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 is also easy to move about the garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out lots of warmth over a bigger area, but will require a regular refill of propane or natural gas. This is a great option for large gardens that are equipped with lots of outdoor sofas and seating.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. They are more affordable than gas-powered models and, in the event you pick wisely they will have lower operating costs as well. You won't have to replenish a tank of propane, and there's no assembly involved.
The most effective ones have remote controls to make the operation simple and have an LED light that is built-in for ambience. One of our top picks, from German company Herschel makes use of circular carbon filaments to release mediumwave infrared warmth over a table-sized space and is equipped with simple-to-use heat settings and 360deg oscillation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500W infra red heater, which utilizes an aluminium reflector to focus on a narrow beam of heat on your preferred spot.
Both models are efficient and emit a clean warm, cozy glow, but the Herschel has a more modern look that is better suited to modern garden rooms or if you're looking to incorporate it into your furniture for your outdoor space. It can be integrated into home automation systems that allow you to select your preferred temperature and brightness. This could help you save money over time.
It is important to remember that while infrared heat is efficient, it only warms objects and people who are directly in the vicinity of the heater. It will cease to work if you move away. Also, it will not warm your garden or patio in the event that the wind blows the heater about.
On the other hand, gas heaters will heat up a larger space if they're not moved and are equipped with a wind shield to ensure they stay in place. These heaters are often located in pub gardens and provide a warm "burning log" effect that looks great in any décor.
Propane patio heaters can be less efficient, and can also generate more smog and noise. Electric heaters are less environmentally friendly than propane, and is required to be replenished after running out. It is important to remember that a gas heater generates a higher level of heat than an electric model and is more likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to invest in patio heaters as the Summer winds down and evenings become colder. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space for a longer time. There are many options available depending on whether you want gas or electric, from small tabletop models to floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces, such as a decked backyard.
Although gas heaters are cheaper to purchase than some electric models but they are costly to run - in fact according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most wasteful regarding both the amount of heat they produce and the energy they use". Best patio heater electric or PS50 for refilling, and will last approximately 13 hours.
Electric heaters, unlike gas, use radiant heat instead of air to heat objects and human. Electric heaters are cheaper to run, and they have a lower carbon footprint. They're also a lot easier to use. You just plug them in and turn them on, whereas you might need to make an open flame or wait for the propane heater to warm 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 areas, and some come with a built-in dimmer switch to allow you to control the intensity of the light. They are also smaller than gas models and they can be easily moved. This is great when you have to move your heater from one area of your garden to another.
The downside of these heaters is that they have to be connected, which means that you'll need to have an electrical outlet nearby and an extension lead designed to work with outdoor equipment. To comply with safety standards electrical heaters aren't able to be supplied with an extension lead longer than 1.8m and you'll have to be sure not to block any nearby outdoor sockets or leave the cable trailing where it could pose a trip hazard.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be used if you like the style of a gas heater, but don't want to be limited by its location or to cut costs. These heaters for patios are powered by electricity and can heat up quickly. They can be controlled via a switch or remote. These are also cheaper to run than their gas-powered equivalents.
The one from Kettler is a elegant and stylish piece that won't appear out of place with your rattan furniture and is weatherproof for year-round use. Its IP55 rating protects it from windblown dust and rain (although we do not recommend using a high-pressure hose on it). The model also comes with three levels of heating to fit your needs, as well as a timer shutdown between 1 and 9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is a different option for those who do not want to be restricted by the position of a patio heater. It is available in two sizes, and has many features, such as a timer remote control, as well as 360-degree oscillation. It is also splash-proof to give you peace of mind. However, we don't recommend letting it get wet too often as this can impact the performance and longevity of the heater.
This portable heater for patios is a favorite among those who like to control their heating. It's simple to use and comes with an adjustable remote, two heating settings, and the ability to turn on or off the light from an extended distance. It also has an integrated safety feature that turns off the unit when it's knocked over.
Electric patio heaters don't emit carbon monoxide unlike gas heaters for patios. This makes them an ideal choice for pet owners or young children who haven't yet reached the age where they can recognize the dangers of being too close to a flame. These models are ideal for gazebos and large outdoor areas, since they are able to quickly warm up an area up to 15m2. They're lightweight and easy to move around, and many come with an remote control so that you can change settings from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
Once summer is over and children are back in school, it's time to consider adding some warmth to your outside space. If you're looking for a freestanding model or one that can be wall-mounted, there's plenty of options to pick from the electric range.
This popular option combines the functionality of a gas heater along with low operating costs. It can be hung on the wall or placed on a pedestal, making it suitable for covered porches, gazebos and small gardens, where a freestanding unit may seem too large. It comes with an adjustable remote control to regulate the heat. People have said that they consider it an ideal Goldilocks option, as it's just warm enough to cut through the chill, without becoming too hot.
Electric patio heaters are great for small spaces such as covered porches or garages, because they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. By contrast, gas heaters should be used in open spaces with adequate ventilation or they risk contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. They're also less mobile, requiring access to an electrical outlet. This is especially important if you reside in an region where energy costs are high.
Electric heaters are not as powerful as gas ones but there are many options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some are suitable for hanging from awnings or parasols, and you can even locate a few that run off a rechargeable battery.
If you're looking for an infrared system that's affordable to run, this is a good option. It's available in two sizes and offers a range of options that include 360deg oscillation as well as easy-to-use heat settings. It's also classified as IP44 which means it's resistant to splashes of water as well as light rain.