Last updated on February 17th, 2022
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A great alternative to gas patio heaters without having the hassle of gas bottles. We look at 5 models that made it onto our list of the best electric patio heaters
To get the best electric patio heater means understanding the intricate details concerning patio heaters. This guide will shed light on what to expect from the trusted brands on the market, including the likes of Oypla, VonHaus and Andrew James. Hopefully, by the end of the article, you will be able to select and purchase the electric patio heater that is right for you.
Now, the best patio heater is not always the one that is the most expensive. This has been proven by the Oypla Electrical 2KW Quartz Patio Heater. From adjustable heat settings to safety overheat protection, this patio heater has quality features that provide optimal performance at an affordable price. Additionally, the product has received glowing reviews from users all over the country and beyond, indicating that it is worth the money.
BEST PICK
The top 5 electric patio heaters
- Oypla 2kW Quartz Electric Garden Patio Heater – BEST PICK
- Andrew James Patio Heater
- Firefly 2.1kW Tabletop Electric Patio Heater – RUNNER UP
- VonHaus 2000w Electric Patio Heater
- Star 1500w Infrared Halogen Freestanding Slimline Patio Heater with light and bluetooth speaker
RUNNER UP
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Top 5 Electric Patio Heater Reviews
Here are five of the most dependable patio heaters currently available on the market. They may not be the most expensive nor the largest patio heaters, but the bottom line is that they perform optimally when put to the test.
1. Oypla Electrical 2KW Quartz Electric Garden Patio Heater
BEST PICK
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Pros
- Has a waterproof rating of IPX4, meaning it can resist water splashes from any direction but don’t leave it out in the rain (after all it is electric).
- It has a heavy base for great stability, so it is fairly stable but still light enough to easily move inside when not in use.
- Offers three adjustable heat settings (650W/1350W/2000W) as well as a height adjustable mechanism and tilting head to direct heat where it is needed the most.
- Comes with a pivoting head, allowing customised coverage.
- Quick to assemble and maintain.
- 12 month warranty for full peace of mind.
Of the many patio heaters on the marketplace, the Oypla 2KW Quartz Electric Garden Patio Heater can be considered as one of the best within its price range. To start with its easily one of the most affordable and is made from quality materials, the patio heater is obviously one of the taller free-standing models. The manufacturers made the base heavier so as to increase stability, I wouldn’t say it’s ideal for windy days but still, for its size, it is very stable. Additionally, the patio heater’s height is adjustable to allow the user to find a comfortable stance from 174.5cm to 210cm at full height.
The 2kW electric patio heater comes with three adjustable heat settings so that the user is able to regulate. You increase the heat from 650W all the way to the maximum 2000W to heat your space accordingly. We really like that the head can also pivot to direct the heat to specific areas.
To heat the space, the heater is fitted with a quartz tube in order to prevent overheating and they last an amazingly long time. They are also fairly easy to replace, with replacements being available from most electric shops or online, this was our first concern as to how easy it is to replace the bulbs if needed.
The patio heater has a decent rating of IPX4 which is basically a splash rating, more than adequate for home use but it can’t be left out in rain. This won’t be an issue if it starts to rain and you bring it undercover because, as we have previously mentioned, the heater is not entirely waterproof therefore avoid leaving the patio heater out in the rain. Those who are worried about the assembly of the model can rest easy as the heater is easy to assemble and maintain. You can even download the manual here.
You may need an extension cable just in case the 2-meter cable is not long enough to reach your nearest socket. As it is a well-made heater, you can expect the bulbs to last up to 5000 hours, therefore, you will get excellent value for money.
This model measures 21cm x 50cm x47cm (height, width, depth) and it is accompanied by a 12-month warranty for full peace of mind. This warranty helps you find solutions if something is flawed with the product but hopefully, this will never be the case as it has many excellent reviews on Amazon.co.uk which you can read here.
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2. Andrew James Patio Heater
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No products found.Pros
- Elegant modern design that simply looks amazing with the floating table, perfect for resting a few glasses of wine on.
- Comes with a removable floating table and height adjustable pole for ample coverage of small or large areas.
- Features two long-lasting halogen bulbs for optimal service that each offer up to 5000 hours of life.
- Includes a safety sensor to avoid any accidents if the heater was to fall over.
- IP44 rated construction means it is splashproof, so if it starts raining as long as you bring it under cover it will be fine.
- Built from high quality steel for long-lasting durability.
- 2 years warranty for full peace of mind.
