The Sage Advice On Best Electric Patio Heater From The Age Of Five
Best Electric Patio Heaters
A budget buy that won't add to your electric bills. It has various heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move around the garden.
Gas patio heaters are a good option for large gardens that have 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 that have plenty of outdoor seating and sofas.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered models and, if you choose wisely they will have lower operating costs as well. You won't have to refill a tank with propane and there's little assembly required.
The best ones feature the remote control for effortless operation and a built-in LED light to provide ambience. One of our top picks, from German company Herschel, uses a circular carbon filament to radiate mediumwave infrared heat over a table-sized space and includes easy-to-use settings for heat and a 360deg oscillation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infra-red Heating System is another great option. It utilizes an aluminum reflector that focuses heat beams over your favorite spot.
Both models are efficient and emit a crisp warm, cozy glow, but the Herschel has a more modern look which is more suitable for modern garden rooms or if you're looking for a way to incorporate it into your furniture for your outdoor space. It can be integrated into home automation systems that allow you to choose your preferred intensity and temperature. This can help save energy over time.
It's worth bearing in mind that although infrared heating is effective, it only warms objects and people in front of the heater and will cease to work if you move away. It will also not provide heat to your patio if wind blows it around.
Gas heaters on the contrary, can heat an area larger in the event that they are not moved. They can also be fitted with an enclosure to help keep them in place. They are often located in pub gardens. They provide a cozy "burning log" effect that is attractive in all decors.
Propane patio heaters are less efficient and can also produce a lot more smog and noise. Unlike propane that is stored in a cylinder that will require refilling when it runs out, most electric heaters don't require refilling at all, and are more eco-friendly. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce a higher degree of heat.
2. Gas heaters
It's time to purchase patio heaters as the summer winds down and evenings become somewhat chilly. Best electric patio heaters uk allows you to enjoy your outdoor space longer. There are plenty of options to choose from depending on whether you want electric or gas, from small tabletop models to large floor-standing units designed to warm large outdoor spaces such as a decked backyard.
Gas heaters are more expensive to buy, 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 consume and the heat they produce". A typical 13kg cylinder of calor gas will cost PS90 new or PS50 to refill and will last about 13 hours of heating.
Electric heaters are, unlike gas, rely on radiant heat instead of air to heat objects and people. Electric heaters are cheaper to run, and have a smaller carbon footprint. They are also much simpler to use. You can simply plug them in, and they'll start to start to turn on.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a range of locations, from restaurants and bars to private gardens. They can be used in open or closed spaces, and some come with an integrated dimmer switch that will enable you to alter the brightness of the lighting. They are also smaller than gas models and can be easily moved around which is great if you have to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.
These heaters are powered by plugs and require an extension cord rated for outdoor equipment. The majority of electric heaters aren't permitted to have an extension lead longer than 1.8m. This is to ensure that they comply with safety standards. It is also important to be aware of 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 limited by its location or to cut costs. These patio heaters are powered by electricity and can heat up quickly. They can be operated via a switch or remote. These are also cheaper to run than their gas-powered counterparts.
This model from Kettler is a stylish option that looks amazing with your rattan furniture. 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 comes with three levels of heating to fit your needs, as well with a timer that shuts off between 1 and 9 hours.
Another option for those who do not want to be restricted by the positioning of gas heaters on their patios is this electric model made by Blumfeldt. It comes in two sizes and comes with multiple features, such as a remote control as well as a timer shut off function and a 360deg oscillation. It is also splash-proof to give you peace of mind. However, we do not recommend letting it get wet excessively as this could impact the performance and longevity of the heater.
This portable heater for patios is a favorite among those who like to manage their heating. It's user-friendly, with an adjustable remote, two temperature settings, as well as the ability to turn on or off the light from an extended distance. It also comes with a built-in safety feature that shuts the device off if it's tipping.
In contrast to a gas patio heater electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide. Therefore, they are a great option for pet owners or children who aren't old enough to understand the dangers of being close to flames. These models are also great for large outdoor gazebos and areas because they have the ability to quickly warm up an area of 15m2. They're very lightweight and easy to move around and a majority of them have an remote control so that you can change settings from the comfort of your chair.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
When summer is over and children are back in school, it's time to think about adding some warmth to your outdoor space. If you're looking for a stand-alone model or one that's wall-mounted, there's plenty to pick from the electric range.
This popular choice combines low operating costs with the benefits of a heater. It can be wall-mounted or placed on an elevated base which makes it suitable for gazebos and covered porches and small gardens where a freestanding model might appear too large. It has an adjustable remote control to regulate the temperature. Users say they find it a Goldilocks option, as it's warm enough to reduce the chill without getting too hot.
The major benefit of electric patio heaters is that it can be put in a small space, such as a covered porch or garage since it doesn't emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide or other gases that are dangerous to your health. Gas heaters, on the contrary, should be placed in an open space with adequate ventilation to avoid contaminating your home.
The downside is that electric models are generally more expensive than gas ones. Electric models are also less mobile and require an electrical outlet. This is especially important for those who reside in a region that has expensive energy charges.
Another drawback of an electric heater is that it's not as powerful as a gas one, but there are plenty 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 looking for an infrared system that's affordable to run it's a great option. It's available in two sizes and has a variety of features like 360deg rotation as well as easy-to-use heat settings. It is also rated IP44 which means that it is able to stand up to small drops of rain and splashes of liquid.