The best patio heaters to keep you warm in the garden even after the sun sets
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.
Scroll down for our picks for the best patio heaters and fire-pits to buy before they sell out.
Best classic fire pit for patios
Lyneham Firepit, £200, Garden Trading
Add some cosiness to your outdoor area with this contemporary firepit. Crafted in powder coated steel and fibre clay, this stylish addition to your garden is both frost and heat resistant so it's perfect for year-round use.
Check out of full edit of fire pits for a Love Island-style garden makeover and save money on outdoor heating with these Garden Trading discount codes.
Best freestanding gas patio heater
Free Standing Gas Powered Stainless Steel Patio Heater Burner, £309.99, Amazon
Ideal for heating larger spaces, this tower style gas patio heater will ensure you can enjoy your garden year round. There are different heat settings, wheels to easily move it around your outdoor space and it includes a tip-over switch for safety in case it gets knocked over on a rowdy evening.
Save on money on patio heaters with these Amazon discount codes
Best pyramid gas patio heater
Gasdepot Real Flame Outdoor Pyramid Patio Heater, £199.99, Amazon
These super stylish pyramid heaters won't look out of place in a modern home. Giving off plenty of warmth in cooler weather, they're also great for creating ambience in summer. With a gas capacity of up to 13kg, they won't need to be refilled often, and they radiate heat from all sides making them perfect for gatherings.
Save on money on patio heaters with these Amazon discount codes
Best luxury gas patio heater
Faro Propane Patio Heater, £609.99, Wayfair
This standing gas patio heater looks as good as it will feel on a chilly evening. Fuelled by propane it will give up to 40 hours of burning time per one gas bottle - now that's a whole of chatting with mates that you can catch up on.
Save money on patio heaters with these Wayfair discount codes
Best fire pit for style
Abura Metal Chimenea, £169, Made.com
Probably the most stylish fire pit we've ever seen, this chimney style from Made won't only defeat the chill but also add some serious drama to your outdoor area. With a matte black and brass finish it has an industrial feel to it; just add some wooden logs and prepare to enjoy your garden year round.
Check out of full edit of fire pits for a Love Island-style garden makeover.
Best freestanding electric patio heater
DONYER POWER Electric Quartz Patio Heater, £43.99, Amazon
Finding a standing patio heater for under £50 isn't an easy feat, but this electric heater ticks the box and so much more. With three different heat settings, you'll be able to use it no matter the weather and with its overheat protection, you're also guaranteed it's a safe option.
Save on money on patio heaters with these Amazon discount codes
Electric patio heaters
Wall/Ceiling Mount Quartz Heater Indoor and outdoor, £29.99, Amazon
If you're looking to heat a small area, this wall mounted electric heater is up for the task. With instant electric heating, it'll warm up small spaces quickly. Plus, there's no fiddling with fire starters or temperature settings, just pull the cord and enjoy this inexpensive patio heater.
Save money on patio heaters with these Amazon discount codes
Kettler Universal Lantern Patio Heater, 80cm, £219, John Lewis & Partners
With a mesh surround to keep little hands and pets safe, this 80cm Kettler patio heater provides surround heat, is silent as a mouse and will provide heat from the moment it's switched on. Plus, it's designed to heat bodies only and not boost your energy bill sparing heat on the air around you.
Save money on patio heaters with these John Lewis & Partners discount codes
Patio electric heaters UK
Kettler Kalos Plush Hanging Pendant Electric Patio Heater, Grey, £225, John Lewis & Partners
Almost too nice for outdoor use, this Kettler hanging patio heater brings the cosiness of your home into your garden so your soiree can keep going into the night. It provides heat as soon as it's switched on and, with infrared technology, it's specially designed to heat bodies rather than wasting energy on the air around you.
Save money on patio heaters with these John Lewis & Partners discount codes
Patio heater argos
Home Electric Patio Heater, £79, Argos
With up to 2000W of heat (plus two lower settings), this affordable patio heater can be used both indoors and outdoors and even installed on the ceiling, should you not want the adjustable stand.
Save money on patio heaters with these Argos discount codes
Best lamp style patio heater
Venice Heat Stand Infrared Radiant Heater, £299.99, Blumfeldt
Transform your outdoor area into a stylish London rooftop with this lamp style patio heater. Making use of infrared carbon heating elements this heater is highly efficient and durable with an extremely fast warm-up phase - all at the touch of a button.
