Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly option that won't add to your electricity bills - it has different heat settings as well as overheat protection. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can put out lots of warmth over a larger area, but they will require a regular refill of natural gas or propane. This is a great option for large gardens that have many outdoor seating and couches.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. These heaters are cheaper than gas-powered models, and, if you select wisely to begin with they will have lower operating costs, too. There's also no assembly required and you won't have to refill your propane tank.
The top models come with a remote control for easy operation as well as an integrated LED light to provide ambience. One of our top picks, from German company Herschel makes use of a circular carbon filament to release mediumwave infrared warmth across a table-sized area. It comes with easy-to-use heat settings and a 360deg oscillation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500W infra red heater, which makes use of an aluminum reflector to create on a narrow beam of heat on the area you prefer to be in.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a cosy, clean glow. However the Herschel is sleeker and is more suited for modern-day garden spaces, or if you're looking to integrate it with your outdoor furniture. It can also be paired with home automation systems to allow you to choose your preferred brightness and temperature, which could save even more energy over the long haul.
It is important to keep in mind that although infrared heating is effective however, it only warms objects and people who are directly in front of the heater and will lose its effect if you move away. Additionally, it won't warm your garden or patio in the event that the wind blows the heater about.
Gas heaters on the contrary, will heat an area larger if they are not moved. They can also be equipped with a shield to help keep them in place. They're often located in pub gardens. They provide a cozy "burning log" effect that is attractive in a variety of decors.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and produce a lot of smog and noise when the flame burns. In contrast to propane that is stored in a cylinder that will need to be refilled after it has run out the majority of electric heaters don't require refilling at all, 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 winds down and evenings become a bit chilly. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space longer. No matter if you choose electric or gas there's plenty of options available in the form of small tabletop units to larger floor-standing models that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as decked gardens.
Gas heaters are more expensive to buy however, they can also be more costly to operate. According to Heat Outdoors "they are amongst the most inefficient, both in terms of the amount of energy they consume as well as the heat they produce". A typical 13kg cylinder of calor gas will cost PS90 new or PS50 to refill and will last approximately 13 hours of heating.
Unlike gas, however electric heaters utilize radiant heat to warm people and objects rather than air. Electric heaters are more affordable to run, and have a lower carbon footprint. They're also a lot easier to use. You just plug them in and turn them on, whereas you may have to build an open flame or wait for the propane model to heat up.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a range of locations, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. Some models have a built-in dimming switch that allows you to control the brightness the light is. They can be used either in a closed or open space. They are also smaller than gas models, and can be moved easily. This is great if you need to move your heater from one part of your garden to another.
The downside of these heaters is that they need to be plugged into, which means that you'll need an electrical outlet nearby and an extension cable that's rated to work with outdoor devices. Most electric heaters aren't permitted to have an extension lead longer than 1.8m. This is to be in line with safety standards. It is also important be cautious about blocking any sockets in the vicinity or leaving the extension lead trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters are ideal for those who like the design of a gas heater, but do not want to be restricted by its location or to lower your expenses. These patio heaters are powered by electricity and heat up quickly. They can be operated with a remote or switch. They are also less expensive to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
This Kettler model is a stylish selection that will look amazing with your furniture made of rattan. It's also weatherproof and can be used all year. Its IP55 rating means it's protected against dust and wind-blown rain (although we wouldn't suggest aiming a high-pressure hose at it). The model also comes with three heating levels to fit your needs, aswell as a timer shutdown between 1 and 9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is a different option for those who do not wish to be restricted by the location of a heater for their patio. This is available in two sizes and comes with multiple features, such as a remote control as well as a timer shut off function, and a 360deg oscillation. It's also splash-proof to give you peace of mind. However, we do not recommend that you let it get wet for too much as this could affect the performance and life of the heater.
best electric patio heater uk for patios is a favorite among those who prefer to control their heating. It's simple to use with the remote control, two heat settings, and the ability turn on and off the light from a distance. It has a built in safety feature that turns the unit off when it is tipping.
Electric patio heaters don't emit carbon monoxide unlike gas patio heaters, making them an ideal choice for pet owners or young children who have not yet reached the age where they can be aware of the dangers that come with standing too close to a flame. These models are great for gazebos or large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly heat an area of up to 15m2. They're light 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 summer is over and kids are back at school it's time to think about adding some warmth to your outdoor space. Electric heaters come in a variety of designs including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.
This popular option is a combination of the benefits of a gas heater and low running costs. It can be mounted on the wall or placed on the floor, making it suitable for covered porches, gazebos and small gardens in which a freestanding model might seem too large. It also comes with an adjustable remote control that can be used to adjust the temperature. Users say they find it to be a Goldilocks choice, since it's warm enough to cut through the chill, without becoming too hot.
Electric patio heaters are perfect for confined spaces such as covered porches or garages, because they don't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide. By contrast, gas heaters should be installed in open spaces that have adequate ventilation or they risk contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. They're also less portable as they require access to an electricity outlet. That's particularly important if you reside in a region that has high energy costs.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas ones, but you can find plenty of choices in the PS50 to PS200 price range. electric patio outdoor heater are suited for hanging from awnings or parasols, and you can also locate a few that run on rechargeable batteries.
If you're looking for an infrared device that is affordable to run, this is a good option. It's available in two sizes and comes with a variety of features, including 360deg rotation and easy-to use temperature settings. It's also certified IP44 which means that it is able to withstand light rain and splashes of liquid.