The Ultimate Guide To Best Electric Patio Heater
Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget buy that won't add to your power bills. It comes with different heat settings as well as overheat protection. It's also easy to move around the garden patio heater electric.
Gas patio heaters can put out a lot of warmth over a larger area, but will require a regular refill of natural gas or propane. It's a great option for large gardens with lots of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
Most of the electric freestanding patio heaters that we test were infra red models. These are cheaper than gas-powered models and, in the event you pick wisely, have lower running costs as well. There's no need to refill a tank of propane and there's not much assembly required.
The Best electric patio heaters uk ones have remote controls to make operations easy, and an LED light that is built-in for ambience. One of our top picks, from German company Herschel utilizes a circular carbon filament to emit mediumwave infrared heat over a table-sized space and includes easy-to-use settings for heat and 360deg oscillation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infrared Heater is another great option. It utilizes an aluminum reflector to direct heat beams over your favorite area.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a cosy and clean glow. However the Herschel is sleeker and more suited for modern-day garden spaces or if you're looking to integrate it with your outdoor furniture. It can be integrated with home automation systems, which 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 efficient but it only warms the objects and people who are directly in the vicinity of the heater. It will cease to work in the event that you move away. It will also not heat your patio or garden in the event that the wind blows the heater about.
Gas heaters on the contrary, can heat an area larger in the event that they are not moved. They are also equipped with an enclosure to ensure they stay in place. These heaters are often located in the pub garden and provide a warm "burning log" effect that looks great in any decor.
Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can produce a lot of smoke and noise when the flame is burning. Electric heaters are more eco-friendly than propane, but they must be refilled after it runs out. Also, keep in mind that a gas-powered heater produces a higher level of heat than a comparable electric model and is likely to be more expensive.
2. Gas heaters
As the summer winds down and the evenings become a little chilly it's a good the time to purchase a patio heater to keep you outside for longer. No matter if you choose electric or gas there's plenty of options available, from small electric patio heater tabletop units to huge floor-standing models designed to heat large outdoor spaces like a decked garden.
While gas heaters can be cheaper to purchase than electric heaters, they can be expensive to run - in fact according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most wasteful in terms of both the amount of heat they generate and the energy they use". A typical 13kg cylinder costs PS90 or PS50 for refilling, and will last approximately 13 hours.
Unlike gas electric heaters make use of radiant heat to warm objects and people rather than air. Electric heaters are more affordable to run, and have a smaller carbon footprint. They're also much simpler to use. Simply plug them in and switch them on, while you may have to build an open flame or wait for a propane heater to warm up.
Outdoor electric heaters can be used in a variety of locations, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. They can be utilized in closed or open spaces, and some are equipped with a built-in dimmer switch to let you alter the brightness of the lighting. They are also smaller than gas models and can be moved easily. This is very beneficial if you need to move your 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 electric heater for patio equipment. The majority of electric heaters aren't permitted to use an extension lead greater than 1.8m. This is to be in line with safety standards. Also, you'll need to be aware of blocking any outdoor sockets nearby or leaving the extension lead trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
These freestanding electric patio heaters can be utilized for those who like the design of a gas heater but don't wish to be limited by its placement or wish to cut costs. These patio heaters are powered by electricity and can heat up quickly. They can be operated by a switch or remote. They're also less expensive to operate than their gas-powered counterparts.
This one from Kettler is a stylish and attractive option that won't be out of place amongst your rattan furniture and is fully weatherproof for year-round use. Its IP55 rating shields it from wind-blown dust and rain (although we wouldn't suggest using a high pressure hose on it). The model has three heating levels that can be adjusted to suit your needs, as well as an automatic timer that ranges from 1 to 9 hours.
This electric model made by Blumfeldt is a different option for those who do not want to be restricted by the placement of a heater for their patio. It is available in two sizes, and includes many features such as a timer, remote control and 360-degree oscillation. It is also splash-proof to give you peace of mind. However, we do not recommend that you let it get wet for too much as this could alter the performance and lifespan of the heater.
This portable patio heater is a favorite among those who like to manage their heating. It's easy to use and comes with the remote control, two heating settings, and the ability turn on and off the light from a distance. It has a built in safety feature that turns the unit off if it is tipping.
As opposed to gas patio heaters electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide, so they're a great choice for pet owners or children who are not yet old enough to recognize the dangers of being close to flames. These models are ideal for gazebos or large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly warm up an area up to 15 square meters. They are also lightweight and easy-to-move, and some have a remote so you can alter the temperature from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When the summer is over and your children have returned to school, it's time to think about adding some heat to your outdoor space. Electric heaters are available in various designs that include freestanding models as well as wall-mounted models.
This popular choice offers low operating costs and the functionality of a heater. It can be hung on the wall or on a pedestal, which makes it perfect for gazebos, covered patios and small gardens, where a freestanding unit might appear too big. It has an adjustable remote control to regulate the temperature. People have said that they consider it a Goldilocks option, as it's warm enough to cut the chill, but not too hot.
The major benefit of electric patio heaters is that it can be put in a small area, such as garages or covered porches since it doesn't emit pollutants like carbon monoxide and other gases that are dangerous to your health. In contrast, gas heaters should be used in open spaces with adequate ventilation or risk contaminating your home.
Electric models are more expensive than models powered by gas. They're also less portable and require an electrical outlet. That's particularly important for those who reside in an area that has high energy costs.
Electric heaters are not as powerful as gas ones however, there are plenty of options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some are suitable for hanging from parasols or awnings, and you can even find heaters that operate off a rechargeable battery.
If you're looking for an infrared device that is affordable to run it's a great option. It's available in two sizes and comes with many options such as 360deg oscillation and easy-to-use heat settings. It's also rated IP44, which means it's resistant to splashes of water and light rain.
