed to have an extension lead longer than 1.8m. This is to be in line with safety standards. You'll also need to be aware of blocking any sockets in the vicinity or leaving the cable trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
If you're a lover of the style of the gas heater but don't want to be restricted by the space it can be positioned or you want to keep your costs down and save money, these freestanding electric patio heaters are an alternative. Electricity is the power source, and they're quick to heat up and easy to operate at the flick of a button or remote. These are also cheaper to run than gas-powered equivalents.
The model from Kettler is a nice-looking choice that won't look out of place in your garden furniture made of rattan and is weatherproof to be used all year. Its IP55 rating means it's protected against windblown rain and dust (although we wouldn't recommend aiming a high-pressure hose at it). The model has three heating levels that can be adjusted according to your needs, and an automatic timer that ranges from 1 to 9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is a different option for those who don't wish to be restricted by the location of a heater for their patio. It is available in two sizes and comes with multiple features, such as remote control as well as a timer shut off function and a 360deg oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace mind, though we don't recommend letting it get wet, as this could impact on the efficiency and life span of the heater.
A top choice among many customers This portable heater for patios is a budget-friendly choice for those who like to be in control of their heating. With a remote, two heating settings, and the ability to turn the light on and off from a distance, it's very easy to operate. It has a built in safety feature that turns the device off if it's tipped.
Unlike a gas patio heater electric models don't release any carbon monoxide. Therefore, they are a great option for pet owners or children who are not yet old enough to comprehend the dangers of standing too close to flames. These models are great for gazebos and large outdoor spaces, as they can quickly heat up an area up to 15 square meters. They're lightweight and easy to move around and a majority of them have an remote control so that you can change settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After summer is over and children are back in school, it's time to consider adding some heat to your outdoor space. Electric heaters come in a variety of styles that include freestanding models as well as wall-mounted models.
This popular choice is a great way to combine low operating costs with the functionality of a heater. It can be wall-mounted or placed on an elevated base which makes it suitable for gazebos and covered porches, as well as smaller gardens in which a freestanding model may look too big. It also comes with the option of adjusting the heat. Some users say it's a Goldilocks choice, since it's warm enough to cut the chill, but not too hot.
The primary benefit of an electric patio heater is that it can be set up in a small space, such as a covered porch or garage, because it doesn't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide or other gases that pose a threat to your health. Contrary to gas heaters, they are best placed in open areas with adequate ventilation or risk contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. Electric models are also less mobile and require an electrical outlet. This is particularly crucial if you reside in an location where the cost of energy is expensive.
Electric heaters are not as powerful as gas ones but there are plenty of options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some can be hung from parasols or awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
This is a great option for those looking for an infrared heater that is affordable to run. It's available in two sizes and has a range of features, including 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heat settings. It is also certified IP44 which means it is able to stand up to moderate rain and splashes liquid.