Best Electric Patio Heaters
It comes with a variety of heat settings, and it protects your body from overheating. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters can pump out lots of warmth across a larger area, but they will require a regular supply of natural gas or propane. It's a great option for large gardens that have lots of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of the freestanding electric patio heaters that we test were infra red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered models and depending on the model you choose they will have lower operating costs too. You won't have to refill a tank of propane and there's not much assembly required.
The top ones come with the remote control for effortless operation, as well as a built-in LED light that provides ambience. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It makes use of circular filaments to emit infrared mediumwave energy over an area of the size of a table. It comes with easy-to-use heating settings and a 360deg rotation. Another great option is the Westinghouse 1500W infra-red heater, which makes use of an aluminium reflector to direct a focused beam of heat over your preferred spot.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a cosy light that is clean and fresh. However, Best electric patio heaters uk is more modern and is more suited for modern-day garden spaces, or if you're looking to integrate it with your outdoor furniture. It can also be integrated with home automation systems that enable you to set your preferred brightness and temperature which can save more energy in the long term.
It is important to remember that although infrared heating is effective, it only warms objects and people who are directly in the vicinity of the heater. It will lose its effect in the event that you move away. It will also not heat your patio if the wind blows it around.
On the other side, gas heaters can provide warmth to a greater space if they're not moved and are equipped with a wind shield to ensure they stay in their place. They are usually found in pub garden and provide a warm "burning log" effect that works well in any design.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient, and they can also generate more smog and noise. In contrast 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 environmentally friendly. It is important to remember that a gas-powered heater produces a higher level of heat than a comparable electric model and is more likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
It's the perfect time to invest in patio heaters as the summer is winding down and evenings turn a bit chilly. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space for a longer time. No matter if you choose gas or electric, there's plenty on offer in the form of small tabletop units to larger floor-standing models that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as decked gardens.
Gas heaters are more expensive to purchase, but they can also be more costly to operate. According to Heat Outdoors "they are amongst the most inefficient, both in terms of the amount of energy they use and the heat they produce". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and will last for 13 hours.
Electric heaters, unlike gas, use radiant heat instead of air to heat objects and human. Electric heaters are less expensive to run, and have a lower carbon footprint. They are also much easier to use. Simply plug them in and they'll start to begin to heat up.
Outdoor electric heaters can be used in a variety of settings, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. They can be utilized in closed or open spaces, and some come with an integrated dimmer switch that will enable you to adjust the brightness of the light. They're also smaller than gas models and can be easily moved around which is ideal 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 rated for outdoor equipment. Most electric heaters aren't permitted to use an extension lead greater than 1.8m. This is to ensure that they comply with safety standards. It is also important be cautious about blocking any outdoor sockets nearby or leaving the cable trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized if you like the style of a gas heater but do not want to be restricted by its location or to cut costs. They're powered by electricity, so they're quick to heat up and are easy to operate with the flick of a button or remote. They're also less expensive to run than gas-powered counterparts.
The Kettler model is a stylish selection that will look fantastic with your rattan furniture. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used throughout the year. Its IP55 rating protects it from wind-blown dust and rain (although we do not recommend using a high-pressure hose on it). The model also has 3 heating levels to suit your needs, as well with a timer that shuts off between 1-9 hours.
This electric model from Blumfeldt is a different option for those who do not want to be limited by the location of a patio heater. It comes in two sizes and comes with a variety of features such as a timer remote control, a remote control, and 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace mind, although we wouldn't advise letting it get too wet, as this can affect the performance and lifespan of the heater.
A popular choice with many customers the portable patio heater is a good budget-friendly option for those who prefer to be in control of their heating. With a remote, two temperature settings and the capability to switch the light on or off from the distance, it's easy to operate. It has a built in safety feature that turns the unit off when it is tipped.
Electric patio heaters do not emit carbon monoxide, unlike gas patio heaters, making them an ideal choice for pet owners or children who have not yet reached the maturity level to recognize the dangers of being close to a flame. These models are also great for large outdoor gazebos or areas because they have the ability to quickly warm up an area of 15m2. They're light and easy to move about, and a majority of them have a remote control so you can alter 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. If you're looking for a freestanding model or one that is wall-mounted, there's plenty to choose from in the electric range.
This popular option combines low operating costs with the functionality of a heater. It can be wall-mounted or placed on the base of a pedestal which makes it suitable for covered porches and gazebos and smaller gardens where a freestanding model could look too big. It also comes with the option of adjusting the temperature. Users say they find it to be a Goldilocks option, as it's just warm enough to cut through the chill without getting too hot.
Electric patio heaters are great for small spaces such as garages and covered porches since they don't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide. Gas heaters, on other hand, must be installed in a space that is open and has adequate ventilation to prevent them from contaminating 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 for those who live in an area with high energy costs.
Another drawback to an electric heater is that it's not as powerful as a gas heater but there are a lot of options in the PS50-PS200 price range to choose from. Some are hung from parasols or awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
If you're after an infrared system that's affordable to run, this is a good option. It's available in two sizes and offers a range of options such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heating settings. It is also classified as IP44 which means it can withstand light rain and splashes of liquid.