Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget buy that won't cost you 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 over a larger area, but they will require a regular refill of propane or natural gas. This is a great option for large gardens that are equipped with plenty of outdoor sofas and seating.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered models, and, if you select wisely to begin with they will have lower operating costs as well. There's no need to refill a tank with propane, and there's no assembly involved.
The top models come with remote controls for simple 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 emit mediumwave infrared heat over a table-sized space and includes easy-to-use settings for heat and a 360deg oscillation. Another option that is worth considering is the Westinghouse 1500W infra red heater, which uses an aluminum reflector to create on a narrow beam of heat over your preferred spot.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a cosy light that is clean and fresh. However the Herschel is more sleek and more suited for modern-day garden spaces, or if you're looking to blend it in with your outdoor furniture. It can also be paired with home automation systems that enable you to set the brightness and temperature you prefer, which could save even more energy in the long run.
It is important to know that infrared heaters are efficient but they only heat things and people who are in direct contact with the heater. They lose their effectiveness when you move away. Also, it will not heat your garden or patio when the wind blows the heater about.
electric heater for outdoor patio , on contrary, can heat a larger area in the event that they are not moved. They can also be equipped with a shield to keep them in position. They're usually located in pub gardens. They have a cosy burning log effect that looks good in all decors.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and produce lots of smoke and noise when the flame is burning. Unlike propane that is stored in a cylinder and requires refilling after it has run out the majority of electric heaters don't require refilling and are more sustainable. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce more heat.
2. Gas heaters
As Summer winds down and the evenings get colder it's a good the time to purchase an outdoor heater that will keep you outdoors longer. There are many options available regardless of whether you opt for gas or electric, from small tabletop models up to floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces, such as a decked backyard.
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 wasteful both in terms of energy they consume and the heat they generate". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and will last for 13 hours.
Unlike gas, however electric heaters utilize radiant heat to warm people and objects rather than the air. As a result, they are much less expensive to run and have a much smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much simpler to use. Plug them in and they'll start to turn on.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a range of locations, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. Some models come with a dimming switch that permits you to control how bright the light is. They can be used in an open or closed space. They're also more compact than gas models and can be easily moved around which is ideal if you have to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.
The disadvantage of these heaters is that they have to be plugged into, which means that you'll need to have an outlet for power and an extension lead certified to work with outdoor equipment. To ensure safety standards are met electrical heaters aren't able to be supplied with an extension lead that exceeds 1.8m and you'll have to be cautious not to block any outdoor sockets nearby or leave the cable trailing in a place where it could be an injury risk.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized for those who like the design of a gas heater, but do not wish to be limited by its location or to reduce your 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. They're also more affordable to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
The one from Kettler is a nice-looking choice that won't look out of place amongst your garden furniture made of rattan and is weatherproof for use all year round. Its IP55 rating protects it from windblown dust and rain (although we wouldn't recommend using a high-pressure hose on it). This model also comes with three levels of heating to fit your needs, as well being a timer shutoff between 1-9 hours.
This electric model by Blumfeldt is another option for those who don't want to be limited by the placement of a heater for their patio. It comes in two sizes and has many features, such as a timer, remote control and 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace mind, though we don't recommend getting it too wet, as this can impact on the efficiency and life span of the heater.
This portable patio heater is popular with customers who want to control their heating. It's user-friendly, with the remote control, two heat settings, and the ability turn on and off the light from the distance. It also has a built-in safety feature that shuts off the unit if it's knocked over.
Unlike a gas patio heater electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide, which is why they are a great option for families with pets or small children who aren't old enough to recognize the dangers of staying close to flames. These models are ideal for gazebos or large outdoor spaces, as they can quickly heat up an area of up to 15m2. They're very lightweight and easy to move around and many come with an remote control so that you can alter settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After summer is over and kids are back to school, it's time to consider adding some warmth to your outside space. Electric heaters are available in different designs including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.
This popular choice offers low operating costs and the functionality of heating. It can be mounted on a wall or on an elevated base which makes it suitable for covered porches, gazebos, and covered patios, as well as smaller gardens where a freestanding model could look too big. It also comes with a remote control for adjusting the heat. The majority of users describe it as an Goldilocks choice, as it's warm enough to ease the chill, but not too hot.
The main advantage of an electric patio heater is that it can be placed in a restricted space, like a covered porch or garage, because it doesn't emit pollutants like carbon monoxide or other gases that pose a threat to your health. Gas heaters, on contrary, should be placed in an open space with adequate ventilation to avoid contaminating your home.
However, the drawback is that electric models are generally more expensive than gas models. They're also less mobile as they require access to an electricity outlet. This is especially important when you live in an location where the cost of energy is high.
Another disadvantage of an electric heater is that it's not as strong as a gas heater however there are plenty of options in the price range of PS50-PS200 to choose from. Some can be hung from parasols and awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
This is a great choice if you want an infrared heater that is affordable to run. It's available in two sizes and offers various features that include 360deg oscillation as well as easy-to-use heating settings. It's also classified as IP44 which means it is able to stand up to small drops of rain and splashes of liquid.