What is a good patio heater?
, 9 min reading time
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Finding the best patio heater is an important question when you are looking to buy an outdoor heater. You want to know how to heat your outdoor space as efficiently as possible. There are many different patio heaters on the market — from electric infrared heaters to gas heaters, from freestanding models to hanging outdoor heaters. Which patio heater suits you best depends on the type of terrace, your budget and how you plan to use it. An open terrace has different requirements than a covered terrace or a conservatory. In this guide you will find everything you need to make the right choice.
What is a patio heater?
A patio heater is a heating device specifically designed for use in outdoor or semi-covered spaces. Unlike indoor heating, an outdoor heater warms people and objects directly through radiant heat or convection, depending on the type. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space comfortably even in cooler weather. Patio heaters are available as electric models and gas heaters, and come in hanging, freestanding and built-in variants.
Pros and cons of a patio heater
A patio heater offers clear advantages, but there are also points to consider before making a purchase.
Pros
- Extended outdoor season: A patio heater significantly extends the time you can spend outside. Even on cooler evenings or during spring and autumn, you can still sit outdoors in comfort.
- Instant warmth: Electric infrared heaters deliver heat almost immediately, with no warm-up time required.
- Great for guests: Whether at home or in a hospitality setting, a good outdoor heater ensures guests stay longer and feel comfortable.
- Versatile placement options: From ceiling mounting to freestanding models — there is always a solution that fits the available space.
- Minimal light emission with infrared: High-quality infrared heaters produce little to no disruptive light.
Cons
- Energy consumption: Powerful patio heaters consume a relatively high amount of electricity or gas during intensive use.
- Limited coverage per unit: A single patio heater does not always cover a large terrace fully. Multiple units may be needed.
- Gas heaters not for enclosed spaces: Gas-powered patio heaters are not suitable for closed spaces due to oxygen consumption during combustion.
- Light emission: Some electric models emit visible light, which can be experienced as intrusive.
Electric patio heater or gas heater?
One of the first decisions when buying a patio heater is: electric or gas? Both types have clear advantages and disadvantages depending on your situation.
An electric patio heater plugs into a standard power outlet. This makes it ideal if you have no gas connection or prefer not to use gas cylinders. Electric patio heaters provide instant heat and can often be controlled with a remote control. Electric infrared heaters emit little light and are suitable for both open and covered terraces.
A gas patio heater runs on butane or propane gas and can be used flexibly without relying on a power outlet. The flame creates an atmospheric ambience and the coverage is wide — useful for high ceilings or large outdoor areas. The downside is that gas heaters are not suitable for enclosed spaces, as they consume oxygen during operation.
Which patio heater suits which terrace?
The type of terrace largely determines which patio heater is most suitable. Getting this right from the start will help avoid disappointment.
- Enclosed terrace or conservatory: Choose an electric long-wave infrared heater. It warms the air and produces little light. A gas heater is absolutely not suitable here.
- Open terrace: Choose a short-wave patio heater. It delivers radiant heat that is not dispersed by wind. Gas heaters are also an option here.
- Semi-open terrace or covered outdoor area: A medium-wave heater or a high-quality infrared heater with an ECO reflector works excellently here. The Solamagic ECO+ series is a strong choice in this case.
Short-wave heaters are the most powerful for radiant heat — they warm people and objects directly. Medium-wave heaters do this too but less intensively. Long-wave heaters warm the air, which is ideal in enclosed spaces but less effective on a windy open terrace.
Top 3 best patio heaters
1. Solamagic ECO+ 2000W Nano-Anthracite
The Solamagic ECO+ 2000W is a premium infrared heater that delivers powerful warmth with minimal light emission. Thanks to the efficient ECO+ reflector, the heated surface area is optimally utilised. The high-grade aluminium housing makes this unit both durable and stylish.
- Power: 2000W
- Very low light emission
- Designed and manufactured in Germany
- Includes mounting brackets
- Colour: Nano-Anthracite
2. Solamagic ECO+ 1400W White
The Solamagic ECO+ 1400W is a compact yet powerful patio heater in a clean white design. Ideal for smaller terraces or as supplementary heating on a larger terrace. The IR halogen lamp has an exceptionally long service life.
- Power: 1400W
- Sleek, modern design in white
- Efficient ECO+ reflector
- Easy installation
- Includes mounting brackets and manual
3. Solamagic S3 2500W Premium Built-in Set Titanium
The Solamagic S3 2500W is a top-of-the-range model for those who want maximum heat in a sleek, built-in design. The heater is rotatable by 20°, IP44 protected and suitable for mounting under plastic ceilings or awnings. It heats an area of approximately 12 m².
