Blog: 2023’s Best Patio Heaters for Your Garden & Outdoor Living Space
The summer is always the one thing we cherish the most. However, unlike Spain or other places with lovely sun, a summer evening in the UK could still get a little bit chilly. When the temperature drops, you may start looking for a quality outdoor patio heater. They are excellent for extending your outdoor delights with loved ones into the late evening, especially when the weather resembles a normal day in Middlesbrough instead of that in Madrid.
Certainly, you may want to spice up your garden with the finest fire pits and chimineas so that you can gather around with your family and friends while observing fading charcoal embers. However, a quality patio heater adds a touch of elegance and style to your outdoor space while doing its job.
You may wonder what kind of outdoor patio heater you should choose - gas or electrical models? Therefore, we have put together a detailed list of them so that you can warm your garden in style. Check out our top 10 patio heaters for 2023 and say goodbye to chilly, lonely evenings!
2023’S BEST PATIO HEATERS
Best Overall - Bromic Platinum Smart-Heat Electric Heaters 2.3 - 3.4kW
Best Value - Herschel Miami Patio Heater 2kW
Best for Cost-Effectiveness - Prem-I-Air 2kW Pole Mount Patio Heater 2kW
Best Tabletop Heater - Chantico Table Top Patio Heater 3kW
Best Under-Table Heater - Mensa Heating Imus Mini Infrared Patio Heater 550W
Best Freestanding Heater - Herschel Florida Freestanding Infrared Heater 2kW
Best Gas Heater - Kratki Mini Real Flame Patio Heater 8.2kW
Best Electric Heater - Tansun Rio Grande Double Wall Mounted Infrared Patio Heater 3kW
Best Space Saver - Victory Lighting HLW10 Infrared Outdoor Heater 1kW
Best for an Alfresco Dinner - Mensa Heating Vireoo Pro Commercial Infrared Table Heater 550W
HOW WE PICKED THE BEST PATIO HEATERS
Our experts and sales associates provided insights into factors like energy efficiency, heating capacity, affordability, and safety features during operation. We have also considered the common preferences of customers regarding gas and electric patio heaters. Since they are placed outdoors, build quality and waterproofing ability are also essential factors. With all these in mind, we have compared the heaters on the market and compiled a list of our favourite patio heaters this year.
1. Best Overall: Bromic Platinum Smart-Heat Electric Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: A truly multifunctional & versatile patio heater that offers everything: different heat outputs, exceptional vertical clearance & remote control
Fine with: The heat coverage area of the 2.3kW model is great, but an upgrade to 3.4kW would be better.
Heating Power (Coverage): 2.3kW (6m²) - 3.4kW (10m²)
Build: Stainless Steel 304
Features: Multiple mount options & genuine wireless control
The Bromic Platinum heaters feature a tinted glass-ceramic fascia, ensuring even heat distribution while reducing light emissions. Their sleek design adds a classy, understated touch that fits into almost any outdoor space. Furthermore, you can easily adjust the heat settings and manage up to six zones of heaters with a master controller, providing ultimate flexibility and convenience for outdoor heating needs.
Thanks to their low vertical clearance demands and the extensive selection of wall, ceiling, and flush-mounting possibilities, these compact heaters offer the flexibility to be positioned in nearly any location. Along with the durable stainless steel 304 build, these heaters are a reliable choice for any outdoor setting and confined spaces.
2. Best Value: Herschel Miami Patio Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: A versatile & efficient climate solution at a competitive price
Fine with: The cable could be longer to maximise its versatility.
Heating Power (Coverage): 2kW (Up to 12m² indoors & 7m² outdoors)
Build: Aluminium in a ceramic white finish
Features: Low-glare lamp, 2-second warm-up, wall & ceiling mounting
Constructed from robust aluminium, the Herschel Miami heater exhibits remarkable ruggedness for various applications. Whether it's for personal outdoor spaces, commercial patio and terrace heating, or industrial use in warehouses, this heater can withstand the elements. Its IP65 rating ensures weather protection, safeguarding it against the effects of wind and rain.
Thanks to its low-glare technology, the infrared lamp emits a gentle, ambient orange light that doesn't overpower the surroundings but adds to the atmosphere. The heater's efficiency is also noteworthy, as its aluminium mirror reflector plate directs 98% of the heat forward.
3. Best for Cost-Effectiveness: Prem-I-Air 2kW Pole Mount Patio Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: The BEST & SAFE patio heater at this price.
Fine with: The IP rating is not the best.
Heating Power: 2kW
Features: 3 heat settings & trip-over safety switch
Tailored for household use, the Prem-I-Air Pole Mount heater offers practicality and convenience. Its adjustable height (180 to 210cm) and movable head (up to 45 degrees) are a space-saving solution for your bespoke outdoor settings. You can easily customise the heat direction and level to suit your needs.
For added safety, it includes a trip-over safety switch that turns the heater off if accidentally knocked over, providing peace of mind during use. The heater also comes with an IP34 rating and a 1.7-metre cord. It is suitable for outdoor use despite light rain, as it is protected against splashes of water. It's fair to say that this patio heater is designed with convenience and versatility in mind.
4. Best Tabletop Heater: Chantico Table Top Patio Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: The real flame & elegant design are perfect for a tabletop.
Fine with: Some assembly is required.
