James User

Best Electric Patio Heaters

A budget-friendly purchase that won't increase your power bills. It comes with different heat settings as well as overheat protection. It's also easy to move around the garden.

Gas patio heaters are an excellent choice for large gardens that include lots of seating outside and sofas. However, they'll require frequent refills with natural gas or propane. It's a good option for large gardens with plenty of outdoor seating and sofas.

1. Infrared heaters

Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters that we test were infra red models. They are less expensive than the gas-powered models and, if you choose carefully they'll have lower operating costs, too. You won't have to refill a tank of propane, and there's no assembly required.

The best ones feature remote controls for simple operation as well as an integrated LED light to create ambiance. One of our top picks is from German company Herschel. It makes use of circular filaments to disperse infrared heat across an area of the size of a table. It comes with easy-to-use heating settings as well as 360deg rotation. Another option that is worth considering is the Westinghouse 1500 Watt infra-red heater, which makes use of an aluminium reflector to direct a focused beam of heat on your favourite spot.

Both models are energy efficient and emit a cosy, clean glow. However the Herschel is sleeker, making it more suitable for modern gardens or if you're trying to blend it in with your outdoor furniture. It can be integrated with home automation systems that allow you to choose your preferred temperature and brightness. This can help save energy over time.

It's worth bearing in mind that even though infrared heating is effective, it only warms objects and people in the vicinity of the heater. It will cease to work if you move away. It won't also provide heat to your patio if wind blows it around.

On the other the other hand, gas heaters warm up a much larger area if they aren't moved and can be equipped with a wind shield to keep them in their place. They're usually found in pub gardens and offer a warm 'burning log' look that's great in most decors.

Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can create lots of noise and smog when the flame burns. Unlike propane, which is stored in a cylinder that will need to be refilled when it runs out the majority of electric heaters don't require refilling at all, and are more environmentally friendly. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce a higher degree of heat.

2. Gas heaters

It's time to invest in patio heaters as the Summer is winding down and evenings turn somewhat chilly. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space for a longer time. Whether you opt for gas or electric, there's plenty on offer, from small tabletop units to larger floor-standing models that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as decked gardens.

While gas heaters can be more economical to buy than electric models but they are costly to run - in fact, according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most wasteful regarding both the amount of heat they create and the energy they consume". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling, and will last approximately 13 hours.

Electric heaters are, unlike gas, rely on radiant heat instead of air to heat objects and people. Electric heaters are less expensive to run, and they have a lower carbon footprint. They are also much simpler to use. Simply plug them in and they will begin to heat up.

Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a range of settings, from restaurants to bars to private gardens. Certain models come with a built-in dimming switch, which allows you to control the brightness the light is. They can be used in an open or closed space. They are also smaller than gas models, and they can be moved easily. This is very beneficial when you have to move your heater from one part of your garden to another.

These heaters are plugged in and require an extension cord rated for outdoor equipment. To comply with safety standards, most electric heaters can't be supplied with an extension lead that exceeds 1.8m and you'll need be sure not to block any nearby outdoor sockets or leave the cable trailing where it could be a trip hazard.

3. fireplacesandstoves.uk freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized for those who like the design of a gas heater but don't want to be restricted by its placement or wish to lower your expenses. These heaters are powered by electricity and are able to heat quickly. They can be controlled via a switch or remote. They're also less expensive to run than their gas-powered equivalents.

This Kettler model is a stylish choice that looks amazing with your furniture made of rattan. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used all 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 three heating levels to fit your needs, as well as a timer shutdown between 1-9 hours.

This electric model made by Blumfeldt is another option for those who do not want to be limited by the location of a patio heater. It is available in two sizes and has many features, including remote control and a timer shut-off function and 360deg oscillation. It's also splash-proof to ensure your safety. However, we do not recommend getting it wet too often as this can alter the performance and lifespan of the heater.

The portable patio heater is popular with customers who prefer to manage their heating. It's easy to use with a remote control, 2 heat settings, and the ability to turn on and off the light from the distance. It has a built in safety feature that shuts off the device off if it's tilted.

In contrast to a gas patio heater, electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide, so they are a great option for those with pets or small children who aren't old enough to understand the dangers of being close to flames. These models are ideal for gazebos or large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly heat an area of up to 15m2. These models are lightweight and easy-to-move, and some even come with an remote that lets you alter the temperature from the comfort of your chair.

4. Wall-mounted heaters

When summer is over and the children are back in school, it's time to consider adding some heat to your outside space. If you're looking for a freestanding model or one that can be wall-mounted, there's plenty to pick from the electric range.

This popular model offers the advantages of a gas heater along with low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or placed on an elevated base which makes it suitable for covered porches, gazebos, and covered patios and also small gardens in which a freestanding model may appear too big. It also comes with a remote control for adjusting the temperature. People have said that they consider it a Goldilocks option, as it's just warm enough to cut through the chill without getting too hot.

Electric patio heaters are ideal for spaces that are small such as covered porches or garages, since they don't emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. Gas heaters, on contrary, must be installed in an open area with adequate ventilation to avoid contaminating your home.

The downside is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas models. Electric models are also less portable and require an electrical outlet. This is especially important if you reside in an location where the cost of energy is high.

Electric heaters are not as powerful as gas heaters but there are many options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some are suitable for hanging from awnings or parasols and you can also find heaters that operate on rechargeable batteries.


If you're looking for an infrared option that's cheap to run it's a good choice. It's available in two sizes and has a variety of features, including 360deg rotation and easy-to use temperature settings. It's also classified as IP44, which means it's resistant to splashes of water and light rain.

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