Best Electric Patio Heaters
It comes with a variety of heat settings, and it shields your body from overheating. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can put out lots of warmth over a bigger area, but they will require a regular supply of propane or natural gas. This is a great option for large gardens with lots of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered models and, if you pick wisely, they have lower operating costs too. There's also little assembly required and you don't have to refill your propane tank.
The best ones feature the remote control for effortless operation, as well as a built-in LED light to create ambiance. One of our top picks, from German company Herschel makes use of circular carbon filaments to emit mediumwave infrared heat over a table-sized space and comes with easy-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 direct a focused beam of heat on the area you prefer to be in.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a warm light that is clean and fresh. However the Herschel is more modern and is more suited for modern gardens or if you're trying to incorporate it into your outdoor furniture. It can be integrated with home automation systems, which allow you to select your preferred temperature and brightness. This could save energy over time.
You must be aware that infrared heaters work but they only heat objects and people who are in direct contact with the heater. They cease to work when you leave. It will also not heat your garden or patio in the event that the winds blow the heater around.
Gas heaters, on the contrary, can heat more space if they are not moved. They are also equipped with shields to ensure they stay in place. They're often located in pub gardens and have a cosy "burning log" effect that is attractive in most decors.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient, and can also produce a lot more smog and noise. Electric heaters are more eco-friendly than propane, which must be refilled after it runs out. Gas heaters are more expensive and generate more heat.
2. Gas heaters
As the summer winds down and the evenings get a little chilly it's the perfect the time to purchase a patio heater to keep you warm and comfortable. There are a variety of options available, whether you choose gas or electric, ranging from small tabletop models up to floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces, such as a decked backyard.
While gas heaters can be cheaper to purchase than some electric models however, they can be costly to operate - in fact, according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most inefficient regarding both the amount of heat they produce and the energy they use". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and lasts approximately 13 hours.
Electric heaters like gas use radiant heat instead of air to heat objects and human. As a result, they are less expensive to run and have less carbon footprint than gas heaters. They're also a lot easier to use. You just plug them in and turn them on, whereas you'll need to create an outdoor fire or wait for a propane heater to warm up.
Electric heaters that are suitable for outdoor use can be utilized in a variety of settings including bars, restaurants and private gardens. They can be utilized in closed or open areas, and some come with built-in dimmer switches to enable you to adjust the brightness of the lighting. They are also smaller than gas models and are able to be moved around which is great when you need to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.
These heaters are powered by plugs and require an extension cord that is suitable for outdoor use. Most electric heaters aren't allowed to have an extension lead that is longer than 1.8m. This is to ensure that they comply with safety standards. Also, you'll need to be careful to avoid blocking any sockets in the vicinity or leaving the cable trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be used to complement the look of a gas heater but do not want to be restricted by its location or to reduce your costs. Powered by electricity, they're quick to heat up and easy to operate at the flick of a button or remote. They're also less expensive to run than gas-powered counterparts.
This model from Kettler is a stylish selection that looks great with your furniture made of rattan. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used all year. Its IP55 rating means it's protected against dust and wind-blown rain (although we wouldn't recommend aiming a high-pressure hose at it). This model comes with three heating levels that can be adjusted to your needs, and an automatic timer between 1-9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is a different option for those who don't want to be restricted by the location of a patio heater. It comes in two sizes and has multiple features, such as remote control as well as a timer shut off function and a 360deg oscillation. It is also splash-proof to provide you with peace of mind. But, we don't recommend that you let it get wet for too much as this could alter the performance and lifespan of the heater.
The portable patio heater is popular with those who want to control their heating. electric garden patio heater to use with a remote control, 2 heating settings, and the ability turn on and off the light from an extended distance. It also comes with a built-in safety feature that turns off the unit when it's knocked over.
Electric patio heaters emit no carbon monoxide unlike gas patio heaters, making them a great option for those with pets or children who haven't yet developed the maturity to recognize the dangers of standing too close to a fire. These models are great for gazebos and large outdoor areas because they can quickly warm up an area of 15 square meters. They're very lightweight and easy to move about, and many come with a remote control so you can adjust settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When the summer is over and your kids have returned to school, it's the perfect time for you to consider adding some heat to your outdoor space. If you're looking for a freestanding model or one that can be wall-mounted, there's plenty of options to choose from in the electric range.
This popular option is a great way to combine low operating costs with the utility of heater. It can be wall-mounted or positioned on an elevated base, making it ideal for covered porches and gazebos and also small gardens where a freestanding model could appear too big. It has a remote control to adjust the heat. Users describe it as an Goldilocks choice, because it is just warm enough to decrease the chill but not too hot.
The major benefit of using an electric patio heater is that it can be put in a restricted area, such as garages or covered porches 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 a space that is open and has adequate ventilation to avoid contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. They're also less mobile as they require access to an electricity outlet. This is especially important for those who live in an region where energy costs are expensive.
Electric heaters aren't as powerful as gas heaters but there are plenty of options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some are suited for hanging from parasols or awnings, and you can even find a couple that work with rechargeable batteries.
This is a great option if you want an infrared heater that is affordable to operate. It's available in two sizes and offers many options such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heating settings. It is also classified as IP44 which means it is able to stand up to light rain and splashes of liquid.