Best Electric Patio Heaters

A budget-friendly purchase that won't add to your electricity bills - it has various heat settings and overheat protection. It's also easy to move around your garden.

Gas patio heaters can put out a lot of warmth across a larger area, but will require regular refills of propane or natural gas. This is a great option for large gardens that are equipped with many outdoor seating and sofas.

1. Infrared heaters

The majority of freestanding electric patio heaters we tested were infra-red models. They are more affordable than gas-powered models and in the event you pick wisely, have lower running costs too. There's also little assembly required and you won't have to refill a propane tank.

The most effective ones have a remote control to make operation easy and an LED light built in to provide ambiance. One of our top picks is from German company Herschel. It makes use of circular filaments to disperse infrared mediumwave heat over an area of the size of a table. It is easy to use heating settings and 360deg rotation. Another option that is worth considering is the Westinghouse 1500W infra red heater, which uses an aluminium reflector to focus a focused beam of heat to the area you prefer to be in.

Both models are energy efficient and emit a soft, clean glow. However the Herschel is sleeker and more suited for modern electric patio heater garden rooms or if you're looking to incorporate it into your outdoor furniture. It can be used with home automation systems, which allow you to select your preferred temperature and brightness. This could save energy over time.

You should be aware that infrared heaters are efficient but only heat objects and people who are in direct contact with the heater. They cease to work when you move away. It also won't heat your patio if the winds blow it around.

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 their place. They are often located in pub gardens and have a cosy 'burning log' look that's great in all decors.

Propane patio heaters are less efficient and can also generate more noise and smog. Electric heaters are greener than propane, which is required to be replenished when it is empty. Gas heaters are more expensive and produce a higher degree of heat.

2. Gas heaters

It's the perfect time to invest in patio heaters as the summer slows down and evenings get a bit chilly. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space for a longer time. There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you choose gas or electric, from small tabletop models to floor-standing units that are designed to heat large outdoor spaces, such as a decked backyard.

While gas heaters can be more economical to buy than electric models, they can be expensive to operate - in fact, according to Heat Outdoors, "they are among the most inefficient when it comes to both the amount of heat they create and the energy they use". A typical 13kg calor cylinder gas costs PS90 new or PS50 to refill and lasts 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 more affordable to run, and have a lower carbon footprint. They are also much easier to use. Plug them in, and they'll start to begin to heat up.

Electric heaters that are suitable for outdoor use can be utilized in many different settings, such as bars, restaurants, and private gardens. Some models come with a dimming switch, which allows you to control the brightness the light is. They can be used in a closed or open space. They are also smaller than gas models and they can be moved easily. This is very beneficial for when you need to move your heater from one part of your garden to another.

These heaters are powered by plugs and require an extension cord that is suitable for outdoor use. To meet safety standards, most electric heaters can't be supplied with an extension lead over 1.8m and you'll have to be careful not to block any outdoor sockets nearby or leave the cable trailing where it could be a trip hazard.

3. Freestanding heaters

If you're a lover of the style of the gas heater but do not want to be restricted by the space it can be placed or are looking to cut costs and save money, these freestanding donyer power electric patio heater patio heaters are a great option. Powered by electricity, they're quick to heat up and easy to operate at the flick of a button or remote. They're also more affordable to run than their gas-powered counterparts.

The one from Kettler is nice-looking choice that won't look out of place amongst your rattan furniture and is weatherproof for year-round use. Its IP55 rating protects it from dust from the wind and rain (although we wouldn't suggest using a high pressure hose on it). The model also has three levels of heating to fit your space, as well being a timer shutoff between 1-9 hours.

Another option for those who don't want to be restricted by the location of gas heaters on their patios is this electric model made by Blumfeldt. It is available in two sizes, and includes many features, such as a timer remote control, as well as 360-degree oscillation. It's also splash-proof for your peace mind, though we don't advise letting it get too wet as this may affect the performance and longevity of the heater.

The portable patio heater is a favorite among those who like to control their heating. It's simple to use with the remote control, two heating settings, and the ability to turn on or off the light from an extended distance. It has a built in safety feature that turns the unit off if it is tipping.

As opposed to gas patio heaters electric models don't release any carbon monoxide. Therefore, they are a great option for families with pets or small children who are not yet old enough to comprehend the dangers of standing too close to flames. These models are great for gazebos or large outdoor spaces, as they are able to quickly warm up an area of up to 15m2. These models are light and easy to move. Some even come with remotes that let you control 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 warmth to your outdoor space. Electric heaters are available in various designs, including freestanding models and wall-mounted models.

This popular option combines low operating costs with the benefits of heater patio electric. It can be wall-mounted or positioned on a pedestal base which makes it perfect for covered porches and gazebos and also smaller gardens where a freestanding model could appear too large. It also comes with the option of adjusting the heat. It is described by some as a Goldilocks choice, because it's just warm enough to reduce the chill but not too hot.

Electric patio heaters are perfect for spaces that are small, such as covered porches or garages, because they don't release harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. By contrast, gas heaters are best electric patio heaters used in open spaces with adequate ventilation, or else they could pollute your home.

The downside is that electric models tend to be more expensive than gas models. They're also less mobile, requiring access to an electricity outlet. This is particularly crucial if you live in an area with high energy costs.

Electric heaters may not be as powerful as gas ones however, there are many options in the PS50 to PS200 price range. Some can be used to hang from awnings or parasols and you can even locate a few that run with rechargeable batteries.

This is a great option when you're looking for an infrared electricpatio heater that's inexpensive to run. It's available in two sizes and has a variety of features, including 360deg rotation and simple temperature settings. It is also classified as IP44 which means it can withstand moderate rain and splashes liquid.