Best Electric Patio Heaters
It has a variety of temperature settings, and it shields you from overheating. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters are an excellent choice for large gardens that include lots of seating outside and sofas. However, they will require frequent refills with natural gas or propane. It's a good option for large gardens that have lots of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of the freestanding electric patio heaters we test were infra red models. These are cheaper than gas-powered versions and, depending on the model you choose they will have lower operating costs as well. There's also little assembly required and you won't need to refill your propane tank.
The best ones have a remote control that makes operation easy and an LED light built in to provide ambiance. One of our top picks, from German company Herschel utilizes a circular carbon filament to radiate mediumwave infrared heat over a table-sized space and is equipped with simple-to-use heat settings and a 360deg oscillation. Another option that is worth considering is the Westinghouse 1500 Watt infra-red heater, which uses an aluminium reflector to focus the beam of heat on the area you prefer to be in.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a warm and clean glow. However the Herschel is more modern and is more suited for modern garden rooms, or if you're looking to incorporate it into your outdoor furniture. It can also be used with home automation systems that allow you to choose the brightness and temperature you prefer which can save more energy over the long haul.
It is important to keep in mind that even though infrared heating is efficient however, it only warms objects and people directly in the vicinity of the heater. It will lose its effect if you move away. It won't also provide heat to your patio if winds blow it around.
On the other hand, gas heaters will heat up a larger space if they're not moved and are equipped with a wind shield to ensure they stay in position. These heaters are often located in pub gardens and give off a cosy "burning log" effect that works well in any décor.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can produce lots of noise and smog when the flame burns. In contrast to propane that is stored in a cylinder that will need to be refilled after it has run out, most electric heaters don't require refilling at all and are more eco-friendly. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce more heat.
2. Gas heaters
As the summer winds down and evenings turn a little chilly, it might be the perfect time to get an outdoor heater that will keep you warm and comfortable. 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 warm large outdoor spaces like a decked backyard.
Gas heaters are more expensive to buy however, they can also be more costly to operate. According to Heat Outdoors "they are amongst the most wasteful both in terms of the amount of energy they consume and the heat they produce". 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 heat objects and people. Therefore, they are much less expensive to run and have a much smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They're also a lot easier to use - simply plug them in and switch them on, while you may have to build 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 to bars to private gardens. They can be used in both closed and open spaces, and some come with built-in dimmer switches to enable you to adjust the intensity of the light. They are also smaller than gas models, and they can be easily moved. This is very beneficial when you have to move your heater from one part of your garden to another.
The drawback of these heaters is that they require to be plugged in to the power source, which means you'll need to have a power socket nearby and an extension lead rated to be used with outdoor equipment. To meet safety standards the majority of electric heaters cannot be supplied with an attached lead longer than 1.8m and you'll have to be careful not to block any outdoor sockets nearby or leave the cable in a trail where it could become a trip hazard.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters are ideal if you like the style of a gas heater but don't wish to be limited by its placement or wish to lower your expenses. Electricity is the power source, and they're quick to heat up and simple to operate with the flick of a switch or remote. They're also less expensive to run than their gas-powered equivalents.
This model from Kettler is a stylish option that will look amazing with your furniture made of rattan. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used all year round. Its IP55 rating shields it from wind-blown dust and rain (although we do not suggest using a high pressure hose on it). The model also comes with three heating levels to fit your space, as well with a timer that shuts off between 1-9 hours.
This electric model by Blumfeldt is a different option for those who don't want to be limited by the placement of a patio heater. It is available in two sizes and includes many options, including a timer, remote control and 360-degree oscillation. It also has splash-proofing to give you peace of mind. However, we do not recommend that you let it get wet for excessively as this could alter the performance and lifespan of the heater.
A favorite choice for many customers, this portable patio heater is a budget-friendly choice for those who prefer to be in control of their heating. With a remote, 2 heat settings and the ability to switch the light on and off from the distance, it's easy to use. It also comes with an inbuilt safety feature that shuts off the unit if it's knocked over.
In contrast to a gas patio heater electric models don't release any carbon monoxide. Therefore, they're an ideal choice for families with pets or small children who are not yet old enough to comprehend the dangers of staying close to flames. These models are ideal for gazebos and large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly heat an area of up to 15 square meters. They're light and easy to move around, and many come with a remote control so you can change settings from your chair.
4. electric patio space heater -mounted heaters
After the summer is over, and your kids have returned to school, it's 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 option combines the functionality of a gas heater with low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or positioned on a pedestal base which makes it suitable for gazebos and covered porches and small gardens in which a freestanding model may appear too big. It also comes with the option of adjusting the temperature. Users describe it as an Goldilocks choice, as it's just warm enough to ease the chill, but not too hot.
The primary benefit of using an electric patio heater is that it can be put in a confined space, like garages that are covered since it doesn't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide or other gases that can be harmful to your health. Gas heaters, on the contrary, must be installed in a space that is open and has sufficient ventilation to ensure that they don't pollute your home.
However, the drawback is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas ones. Electric models are also more difficult to transport and require an electrical outlet. This is particularly crucial if you live in an area with expensive energy charges.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas ones however, there are many options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some can be used to hang from awnings or parasols, and you can also locate a few that run with rechargeable batteries.
This is a good option for those looking for an infrared heating system that's cost-effective to run. It's available in two sizes and has a variety of features including 360deg rotation and simple heat settings. It's also rated IP44 which means it's able to withstand splashes of water as well as light rain.