7 smart tips for choosing the perfect patio heater

Do you ever find yourself standing on your patio as the temperature drops and thinking, "If only it were as warm as it is inside?" You're not alone. More and more people want to use their outdoor space year-round, but they often choose the wrong patio heater. The result? Disappointment, wasted money, and cold evenings. Fortunately, it doesn't have to be that way. With these 7 practical tips, you can choose the patio heater that's perfect for your needs.

1. First determine your available space and mounting options

Before you even start looking at models, you need to know where your patio heater will be installed. Do you have a canopy or pergola? Then [hanging patio heaters] or wall-mounted models are ideal. They don't take up any floor space and distribute heat optimally from above. Measure the height of your canopy: for hanging models, you need at least 2.5 meters for safe use.

No roof? Then freestanding models are your best friend. These flexible heaters can be placed exactly where you need them. Perfect for those who regularly change their garden layout or want to take the heater to different locations. Note: freestanding models require a stable base and should not be placed too close to flammable materials.

Do you live in an apartment with a balcony? Then choose compact wall-mounted or tabletop models. These take up little space and are often lighter, ideal for smaller outdoor spaces where every square meter counts.

2. Choose the right power for your surface area

This is where things often go wrong: people choose a heater that's either too weak or too powerful. As a rule of thumb, you need about 100 watts per square meter. So, for a 15-square-meter patio, choose a model with at least 1500 watts.

But keep in mind: this is a basic guideline. Do you have an open patio without windbreaks? Then add 20 percent. Is your patio sheltered by fences or walls? Then the basic output is sufficient. A 2500-watt patio heater will comfortably heat a room of approximately 20-25 square meters under a canopy.

For restaurant patios or large gardens, models ranging from 2000 to 2500 watts are best suited. These provide sufficient heat for multiple seating areas and often have multiple heat settings, allowing you to adjust the output to the number of guests and the outside temperature.

3. Electric or gas: make a conscious choice

Electric patio heaters are the most popular choice for homeowners. They're low-maintenance, ready to use, and only require an electrical outlet. Perfect for under covered areas where you already have electricity. Modern infrared heaters don't heat the air, but rather the objects and people directly, which is much more efficient.

Gas patio heaters offer more flexibility in terms of placement. You're not dependent on an electrical outlet, and they often deliver a higher output. Ideal for large, open patios or areas without a power supply. Downside: you have to refill propane or butane cylinders, and maintenance costs are higher.

Gas models are often more attractive for the hospitality industry due to their higher heating capacity and robust construction. However, homeowners are increasingly opting for electric models for their ease of use and lower long-term operating costs.

4. Invest in smart features that really make a difference

Modern patio heaters are much more than just a heating element. Smart patio heaters with Wi-Fi functionality can be controlled from your smartphone. Convenient if you're already inside and the heater is still on. Use an app to set timers, adjust the temperature, and monitor energy consumption.

A remote control is practically a must-have. Nobody wants to get up to turn the heater up or down. Look for models with multiple heat settings, preferably at least three. This way, you can perfectly adjust the heat to the outside temperature and save energy.

Safety features are crucial. Anti-tip protection ensures the heater automatically switches off if it falls over. Overheating protection prevents dangerous situations. And a timer function is not only convenient but also economical: the heater automatically switches off after a set time.

5. Pay attention to energy consumption and operating costs

A 2000-watt patio heater costs about €0.80 per hour at an electricity price of €0.40 per kWh. If you use it an average of 3 hours per evening, 4 evenings per week for 6 months, that's about €230 per season. Sounds like a lot, but compared to sitting inside with the heater on, the difference is smaller than you think.

Infrared heaters are up to 30 percent more efficient than traditional halogen models. They heat directly and don't waste energy heating up air that's already blown away. This saves tens of euros annually, making the slightly higher purchase price worthwhile.

Consider models with an eco mode or multiple power settings. On mild evenings, the lowest setting is often sufficient, significantly reducing your energy bill. Some smart models even automatically adjust the power based on the ambient temperature.

6. Consider maintenance and lifespan

Quality pays off. An inexpensive patio heater costing €80 will last an average of 2-3 years. A high-quality model costing €180 will easily last 5-7 years. This translates to less per year of use for the more expensive model. Consider brands like Eurom, Heatix, or Sunred, which are known for their reliability.

Electric models require minimal maintenance: occasional dusting and checking the heating elements. Gas models require more attention. Regularly check the hoses, have the burner cleaned, and check the gas pressure. An annual service will significantly extend their lifespan.

Invest in a good protective cover. Even though patio heaters are weatherproof, a cover protects against dirt, leaves, and extreme weather conditions. This extends the lifespan and keeps your heater looking new for longer.

7. Match the style to your outdoor space

A patio heater isn't just functional; it's also a striking addition to your garden. Modern models are available in sleek black, industrial gray, or warm copper. Choose a color that complements your garden furniture and architecture. A black wall heater blends beautifully against a dark wall, while a stainless steel model perfectly complements a modern lounge set.

Consider the design. Hanging models with a sleek, minimalist design suit contemporary gardens. Classic freestanding gas heaters with a mushroom shape create a nostalgic look. Flat infrared panels are popular for modern patios: they are inconspicuous yet deliver excellent performance.

Consider lighting as well. Some models have integrated LED lighting that creates ambiance. Others have a warm orange glow from the heating element that creates a warm atmosphere. Choose what suits the desired ambiance on your patio.

Ready for years of enjoyment

With these 7 tips, you'll make a well-considered choice that perfectly suits your situation. Whether you choose a flexible standing model, a space-saving wall heater, or a powerful hanging heater, the most important thing is that you enjoy it for years to come. Remember: the best patio heater is the one you actually use. So choose comfort, choose quality, and enjoy warm evenings outdoors.

Which patio heater is best suited to your outdoor space? Share your experiences or ask your question in the comments below.