Patio Heaters: Mistakes to Avoid When Buying

In depth

Choosing a patio heater can seem straightforward – a little warmth for an evening spent outdoors. However, many UK buyers stumble when making the purchase, often ending up with equipment that doesn't quite fit their needs or budget. A significant portion of disappointment stems from overlooking key considerations before committing to a model. Let’s explore some common pitfalls and what you can do to avoid them.

The most frequent error we see is selecting a heater based purely on wattage – the headline figure often touted as representing heat output. While wattage is a factor, it's misleading when considering the size of your patio area. A powerful 6kW heater will generate significant heat, but if directed at a tiny seating area, that heat will dissipate rapidly, leaving you feeling chilly while the unit runs constantly and consumes a considerable amount of electricity. Instead, calculate the square footage of your patio space. A general rule is around 10 watts per square foot for a comfortable level of warmth. Use an online calculator to determine the wattage you need, then factor in any obstructions – walls, fences or furniture – that might reduce the effective area. Then, when evaluating models, look beyond the peak wattage and consider the sustained heat output; this gives a better indication of how effectively the heater will perform.

Another significant oversight is neglecting to assess the projection radius of the heater. Many patio heaters are designed to direct heat outwards, but the range depends heavily on the type of unit – infrared, arc or ceramic. An infrared heater, for example, delivers intense heat directly at the target area, offering immediate warmth. However, its effective range is relatively short. Conversely, an arc heater produces a wider, more diffused heat pattern, suitable for larger areas but potentially less precise in directing warmth to specific seating locations. Ceramic heaters tend to fall somewhere between these two extremes. Before purchasing, carefully examine the manufacturer’s specifications – specifically the projection radius – and visualise how it will fit with your patio layout and furniture arrangement. Don't assume that a wider projection automatically equates to better performance; consider what you actually need for your space.

Beyond the immediate heating capability, buyers often fail to factor in the ongoing running costs of a patio heater. Gas heaters, while offering instant heat, consume fuel – propane or butane – which can be expensive, particularly if used frequently during shorter evenings. Electric heaters, on the other hand, use electricity and, depending on your tariff, could represent a higher long-term cost. Consider the length of time you realistically intend to use the heater each week and estimate the associated fuel consumption (for gas) or energy usage (for electric). Some models have timers or smart controls that allow you to limit running times, significantly reducing both costs and energy consumption. Research electricity tariffs and gas prices in your area before committing – it’s a factor easily overlooked but with a real impact on your overall investment.

Furthermore, many buyers are drawn to patio heaters featuring unnecessary extras like built-in lighting or Bluetooth connectivity. While these features might seem appealing at first glance, they add significantly to the initial cost without necessarily providing any benefit during typical use. A simple, functional heater that delivers warmth effectively is often a more sensible choice. Consider what you genuinely need – do you really require integrated lighting for evening ambience, or will you simply add a separate outdoor lamp? Similarly, Bluetooth connectivity might be attractive if you want to control the heater remotely via an app, but this adds complexity and expense without fundamentally improving the heating experience. Prioritise core functionality over bells and whistles to avoid paying extra for features you won’t use.

Finally, don't solely rely on visual aesthetics or marketing hype. A brightly coloured, stylish heater might look fantastic in a showroom photograph, but its performance characteristics – heat output, projection radius, running efficiency – may be underwhelming. Focus on technical specifications and reviews from reputable sources to get an accurate understanding of the heater’s capabilities. Check for independent reviews that assess the unit’s actual performance under real-world conditions, rather than relying solely on manufacturer claims or enthusiastic marketing materials. A well-designed, robust heater with efficient heating will ultimately provide a more satisfactory experience than a flashy model with compromised performance.