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 gone.
What better way to do this than by purchasing a brand new patio heater? What kind of heater should you buy? We've put together a list to help you select the best electric patio heater available in the UK.
Flexibility
There are numerous heaters available, each with its own strengths and weakness. Some heaters are better for larger areas, while others are better suited for indoor usage. Others are more energy-efficient than other models. What is important is whether or not the heater is right for you and your requirements.
If you're on a tight budget and need something simple and effective then the Kettler Kalos copper lantern patio heater could be perfect. It's designed to look like an old-fashioned lantern, and sporting a stunning shiny finish, it's simple to move around your backyard (although as it's electric you will be restricted by the location where your power outlet is located). It doesn't come with any of the high-end safety add-ons like tilt cut-outs, however it does have overheat protection and a convenient remote control.
For a little more luxury and elegance, The Herschel Stratus is a fantastic choice. Its sophisticated mediumwave radiant heating system is able to heat objects more than the air surrounding it, meaning it's less likely to be blown away by powerful winds. It also offers an all-day timer that can be set for 24 hours to ensure maximum efficiency, and a simple touchscreen display that allows you to monitor and adjust the temperature of your outdoor space.
Another option is the Kettler Tri-Tier electric patio heater. Its tiers are easily separated to give you the exact coverage you need and is very simple to put back together too. It's not as elegant as Stratus however it is stylish and comes with an accessory.
Gas patio heaters give you the most flexibility since they can be moved wherever you'd like. Electric models must be close to a source of power. Gas models also provide a greater heat to an area than electric ones, however they tend to be more expensive to operate.
When it comes to choosing an electric patio heater, ensure you consider the space suitability and the dimensions of the heater, and any other features you might require. For instance, some models come with a low-glare option which helps keep out harsh lighting. You may want to think about the power source and the way you utilize your heater. There are other options, such as color variations and design variations that match your existing decor.
Energy efficiency
Electric patio heaters do not require gas and therefore emit no carbon monoxide. They are also safer in areas that are susceptible to winds. They are less efficient than gas heaters. The most efficient models are dimmable and can be turned off or on via remote control or a timer. This allows you to conserve energy while you're not in the room.
They're also suitable for smaller rooms in which there's not enough natural ventilation. Additionally, they're very cheap to run - about 50p/hour based on a 1500W model with maximum temperature. They are popular with people looking for a portable, versatile heater that can be used throughout the year.
A favorite among our testers, this stylish copper heater looks like a traditional lantern and is the perfect addition to a cozy outdoor space or dining area. Its halogen bulb emits both medium and short wave infrared, which can effectively warm areas that are up to 5m away. Furthermore, the high-quality reflectors help to distribute heat evenly.
This compact heater is a good choice for a smaller garden. It plugs straight into the wall with no wires. The spherical body, which is curved, provides plenty of heat with the minimum of fuss, while its simple controls make it simple to operate. Customers love the adjustable heat settings, which they claim make it easy to maintain the device at a perfect temperature.
It's a great value and doesn't sacrifice quality. Its wattage is a little less than the other models listed in this guide, however it provides a hefty amount of heat, equivalent to 6 large candles. It has three heat settings which allows you to adjust the level of warmth to your needs and it's easy to move around, too.
Although these heaters do not generate the same amount of heat, they're also more expensive to run. If you want to find the most cost-effective option, select a model with different temperature settings. This will help you avoid wasting energy when it's not needed.
Safety
A patio heater is a significant investment, so it's vital to select one that can be safe for your family. Choose a heater that has an automatic shut off function, as well as safety features such as anti-tips. These features will help to prevent injuries and fires, especially in households with children.
The power source of your patio heater is another aspect to take into consideration when it concerns security. Most electric models are plugged into a power socket and you'll need to make sure that the heater is located within easy access of an electrical outlet for outdoor use. Choose a model with an extended cord to make this easier, or consider buying a power extension lead specifically designed for use with outdoor devices.
A lot of electric patio heaters come with an infrared heat system that converts electricity to radiant heat. This helps reduce energy consumption while creating an inviting and warm atmosphere. This technology is more secure than gas heaters because it does not emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide. This is an excellent alternative for those concerned about the impact on the environment of their purchases.
Finally, a reliable electric patio heater will have an easy-to-touch surface as well as an automatic shut-off feature to safeguard users from burns. These safety features are particularly important for households with pets and small children. Also, make sure to keep your patio heater clear from fire-prone materials and do not attempt to move it when it is still hot.
There are a variety of electric patio heaters that are customizable to fit your lifestyle and home. Look for options that offer a variety of features to meet your requirements and preferences, such as remote controls, app connectivity and energy efficiency. And remember to always follow the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the safety of your patio heater.
Design
As the focal point of your garden, it is important to select a patio heating system that complements both the furniture you already have and the overall design. Find models with modern, sleek designs or those available in a variety of colors and finishes. Some models have decorative elements like decorative latticework, or flickering fire that adds to the ambience of your outdoor space.
Take into consideration the output of heat and energy consumption of the electric model before you choose one. The higher BTU ratings of the more powerful models as well as models that have a larger coverage area may provide more heat, but will cost more to run.
To reduce your energy costs, opt for the most efficient model that utilizes infrared technology to warm your guests more than traditional heat sources. You may also want to think about a heater that has different temperatures or a 360deg oscillation, both of which can help to maximise the warmth of your guests.
Gas-powered patio heaters provide greater heat coverage than electric counterparts however they require a large amount of airflow for them to work safely. They are an excellent choice for large, well-ventilated spaces and are generally more affordable than electric counterparts.
This is a durable and reliable option because of its rust-proof and weatherproof metal construction. Its two carbon fiber-filament lamps emit infrared medium wave to give balanced heat across an extensive area. hanging electric patio heater is user-friendly and comes with a range of useful features, including the remote controller, adjustable tilt, and a 360deg oscillation.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly option for outdoor entertaining. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to move in your backyard. Its built-in automatic shut-off feature ensures your guests are safe and protected even if the heater fails to keep up.
This model is sleek and modern in its design, which matches many styles of exterior decor. Its energy-efficient halogen bulbs can heat up to 10m2 and its weatherproof and rustproof metal design can withstand the elements. One of the best features of this model is the remote control and timer which can be set to automatically shut off the heater at certain times.