Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget-friendly purchase that won't cost you power bills. It comes with different heat settings as well as overheat protection. It is also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out a lot of warmth over a bigger area, but they will require regular refills of propane or natural gas. waterproof electric patio heaters 's a great option for large gardens that have lots of seating areas and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of the freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered models and depending on the model you choose, have lower running costs too. It's also easy to install and you don't have to refill your propane tank.
The best ones have remote controls to make operation easy and an LED light built in to create ambiance. One of our top picks from German company Herschel, uses a circular carbon filament to radiate mediumwave infrared heat across a table-sized area. It comes with easy-to-use heat settings and 360deg oscillation. Another option that is worth considering is the Westinghouse 1500W infra-red heater, which uses an aluminium reflector to direct on a narrow 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 sleek and more suited for modern garden rooms, or if you're looking to incorporate it into your outdoor furniture. It can also be paired with home automation systems that enable you to set your preferred brightness and temperature which can save more energy in the long run.
It is important to keep in mind that although infrared heating is efficient but it only warms the objects and people in front of the heater and will lose its effect if you move away. Also, it will not warm your garden or patio when the winds blow the heater around.
Gas heaters, on contrary, will heat more space if they are not moved. They can also be fitted with shields to help keep them in place. They're usually located in pub gardens. They provide a cozy burning log effect that looks good in most decors.
Propane patio heaters can be less efficient, and they can also produce a lot more noise and smog. Electric heaters are less environmentally friendly than propane, which requires refilling when it is empty. Gas heaters are more expensive and generate a higher degree of heat.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to purchase heaters for your patio as Summer winds down and evenings become a bit chilly. 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, from small tabletop models up to floor-standing units designed to warm large outdoor spaces like a decked backyard.
Although gas heaters are more economical to buy than some electric models but they are costly to run. In fact, according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most wasteful in terms of both the amount of heat they create and the energy they consume". A typical 13kg calor cylinder gas costs PS90 new or PS50 to refill and lasts approximately 13 hours of heating.
Unlike gas, electric heaters use radiant heat to warm objects and people rather than the air. As a result, they are much cheaper to run and leave less carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much easier to use. Simply plug them in, and they will 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. They can be utilized in closed or open spaces, and some come with an integrated dimmer switch that will enable you to control the intensity of the lighting. They're also smaller than gas models and are able to be moved around which is great if you have to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.
The downside of these heaters is that they require to be plugged into, which means that you'll require a power socket nearby and an extension cable that's rated to work with outdoor equipment. Most electric heaters aren't permitted to have an extension lead that is longer than 1.8m. This is to be in line with safety standards. It is also important to be careful to avoid blocking any sockets in the vicinity or leaving the cable trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters are ideal for those who like the design of a gas-powered heater but don't want to be limited by its placement or wish to lower your expenses. These heaters for patios are powered by electricity and heat up quickly. They can be controlled via a switch or remote. They are also less expensive to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
This model from Kettler is a stylish and attractive option that won't be out of place in your rattan garden furniture and is weatherproof for use all year round. Its IP55 rating shields it from windblown dust and rain (although we wouldn't suggest using a high pressure hose on it). This model comes with three heating levels that can be adjusted to your needs, as well as an automatic timer ranging from 1-9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is another option for those who don't want to be restricted by the position of a heater for their patio. It is available in two sizes, and includes many options, including a timer remote control, a remote control, and 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace of mind, though we don't recommend getting it too wet as this may impact on the performance and longevity of the heater.
A top choice among many customers, this portable patio heater is a good budget-friendly option for those who prefer to control their heating. It's simple to use and comes with the remote control, two heating settings, and the ability to turn on or off the light from the distance. It also comes with an inbuilt safety feature that will shut off the unit in the event that it's tipped over.
As opposed to gas patio heaters electric models don't release any carbon monoxide. Therefore, they're an ideal choice for pet owners or small children who aren't old enough to comprehend the dangers of staying close to flames. These models are also great for large outdoor gazebos or spaces as they have the ability to quickly warm up an area of 15 square meters. They're lightweight and easy to move around, and many come with the option of a remote so that you can change settings from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When the summer is over, and your kids have returned to school, it's the perfect time to think about adding some warmth to your outdoor space. waterproof electric patio heaters come in various styles, including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.
This popular choice offers low operating costs and the benefits of heating. It can be wall-mounted or placed on a pedestal base, making it ideal for gazebos and covered porches and also smaller gardens where a freestanding model might appear too big. It also comes with an adjustable remote control that can be used to adjust the temperature. Users describe it as a Goldilocks choice because it's just warm enough to decrease the chill, but not too hot.
The main advantage of electric patio heaters is that it can be placed in a restricted space, such as garages that are covered since it doesn't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide or other gases that pose a threat to your health. Gas heaters, on contrary, must be placed in a space that is open and has adequate ventilation to avoid contaminating your home.
However, the drawback is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas models. They're also less mobile, requiring access to an electrical outlet. This is especially important for those who reside in a region that has expensive energy charges.
Electric heaters may not be as powerful as gas ones but there are plenty of choices in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some can be hung from parasols and awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
This is a good option if you want an infrared heating system that's cost-effective to operate. It comes in two sizes and comes with a variety of features, including 360deg rotation and simple heat settings. It is also rated IP44 which means it is able to stand up to small drops of rain and splashes of liquid.