Best Electric Patio Heaters
It comes with a variety of heat settings, and it also protects your body from overheating. It is also easy to move about the garden.
Gas patio heaters are an excellent option for large gardens with lots of seating outside and sofas. But, they'll require regular refills with natural gas or propane. It's a great option for large gardens that have plenty of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters that we tested were infra-red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered versions and, depending on the model you choose they will have lower operating costs too. You don't need to replenish a tank of propane, and there's no assembly required.
The top models come with the remote control for effortless operation and a built-in LED light to create ambiance. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It utilizes a circular filament to radiate infrared heat across a table sized area. It is easy to use heating settings as well as 360deg rotation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500W infra-red heater, which utilizes an aluminum reflector to create the beam of heat on your favourite spot.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a cosy, clean glow. However, the Herschel is more sleek and is more suited for modern-day garden spaces or if you're looking to incorporate it into your outdoor furniture. It can be integrated into home automation systems, which allow you to choose your preferred temperature and brightness. This could help you save money over time.
It's worth bearing in mind that even though infrared heating is effective, it only warms objects and people in the vicinity of the heater. It will cease to work in the event that you move away. Additionally, it won't warm your garden or patio in the event that the winds blow the heater around.
Gas heaters, on the other hand will heat up more space if they are not moved. They can also be fitted with shields to help keep them in place. patio heater electric are often located in the pub garden and give off a cosy "burning log" effect that looks great in any decor.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can create lots of smoke and noise when the flame burns. Electric heaters are more eco-friendly than propane, but they is required to be replenished after it runs out. It is important to remember that a gas heater generates more heat than an equivalent electric model, and is likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
It's the perfect time to invest in patio heaters as the summer slows down and evenings get a bit chilly. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space for longer. There are many options available depending on whether you want electric or gas, from small tabletop models to large floor-standing units 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 use and the heat they generate". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling, and will last approximately 13 hours.
Unlike gas electric heaters utilize radiant heat to warm objects and people instead of air. Electric heaters are cheaper to run, and they have a smaller carbon footprint. They are also much easier to use. Simply plug them in and they'll turn on.
Electric heaters that are suitable for outdoor use can be used in a variety of settings such as bars, restaurants, and private gardens. Some models come with a dimming switch, which allows you to control how bright the light is. They can be used either in an open or closed space. They are also smaller than gas models, and they can be easily moved. This is a great feature if you need to move your heater from one area of your garden to another.
The heaters are connected to the power source and require an extension cord rated for outdoor equipment. To comply with safety standards the majority of electric heaters cannot be supplied with an attached lead that exceeds 1.8m and you'll need be careful not to interfere with any sockets in the vicinity or leave the cable trailing in a place where it could become an injury risk.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized to complement the look of a gas heater but do not want to be limited by its placement or wish to reduce your costs. These patio heaters are powered by electricity and are able to heat quickly. They can be operated by a switch or remote. These are also cheaper to operate than their gas-powered equivalents.
This one from Kettler is a elegant and stylish piece that won't appear out of place amongst your rattan furniture and is fully weatherproof for year-round use. Its IP55 rating means that it's protected against dust and wind-blown rain (although we wouldn't recommend aiming the hose of a high-pressure model at it). The model also comes with three heating levels to fit your space, as well as a timer shutdown between 1-9 hours.
Another alternative for those who do not want to be restricted by the position of gas heaters on their patios is this electric model made by Blumfeldt. It is available in two sizes and boasts many features, including a remote control, a timer shut off function, and a 360deg oscillation. It also has splash-proofing to ensure your safety. However, we do not recommend letting it get wet excessively as this could impact the performance and longevity of the heater.
This portable patio heater is popular with those who like to control their heating. With a remote, 2 heating settings, and the ability to switch the light on and off from an extended distance, it's easy to operate. It comes with a built-in safety feature that shuts off the device off if it's tipped.
Electric patio heaters emit no carbon monoxide unlike gas heaters for patios. This makes them a great choice for pet owners or children who haven't yet reached the maturity level to be aware of the dangers that come with being too close to a flame. These models are great for large outdoor gazebos or spaces because they can quickly warm up an area of 15 square meters. They are also lightweight and easy to move. Some even come with a remote so you can adjust the temperature from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After the summer has ended and your kids have returned to school, it's the perfect time for you to consider adding some warmth to your outdoor space. Electric heaters are available in a variety of designs including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.
This popular model is a combination of the benefits of a gas heater with low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or positioned on an elevated base which makes it suitable for covered porches, gazebos, and covered patios, as well as small gardens where a freestanding model could look too big. It comes with an adjustable remote control that can be used to alter the heat. The majority of users describe it as a Goldilocks choice because it is just warm enough to ease the chill, but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are perfect for small spaces such as covered porches or garages, because they don't release harmful gases like carbon monoxide. Gas heaters, on the contrary, should be placed in a space that is open and has sufficient ventilation to ensure that they don't pollute your home.
However, the downside is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas models. They're also less portable and require an electricity outlet. This is particularly important for those who live in an area where energy costs are high.
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 bracket to pick from. Some are suitable for hanging from awnings or parasols, and you can also find a couple that work on rechargeable batteries.
This is a great option if you want an infrared heater that's inexpensive to operate. It's available in two sizes and comes with many options, including 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heat settings. It's also certified IP44 which means it can withstand splashes of water and light rain.