Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly option that won't cost you power bills. It comes with various heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move around your garden.
Gas patio heaters are a good choice for large gardens that include lots of seating outside and sofas. But, they'll need to be refilled regularly with natural gas or propane. It's a good option for large gardens with lots of seating areas and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of the freestanding electric patio heaters that we tested were infra red models. These heaters are more affordable than gas-powered models and, if you select wisely to begin with, they have lower operating costs, too. There's also no assembly required and you won't need to refill a propane tank.
The top ones come with remote controls for simple operation as well as an integrated LED light to provide ambience. One of our top picks is from German company Herschel. It makes use of a circular filament to radiate infrared heat across an area of the size of a table. It has easy-to-use heating settings and a 360deg rotation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infrared Heater is another great alternative. It uses an aluminum reflector to focus the beams of heat on your favorite area.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a clean warm, cozy glow, but the Herschel has a sleeker look which is more suitable for modern gardens or if you're looking for a way to incorporate it with your furniture for your outdoor space. It can be used with home automation systems that allow you to select your preferred brightness and temperature. This can help save energy over time.
You should be aware that infrared heaters work but only heat objects and people in direct contact with the heater. They cease to work when you move away. It will also not warm your garden or patio if the wind blows the heater about.
Gas heaters on the other hand will heat up an area larger in the event that they are not moved. They can also be fitted with an enclosure to help keep them in place. They are typically located in the pub garden and create a cozy "burning log" look that is suitable in any decor.
Propane patio heaters can be less efficient and can also generate more noise and smog. Electric heaters are greener than propane, which is required to be replenished after running out. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce a higher degree of heat.
2. Gas heaters
As Summer begins to wind down and evenings turn colder it's the perfect the time to purchase an outdoor heater that will keep you outside for longer. There are plenty of options to choose from regardless of whether you opt for electric or gas, from small tabletop models to floor-standing units designed to heat large outdoor spaces, such as a decked backyard.
While gas heaters are more economical to buy than electric heaters but they are 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 consume". A typical cylinder of calor gas will cost PS90 new or PS50 to refill and will last approximately 13 hours of heating.
Electric heaters, unlike gas, use radiant heat instead of air to heat objects and people. Electric heaters are more affordable to run and have a lower carbon footprint. They are also much easier to use. Simply plug them into the outlet, and they'll start to begin to heat up.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a range of locations, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. Certain models come with a built-in dimming switch that permits you to control how bright the light is. They can be used either in a closed or open space. 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.
These heaters are powered by plugs and require an extension cord that is approved for outdoor use. Most electric heaters are not allowed to have an extension lead longer than 1.8m. This is to be in line with safety standards. www.fireplacesandstoves.uk 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 are ideal for those who like the design of a gas heater, but do not want to be restricted by its location or to cut costs. Powered by electricity, they're quick to heat up and easy to operate with the flick of a button or remote. These are also cheaper to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
The Kettler model is a stylish choice that looks fantastic with your rattan furniture. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used all year. Its IP55 rating means that it's protected against dust and wind-blown rain (although we don't recommend using an hose with high pressure at it). The model comes with three heating levels that can be adjusted to suit your requirements, as well as an automatic timer ranging from 1-9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is another alternative for those who do not wish to be restricted by the location of a patio heater. It is available in two sizes and includes many features, such as a timer, remote control and 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof to ensure your safety. However, we don't recommend getting it wet excessively as this could affect the performance and life of the heater.
A top choice among many customers This portable heater for patios is a good budget-friendly option for those who like to be in control of their heating. It's easy to use and comes with an adjustable remote, two heat settings, and the ability to turn on or off the light from the distance. It also has an integrated safety feature that will shut off the unit in the event that it's knocked over.
Electric patio heaters don't emit carbon monoxide unlike gas patio heaters, making them a fantastic choice for pet owners or children who have not yet developed the maturity to be aware of the dangers that come with standing too close to a flame. These models are ideal for gazebos or large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly heat an area of up to 15 square meters. These models are light and easy to move. Some have remotes that let you adjust the temperature from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After the summer has ended and your children have returned to school, it's the perfect time to think about adding some warmth to your outdoor space. Electric heaters come in a variety of designs that include freestanding models as well as wall-mounted models.
This popular model offers low operating costs and the benefits of a heater. It can be wall-mounted or placed on an elevated base which makes it perfect for covered porches, gazebos, and covered patios and small gardens in which a freestanding model may appear too large. It also comes with the option of adjusting the heat. Users describe it as a Goldilocks choice because it is just warm enough to decrease the chill, but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are great for spaces that are small like garages and covered porches since they don't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide. In contrast, gas heaters must be installed in open spaces that have adequate ventilation or they risk contaminating your home.
The downside is that electric models are generally more expensive than gas models. They're also less portable as they require access to an electrical outlet. This is particularly important for those who live in an region where energy costs are high.
Electric heaters may not be as powerful as gas ones however, there are many options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some can be attached to parasols and awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
This is a good option when you're looking for an infrared heater that is affordable to operate. It's available in two sizes and offers a range of options such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heat settings. It's also certified IP44, which means it's resistant to splashes of water as well as light rain.