Best Electric Patio Heaters
It comes with a variety of heat settings, and it also protects your body from overheating. It is also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters are a good choice for large gardens that include lots of seating outside and sofas. But, they'll need to be refilled regularly with natural gas or propane. It's an excellent choice for large gardens with lots of seating areas and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. These are cheaper than gas-powered versions and, in the event you pick wisely they will have lower operating costs too. There's also little assembly required and you don't have to refill a propane tank.
The top ones come with remote controls to make operations easy, and an LED light that is built-in to provide 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 is equipped with simple-to-use heat settings and 360deg oscillation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infra-red Heater is another excellent option. It uses an aluminum reflector to focus the heat beams on your preferred spot.
infrared patio heater electric are energy efficient and emit a cosy and clean glow. However the Herschel is more sleek and more suited for modern-day garden spaces, or if you're looking to integrate it with your outdoor furniture. It can also be used with home automation systems to allow you to choose the brightness and temperature you prefer which can save more energy over the long haul.
It's worth bearing in mind that although infrared heating is effective, it only warms objects and people who are directly in the vicinity of the heater. It will not be effective in the event that you move away. It will also not warm your patio if the winds blow it around.
Gas heaters, on the contrary, will heat an area larger when they aren't moved. They can also be fitted with a shield to ensure they stay in place. They are typically found in pub garden and provide a warm "burning log" effect that works well in any décor.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient, and can also generate more noise and smog. Contrary to propane which is stored in a cylinder that will need to be refilled when it runs out, most electric heaters don't require refilling at all, and are more eco-friendly. Gas heaters are more expensive and generate more heat.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to purchase patio heaters as the Summer slows down and evenings get a bit chilly. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space for longer. There are a variety of options available depending on whether you want gas or electric, ranging from small tabletop models to floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as a decked backyard.
While 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 when it comes to both the amount of heat they generate and the energy they use". A typical 13kg cylinder of calor gas is priced at PS90 new or PS50 to refill and lasts approximately 13 hours of heating.
Electric heaters are, unlike gas, rely on radiant heat instead of air to warm objects and humans. This means that they are much less expensive to run and have less carbon footprint than gas heaters. They are also much easier to use. Plug them into the outlet, and they'll start to start to turn on.
Electric heaters for outdoor use can be utilized in many different settings, including bars, restaurants and private gardens. Some models have a built-in dimming switch that allows you to control the brightness the light is. They can be used either in a closed or open space. They're also smaller than gas models and can be easily moved around, which is great when you need to move the heater from one area of your garden to another.
These heaters are plugged in and require an extension cord approved for outdoor use. Most electric heaters aren't allowed to have an extension lead longer than 1.8m. This is to comply with safety standards. Also, you'll need to be aware of blocking any sockets that are located outside or leaving the cable trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized to complement the look of a gas heater but don't wish to be limited by its location or to lower your expenses. These heaters are powered by electricity and heat up quickly. They can be operated by a switch or remote. They're also more affordable 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 furniture and is fully weatherproof for year-round use. Its IP55 rating means it's safe against dust and rain that is blown in from the wind (although we wouldn't suggest aiming the hose of a high-pressure model at it). This model has three heating levels that can be adjusted according to your needs, as well as an automatic timer ranging from 1-9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is another alternative for those who do not wish to be restricted by the placement of a heater for their patio. This is available in two sizes and comes with many features, including a remote control and a timer shut-off function, and a 360deg oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace mind, though we don't advise letting it get too wet, as this can affect the performance and lifespan of the heater.
The portable patio heater is popular with 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 an integrated 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, so they are a great option for pet owners or small children who are not yet old enough to comprehend the dangers of staying close to flames. infrared patio heater electric are also ideal for large outdoor gazebos and spaces because they have the ability to quickly warm up an area of 15m2. They are also lightweight and easy to move. Some have a remote so you can alter the temperature from your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When summer is over and kids are back to school, it's time to think about adding some heat to your outdoor space. If you're looking for a stand-alone model or one that is mounted on the wall, there are plenty to choose from in the electric range.
This popular option combines the functionality of a gas heater along with low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or placed on the base of a pedestal, making it ideal for covered porches and gazebos, as well as smaller gardens where a freestanding model might look too big. It also comes with the option of adjusting the heat. Some users say it's a Goldilocks choice, since it's just warm enough to cut through the chill, without becoming too hot.
The primary benefit of using an electric patio heater is that it can be placed in a confined space, such as garages or covered porches, because it doesn't emit pollutants like carbon monoxide or other gases that are dangerous to your health. In contrast, gas heaters must be used in open spaces with adequate ventilation, or else they could pollute your home.
The downside is that electric models are generally more expensive than gas models. Electric models are also less portable and require an electrical outlet. That's particularly important for those who reside in a region that has expensive energy charges.
Electric heaters may not be as powerful as gas heaters but there are plenty of choices 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 option that's cheap to run it's a great choice. It's available in two sizes, and has a variety of features, including 360deg rotation and easy-to use heat settings. It's also rated IP44 which means it's resistant to splashes of water as well as light rain.