Best Electric Patio Heaters
It has a variety of temperature settings, and it shields your body from overheating. electric patio heater free standing 's also easy to move around your garden.
Gas patio heaters are an excellent choice for large gardens that include plenty of seating outdoors and sofas. But, they'll require frequent refills with natural gas or propane. It's an excellent choice for large gardens with lots of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of electric freestanding patio heaters we tested were infra red models. These heaters are more affordable than the gas-powered models and, if you choose carefully they'll have lower operating costs too. There's also little assembly required and you don't have to refill a propane tank.
The best ones have a remote control to make the operation simple and have an LED light built in to create ambiance. One of our top picks, from German company Herschel makes use of circular carbon filaments to release mediumwave infrared warmth over a table-sized area and comes with easy-to-use heat settings and 360deg oscillation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infrared Heater is another great option. It uses an aluminum reflector to focus heat beams over your favorite location.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a clean warm, cozy glow, but the Herschel has a sleeker look which is more suitable for modern gardens or if you're looking to blend it with your outdoor furniture. It can be integrated with home automation systems, allowing you to choose your preferred brightness and temperature. This could save energy over time.
You should be aware that infrared heaters are efficient but they only heat things and people in direct contact with the heater. They lose their effectiveness when you move away. It also won't provide heat to your patio if wind blows it around.
Gas heaters on the contrary, can heat a larger area in the event that they are not moved. They can also be equipped with a shield to keep them in position. They're often located in pub gardens and provide a cozy 'burning log' look that's great in a variety of decors.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can produce a lot of smog and noise when the flame burns. In contrast to propane which is stored in a cylinder and requires refilling when it runs out, most electric heaters don't require refilling at all and are more environmentally friendly. You should also remember that a gas heater generates greater heat than an equivalent electric model and is likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to invest in heaters for your patio as Summer is winding down and evenings turn a bit chilly. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space longer. There are many options available, whether you choose gas or electric, from small tabletop models to large floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces like a decked backyard.
Gas heaters are more expensive to purchase however, they can also be more expensive 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 of calor gas is priced at PS90 new or PS50 to refill and will last approximately 13 hours of heating.
Unlike gas electric heaters make use of radiant heat to warm objects and people instead of air. Electric heaters are cheaper to run, and they have a smaller carbon footprint. They are also much simpler to use. You can simply plug them in and they will begin to heat up.
Electric heaters for outdoor use can be used in a variety of settings including restaurants, bars and private gardens. Some models come with a dimming switch that permits you to control how bright 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 for when you need to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.
The heaters are connected to the power source and require an extension cord that is approved for outdoor use. To comply with safety standards electrical heaters aren't able to be supplied with an extension lead that exceeds 1.8m and you'll need to be cautious not to block any nearby outdoor sockets or leave the cable in a trail where it could be a trip hazard.
3. Freestanding heaters
If you're a fan of the design of the gas heater, but do not want to be restricted by the space it can be positioned or are looking to reduce your expenses, these freestanding electric patio heaters are a great alternative. They're powered by electricity, so they're quick to heat up and simple to operate with the flick of a button or remote. These are also cheaper to operate than their gas-powered counterparts.
This model from Kettler is a elegant and stylish piece that won't appear out of place with your rattan furniture and is weatherproof for year-round use. Its IP55 rating means that it's protected against dust and wind-blown rain (although we wouldn't suggest aiming an hose with high pressure at it). The model comes with three heating levels that can be adjusted to suit your needs, as well as an automatic timer between 1-9 hours.
Another option for those who don't want to be restricted by the location of a gas patio heater is this electric model from Blumfeldt. It is available in two sizes, and has many features such as a timer remote control, as well as 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace mind, but we wouldn't recommend letting it get wet, as this could affect the performance and lifespan of the heater.
The portable patio heater is a favorite among those who like to manage their heating. It's simple to use and comes with a remote control, 2 heating settings, and the ability to turn on and off the light from an extended distance. It also comes with a built-in safety feature that will shut off the unit in the event that it's knocked over.
Electric patio heaters don't emit carbon monoxide unlike gas heaters for patios. This makes them a great choice for pet owners or children who have not yet reached the maturity level to understand the dangers associated with standing too close to a flame. These models are ideal for large outdoor gazebos or spaces, as they are able to quickly warm up an area of up to 15 square meters. They're very lightweight and easy to move about, and a majority of them have the option of a remote so that you can change settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
After the summer has ended, and your kids have returned to school, it's the perfect time to think about adding some warmth to your outdoor space. Electric heaters are available in a variety of designs, including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.
This popular model combines low operating costs with the benefits of heater. It can be wall-mounted or placed on the base of a pedestal which makes it perfect for covered porches and gazebos and also smaller gardens in which a freestanding model may look too big. It comes with an adjustable remote control that can be used to alter the heat. The majority of users describe it as an Goldilocks choice, because it is just warm enough to ease the chill but not too hot.
The major benefit of using an electric patio heater is that it can be set up in a small space, like 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 the contrary, should be installed in an open space with adequate ventilation to avoid contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than those powered by gas. Electric models are also less mobile and require an electrical outlet. This is especially important when you live in an area with expensive energy charges.
Another drawback to electric heaters is that it's not as strong as a gas heater, but there are plenty of options within the PS50-PS200 price bracket to pick from. Some can be used to hang from awnings or parasols, and you can also find heaters that operate with rechargeable batteries.
This is a great option for those looking for an infrared heating system that's cost-effective to operate. It's available in two sizes and has a range of options such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heat settings. It's also classified as IP44 which means it is able to stand up to light rain and splashes of liquid.