best electric patio heater uk Electric Patio Heaters

A budget-friendly option that won't cost you electricity bills - it has various heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move around the garden.

Gas patio heaters can push out a lot of warmth over a larger area, but will require a regular supply of propane or natural gas. It's an excellent choice for large gardens with lots of outdoor seating and sofas.

1. Infrared heaters

Most of the electric patio heater free standing freestanding patio heaters that we tested were infra-red models. These heaters are more affordable than the gas-powered models and, if you pick carefully they will have lower operating costs too. It's also easy to install and you don't have to refill your propane tank.

The top models come with a remote control for easy operation as well as an integrated LED light that provides ambience. One of our top picks is from German company Herschel. It makes use of a circular filament to radiate infrared heat across an area that is the size of a table. It is easy to use heating settings and a 360deg rotation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infra-red Heater is another great alternative. It makes use of an aluminum reflector to direct the heat beams on your preferred spot.

Both models are energy efficient and emit a warm and clean glow. However, the Herschel is more modern and is more suited for modern gardens or if you're trying to blend it in with your outdoor furniture. It can also be integrated with home automation systems that allow you to set the brightness and temperature you prefer, which could save even more energy in the long term.

It is important to keep in mind that while infrared heat is effective however, it only warms objects and people who are directly in front of the heater and will cease to work in the event that you move away. It won't also heat your patio if the winds blow it around.

On the other side, gas heaters can provide warmth to a greater area if they aren't moved and can be equipped with a wind-shield to keep them in their place. They're often located in pub gardens and provide a cozy "burning log" effect that is attractive in a variety of decors.

Propane-powered patio heaters are typically less efficient and can produce a lot of noise and smog when the flame is burning. Contrary to propane which is stored in a cylinder and will require refilling when it is depleted the majority of best electric patio heaters 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 slows down and evenings get somewhat chilly. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space longer. There are plenty of options to choose from regardless of whether you opt for gas or electric, from small tabletop models to floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces such as 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 energy they consume and the heat they generate". A typical 13kg calor cylinder gas will cost PS90 new or PS50 to refill and lasts approximately 13 hours of heating.

Electric heaters like gas use radiant heat instead of air to heat objects and human. Electric heaters are more affordable to run, and have a smaller carbon footprint. They're also a lot easier to use. You just connect them to the power source and switch them on, while you might need to make a fire or wait for a propane model to heat up.

Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a range of settings, from restaurants to bars to private gardens. They can be used in both closed and open spaces, and some are equipped with an integrated dimmer switch that will enable you to alter the intensity of the lighting. They're also more compact than gas models and are able to be moved around which is great if you have to move the heater from one section of your garden to another.

These heaters are plugged in and require an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. To comply with safety standards electrical heaters aren't able to be supplied with an attached lead longer than 1.8m and you'll have to be careful not to block any outdoor sockets nearby or leave the cable trailing where it could pose an accident hazard.

3. Freestanding heaters

If you're a fan the style of the gas heater, but do not want to be restricted in the way it can be set up or are looking to keep your costs down with these freestanding electric Patio Heater electric patio heaters are an alternative. Powered by electricity, they're quick to heat up and easy to operate at the flick of a button or remote. They are also less expensive to operate than their gas-powered counterparts.

The Kettler model is a stylish selection that will look great with your rattan furniture. It is also fully weatherproof and can be used throughout the year. Its IP55 rating means it's protected against windblown rain and dust (although we wouldn't recommend aiming a high-pressure hose at it). This model also comes with 3 heating levels to suit your space, as well as a timer shutdown between 1-9 hours.

Another option for those who aren't wishing to be limited by the position of the gas patio heater is this electric model from Blumfeldt. It is available in two sizes and comes with a variety of features such as a timer remote control, as well as 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace of mind, although we wouldn't advise letting it get too wet as this may impact on the performance and longevity of the heater.

A top choice among many customers, this portable patio heater is a budget-friendly choice for those who like to be in control of their heating. With a remote, two heating settings, and the ability to switch the light on or off from a distance, it's very easy to operate. It comes with a built-in safety feature that shuts off the unit off if it is tilted.

Unlike a gas patio heater electric ones don't emit any carbon monoxide, so they're a great choice for pet owners or small children who are not yet old enough to recognize the dangers of being close to flames. These models are ideal for large outdoor gazebos or areas, since they are able to quickly heat an area of up to 15 square meters. These models are light and easy-to-move, and some have a remote so you can control the temperature from the comfort of your chair.

4. Wall-mounted heaters

After the summer has ended 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 different styles including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.

This popular model offers the advantages of a gas heater along with low running costs. It can be wall-mounted or placed on the base of a pedestal which makes it suitable for gazebos and covered porches, as well as small gardens in which a freestanding model may appear too large. It also has the option of adjusting the temperature. The majority of users describe it as a Goldilocks choice, because it is just warm enough to ease the chill, but not too hot.

The major benefit of an electric patio heater is that it can be set up in a restricted space, like garages or covered porches as it doesn't release pollutants like carbon monoxide and other gases that pose a threat to your health. Gas heaters, on other hand, must be placed in an open area with adequate ventilation to prevent them from contaminating your home.

However, the drawback is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas ones. They're also less portable and require an electricity outlet. That's particularly important if you reside in a region that has high energy costs.

Another drawback to electric heaters is that it's not as powerful as a gas heater but there are a lot of options in the PS50-PS200 price bracket to choose from. Some are hung from parasols and awnings. Others are powered by rechargeable batteries.

This is a great choice for those looking for an infrared heater that's inexpensive to run. It comes in two sizes, and has a variety of features including 360deg rotation and easy-to use heating settings. It's also rated IP44 which means it can withstand splashes of water and light rain.