Patio heaters are, without a doubt, one of the best things to buy if you live in the UK but long for the summer sun. We’ve had our first glimpse of it and, while we might have just seen…snow, we’re still eagerly anticipating the warmer weather and, well, you know what that means: garden furniture.
Whether you’re planning to have friends over to try out the cocktails you’ve perfected making or opting for an al fresco lunch, it’s time to get those sun loungers and outdoor rugs out of retirement. Oh, and with this unpredictable weather, we’d definitely suggest investing in one of the best patio heaters to keep you warm.
Whilst a trendy jacket (and a beer jacket, obvs) will go some way to ward off the chill, a patio heater or fire-pit will make all your garden get togethers infinitely more enjoyable. But it seems we’re not the only ones to have realised the necessity of outdoor heating – a quick Google and you’ll realise that any and all garden heaters are selling like hot cakes. So we’ve checked in with some of favourite home retailers and searched high and low to find the best outdoor heaters that are still available for 2022.
What kind of patio heaters are there?
Your options for outdoor warmth are electric patio heaters, gas patio heaters and fire pits. Each has their own pros and cons but the main consideration before choosing which style to go for is what will suit your outdoor space and entertaining that you’re planning. Do you have access to an outdoor power source? Is having an open fire practical for your home? (We wouldn’t recommend this option if you have small children around). The type of patio heating you go for will also have an impact on the running costs, so bear that in mind too.
Are patio heaters worth it?
For small gatherings, absolutely. Particularly if you’re planning on a few alfresco soirees for spring, when the temperatures – although climbing, can still be pretty low. Whilst they won’t heat your entire outdoor area, they’re pretty effective if you’re within a couple of meters of one. Plus, it’s something you’ll use year in and year out – extending the use you get out of your outdoor space beyond summer.
What is the most efficient patio heater?
Electric heaters like this standing one from Argos are the most energy-efficient – and as added bonus is you don’t have to worry about any CO2 emissions or the gas bottle running out midway through your evening. Electric patio heaters are about 90% energy efficient compared to around 75% for outdoor gas heaters.
What is the best patio heater to buy?
This depends on so many factors, including the amount of space you have, how you plan on fuelling your patio heater (is gas, wood or electric power easiest?), and of course the style of your home and outdoor area. If we had to pick the best electric patio heater, we would go for this Doyner Power Electric Quartz Patio Heater. At only £43.99 it’s a steal, it has 3 settings and the height of it will distribute heat better. For a rustic look, a firepit is an inexpensive option and our pick would be this Barrington firepit from Garden Trading. It’s £150, looks gorgeous, and has room for plenty of logs to keep your party warm. As for our pick for best gas patio heater, this pyramid style from Amazon is not only seriously stylish but can hold up to a 13kg gas bottle, meaning fewer bottle changes (and less chance of running out mid glass of vino and catch up.)
Head this way for the best BBQs to buy for your outdoor gatherings, over here for the best pizza ovens and this way for picnic blankets to use in the garden/park/on the beach. We’ve also got picnic sets just as stylish as the rest of your wardrobe.
