Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget buy that won't cost you power bills. It comes with various heat settings and overheat protection. It is also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters are a good choice for large gardens that include plenty of seating outdoors and sofas. However, they will require regular refills using natural gas or propane. It's an excellent choice for large gardens that have lots of seating areas and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the freestanding electric patio heaters that we tested were infra-red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered models and in the event you pick wisely they'll have lower running costs as well. You won't have to refill a tank of propane, and there's no assembly required.
The top ones come with the remote control for effortless operation, as well as a built-in LED light to provide ambience. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It utilizes circular filaments to emit infrared mediumwave energy over a table sized area. It has easy-to-use heating settings as well as 360deg rotation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500 Watt infra-red heater, which makes use of an aluminum reflector to create a focused beam of heat over your preferred spot.
Both models are efficient and emit a clear warm, cozy glow, but the Herschel is more sleek that is better suited to modern gardens or if you want to blend it into your furniture for your outdoor space. It can be integrated into home automation systems, allowing you to choose your preferred intensity and temperature. This could save energy over time.
It's worth bearing in mind that although infrared heating is effective however, it only warms objects and people directly in the vicinity of the heater. It will not be effective when you move away. It also won't heat your patio if the winds blow it around.
On the other hand, gas heaters will provide warmth to a greater area if they aren't moved and can be fitted with a wind shield to keep them in position. They're usually located in pub gardens and have a cosy "burning log" effect that looks good in most decors.
Propane patio heaters can be less efficient, and can also create more smog and noise. Electric heaters are less environmentally friendly than propane, but they must be refilled after running out. Gas heaters are more expensive and generate a higher degree of heat.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to invest in heaters for your patio as Summer is winding down and evenings turn somewhat chilly. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space longer. There are a variety of options available regardless of whether you opt for gas or electric, from small tabletop models to floor-standing units designed to heat large outdoor spaces, such as a decked backyard.
Gas heaters are more expensive to purchase, but they can also be more expensive to operate. According to Heat Outdoors " best electric heater patio are amongst the most inefficient, both in terms of the amount of energy they consume and the heat they produce". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and lasts approximately 13 hours.
Unlike gas electric heaters make use of radiant heat to warm people and objects instead of air. Electric heaters are cheaper to run and have a smaller carbon footprint. They're also a lot easier to use - simply connect them to the power source and turn them on, whereas you might need to make a fire or wait for the propane heater to warm up.
Outdoor electric heaters can be used in a range of settings, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. They can be used in open or closed areas, and some come with an integrated dimmer switch that will allow you to alter the intensity of the light. They're also smaller than gas models and can be easily moved around, which is great if you have to move the heater from one area of your garden to another.
These heaters are plugged in and require an extension cord rated for outdoor equipment. To ensure safety standards are met, most electric heaters can't be sold with an attached lead that exceeds 1.8m and you'll need to be sure not to block any nearby outdoor sockets or leave the cable trailing in a place where it could become a trip hazard.
3. Freestanding heaters
If you're a lover of the style of the gas heater but do not want to be restricted by where it can be placed or are looking to reduce your expenses, these freestanding electric patio heaters are a good alternative. They're powered by electricity, so they're quick to heat up and easy to operate with the flick of a switch or remote. They're also more affordable to run than gas-powered counterparts.
The one from Kettler is a nice-looking choice that won't look out of place with your garden furniture made of rattan and is weatherproof for use all year round. Its IP55 rating protects it from dust from the wind and rain (although we wouldn't recommend using a high-pressure hose on it). This model also comes with 3 heating levels to suit your space, as well with a timer that shuts off between 1 and 9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is a different option for those who do not want to be restricted by the placement of a heater for their patio. It is available in two sizes, and comes with a variety of options, including a timer remote control, as well as 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof to give you peace of mind. But, we don't recommend getting it wet too much as this could affect the performance and life of the heater.
This portable heater for patios is a favorite among those who like to manage their heating. With a remote, two heating settings, and the ability to switch the light on and off from the distance, it's easy to operate. It also comes with a built-in safety feature that shuts off the unit off if it is tipped.
As opposed to gas patio heaters electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide, which is why they are a great option for those with pets or children who aren't old enough to understand the dangers of being close to flames. These models are also great for large outdoor gazebos and areas because they have the ability to quickly warm up an area of 15m2. They're very lightweight and easy to move about, and many come with a remote control so you can alter settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When summer is over and kids are back at school it's time to consider adding some heat to your outside space. If you're looking for a freestanding model or one that is wall-mounted, there's plenty of options to choose from in the electric range.
This popular option offers the advantages of a gas heater with low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or placed on a pedestal base which makes it suitable for covered porches, gazebos, and covered patios and also smaller gardens where a freestanding model might appear too big. It has an adjustable remote control that can be used to alter the temperature. It is described by some as being a Goldilocks choice, because it's just warm enough to reduce the chill but not too hot.
Electric patio heaters are perfect for spaces that are small like covered porches or garages, because they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. Gas heaters, on the other hand, must be installed in an open area with adequate ventilation to prevent them from contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. They're also less portable as they require access to an electrical outlet. This is especially important for those who reside in an area that has expensive energy charges.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas heaters however, there are many options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some are suited for hanging from awnings or parasols and you can also find a couple that work with rechargeable batteries.
This is a great choice for those looking for an infrared heating system that's cost-effective to operate. It's available in two sizes and has a variety of features, including 360deg rotation as well as easy-to-use temperature settings. It is also certified IP44 which means it is able to stand up to moderate rain and splashes liquid.