How to Choose the Best Electric Patio Heater uk
With the summer heatwave becoming a distant memory and Autumn in full swing, it's the perfect time to start thinking about extending your outdoor space.
What better way to do this than by purchasing a brand new patio heater? But which one should you buy? We've created a guide that will help you choose the best electric patio heaters in the UK.
Flexibility
There are plenty of different heaters to choose from and each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are better suited to larger spaces, others more suitable for indoor use, and some are more energy efficient than other models. What matters most is whether the heater is appropriate to your needs and preferences.
The Kettler Kalos Copper Lantern Patio Heater is a great option if you are on a tight budget and want something simple and efficient. It's designed to resemble an old-fashioned lantern, and sporting a gorgeous shiny finish, it's easy to move around your backyard (although since it's electric, you will be restricted by where the power socket is situated). It's not equipped with the latest safety features such as tilt-out, but it does come with overheat protection.
For a little more luxury and style the Herschel Stratus is a fantastic option. Its sophisticated mediumwave heating technology is able to heat the objects and not the air around them. This means it is less likely to blow away in strong winds. It also has a 24-hour timer to maximize efficiency, and a simple touchscreen display that allows you to monitor and adjust the warmth of your outdoor area.
Kettler's Tri-Tier electric heater is another excellent alternative. Its tiers can be separated to provide you with the exact coverage you require and is very simple to put back together. It's not quite as stylish as the Stratus however it looks fantastic and comes with the cover for free.
Gas patio heaters are also an excellent option for flexibility because they can be taken wherever you want, while electricity models must be kept in close proximity to a power source. Gas models will also be able to heat a larger area than electric models, but they can be a bit more expensive to run.
When choosing an electric patio heater, ensure you take into account the space, size of the heater and any other important features you might need. Certain models have a low-glare function that can help to reduce the harsh lighting. You might also want to consider the power supply and the way you plan to use your patio heater. You can also consider other options, such as designs and colour variations that complement your current decor.
Energy efficiency
There's no need for gas supply with electric patio heaters, which means they don't emit carbon monoxide and are safe in areas prone to wind. They are less efficient than gas heaters. The most efficient models can be dimmed and can be turned off/on via remote control or an alarm clock. This allows you to conserve energy when you're not in the room.
They're also suitable for smaller rooms where there isn't enough natural ventilation. Additionally, they're incredibly affordable to run - about 50p/hour, basing on 1500W models at maximum heat. This makes them popular with people who are looking for a flexible portable heater that can be used all year long.
A favourite among our testers, this elegant copper heater resembles a traditional lantern and is the perfect accent for a cosy outdoor space or dining area. Its halogen bulb emits both short and medium wave infrared, which can effectively warm spaces up to 5m away. Plus, its precision reflectors help spread the heat evenly.
This handy little heater is a good choice for a small garden. It plugs straight into the wall, without wires. The spherical shape, curving design provides plenty of heat and is easy to use. Customers are raving about its adjustable heat settings, which they say help keep the device at the perfect temperature.
This heater is very affordable and doesn't compromise quality. The wattage might be a little lower than the other models in this review however it still generates lots of heat. The equivalent of six large candles. It has three temperature settings so you can tailor the amount of warmth to your needs, and it's easy to move around with, too.
It's important to note that while these types of heaters do not produce the same amount of heat as gas models, they can be more expensive to operate. If you're looking to find the most cost-effective option, select a model that has different heat settings. This will allow you to avoid wasting energy when it's not needed.
Safety
A patio heater is a major purchase, so it's crucial to select one that can be safe for your family. Choose a heater that has an automatic shut off function, and safety anti-tip features. These features will help prevent burns and injuries, especially in households with children.
The power source of your patio heater is an additional aspect to take into consideration when it concerns security. You'll need an outlet for outdoor use to connect the majority of electric models. Choose a model with an extended cord to make this easier or consider buying a power extension lead specifically designed for use with outdoor products.
Many electric patio heaters are also equipped with an infrared heating system that transforms electric energy into radiant heat, reducing energy consumption and providing a warm, cozy atmosphere. This technology is more secure than traditional gas models because it doesn't emit carbon monoxide or other harmful gases. This is a fantastic alternative for those who are concerned about the impact on the environment of their purchases.
Finally, a reliable electric patio heater should have cool-to-the-touch surfaces and a built-in automatic shut-off mechanism to protect users from burns. These safety features are particularly important in households with pets and children who are small. Additionally, be sure to keep your patio heater clear from combustible materials and never attempt to move it while it's still hot.
With so many unique electric patio heaters on market, there's bound to be a perfect fit for your home and lifestyle. Choose models that offer various features, like remote controls, app compatibility and energy efficiency, to suit your needs and preferences. Remember to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the safety of your patio heater.
Design
As a focal point in your garden, it's important to select a patio heater that matches your furniture and overall design. Choose models that have sleek, modern designs or models that are available in a variety of colours and finishes. Certain models feature decorative elements such as decorative latticework, or flickering fire that adds to the atmosphere of your outdoor space.
When choosing an electric model, consider its heat output and power consumption. The more powerful models with higher BTU ratings of more powerful models and models that have a larger coverage area may provide more heat, but cost more to operate.
Choose a high-efficiency heating system that makes use of infrared heat to warm your guests instead of traditional heating sources. best electric patio heater uk fireplacesandstoves might want to consider a model with multiple heat settings, or one that oscillates 360 degrees. Both of these can increase the warmth of your guests.
Gas-powered patio heaters can offer more temperature range than electric counterparts, but require a significant amount of natural airflow in order to function safely. They are a great option for large, well-ventilated areas and are usually more affordable than their electric counterparts.
This is a long-lasting and reliable option due to its rust-proof, weatherproof metal construction. The two carbon fibre-filament lamps emit medium-wave infrared to deliver balanced heat over the entire area. This column heater is user-friendly and comes with a number of useful features, such as the remote controller, adjustable tilt and a 360deg oscillation.
This is a great option for outdoor entertaining. Its small and light design means it's easy to move around your garden, while the automatic switch-off feature ensures that your guests will be safe and secure if the heater tips over.
This model has a minimalist and modern design that is a perfect match for most exterior decor styles. The energy-efficient halogen bulbs can reach temperatures of 10m2, and its weatherproof and rustproof metal design will withstand the elements. One of the best features of this model is its remote control and a timer that can be set up to automatically shut off the heater at certain times.