It is possible that you have never seen a patio heater like the Andrew James Patio Heater. At 210cm tall it’s a substantial piece of kit and it comes with various features that you might appreciate, as with most models. For example one of the captivating features happens to be the floating table which we absolutely love. The adjustable table offers a place to put drinks or other items that you may need whilst you relax on the patio.
To give the patio heater durability, the building materials have to be of quality. This 2100w model is made of brushed stainless steel (the same as our best pick) that has a smooth finish and looks amazing as you can see from the picture. Its IP44 waterproof rating doesn’t actually mean it’s fully waterproof, it’s more splashproof so as long as you bring it under cover should it start to rain it will be fine. A lot of people think iP44 means it’s fully waterproof but this is simply not true, it is fit for outdoor weather but not in the rain, unless it is underneath a canopy, obviously not too close though to cause a fire.
On top of that, the patio heater is fitted with a sensor whose aim is to maintain safety. If by chance the heater is accidentally knocked over, the sensors turn off the bulbs to avoid damaging the heater or anything it may fall onto. These double halogen bulbs are durable and will provide over 5000 hours of service each, this is now pretty standard for good halogen bulbs though. Look at the three heat adjustable settings to select the perfect temperature for your patio.
This easy to assemble model features height adjustability to suit the space. The height of the electric heater can be adjusted from 1.6m to 2.1m by using the knob provided. If you are sitting around the table then you might want to lower the height of the heater so as to feel the heat more effectively.
A warranty of 2-years is offered for this patio heater which is 12 months more than most other models so this is a little bonus, and I find it offers a little more peace of mind.
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Read next: Best gas patio heaters
3. Firefly 2.1kW Tabletop Electric Infrared Patio Heater
RUNNER UP
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No products found.Pros
- Tabletop size makes it easier to move around and it looks amazing when positioned with other rattan furniture.
- Features three heat settings, the highest setting is enough for a 12 seat table.
- Adds a stylish theme to the patio space thanks to its stunning design.
- Built of anodized aluminium alloy frame that is strong and durable.
- IP44 rating means the heater is suitable for use outdoors.
- Can warm areas of up to 9m2 with ease.
- Heavy base design ensures optimum stability even in windy weather.
Need a tabletop patio heater? Well, look no further than the Firefly 2.1kW Tabletop Electric Patio Heater. This model comes in two colours (black and brown) so it is easy for it to blend in with the surroundings, especially if you already have rattan furniture. To heat up the surroundings, the heater relies on a halogen element which offers up to 5000 hours of life like most models.
The patio heater features adjustable heat settings that allow you to control the amount of heat that is being dispersed. The three heat settings are 900W, 1200W and 2100W. For cold nights it is better to use the maximum heat setting so as to make certain the whole space is warm, the same is true for heating a larger table. The Firefly 2.1kW Patio Heater is designed to warm spaces up to 9m2 which is a good-sized table, at least a 12 seater furniture set. If you have a larger patio then you might want to get two of these models.
For construction materials, the frame of the heater is made from an aluminium alloy. The alloy is durable and strong enough to withstand British weather. The central pole is made from stainless steel which is known to have resilient properties. At the base of the heater is a stylish rattan finish that gives the heater an elegant look. You can believe that the rattan won’t deteriorate quickly like other cheap materials. The base of the patio heater is heavier to provide some much-needed stability. This is probably the most stable heater of any we have reviewed, thanks to the wide base and weight.
As the heater is a tabletop unit there is no height adjustment to be made. However, it possesses a waterproof rating that is required for all outdoor electrical products. With a waterproof rating of IP44, it’s suitable for outdoor use. It is better to buy a rain cover if you want to maintain the model for longer or store it indoors when not in use.
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Check out my most recent review of the best hanging patio heaters here, great for under pergolas, gazebos, parasols and pretty much anywhere you can physically hang it from
4. VonHaus 2000w Electric Patio Heater
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No products found.Pros
- Covers large areas up to 15m2.
- Sturdy freestanding structure made with a weighted base for stability.
- Wateproof construction means it is perfect for use outside.
- The head pivots to provide warmth in a given direction.
- Features a powerful quartz tube heating element with three heat settings.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
The VonHaus 2000w Electric Patio Heater is a freestanding patio heater that you can purchase and would be a very close second to our ‘Best Pick’. We actually prefer this model over our ‘Best Pick’, only because we think it looks better and it also has a longer warranty. However, the price is also higher, which is why we haven’t named this as our ‘Best Pick’. The heater measures 174.5cm – 210cm x 50cm (W) x 47cm (D) and it is able to heat up large areas up to a maximum of 15m2. This is adequate coverage for smaller and larger patios, making it attainable for all.
