Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly option that won't increase your electric bills. It has various heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters are a great option for large gardens that have lots of seating outside and sofas. However, they'll need to be refilled regularly with propane or natural gas. This is a great solution for large gardens that have lots of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters that we test were infra red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered models, and, if you choose carefully they will have lower operating costs, too. You don't need to refill a tank with propane and there's not much assembly involved.
The most effective ones have a remote control to make operation easy and an LED light integrated for ambience. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It utilizes circular filaments to disperse infrared mediumwave heat over an area of the size of a table. It comes with easy-to-use heating settings and a 360deg rotation. Another option that is worth considering is the Westinghouse 1500 Watt infra-red heater, which makes use of an aluminium reflector to direct the beam of heat to your favourite spot.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a soft and clean glow. However, the Herschel is sleeker, making it more suitable for modern garden rooms or if you're trying to blend it in with your outdoor furniture. It can also be used with home automation systems that enable you to set the brightness and temperature you prefer, which could save even more energy over the long haul.
It is important to know that infrared heating devices are effective but they only heat things and people who are in direct contact with the heater. They lose their effect when you leave. It won't also heat your patio if the wind blows it around.
Gas heaters, on the other hand will heat up an area larger when they aren't moved. They are also equipped with shields to ensure they stay in place. They're often located in pub gardens. They provide a cozy burning log effect that is attractive in most decors.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient, and can also generate more smog and noise. Electric heaters are greener than propane, but they requires refilling after running out. You should also remember that a gas-powered heater produces more heat than a comparable electric model, and is likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
As the summer winds down and the evenings get colder it's a good the time to purchase a patio heater to keep you outdoors longer. Whether you opt for gas or electric there's plenty of options available including small tabletop models to larger floor-standing models that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as a decked garden.
While gas heaters are cheaper to purchase than electric heaters however, they can be costly to run - 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 use". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and will last for 13 hours.
Unlike gas electric heaters make use of radiant heat to warm objects and people instead of air. This means that they are much cheaper to run and leave less carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much easier to use. Simply connect them to the power source and switch them on, while you might need to make an outdoor fire or wait for the propane model to heat up.
Outdoor electric heaters can be used in a range of settings, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. Some models come with a dimming switch that allows you to control the brightness the light is. They can be used either in an open or closed space. They are also smaller than gas models and are able to be moved around which is great when you need to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.
The disadvantage of these heaters is that they require to be connected, which means that you'll require an outlet for power and an extension cable that's rated to be used with outdoor equipment. The majority of electric heaters aren't allowed to use an extension lead greater than 1.8m. This is to be in line with safety standards. electric patio heater outdoor is also important be cautious about blocking any outdoor sockets nearby or leaving the extension lead trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be used for those who like the design of a gas heater but do not want to be limited by its location or to cut costs. Electricity is the power source, and they're quick to heat up and simple to operate with the flick of a button or remote. These are also cheaper to operate than their gas-powered counterparts.
This model from Kettler is a nice-looking choice that won't look out of place in your rattan furniture and is fully weatherproof to be used all year. Its IP55 rating shields it from dust from the wind and rain (although we wouldn't suggest using a high pressure hose on it). This model has three heating levels that can be adjusted to your requirements, as well as an automatic timer ranging from 1-9 hours.
Another option for those who aren't wishing to be limited by the location of the gas patio heater is this electric model from Blumfeldt. It comes in two sizes and comes with many features, including remote control, a timer shut off function and 360deg oscillation. It is also splash-proof to ensure your safety. However, we don't recommend letting it get wet too much as this could impact the performance and longevity of the heater.
A top choice among many customers, this portable patio heater is a good budget-friendly option for those who prefer to control their heating. It's simple to use and comes with the remote control, two heat settings, and the ability to turn on and off the light from a distance. It comes with a built-in safety feature that shuts off the unit off if it is tipped.
In contrast to a gas patio heater, electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide. Therefore, they're a great choice for those with pets or small children who are not yet old enough to recognize the dangers of being close to flames. These models are ideal for gazebos or large outdoor spaces, as they can quickly heat up an area up to 15m2. They're very lightweight and easy to move around, and a majority of them have an remote control so that you can change settings from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When the summer is over and your kids have returned to school, it's time to think about adding some warmth to your outdoor space. Electric heaters come in various designs including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.
This popular option offers low operating costs and the utility of a heater. It can be wall-mounted or positioned on a pedestal base which makes it perfect for gazebos and covered porches and small gardens where a freestanding model could look too big. It also comes with a remote control for adjusting the temperature. Users describe it as being a Goldilocks choice, as it's warm enough to decrease the chill, but not too hot.
The major benefit of electric patio heaters is that it can be put in a restricted space, such as a covered porch or garage as it doesn't release pollutants like carbon monoxide or other gases that can be harmful to your health. Contrary to gas heaters, they are best placed in open areas with adequate ventilation or they risk contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. They're also more difficult to transport as they require access to an electricity outlet. This is particularly crucial if you reside in a region that has expensive energy charges.
Another drawback to electric heaters is that it's not as powerful as a gas heater, but there are plenty of options in the PS50-PS200 price range to pick from. Some can be attached to parasols and awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
If you're after an infrared system that's affordable to run, this is a good choice. It's available in two sizes and offers many features that include 360deg oscillation as well as easy-to-use heat settings. It's also certified IP44 which means that it is able to withstand light rain and splashes of liquid.