Heating Power: 3kW
Build: Stainless Steel
Features: Real flame & anti-tilt safety feature
Featuring a real flickering flame visible from all sides, the Chantico tabletop heater creates a captivating and enchanting ambiance. Safety is of paramount importance, and that's why it comes with an anti-tilt feature, making it suitable for use in bustling areas or around children with assurance.
Boasting a lightweight stainless steel construction, this heater is effortless to store and transport. It's not only robust and durable, but also easy to clean in case of spills. The large reflector positioned at the top of the heater directs heat downward, providing a consistent and even heat output. Perfect for a "tabletop heater dinner"!
5. Best Under-Table Heater: Mensa Heating Imus Mini Infrared Patio Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: A perfect size for tables with super low running costs.
Fine with: Might be easily knocked over due to its light weight.
Heating Power: 550W
Features: Cost-saving, 3 colours, water damage & touch-safe
The Imus Mini heater has a sleek, modern Danish design. Weighing a mere 3.6kg, it comes equipped with a handy carry handle atop and boasts a 3m power cord for added flexibility. With a height of 67cm, its innovative design presents an unobtrusive under-table heating solution. It also offers superior cost-effectiveness, as it is 94% cheaper to run in comparison to traditional large gas patio heaters.
It incorporates a safe touch feature, allowing it to be touched during operation without causing harm. The heater also carries an IP44 rating for outdoor applications. A must-have item for your fashionable patio, decking, terrace or balcony!
6. Best Freestanding Heater: Herschel Florida Freestanding Infrared Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: A safe & highly portable freestanding heater
Fine with: Can be more ornamental to spice up gardens
Heating Power (Coverage): 2kW (Up to 12m² indoors & 7m² outdoors)
Build: Aluminium & stainless steel
Features: Quick warm-up, adjustable outputs
Featuring low-glare technology, Herschel Florida's infrared lamp emits a soft, pleasing orange glow that adds a subtle and highly atmospheric touch to any space. Its portable, freestanding design is modern and lightweight, allowing for easy mobility. With a generous 2-metre cord, you can place it virtually anywhere without the need for installation. Moreover, it incorporates a tip-over safety protection mechanism, automatically cutting the power if accidentally displaced from its position. Ideal for domestic use or around children!
7. Best Gas Heater: Kratki Mini Real Flame Patio Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: A combination of aesthetics and practicality
Fine with: Longer wait on the lead time, but WORTH it!
Heating Power: 8.2kW
Build: Steel & glass
Features: Elegant design, real flame & anti-tilt function
The Kratki Mini produces an intriguing and captivating atmosphere thanks to its real glowing flame, which is visible from all four sides. Enclosed in glass, the flame's beauty is enhanced while providing protection from direct contact with the fire. The black glass base panels provide an elegant contrast to the clear glass enclosure, discreetly hiding the LPG cylinder inside the base. Why not introduce a centrepiece to your garden?
8. Best Electric Heater: Tansun Rio Grande Double Wall Mounted Infrared Patio Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: Excellent durability & convenience for commercial applications.
Fine with: It suits bars or restaurants more.
Heating Power (Coverage): 3kW (22m²)
Build: Aluminium
Features: Quality build & useful optional equipment
The Tansun Rio Grande Double provides instant heat with economical running costs compared with gas heaters. Built with a weatherproof aluminium body, a high-quality parabolic reflector, and long-lasting gold heating lamps, it is suitable for year-round outdoor use. It also comes with a swivel wall mounting bracket and offers remote control options for user convenience. The wall-mounted patio heater is perfect for places like bars, restaurants and hotels.
9. Best Space Saver: Victory Lighting HLW10 Infrared Outdoor Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: A high-performance heater with varied mounting options.
Fine with: The heating output can be improved.
Heating Power: 1kW
Features: 3 mounting options & 7,000-hour lamp
The Victory Lighting HLW10 is the best space saver ever. It is all about practicality. It features an NDA lamp, offering fast warm-up times, quiet operation, longevity of over 7,000 hours, and cost-efficient heating. Its IP55 rating also allows for outdoor installation, even in rainy conditions. Included with the HLW10 heater are a 3-metre power cable and mounting brackets for both wall and ceiling installation, along with a clamp for attaching it to the centre flange of parasols. An optional folding parasol arm is available.
10. Best for an Alfresco Dinner: Mensa Heating Vireoo Pro Commercial Infrared Table Heater
Expert says:
Obsessed with: An all-rounded heater with brand customisation available.
Fine with: Might be harder to fuse with your garden design
Heating Power: 550W
Features: £0.07p/h running costs & optional table top
The Vireoo Pro offers customisation options, functioning either as a freestanding heater or as a table heater. It can come with or without a 60cm square table top, which allows for dining while benefiting from the under-table warmth. With its innovative design at 71cm in height, it is perfect for alfresco dining on restaurant and bar terraces. It also includes an integrated motion sensor for energy efficiency.
CONCLUSION
When it comes to investing in an alfresco patio heater, its performance always tops the list. When the cost of living is so high at the moment, it is important to choose a patio heater that is energy efficient, such as the Mensa Heating Imus Mini. On top of that, durable heaters like the Victory Lighting HLW10 are also good choices to ensure they will last for many summers to come. Finally, if you are looking to spice up your outdoor space, consider Kratki Mini and Mensa Heating Vireoo Pro!
