Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly option that won't increase your electric bills. It has different heat settings as well as overheat protection. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out a lot of warmth across a larger area, but they will require a regular refill of natural gas or propane. It's a good option for large gardens that have lots of seating areas and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters that we tested were infra red models. They are more affordable than gas-powered models and depending on the model you choose they will have lower operating costs as well. You won't have to refill a tank of propane and there's not much assembly involved.
The most effective ones have remote controls to make the operation simple and have an LED light integrated for ambience. One of our top picks is from German company Herschel. It uses circular filaments to disperse infrared mediumwave heat over an area of the size of a table. It is 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 direct a focused beam of heat to your preferred spot.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a crisp, cosy glow, but the Herschel has a more modern look that is better suited to modern gardens or if you want to blend it into your outdoor furniture. It can be used with home automation systems that allow you to select your preferred 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 in direct contact with the heater. They lose their effect when you move away. Also, it will not warm your garden or patio if the wind blows the heater about.
Gas heaters, on contrary, will heat more space when they aren't moved. They can also be fitted with shields to help keep them in place. They're often located in pub gardens. They offer a warm "burning log" effect that is attractive in all decors.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient and can also generate more noise and smog. Unlike propane that is stored in a cylinder and will require refilling when it runs out Most electric heaters do not require refilling at all, and are more sustainable. Also, keep in mind that a gas-powered heater produces greater heat than an equivalent electric model, and is likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
As Summer begins to wind down and evenings turn chilly, it might be the time to purchase a patio heater to keep you outdoors longer. No matter if you choose gas or electric, there's plenty on offer including small tabletop models to large floor-standing versions designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as a decked garden.
While gas heaters can be cheaper to purchase than electric heaters, they can be expensive to operate - in fact according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most inefficient when it comes to both the amount of heat they produce and the energy they consume". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and will last for 13 hours.
In contrast to gas, electric heaters use radiant heat to warm people and objects rather than the air. Therefore, they are much cheaper to run and leave less carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much easier to use. You can simply plug them in, and they will turn on.
Outdoor electric heaters can be used in a range of settings, from restaurants to bars to private gardens. Some models have a built-in dimming switch, which allows you to control the brightness the light is. They can be used in an open or closed space. They are also smaller than gas models and are able to be moved around which is ideal when you need to move the heater from one area of your garden to another.
The disadvantage of these heaters is that they need to be connected to the power source, which means you'll need to have an outlet for power and an extension lead that's certified to work with outdoor equipment. To meet safety standards, most electric heaters can't be sold with an attached lead longer than 1.8m and you'll have to be cautious not to interfere with any sockets in the vicinity or leave the cable in a trail where it could become an accident hazard.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be used to complement the look of a gas-powered heater but don't want to be restricted by its placement or wish to cut costs. They're powered by electricity, so they're quick to heat up and simple to operate with the flick of a switch or remote. They're also less expensive to operate than their gas-powered equivalents.
The model from Kettler is a stylish and attractive option that won't be out of place in your garden furniture made of rattan and is weatherproof for year-round use. Its IP55 rating means it's safe against dust and wind-blown rain (although we don't recommend using a high-pressure hose at it). The model also comes with 3 heating levels to suit your space, as well being a timer shutoff between 1-9 hours.
Another alternative for those who don't want to be restricted by the positioning of the gas patio heater is this electric model from Blumfeldt. It is available in two sizes and has many features, including a remote control as well as a timer shut off function and 360deg oscillation. It's also splash-proof to give you peace of mind. However, we do not recommend letting it get wet too much as this could affect the performance and life of the heater.
A favorite choice for many customers This portable heater for patios is a great budget-friendly option for those who prefer to be in control of their heating. It's user-friendly and comes with the remote control, two temperature settings, as well as the ability to turn on and off the light from the distance. It also comes with a built-in safety feature that turns the unit off when it is tipping.
As opposed to gas patio heaters electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide, so they are a great option for those with pets or children who aren't old enough to understand the dangers of staying close to flames. These models are great for gazebos and large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly warm up an area up to 15m2. They are also lightweight and easy to move. Some have remotes that let you adjust the temperature from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When the summer is over, and your kids have returned to school, it's time for you to consider adding some heat to your outdoor space. Electric heaters are available in a variety of designs including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.
This popular choice offers low operating costs and the functionality of heater. It can be wall-mounted or positioned on a pedestal base, making it ideal for covered porches, gazebos, and covered patios and also smaller gardens where a freestanding model could appear too large. best electric patio heaters has a remote control for adjusting the heat. It is described by some as an Goldilocks choice because it is just warm enough to decrease the chill but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are ideal for confined spaces like covered porches or garages, since they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. Gas heaters, on contrary, must be placed in an open space with adequate ventilation to prevent them from 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 especially important for those who reside in an area that has expensive energy charges.
Another disadvantage of electric heaters is that it's not as strong as a gas one but there are plenty of options in the PS50-PS200 price range to pick from. Some can be attached to parasols or awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
This is a great choice if you want an infrared heating system that's cost-effective to operate. It's available in two sizes and has a range of options, including 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use temperature settings. It's also classified as IP44, which means it's resistant to splashes of water and light rain.
