Best Electric Patio Heaters
It has a variety of temperature settings, and it protects you from overheating. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters are a great option for large gardens with plenty of seating outdoors and sofas. However, they will require frequent refills with propane or natural gas. This is a great solution for large gardens with plenty of outdoor seating and couches.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters that we tested were infra red models. They are more affordable than gas-powered models and depending on the model you choose, have lower running costs too. There's also no assembly required and you don't have to refill your propane tank.
The top models come with remote controls for simple operation as well as an integrated LED light to create ambiance. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It makes use of circular filaments to disperse infrared mediumwave energy over a table sized area. It comes with easy-to-use heating settings and 360deg rotation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infra-red Heater is another excellent alternative. It utilizes an aluminum reflector to direct the heat beams on your preferred spot.
Both models are efficient and emit a clean warm glow, however the Herschel has a more modern look that's more suited to modern gardens or if you're looking to incorporate it into your furniture for your outdoor space. It can be integrated with home automation systems, allowing you to select your preferred brightness and temperature. This could save energy over time.
You must be aware that infrared heaters are efficient but they only heat things and people in direct contact with the heater. They lose their effect when you leave. It will also not heat your garden or patio when the wind blows the heater around.
On the other hand, gas heaters will provide warmth to a greater area if they aren't moved and are equipped with a wind shield to keep them in their place. They're usually located in pub gardens. They offer a warm 'burning log' look that's great in all decors.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can create lots of noise and smog when the flame burns. Contrary to propane, which is stored in a cylinder that will require refilling when it is depleted, most electric heaters don't require refilling and are more eco-friendly. Also, keep in la hacienda electric patio heater that a gas heater produces greater heat than an electric model, and is likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
As Summer begins to wind down and the evenings become colder it's a good time to invest in a patio heater to keep you outdoors longer. No matter if you choose gas or electric there's plenty to choose from, from small tabletop units to large floor-standing versions designed to heat large outdoor areas like a decked garden.
While gas heaters can be more economical to buy than some electric models, they can be expensive to run. In fact according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most inefficient when it comes to both the amount of heat they produce and the energy they consume". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling and will last for 13 hours.
In contrast to gas, electric heaters use radiant heat to warm people and objects rather than the air. As a result, they are much less expensive to run and have a much smaller carbon footprint than gas heaters. They're also much simpler to use. Simply plug them in and switch them on, while you'll need to create a fire or wait for the propane heater to warm up.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized 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 a built-in dimmer switch to let you control the brightness of the light. They are 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 powered by plugs and require an extension cord approved for outdoor use. To ensure safety standards are met electrical heaters aren't able to be supplied with an attached lead longer than 1.8m and you'll need be cautious not to interfere with any sockets in the vicinity or leave the cable trailing where it could be a trip hazard.
3. Freestanding heaters
If you're a fan of the style of the gas heater but don't want to be restricted in the way it can be placed or you want to reduce your expenses and save money, these freestanding electric patio heaters are a good alternative. Powered by electricity, they're quick to heat up and are easy to operate with the flick of a button or remote. They're also more affordable to run than gas-powered counterparts.
The Kettler model is a stylish choice that will look fantastic with your furniture made of rattan. It's also weatherproof and can be used throughout the year. Its IP55 rating shields it from windblown dust and rain (although we don't recommend using a high-pressure hose on it). The model also has three heating levels to fit your needs, as well being a timer shutoff between 1 and 9 hours.
Another option for those who don't want to be restricted by the positioning of the gas patio heater is this electric model made by Blumfeldt. It comes in two sizes, and has many options, including a timer, remote control and 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof to provide you with peace of mind. However, we do not recommend getting it wet too much as this could affect the performance and life of the heater.
A popular choice with many customers, this portable patio heater is a great budget-friendly option for those who want to be in control of their heating. It's easy to use and comes with the remote control, two heat settings, and the ability turn on and off the light from a distance. It comes with a built-in safety feature that turns the unit off when it is tipped.
In contrast to a gas patio heater, electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide. Therefore, they're a great choice for families with pets or children who aren't old enough to comprehend the dangers of being close to flames. These models are great for large outdoor gazebos and spaces as they can quickly warm up an area of 15 square meters. They're lightweight and easy to move about, and a majority of them have the option of a remote so that you can alter settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When summer is over and kids are back at school it's time to consider adding some warmth to your outdoor space. If you're looking for a stand-alone model or one that's mounted on the wall, there are plenty to pick from within the electric range.
This popular model is a combination of the benefits of a gas heater with low running costs. It can be mounted on a wall or on an elevated base, making it ideal for gazebos and covered porches and also small gardens where a freestanding model could look too big. It comes with an adjustable remote control to regulate the temperature. It is described by some as a Goldilocks choice, as it is just warm enough to ease the chill, but not too hot.
The major benefit of electric patio heaters is that it can be put in a confined space, like a covered porch or garage as it doesn't release pollutants like carbon monoxide or other gases that can be harmful to your health. In contrast, gas heaters should be placed in open areas with adequate ventilation or they risk contaminating your home.
However, the downside is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas ones. They're also more difficult to transport and require an electricity outlet. This is particularly important for those who live in an region where energy costs are high.
Another drawback of electric heaters is that it's not as strong as a gas heater however there are plenty of options in the price range of PS50-PS200 to choose from. Some are hung from parasols or awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.
If you're looking for an infrared option that's cheap to run it's a great choice. It's available in two sizes and comes with a range of options such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heating settings. It's also classified as IP44, which means it can withstand splashes of water as well as light rain.