Choosing the Best Patio Heater in 2026: Complete Buyer's Guide

Choosing the right patio heater can be overwhelming. Electric or gas? Infrared or halogen? Wall-mounted or hanging? In this comprehensive guide, we'll help you step-by-step to find the perfect patio heater for your situation.

Why a patio heater?

A patio heater extends your outdoor season by months. Where you would normally close down your patio in October, with the right patio heating, you can enjoy your outdoor space well into autumn — and even winter. Whether you have a canopy, a veranda, or an open patio: there's always a suitable solution.

The advantages at a glance:

• Enjoy longer: use your patio from March through December
• Instant warmth: infrared heats people and objects, not the air
• Create ambiance: the right heater adds warmth and atmosphere
• Add value: a heated outdoor space increases the comfort of your home

What types of patio heaters are there?

Electric patio heater (infrared)

The electric infrared patio heater is by far the most popular choice in the Netherlands and Belgium — and for good reason. This type of heater works based on infrared radiation: it directly heats people and objects within its range, without trying to warm up the ambient air.

Advantages of electric:

• No gas cylinders needed
• No emissions or odor
• Safe for covered areas
• Easy installation (power outlet)
• Precise temperature control (often with an app)
• Very suitable for canopies and verandas

Disadvantages:

• Requires a fixed power connection
• Heating range smaller than gas on open patios

Ideal for: canopies, verandas, covered patios, balconies

Gas patio heater

A gas patio heater runs on propane or butane and is often the choice for completely open patios where no power connection is available. They are powerful and can heat a large area.

Advantages of gas:

• No power connection needed
• Large heating range
• Suitable for open patios

Disadvantages:

• Gas cylinders must be replaced regularly
• Not suitable for covered areas (ventilation!)
• CO2 emissions
• Higher running costs
• Less precise temperature control

Ideal for: open patios, events, unenclosed catering establishments

Hanging patio heater

A hanging patio heater is mounted directly above your table or seating area on the ceiling. This saves space and provides targeted warmth exactly where you need it.

Advantages:

• Space-saving
• Targeted heat above the table
• Atmospheric (often with LED lighting)
• No wall needed

Disadvantages:

• Limited heating range
• Ceiling mounting required

Ideal for: above dining tables, small patios, ambient heating

Electric vs. Gas: Which patio heater is right for you?

The choice between electric and gas depends on three factors:

1. Do you have a canopy?

Yes → choose electric. Under a canopy or veranda, an electric infrared patio heater is the best choice. The heat retention is better, you're not bothered by wind, and you don't have to worry about ventilation.

No → gas can be an option. On a completely open patio, a gas patio heater can provide more heat. But keep in mind: a large part of the heat is lost to the wind.

2. Do you have a power connection?

An electric patio heater requires a power outlet, preferably on its own circuit. Most 2500W models fit a standard outlet (16A), but always check your fuse box.

3. How important are running costs?

Electric is more economical in the long run. A 5 kg gas cylinder costs approximately €15 and lasts 8–12 hours. An electric 2500W heater costs approximately €0.75 per hour with average use (at a power price of €0.30/kWh).

Choosing wattage: how much Watt do I need?

The right wattage depends on the size of your space and whether it is covered:

Tip: the 2500W is the most chosen option. This wattage offers the best balance between heating capacity and energy consumption, and is suitable for most canopies in the Netherlands.

Infrared technology: Carbon Fiber vs. Golden Shadow

Not all infrared heaters are the same. There are two main technologies:

Carbon Fiber (warm light)

Carbon Fiber heating elements emit a warm, orange glow. This creates extra ambiance on your patio. The heat is pleasant and immediately noticeable.

When to choose?

• If you want to combine ambiance and warmth
• In hospitality settings
• If you want a cozy look

Golden Shadow (low glare)

Golden Shadow technology produces hardly any visible light. The heat is the same, but without the orange glow. This is ideal if you want to keep the heater as inconspicuous as possible.

When to choose?

• If you want minimal light emission
• For high-end patios and verandas
• If you don't want to see the heater, but want to feel it

Smart features: app control and more

Modern patio heaters offer smart functions that make use much more comfortable:

• App control (WiFi): control your heater via your smartphone, even if you're still indoors
• Remote control: switch your patio heater on and off from your chair
• Multiple heat settings: adjust the intensity (e.g., 9 settings)
• Timer: set an automatic shut-off time
• Touch control: operate the heater directly on the device

Tip: a smart patio heater with app control is especially useful if the heater is in a hard-to-reach place, such as high on the wall or on the ceiling.

Mounting: wall, ceiling, or freestanding?

Wall mounting

The most popular option. You mount the patio heater to the wall of your canopy or facade, usually at a height of 2.20 – 2.50 meters. Provides a sleek look and doesn't take up floor space.

Ceiling mounting (hanging)

Ideal for above tables. A hanging patio heater provides targeted heat downwards and is space-saving.

Freestanding (with standing pole)

No suitable wall? With a standing pole, you can turn a wall-mounted model into a freestanding patio heater. Flexible and portable.

Frequently asked questions

What does a patio heater cost to use?

An electric 2500W patio heater costs approximately €0.75 per hour at an electricity rate of €0.30/kWh. With average use of 3 hours per evening, 4 evenings a week, this amounts to about €9 per week.

Can I use a patio heater under a canopy?

Yes, in fact: a canopy is the ideal place for an electric patio heater. The heat retention is better, and you are less bothered by wind. Please note: gas patio heaters are not suitable for covered areas.

How high should I hang my patio heater?

The ideal height is between 2.20 and 2.50 meters. Too low can be uncomfortable, too high reduces the heating effect.

Is a patio heater waterproof?

Most electric patio heaters have an IP rating of IP44 or higher, which means they are splash-proof. For placement completely in the open air (without a canopy), an IP65 rating is recommended.

How many patio heaters do I need?

As a rule of thumb: one 2500W heater per 10–12 m² of covered space. For larger areas, it is better to place multiple heaters than one extremely powerful model — this ensures a more even heat distribution.

Conclusion: which patio heater will you choose?

For most situations in the Netherlands, we recommend an electric infrared patio heater of 2500W. This offers the best balance between power, cost, and comfort. Do you have a canopy or veranda? Then electric is almost always the better choice over gas.

Choose Carbon Fiber if you want to combine ambiance and warmth, or Golden Shadow if you are looking for an inconspicuous heater with minimal light emission.

Still in doubt? Contact us for personal advice. We are happy to help you find the perfect patio heater for your situation.

View our complete range of patio heaters on Tuinverwarming.com or discover the Heatix Smart range for the latest technology in patio heating.