How to Choose the Best Electric Patio Heater uk
With the summer heatwave a distant memory and Autumn in full swing, it's time to start thinking about extending your outdoor space.
And what better way than to get a new patio heater? But which one is the best one to buy? We've put together a guide to help you select the best electric patio heaters in the UK.
Flexibility
There are a variety of heaters available, each with its particular strengths and weaknesses. Some are better suited to larger spaces, while others are more suitable for indoor use. Some are more energy efficient than other models. The most important thing is if the heater is appropriate for you and your needs.
The Kettler Kalos Copper Lantern Patio Heater is an excellent option if you're on a tight budget and are looking for something simple and effective. It's designed to look like traditional lanterns and boasting a stunning shiny finish, it's easy to move around your garden (although since it's electric, you will be restricted by where the power socket is located). It does not have the most recent safety features, such as tilt-out, however it does have overheat protection.
The Herschel Stratus is a great option for those who are looking for an extra touch of elegance and luxury. Its advanced mediumwave radiant heating system heats objects rather than the surrounding air, meaning it's less likely to be blown away by strong winds. It also features an all-day clock that is 24 hours to ensure maximum efficiency, and a touchscreen display with a user-friendly interface that allows you to monitor and adjust the outdoor heat.
Kettler's Tri-Tier electric heater is another excellent option. Its tiers can be easily separated to give you the exact coverage you require, and it's very easy to put back together too. It's not as stylish as Stratus but it looks nice and comes with an accessory.
Gas patio heaters provide the most flexibility since they can be moved wherever you want. Electric models have to be near a power source. Gas models also have the ability to heat more areas than electric models, but they are generally more expensive.

When selecting an electric patio heater take into consideration the size, the area it will be placed in, as well as any other features you may need. For example, some models come with a low-glare option that can help you keep out harsh lighting. You may want to think about the power source and how you intend to use your patio heater. You can also consider different options like designs and colors to match your existing decor.
Energy efficiency
There's no need for a gas supply when using electric patio heaters, meaning they don't release carbon monoxide, and are safe in areas that are susceptible to wind. However, they're less efficient than their gas counterparts. The most efficient models can be dimmed and can be turned off or on at a remote or via the use of a timer. This allows you to conserve energy even when you're not in the room.
They're also great for smaller spaces in which there's not enough natural ventilation, and they're very cheap to run - around 50p/hour, with a 1500W model with maximum temperature. This makes them popular with those who are looking for a flexible portable heater that can be used all year round.
This stylish copper heater is a favorite among our test subjects. It looks like a lantern and makes the perfect accessory to create a cozy garden or dining area. Its halogen lamp emits medium and short wave infrared to effectively warm spaces up to 5m away. Additionally, the precise reflectors help to disperse heat evenly.
This small, compact heater is a good choice for a small garden. It plugs straight into the wall without any wires. Its curved, spherical design is able to provide plenty of heat while being simple to use. Its adjustable heat settings are also popular with customers who claim it is simple to keep at the right temperature.
The heater is affordable and doesn't compromise quality. Its wattage is slightly lower than other models listed in this guide, however it still provides a hefty amount of heat - equivalent to 6 large candles. It has three heat settings, so you can adjust the level of warmth depending on your preferences. It's also easy to move.
It's important to note that while these types of heaters do not produce as much heat as gas heaters however, they are more expensive to run. If you're looking for a cost-effective option, choose a model that has different temperatures. This will allow you to avoid wasting energy when it's not needed.
Safety
A patio heater is a major investment, so it's vital to choose one that will be safe for your family. Find a heater that has a built-in automatic shut off function, as well as safety features such as anti-tips. These features can prevent fires, and injuries in homes with children.
The power source of your patio heater is an additional aspect to consider when it is about safety. You'll require an outdoor electrical outlet to connect most electric models. You should consider a model with an extended power cord, or an extension cable for power designed for outdoor products.
A lot of electric patio heaters include an infrared heating system that converts electricity to radiant heat. This helps reduce energy consumption while also providing a warm and cozy atmosphere. This technology is safer than traditional gas models, because it doesn't emit carbon monoxide or other harmful gases. This is a fantastic alternative for those concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases.
A great electric patio heater should have a surface that is cool to the touch and an automatic shut-off feature that is built into. This will protect users from burning. These safety features are particularly important for households with small children and pets. Keep your patio heater far away from combustibles and avoid moving it when it's hot.
With electric patio heater outdoor on market, there's bound to be one that is perfect for your home and style. Look for options that offer a variety of options to meet your needs and preferences, such as remote controls, app connectivity, and energy efficiency. And remember to always adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer to ensure the security of your patio heater.
Design
As the focal point of your backyard, you must select a patio heater that complements both your outdoor furniture and your overall design. Find models that are sleek and contemporary designs, or models that are available in a variety of colors and finishes. Some models also have decorative elements, such as a latticework, or flickering flame that adds to the atmosphere of your outdoor space.
When choosing an electric model, consider its heat output and power consumption. Higher BTU ratings and more powerful models can offer greater range of heat, but they will also cost more to operate.
To save money on energy you should consider an energy-efficient model that makes use of infrared technology to warm your guests rather than traditional heat sources. You may want to consider models with multiple heating settings, or one that oscillates 360 degrees. Both of these options can increase the warmth of your guests.
Gas-powered patio heaters have more heat coverage than electric counterparts however they require a large amount of natural airflow in order to function safely. They are a great option for larger, well-ventilated areas and are generally less expensive than electric alternatives.
This is a reliable and durable option because of its rust-proof and weatherproof metal construction. Its two carbon fiber-filament lamps emit medium-wave infrared light to provide balanced heat over a wide area. The column heater that is freestanding is easy to operate and offers a number of useful features, including a remote control, adjustable tilt and 360deg oscillation.
This is a great value option for outdoor entertaining. Its compact and lightweight design means it's easy to move around your garden, while the automatic switch-off feature ensures that your guests remain safe and secure in the event that the heater goes over.
This model has a modern and minimalist style that works well with the majority of exterior decor styles. Its energy efficient halogen bulbs can easily heat up to 10m2, while its weatherproof and rustproof metal construction will stand up to the elements. This model comes with a remote control, and a timer which can be set to shut off the heater at certain times.