- Power: 2500W
- Rotatable 20° for targeted heat delivery
- Suitable for mounting under plastic ceilings
- IP44 splash-proof
- Includes premium built-in frame and manual
Patio heater comparison table
| Model | Type | Power | Suitable for | Key features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solamagic ECO+ 2000W Nano-Anthracite | Electric hanging | 2000W | Covered/semi-open terrace | Low light, ECO+ reflector |
| Solamagic ECO+ 1400W White | Electric hanging | 1400W | Small to medium terrace | Compact, long lamp lifespan |
| Solamagic S3 2500W Premium Titanium | Electric built-in | 2500W | Conservatory, covered terrace (~12 m²) | 20° rotatable, IP44, built-in frame |
Comparison: electric vs. gas
| Feature | Electric patio heater | Gas patio heater |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | Power outlet required | Gas cylinder or gas line |
| Suitable for enclosed spaces | Yes | No |
| Instant heat | Yes, almost immediately | Yes, after start-up time |
| Ambience | Neutral to low light | Atmospheric flame |
| Coverage | Targeted, varies by model | Wide all-round coverage |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Gas cylinders to refill/replace |
Frequently asked questions about patio heaters
What is the difference between a short-wave and long-wave heater?
A short-wave heater warms people and objects directly through radiant heat — ideal for open or windy terraces. A long-wave heater warms the air and is better suited for enclosed or covered spaces.
How many watts does a patio heater need?
As a general rule, allow approximately 1000W per 6 to 8 m². A 2000W model is suitable for a terrace of around 12 to 16 m², depending on mounting height and shelter.
Is the infrared radiation from a patio heater harmful?
No, the infrared radiation from high-quality patio heaters is not harmful to health. It is the same thermal radiation as sunlight, but without the UV component.
Can a patio heater be left outside in the rain?
A heater with IP44 protection is splash-proof and suitable for covered outdoor installation. During heavy rainfall or snowfall, it is advisable to protect or remove the patio heater.
Which patio heater is suitable for a covered terrace with a plastic ceiling?
For mounting under a plastic ceiling or awning, the Solamagic S3 2500W is an excellent choice. Thanks to its solid insulation and built-in frame, this model can be safely mounted close to the ceiling.
Is a patio heater right for you?
A patio heater is not the most suitable solution for everyone. Below you will find an honest overview to support your decision.
When is a patio heater less suitable?
- If you have a fully open terrace with no shelter at all and want to heat in strong wind — even the most powerful short-wave heater has its limitations in these conditions.
- If your budget is limited and you only sit outside occasionally — the investment only pays off with regular use.
When is it overkill?
- For a small balcony of 2 m², a 2500W built-in heater is excessive. A more compact model such as the Solamagic ECO+ 1400W is more than sufficient in that case.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a gas heater for a covered or enclosed space — this is dangerous.
- Focusing only on wattage without considering the type of terrace.
- Placing a freestanding patio heater in a very windy spot without any shelter.
- Forgetting to check the IP rating for outdoor installation.
Use cases
- Home terrace: A hanging or freestanding electric infrared heater provides comfort without taking up much space.
- Hospitality and events: The Solamagic S3 2500W is an excellent choice for professional applications with high demands on comfort and aesthetics.
- Seasonal use: Those who sit outside occasionally in spring or autumn will find a model between 1400W and 2000W more than adequate.
At Doika, we are happy to help you find the patio heater that truly fits your situation — not necessarily the most expensive model, but the most suitable one.
Why Doika?
Doika is a specialised online retailer for patio heating and outdoor comfort, with a carefully curated range of high-quality patio heaters and outdoor heaters. Order easily online with fast delivery, clear warranty conditions and a transparent returns policy. For questions about choosing, installing or servicing your heater, the Doika team is personally available via chat, email or phone.
Conclusion
The best patio heater is the one that matches your terrace type, your space and your usage. Whether you choose a compact infrared heater or a powerful built-in model — at Doika you will always find the right one. Browse the full range of patio heaters at Doika and enjoy your outdoor space for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a short-wave and long-wave heater?
A short-wave heater warms people and objects directly through radiant heat — ideal for open or windy terraces. A long-wave heater warms the air and is better suited for enclosed or covered spaces.
How many watts does a patio heater need?
As a rule of thumb, allow around 1000W per 6 to 8 m². A 2000W model is suitable for a terrace of approximately 12 to 16 m², depending on mounting height and shelter.
Is infrared radiation from a patio heater harmful?
No, the infrared radiation from quality patio heaters is not harmful to health. It is the same heat radiation as the sun, but without the UV component.
Can a patio heater stay outside in the rain?
A heater with IP44 is protected against splashing water and suitable for covered outdoor installation. In heavy rain or snow, it is advisable to protect or remove the patio heater.
Which patio heater is suitable for a covered terrace with a plastic ceiling?
For installation under a plastic ceiling or awning, the Solamagic S3 2500W is an excellent choice. Thanks to its solid insulation and built-in frame, this model can be safely mounted close to the ceiling.
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