Made of durable steel, the model features a heavy base that is designed to hold the heater in a very stable position. Whether you live in a windy area or not, you can be sure that the patio heater will retain its stability assuming you don’t have it out in strong gales of course, or the beast from the east! With a waterproof rating of IPX4, the heater is able to keep at bay any damage caused by moisture infiltrating the electronics making it suitable for outdoor use, which is obviously the whole point of a patio heater.
To warm up the space, the model relies on quartz tubes to supply heat. Offering up to 2500 hours of heat, the electric patio heater comes with heat adjusting settings and depending on the amount of heat required, you can select between the 650W, 1350W and 2000W heat settings so plenty to choose from.
The height of this model can be adjusted to suit the size and overall height of the patio. The heaters height can be adjusted from 174.5cm to 210cm to achieve this. The product furthermore possesses over-heat protection to keep accidents at bay. The cable provided for this model is 3m long which is actually 1 meter longer than most other models.
This awesome patio heater comes with a 2-year warranty which is also one year longer than our ‘Best Pick. You may be wondering why this is not our ‘Best Pick’, well the short answer is the price. Our best pick is still a good heater, it is actually very good and reliable. However, if you have a larger budget, this is certainly the model we would go for.
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5. Star 1500W Infrared Halogen Slimline Patio Heater
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No products found.Pros
- Built in bluetooth speaker.
- Easy to Use: Provides instant and quiet heating. Heats up to 12 sq.ft. Minimal set-up required. 5100 BTUs.
- Built with a sturdy base that keeps it well anchored.
- Remote control operated for greater convenience and hassle-free operation.
- Features three heat settings that gives you lots of flexibility
- Sleek and stylish design adds beauty to your outdoor space.
- Includes a safety sensor to turn the unit off if it is accidentally knocked over.
Meet the Star 1500W Infrared Halogen Slimline Patio Heater that is created with the utmost care to provide excellent service. The model weighs a hefty 12kgs indicating that it is a stable and heavy heater, a premium product, up there with the very best. This is due to the weighted aluminium base. This model may be compared to the Andrew James Patio Heater where the main difference is the lack of a removable floating table and of course the remote that means you don’t even need to leave your seat.
The model, just like many other models on the market, uses halogen tubes to disperse heat. The halogen tube is also a primary feature. This, in turn, allows you to have dinner parties at night providing a relaxed and warm ambience. It also has a Bluetooth speaker and built-in light too.
Normally, freestanding patio heaters feature height adjustment options. The Star 2100W Infrared Halogen Freestanding Slimline Patio Heater is not excluded from this. The heater can be adjusted to fit the size of your patio and still disperse the heat effectively. Measuring H130 x W45 x D45cm, the heater possesses a sensor that is created to prevent accidents. Just like all genuine models, if the unit is knocked over, the sensor picks up the movement and shuts down the halogen tubes.
What makes this model unique is that it comes with its own remote control. The remote control will allow you to make changes to the patio heater without moving from your seat. It may be a bit pricey but the heater is easy to assemble and works like a charm!
Overall, the build quality is far superior to cheaper models but this and the remote feature comes at a price and this, unfortunately, means it is four times more expensive than our ‘Best Pick’. It is very expensive, but if you have the budget it is well worth considering. Some might say it’s the Rolls Royce of patio heaters.
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Buyer’s Guide
When looking for the best-corded patio heater it requires a bit of knowledge about what to expect. They say that nothing good comes easily, but finding the best electric patio heater that is available on the market will hopefully be made a little easier with our guide and reviews.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking for a suitable patio heater for your house:
The benefits of buying an electric heater as opposed to other types
- Good for the environment as no emissions are produced.
- They are energy efficient, using less power than other fuel options making them much cheaper than gas to run.
- Simple and safe for daily use. There is no fear of gas leaks and you never need to worry about running out of gas.
- They run quietly compared to gas patio heaters, although gas heaters are not that loud.
- They warm large areas effectively without consuming too much energy.
- They require less maintenance in terms of long time service, simply give it a clean now and again and maybe change heat tubes when needed.
- Lightweight, making them much easier to move around in comparison to heavier gas models and store away when not in use.
- Often very easy to build and use.
Electric patio heater styles
Electric patio heaters have given product designers a chance to tinkle with their imagination. You can find patio heaters that fit into the décor you have on your patio or look for pieces that stand out. Here are some of the styles available;
Freestanding models
Created to stand freely without support, freestanding models are a favourite for outdoor heating. They are stand tall enough to disperse heat over larger areas at head height. These models usually feature a heavy base so that they can remain fairly stable. Many top models are made with quality materials that can withstand outdoor conditions, keeping rust at bay.
