How to Choose the Best Electric Patio Heater uk

It's time to think about expanding your outdoor space now since the summer heatwave is long gone.

What better way to accomplish this than with an all new patio heater? Which one should you select? We've compiled a guide to help you identify the best electric patio heaters in the UK.

Flexibility

There are plenty of different heaters available, each with strengths and weaknesses. Some heaters are better for larger areas, while others are more suitable for indoor use. Others are more energy efficient than other models. What is important is whether or whether the heater is appropriate for you and your needs.

If you're on a tight budget and want something simple and effective, the Kettler Kalos copper lantern patio heater might be perfect. Designed to look like an old-fashioned lantern, and sporting an exquisite shiny finish, it's easy to move around your backyard (although as it's electric it will be limited by the location where your power outlet is situated). It doesn't come with any of the high-end safety add-ons such as tilt cut-outs but it does come with overheat protection and a handy remote control.

For a touch of elegance and style, The Herschel Stratus is a fantastic choice. Its advanced mediumwave radiant heating system warms objects more than the air surrounding it and is therefore less likely to be blown away by strong winds. It also offers a 24-hour timer to maximize efficiency and an intuitive touchscreen display that allows you to monitor and adjust your outdoor warmth.

Another great option is the Kettler Tri-Tier electric patio heater. Its tiers are easily separated to give you the exact coverage you require and is very simple to put back together too. It's not quite as stylish as the Stratus but it still looks great and comes with an included cover.

Gas patio heaters provide a lot of flexibility, since you can move them wherever you'd like. Electric models have to be close to a source of power. Gas models also be able to heat a larger area than electric models, but they can be a bit more expensive to operate.

When it comes to choosing an electric patio heater, make sure you take into account the space and the size of the heater and any other important features you may need. For instance, certain models come with a low-glare option which helps avoid harsh lighting and you might want to think about the power supply and how you intend to use your patio heater. You may also think about other options, like designs and colour variations that complement your current decor.

Energy efficiency

There's no need for gas supply for electric patio heaters, meaning they don't release carbon monoxide, and are safer in spaces that are susceptible to wind. However, they're not as efficient than their gas counterparts. The most efficient models can be dimmed and switched on and off remotely or with a timer, to save energy when you're not using the space.

They are also great for smaller spaces that don't have any natural airflow. And they're cheap to run, at around 50p per hour for a model with 1500W of maximum heat. They're popular with those seeking a portable, versatile heater that can be used all year round.

This stylish copper heater is a sought-after choice among our testers. It resembles an old lantern and is the perfect addition to an inviting dining or garden area. Its halogen bulb emits both short and medium wave infrared that effectively warms spaces up to 5m away. Furthermore, the high-quality reflectors help to disperse heat evenly.

This compact heater is another great option for a small garden. It plugs straight into the wall, without wires. Its curved spherical body delivers plenty of heat with minimum of fuss, while its simple controls make it easy to operate. Customers love its adjustable heat settings, which they claim allow them to keep the device at the perfect temperature.

It's a great value and doesn't compromise on quality. Its wattage is lower than other models in this list, but it still produces an impressive amount of heat - the equivalent of 6 large candles. It has three temperature settings so you can tailor the intensity of heat to your needs and it's simple to move around in the same way.

It's worth noting that although these types of heaters don't produce the same amount of heat as gas models however, they are more expensive to operate. If you're looking for a efficient solution, you should look for models with a variety of heat settings to avoid using too much energy when it isn't needed.

Safety

It is essential to choose a patio heater that is safe for your family. Choose waterproof electric patio heaters that has a built-in automatic shut off function, as well as safety anti-tip features. These features can help avoid injuries and fires in homes with children.

The power source of your patio heater is a different factor to be considered when it comes to safety. You'll require an outlet for your outdoor electrical system to connect most electric models. Consider a model that has a long power cord or an extension cable for power designed for outdoor products.

A lot of electric patio heaters feature an infrared heat system that converts electricity into radiant heat. This helps reduce energy consumption while also providing an inviting and warm atmosphere. This technology is safer than traditional gas models since it doesn't release carbon monoxide or other harmful gases. This is a great alternative for those concerned about the impact on the environment of their purchases.

Lastly, a good electric patio heater will feature an easy-to-touch surface as well as an automatic shut-off mechanism to protect users from burns. These safety features are especially important for families with pets or children that are small. Keep your heater away from any flammable substances and do not move it when it's hot.

There are numerous electric patio heaters that can be customized to match your lifestyle and your home. Look for options that offer a variety of features to meet your requirements and preferences, including remote controls, app connectivity, and energy efficiency. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the safety of your outdoor heater.

Design

As a focal point in your garden, it's crucial to choose a heater for your patio that complements your existing furniture and the overall design of your outdoor. Pick models with sleek, modern designs or come in a variety of colours and finishes. Some are also decorated with decorative elements, such as a latticework or a flickering flame that enhances 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 may offer greater coverage of heat, but they will also cost more to run.

To minimise energy bills, opt for an energy-efficient model that makes use of infrared technology to warm your guests, rather than traditional heating sources. You may want to consider a model with multiple heat settings or one that rotates 360 degrees. Both of these will aid in maximizing the warmth for your guests.

Gas-powered patio heaters offer a greater heat coverage than their electric counterparts, but they require a significant amount of airflow to function safely. They are a great option for larger, well-ventilated areas and are often cheaper than electric alternatives.

A rust-proof and weatherproof metal structure makes this a sturdy and reliable option. Two carbon fibre filament lamps emit medium-waves infrared, which provides balanced heating over a large area. The column heater is simple to use and comes with a variety of useful features, including the remote controller, adjustable tilt and 360deg oscillation.

This is a great budget-friendly option for outdoor entertaining. The lightweight and compact design makes it easy to move into your backyard. Its built-in automatic shut-off feature will ensure that your guests are safe even if the heater fails to keep up.

This model features a modern and minimalist style that works well with most exterior decor styles. The energy-efficient halogen bulbs are able to heat up to 10m2, and its weatherproof and rustproof metal design will withstand the elements. A great feature of this model is its remote control and timer which can be set to automatically turn off the heater at specific times.
waterproof electric patio heaters