Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly purchase that won't cost you power bills. It comes with various heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move around your garden.
Gas patio heaters can push out lots of warmth over a larger area, but they will require a regular refill of propane or natural gas. This is a great choice for large gardens that are equipped with plenty of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the freestanding electric patio heaters we test were infra red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered models and, assuming you choose wisely they will have lower operating costs as well. You won't have to replenish a tank of propane, and there's no assembly required.
The most effective ones have a remote control that makes the operation simple and have an LED light built in to provide ambiance. One of our top picks is from German company Herschel. It uses a circular filament to radiate infrared heat across an area that is the size of a table. It comes with easy-to-use heating settings as well as 360deg rotation. Another option that is worth considering is the Westinghouse 1500 Watt infra-red heater, which utilizes an aluminium reflector to focus a focused beam of heat over the area you prefer to be in.
Both models are efficient and emit a clear warm, cozy glow, but the Herschel is more sleek which is more suitable for modern gardens or if you're looking to incorporate it with your outdoor furniture. It can be used with home automation systems that allow you to select the desired brightness and temperature. This could help you save money over time.
You must be aware that infrared heating devices are effective but only heat objects and people who are directly in contact with the heater. They lose their effect when you move away. Additionally, it won't heat your garden or patio when the winds blow the heater around.
On the other hand, gas heaters will heat up a larger space if they're not moved and can be equipped with a wind-shield to ensure they stay in position. They are usually located in the pub garden and give off a cosy "burning log" effect that works well in any décor.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient, and can also generate more noise and smog. Unlike propane which is stored in a cylinder that will require refilling when it runs out Most electric heaters do not require refilling and are more eco-friendly. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce more heat.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to purchase patio heaters as the summer is winding down and evenings turn somewhat chilly. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space for longer. There are many options available depending on whether you want gas or electric, ranging from small tabletop models up to floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as a decked backyard.
While gas heaters are more economical to buy than electric models however, they can be costly to operate - in fact according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most inefficient regarding both the amount of heat they produce and the energy they consume". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and lasts approximately 13 hours.
Unlike gas, however electric heaters make use of radiant heat to warm people and objects rather than air. Electric heaters are less expensive to run, and they have a smaller carbon footprint. They are also much easier to use. Plug them into the outlet, and they'll start to turn on.
Electric heaters that are suitable for outdoor use can be utilized in a variety of settings, including restaurants, bars and private gardens. They can be used in open or closed areas, and some come with built-in dimmer switches to allow you to alter the intensity of the lighting. They are also smaller than gas models and can be moved easily. This is very beneficial if you need to move your heater from one part of your garden to another.
These heaters are plugged in and require an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Most electric heaters aren't allowed to have an extension lead longer than 1.8m. This is to ensure that they comply with safety standards. You'll also need to be careful to avoid blocking any outdoor sockets nearby 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 don't wish to be limited by its location or to cut costs. They're powered by electricity, so they're quick to heat up and are simple to operate with the flick of a button or remote. These are also cheaper to run than gas-powered counterparts.
This Kettler model is a stylish selection that looks great with your rattan furniture. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used all year round. Its IP55 rating shields it from dust from the wind and rain (although we do not recommend using a high pressure hose on it). electric patio heater indoors comes with three heating levels to fit your space, as well being a timer shutoff between 1-9 hours.
Another option for those who do not want to be restricted by the positioning of the gas patio heater is this electric model made by Blumfeldt. It is available in two sizes and has many options, including a timer remote control, a remote control, and 360-degree oscillation. It is also splash-proof to ensure your safety. However, we do not recommend letting it get wet too much as this could alter the performance and lifespan of the heater.
This portable patio heater is popular with customers who want to manage their heating. With a remote, 2 temperature settings and the capability to turn the light on and off from a distance, it's very easy to operate. It also has an inbuilt safety feature that turns off the unit when it's knocked 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 have not yet reached the age where they can understand the dangers associated with being too close to a fire. electric outdoor heater for patio are ideal for gazebos and large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly warm up an area of up to 15 square meters. They're very lightweight and easy to move around and a majority of them have an remote control so that you can adjust settings from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When the summer is over and your children have returned to school, it's time to think about adding some heat to your outdoor space. If you're looking for a stand-alone model or one that's wall-mounted, there's plenty of options to pick from the electric range.
This popular option offers the advantages of a gas heater along with low running costs. It can be mounted on the wall or on a pedestal, making it perfect for gazebos, covered porches and small gardens where a freestanding unit may appear too big. It has a remote control to adjust the temperature. Users say they find it an ideal Goldilocks choice, since it's just warm enough to reduce the chill, but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are great for confined spaces such as covered porches or garages, because they don't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide. Gas heaters, on the contrary, should be placed in an open space with sufficient ventilation to ensure that they don't pollute your home.
However, the downside is that electric models are generally more expensive than gas models. They're also less mobile, requiring access to an electrical outlet. This is especially important for those who live in an location where the cost of energy is high.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas ones, but you can find plenty of options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some are hung from parasols and awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
If you're after an infrared option that's cheap to run it's a great option. It's available in two sizes and offers many features such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heating settings. It's also rated IP44 which means it is able to withstand moderate rain and splashes liquid.