Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly option that won't increase your electric bills. It has multiple heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out lots of warmth over a larger area, but will require a regular refill of propane or natural gas. It's a good option for large gardens that have lots of seating areas and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of electric freestanding patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. These heaters are cheaper than gas-powered models, and, if you pick wisely to begin with they will have lower operating costs, too. There's also no assembly required and you won't need to refill your propane tank.
The best ones feature remote controls for simple operation and a built-in LED light that provides ambience. One of our top picks from German company Herschel, uses a circular carbon filament to emit mediumwave infrared heat over a table-sized space and includes easy-to-use settings for heat and 360deg oscillation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500W infra red heater, which utilizes an aluminium reflector to direct the beam of heat on your preferred spot.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a clear, cosy glow, but the Herschel is more sleek that is better suited to modern gardens or if you're looking to blend it into your outdoor furniture. It can also be paired with home automation systems to allow you to set your preferred brightness and temperature and save more energy in the long run.
You should be aware that infrared heaters work but they only heat objects and people who are directly in contact with the heater. They cease to work when you leave. Additionally, it won't heat your garden or patio in the event that the wind blows the heater around.
On the other side, gas heaters can warm up a much larger area if they aren't moved and can be equipped with a wind-shield to keep them in their place. They are typically located in pub gardens and create a cozy "burning log" effect that looks great in any decor.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient, and they can also generate more smog and noise. Electric heaters are less environmentally friendly than propane, but they is required to be replenished after running out. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce more heat.
2. Gas heaters
It's the perfect time to invest in patio heaters as the summer is winding down and evenings turn a bit chilly. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space for longer. No matter if you choose electric or gas there's plenty to choose from including small tabletop models to large floor-standing versions designed to heat large outdoor areas such as decked gardens.
While gas heaters can be more economical to buy than electric heaters, they can be expensive to run. In fact, according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most wasteful regarding both the amount of heat they generate and the energy they use". A typical cylinder of calor gas will cost PS90 new or PS50 to refill, and will last about 13 hours of heating.
Electric heaters like gas use radiant heat instead of air to warm objects and human. Therefore, they are much cheaper to run and have an incredibly smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They're also a lot easier to use. You just plug them in and turn them on, whereas you'll need to create an open flame or wait for a propane heater to warm up.
Electric heaters that are suitable for outdoor use can be utilized in a variety of settings, such as bars, restaurants, and private gardens. They can be used in both closed and open areas, and some come with a built-in dimmer switch to let you control the brightness of the light. They're also more compact than gas models and are able to be moved around, which is great for when you need to move the heater from one area of your garden to another.
The heaters are connected to the power source and require an extension cord approved for outdoor use. The majority of electric heaters aren't permitted to have an extension lead that is longer than 1.8m. This is to be in line with safety standards. Also, patio heater electric infrared 'll need to be aware of blocking any sockets in the vicinity or leaving the extension lead trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
If you're a lover of the style of the gas heater, but do not want to be restricted by the space it can be placed or you want to reduce your expenses, these freestanding electric patio heaters are a good alternative. These heaters are powered by electricity and can heat up quickly. They can be controlled via a switch or remote. They're also cheaper to run than gas-powered counterparts.
The model from Kettler is a nice-looking choice that won't look out of place amongst your rattan furniture and is fully weatherproof to be used all year. Its IP55 rating protects it from dust from the wind and rain (although we wouldn't suggest using a high pressure hose on it). The model has three heating levels that can be adjusted to your needs, as well as an automatic timer between 1-9 hours.
This electric model by Blumfeldt is another alternative for those who do not wish to be restricted by the placement of a heater for their patio. It comes 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 for your peace mind, but we wouldn't recommend getting it wet, as this could affect the performance and lifespan of the heater.
This portable patio heater is popular with those who prefer to control their heating. With a remote, 2 heating settings, and the ability to switch the light on or off from a distance, it's very easy to use. It also comes with a built-in safety feature that shuts the unit off when it is tilted.
In contrast to a gas patio heater, electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide, so they're an ideal choice for those with pets or small children who are not yet old enough to recognize the dangers of standing too close to flames. These models are also great for gazebos and large outdoor spaces as they have the ability to quickly warm up an area of 15 square meters. These models are lightweight and easy-to-move, and some even come with remotes that let you alter the temperature from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When the summer is over and your children have returned to school, it's time for you to consider adding some warmth to your outdoor space. Whether you're after a freestanding model or one that is wall-mounted, there's plenty of options to pick from within the electric range.
This popular model is a combination of the benefits of a gas heater along with low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or placed on an elevated base, making it ideal for covered porches and gazebos, as well as small gardens where a freestanding model might appear too large. It has an adjustable remote control to regulate the temperature. The majority of users describe it as a Goldilocks choice, because it's just warm enough to decrease the chill but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are great for spaces that are small like covered porches or garages, because they don't release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. By contrast, gas heaters should be placed in open areas with adequate ventilation or risk contaminating your home.
The downside is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas models. They're also less portable as they require access to an electricity outlet. That's particularly important for those who reside in a region that has high energy costs.
Another drawback to an electric heater is that it's not as powerful as a gas one, but there are a lot of options in the PS50-PS200 price range to pick from. Some are suitable for hanging from awnings or parasols, and you can even find heaters that operate with rechargeable batteries.
This is a great option for those looking for an infrared heater that is affordable to run. It's available in two sizes and offers many features, including 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heating settings. It's also rated IP44 which means it is able to withstand light rain and splashes of liquid.