Best Electric Patio Heaters
It has a variety of temperature settings, and it protects you from overheating. It's also easy to move around your garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out a lot of warmth over a bigger area, but will require a regular supply of natural gas or propane. This is a great option for large gardens that have many outdoor seating and couches.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters we test were infra red models. These are cheaper than gas-powered models and, in the event you pick wisely they'll have lower running costs as well. There's no need to refill a tank with propane and there's little assembly required.
The best ones have remote controls to make operations easy, and an LED light that is built-in to create ambiance. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It makes use of a circular filament to radiate infrared mediumwave heat over a table sized area. It is easy to use heating settings as well as 360deg rotation. Another option that is worth considering is the Westinghouse 1500 Watt infra-red heater, which uses an aluminum reflector to create a focused beam of heat on the area you prefer to be in.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a soft light that is clean and fresh. However, the Herschel is sleeker and is more suited for modern garden rooms or if you're looking to blend it in with your outdoor furniture. It can be used with home automation systems, allowing you to choose your preferred brightness and temperature. This could save energy over time.
It's worth bearing in mind that while infrared heat is efficient but it only warms the objects and people in the vicinity of the heater. It will not be effective in the event that you move away. It will also not heat your garden or patio when the winds blow the heater around.
Gas heaters, on the contrary, will heat an area larger in the event that they are not moved. They are also equipped with shields to ensure they stay in place. They're often located in pub gardens. They offer a warm "burning log" effect that is attractive in a variety of decors.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient, and they can also create more smog and noise. In contrast to propane that is stored in a cylinder and will require refilling when it runs out Most electric heaters do not require refilling at all and are more environmentally friendly. Gas heaters are more expensive and generate a higher degree of heat.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to purchase patio heaters as the summer is winding down and evenings turn colder. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space for a longer time. There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you choose gas or electric, ranging from small tabletop models to floor-standing units designed to heat large outdoor spaces like a decked backyard.
Gas heaters are more expensive to purchase however they can 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 cylinder of calor gas will cost PS90 new or PS50 to refill and will last approximately 13 hours of heating.
Electric heaters are, unlike gas, rely on radiant heat instead of air to warm objects and humans. Therefore, they are less expensive to run and have an incredibly smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much simpler to use. Plug them in and they'll start to start to turn on.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a variety of locations, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. They can be utilized in closed or open spaces, and some come with built-in dimmer switches to let you control the brightness of the lighting. They are also smaller than gas models, and can be moved easily. This is a great feature if you need to move your heater from one part of your garden to another.
outdoor electric heater patio of these heaters is that they need to be plugged into, which means that you'll require a power socket nearby and an extension cable that's certified to work with outdoor equipment. To comply with safety standards, most electric heaters can't be supplied with an extension lead that exceeds 1.8m and you'll need to be cautious not to block any outdoor sockets nearby or leave the cable trailing where it could become an accident hazard.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized if you like the style of a gas heater, but don't want to be restricted by its location or to cut costs. Powered by electricity, they're quick to heat up and are easy to operate with the flick of a switch or remote. They are also less expensive to operate than their gas-powered counterparts.
This one from Kettler is stylish and attractive option that won't be out of place in your garden furniture made of rattan and is weatherproof to be used all year. Its IP55 rating means that it's protected against dust and rain that is blown in from the wind (although we wouldn't recommend aiming an hose with high pressure at it). The model comes with three heating levels that can be adjusted to your requirements, as well as an automatic timer that ranges from 1 to 9 hours.
This electric model by Blumfeldt is a different option for those who do not wish to be restricted by the position of a patio heater. It is available in two sizes and comes with multiple features, such as a remote control as well as 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 alter the performance and lifespan of the heater.
A popular choice with many customers, this portable patio heater is a good budget-friendly option for those who prefer to be in control of their heating. It's simple to use and comes with the remote control, two heat settings, and the ability turn on and off the light from an extended distance. It comes with a built-in safety feature that shuts the unit off if it is tipping.
Electric patio heaters don't emit carbon monoxide like gas heaters for patios. This makes them a great option for those with pets or children who have not yet developed the maturity to recognize the dangers of being close to a fire. These models are also great for gazebos and large outdoor spaces because they can quickly warm up an area of 15 square meters. They're lightweight and easy to move around and a majority of them have a remote control so you can adjust settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When summer is over and children are back in school, it's time to think about adding some warmth to your outside space. If you're looking for a stand-alone model or one that can be wall-mounted, there's plenty to pick from the electric range.
This popular option offers the advantages of a gas heater and low running costs. It can be hung on the wall or placed on a pedestal, which makes it suitable for gazebos, covered porches and small gardens where a freestanding unit might appear too big. It also comes with the option of adjusting the heat. The majority of users describe it as an Goldilocks choice, because it's just warm enough to ease the chill, but not too hot.
The major benefit of using an electric patio heater is that it can be set up in a confined space, like garages that are covered since it doesn't emit pollutants like carbon monoxide or other gases that can be harmful to your health. Gas heaters, on other hand, must be placed in an open space with adequate ventilation to prevent them from contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. Electric models are also less mobile and require an electrical outlet. That's particularly important when you reside in a region that has expensive energy charges.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas ones, but you can find plenty of options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some can be attached to parasols or awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
If you're after an infrared device that is affordable to run it's a great option. It's available in two sizes and comes with various options that include 360deg oscillation as well as easy-to-use temperature settings. It's also rated IP44 which means that it can withstand moderate rain and splashes liquid.