Best Electric Patio Heaters
It has multiple heat settings, and it shields you from overheating. It's also easy to move around your garden.
Gas patio heaters can push out lots of warmth over a larger area, but will require a regular refill of propane or natural gas. This is a great option for large gardens with plenty of outdoor seating and couches.
1. Infrared heaters
The majority of the
Freestanding Electric Patio Heater electric patio heaters that we tested were infra-red models. They are less expensive than gas-powered versions and, assuming you choose wisely, have lower running costs as well. You don't need to replenish a tank of propane and there's not much assembly required.
The top models come with a remote control for easy operation as well as an integrated LED light to provide ambience. One of our top picks comes from German company Herschel. It uses a circular filament to radiate infrared heat across a table sized area. It is easy to use heating settings and a 360deg rotation. The Westinghouse 1500 Watt Infra-red Heater is another great option. It uses an aluminum reflector that focuses the heat beams on your preferred location.
Both models are energy efficient and emit a warm light that is clean and fresh. However, the Herschel is more sleek 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, allowing you to select the desired temperature and brightness. This could save energy over time.
You should be aware that infrared heaters are efficient but they only heat things and people who are directly in contact with the heater. They lose their effect when you move away. Also, it will not heat your patio or garden if the wind blows the heater about.
On the other side, gas heaters can warm up a much larger area if they aren't moved and are fitted with a wind shield to keep them in position. They are often found in pub gardens and have a cosy "burning log" effect that looks good in a variety of decors.
Propane-powered
patio heater electric infrared heaters are generally less efficient and produce lots of noise and smog when the flame is burning. Electric heaters are less environmentally friendly than propane, and is required to be replenished after it runs out. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce more heat.
2. Gas heaters
As Summer winds down and the evenings become a little chilly it's a good the perfect time to get an outdoor heater that will keep you warm and comfortable. There are many options available regardless of whether you opt for gas or electric, ranging from small tabletop models up to floor-standing units designed to heat large outdoor spaces, such as a decked backyard.
While gas heaters are more economical to buy than
Electric patio heaters UK models but they are costly to run. In fact, according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most wasteful when it comes to both the amount of heat they produce 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 utilize radiant heat to warm objects and people rather than the air. Electric heaters are cheaper to run, and they have a lower carbon footprint. They are also much easier to use. You can simply plug them into the outlet, and they will turn on.
Outdoor electric heaters can be utilized in a range of settings, from restaurants to bars to private gardens. They can be utilized in closed or open areas, and some come with an integrated dimmer switch that will enable you to adjust the intensity of the light. They're also more compact than gas models and can be easily moved around, which is great for when you need to move the heater from one area of your garden to another.
The downside of these heaters is that they need to be plugged into and you'll need to have an electrical outlet nearby and an extension lead designed to work with outdoor devices. Most 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 be cautious about blocking any outdoor sockets nearby or leaving the cable trailing.
3. Freestanding heaters
If you're a fan the style of the gas heater but do not want to be restricted by the space it can be placed or you want to reduce your expenses and save money, these freestanding electric patio heaters are a good option. These patio heaters are powered by electricity and are able to heat quickly. They can be controlled by a switch or remote. They're also cheaper to run than gas-powered counterparts.
This model from Kettler is a nice-looking choice that won't look out of place with your garden furniture made of rattan and is fully weatherproof for year-round use. Its IP55 rating means it's safe against windblown rain and dust (although we don't recommend using a high-pressure hose at it). The model comes with three heating levels that can be adjusted to suit your needs, and an automatic timer ranging from 1-9 hours.
Another alternative for those who aren't wishing to be limited by the position of gas heaters on their patios is this electric model from Blumfeldt. It comes in two sizes and boasts numerous features, including remote control and a timer shut-off function and 360deg oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace of mind, but we wouldn't recommend letting it get wet, as this could affect the efficiency and life span of the heater.
This portable heater for patios is popular with customers who prefer to control their heating. It's simple to use and comes with the remote control, two 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 shuts the unit off if it is tipping.
Electric patio heaters do not emit carbon monoxide unlike gas heaters for patios. This makes them an ideal option for those with pets or children who have not yet developed the maturity to understand the dangers associated with being too close to a fire. These models are great for gazebos and large
outdoor electric heater for patio areas, since they can quickly heat up an area of up to 15 square meters. They are also lightweight and easy to move. Some have an remote that lets you control the temperature from your seat.
4. Wall-mounted heaters
Once summer is over and kids are back to school, it's time to think about adding some heat to your outdoor space. Whether you're after a freestanding model or one that can be wall-mounted, there's plenty to choose from in the electric range.
This popular choice is a great way to combine low operating costs with the functionality of heating. It can be hung on the wall or placed on the floor, making it suitable for gazebos, covered porches and small gardens where a freestanding unit may seem too large. It also comes with a remote control for adjusting the heat. Users describe it as an Goldilocks choice, as it's just warm enough to ease the chill, but not too hot.
The main advantage of electric patio heaters is that it can be set up in a small area, such as 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, must be placed in an open space with sufficient ventilation to ensure that they don't pollute your home.
However, the drawback is that electric models are generally more expensive than gas models. Electric models are also less portable and require an electrical outlet. This is particularly crucial when you live in an region where energy costs are expensive.
Another drawback of electric heaters is that it's not as powerful as a gas heater, but there are plenty of options within the PS50-PS200 price range to pick from. Some can be used to hang from awnings or parasols, and you can even locate a few that run with rechargeable batteries.

If you're looking for an infrared device that is affordable to run it's a good choice. It's available in two sizes, and comes with a range of features like 360deg rotation and simple heating settings. It's also certified IP44 which means it can withstand moderate rain and splashes liquid.