Table-top models
As the name indicates, these models are designed to sit on tabletops. These miniature patio heaters are appropriate for smaller spaces that don’t require too much power to warm up. Same as the free-standing model, these heaters feature a weighted base to provide adequate support.
Mountable models
If you are tied down for space then mountable patio heaters are a good option. These kinds of models come with brackets that help mount the heater to the wall or ceiling. Some of the higher-end units need professionals to install them, but most can be fitted by any competent person. These models are excellent as you can have them mounted out of the way.
Depending on the amount of space you have, all these styles work effectively.
Size of your patio
How big is your patio? This will determine the amount of power and size you need to warm up the entire area. The amount of power needed is calculated in watts/voltage or BTU rating. When it comes to electric patio heaters, the higher the wattage the more heat is dissipated. Larger areas require heaters with a high wattage to disperse heat effectively or more than one heater. For example, a patio of 12m2 can be heated effectively with a 1200w electric patio heater.
Location and placement
Where you decide to place your patio heater is important so as to avoid accidents. Ensure that the heater is placed on flat ground and that it is stable. This will keep people from tipping the heater over easily.
Furthermore, place the patio heater in a safe place away from any objects that could burn or cause fires. If you are mounting your heater on the wall or ceiling check for materials ruled as combustible by the manufacturer. This information can be found on the unit’s manual so as to keep unwanted accidents from happening. Most of this really is just common sense!
Safety features
Being that these are electrical products, safety cannot be overlooked. Any heating elements need safety features to keep things from going out of hand. For electric patio heaters here are some of the common safety features:
Cool-to-touch glass
This feature is especially advantageous if you have curious children and pets in the house. It even saves a few adults from burning themselves due to forgetfulness.
Overheating protection
Many of the patio heaters on the market need overheating protection. Due to usage over long periods of time, the heater might overheat. When this happens, many models will automatically shut down to allow the unit to cool off. A good example of one such model is the Oypla 2KW Patio Heater. All models should have this feature but some cheaper imports don’t (which shouldn’t be legally sold but have been know to make it on sale) so we recommended buying from trusted brands and avoid these models.
Tip-over protection
Models such as the Star 2100w Infrared Halogen Slimline Patio Heater come with sensors. The sensors switch off the halogen bulbs/tubes the minute the heater is tipped over.
Aesthetic considerations
If you like to synchronise the décor in your house then you might want to consider the patio heater you select. You have the option of different colours, materials and finishes applied to the heaters. For example, the Firefly 2.1kW Table Top Electric Infrared Patio Heater has a rattan finish. In case you have rattan furniture on the patio, you will have a beautiful patio heater to match.
Assembly options
There are models that are simple to assemble and then there are those that come with scanty instructions. Before purchasing a patio heater, research comments online. By doing this you will have an inkling of how long it takes to assemble or if the unit comes fully assembled. We obviously only recommend models that are easy to build and have done the research for you. The good new is most electric patio heaters are easy to build.
Adjustable features
With patio heaters, there are only a few features that can be adjusted. One can adjust the heat setting, the angle of heat direction and the height of the heater. Heat settings allow the user to find a comfortable temperature whilst the height adjustment ensures that the unit fits on the patio. Getting a patio heater with a pivoting head will certainly help in directing the heat to where it is needed.
Additional features
As additional features are never too far when it comes to patio heaters. Some manufacturers provide rain covers for the heaters while others choose to provide remote controls. There are models such as the Star Infrared Halogen Slimline Patio Heater that come with a quality remote control. All these additional features are meant to facilitate easy interactions with the patio heaters.
Patio heater prices – £40 should get you a good patio heater
The economy always has its ups and downs but it is always possible to get yourself a nice deal. When looking to purchase an electric heater you need to consider your budget. Of course, there are cheaper models but how long will they last. It is preferable to spend more and get a model that will last you for years to come.
Final Conclusion
The market is not limited, so why should you limit yourself? There are many dependable units on the market that can fit your needs. Electric patio heaters are safe and their running costs are lower compared to their gas counterparts.
Finding the best-corded patio heater will see to it that you enjoy more time on your patio with friends and family. The size, style and power requirements depend solely on your preference, therefore, choose wisely. If you have children or pets running around remember to take any precautions necessary to avoid random accidents. Other than that, you will get the hang of it.
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