Patio Heaters

About Patio Heaters

Patio heaters are essential equipment for extending the usability of outdoor spaces throughout the cooler months, providing comfortable warmth for gardens, patios, terraces, and commercial outdoor areas. These heating solutions enable homeowners, hospitality venues, and businesses to make the most of their outdoor environments regardless of temperature drops. Modern patio heaters come in various configurations, including electric infrared models, gas-powered units, and wall-mounted options, each designed to deliver efficient heat distribution across defined outdoor areas.

Electric patio heaters have become increasingly popular due to their convenience, safety features, and environmental benefits. Unlike gas alternatives, electric models require no fuel storage, produce no fumes or emissions, and can be operated simply by plugging into a standard 240v mains supply. Infrared patio heaters are particularly effective, as they heat objects and people directly rather than warming the air, making them far more efficient in open outdoor spaces where conventional heating would be lost to the atmosphere. The infrared technology means heat is felt almost instantly, with no waiting time for warm-up periods.

Tooled-Up.com stocks professional-grade patio heaters suitable for both domestic and commercial applications, with models featuring IP65 weatherproof ratings for safe outdoor use. Contemporary designs incorporate adjustable mounting systems, remote control operation, and highly polished reflectors that maximise heat efficiency whilst minimising energy consumption. Whether for residential garden entertainment, restaurant terraces, or industrial outdoor work areas, these heating solutions provide reliable warmth when and where it's needed most.

Jargon Buster

• Infrared Heating: A heating method that uses electromagnetic radiation to directly warm objects and people rather than heating the surrounding air. This technology is significantly more efficient for outdoor use as heat isn't lost through air movement or convection.
• IP Rating (Ingress Protection): A standardised measurement indicating the level of protection an electrical device has against solid objects and liquids. An IP65 rating means the unit is dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction, making it suitable for outdoor installation.
• Carbon Fibre Element: A heating element constructed from carbon fibre material that produces medium-wave infrared radiation. These elements heat up rapidly, are highly efficient, and have excellent longevity compared to traditional heating elements.
• Quartz Element: A heating element using a quartz tube containing a heating wire. When powered, it produces short-wave infrared radiation that delivers instant heat. Quartz elements are known for their fast response time and durability.
• Heat Output (Watts/kW): The measurement of thermal energy produced by the heater, typically expressed in watts or kilowatts. Higher wattage indicates greater heating capacity and the ability to warm larger areas or withstand lower ambient temperatures.
• Adjustable Reflector: A polished metal surface, typically aluminium, positioned behind the heating element to direct and focus the heat output towards a specific area. Adjustable models allow users to change the angle of heat distribution.

Who Uses Patio Heaters?

• Homeowners and DIY Enthusiasts: For extending garden and patio use during spring, autumn, and winter evenings
• Hospitality Businesses: Restaurants, pubs, cafés, and bars with outdoor seating areas requiring year-round customer comfort
• Event Managers: For outdoor weddings, corporate events, and functions requiring temporary heating solutions
• Property Developers and Builders: Creating attractive outdoor living spaces in show homes and development projects
• Facilities Managers: Maintaining comfortable outdoor areas in commercial premises, hotels, and leisure facilities
• Groundskeepers and Maintenance Staff: For outdoor work areas, smoking shelters, and loading bays requiring worker comfort
• Garden Designers and Landscapers: Incorporating heating solutions into comprehensive outdoor space designs
• Caravan and Motorhome Owners: Portable heating for awnings and outdoor camping areas

How to Choose the Right Patio Heaters

Power Source: Electric patio heaters offer the convenience of simple 240v mains operation with no fuel storage requirements, making them ideal for permanent installations near buildings. They're generally safer for domestic use, produce no fumes, and require minimal maintenance compared to gas alternatives.

Heating Technology: Infrared heaters are the most efficient choice for outdoor spaces, as they heat people and objects directly rather than wasting energy warming the air. Carbon fibre elements provide excellent efficiency and longevity, whilst quartz elements offer the fastest heat-up times, reaching maximum output within seconds.

Coverage Area: Calculate the size of the space you need to heat and match it to the heater's wattage and coverage specifications. The selection at Tooled-Up.com includes models with varying output capacities suitable for intimate patio areas through to large commercial terraces.

Mounting Options: Consider whether you need a wall-mounted unit, ceiling-mounted model, or floor-standing heater with a base. Wall and ceiling mounts save floor space and can be positioned for optimal heat distribution, whilst floor stands offer portability and flexibility for repositioning.

Weatherproofing: For outdoor installation, ensure the unit carries an appropriate IP rating. IP65-rated models provide excellent protection against rain and dust, making them suitable for exposed locations. This rating ensures safe operation in typical UK weather conditions.

Control Features: Modern patio heaters may include remote controls, adjustable heat settings, timers, and directional adjustment capabilities. Remote control operation is particularly convenient for wall or ceiling-mounted units that would otherwise require a ladder to operate manually.

Safety Features: Look for models with tip-over protection, overheat cut-off switches, and appropriate cable management. Professional-grade units should comply with relevant British and European safety standards for electrical outdoor equipment.

Popular Accessories

• Weatherproof Covers: Protective covers to shield heaters during periods of non-use, extending equipment lifespan
• Extension Cables: Outdoor-rated 240v extension leads for positioning heaters away from fixed power points
• Wall Mounting Brackets: Additional or replacement mounting hardware for permanent installation
• Remote Control Units: Replacement or spare remote controls for models with wireless operation
• RCD Adaptors: Residual current devices for additional electrical safety when using outdoor power supplies
• Weatherproof Sockets: External electrical outlets with IP-rated covers for permanent outdoor installations
• Timer Switches: Programmable timers to control operating hours and reduce energy consumption
• Replacement Elements: Spare heating elements for maintenance and repairs

Safety Information

Installation and Positioning: Always follow manufacturer guidelines for minimum clearance distances from combustible materials, furniture, and structures. Electric patio heaters should be installed by a competent person familiar with outdoor electrical installations and relevant wiring regulations.

Electrical Safety: Only use patio heaters with appropriate IP ratings for outdoor use. Connect electric models to properly earthed 240v supplies, preferably protected by an RCD (residual current device) for additional safety. Never use damaged cables or attempt to operate units with visible defects.

Weather Considerations: Whilst IP65-rated heaters are designed for outdoor use, extreme weather conditions such as heavy snow, ice accumulation, or severe storms may warrant temporary disconnection. Regularly inspect units for water ingress, corrosion, or damage following adverse weather.

Supervision and Use: Never leave operating patio heaters unattended for extended periods. Keep children and pets at safe distances from heating elements. Be aware that surfaces near infrared heaters can become very hot during operation. Allow adequate cooling time before handling or covering units.

Maintenance: Regularly clean reflectors and heating elements according to manufacturer instructions to maintain efficiency. Disconnect power supplies before any cleaning or maintenance activities. Have units professionally inspected periodically, particularly in commercial settings where usage is intensive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are electric patio heaters expensive to run?
Modern infrared patio heaters are relatively economical to operate, as they heat objects directly rather than wasting energy warming the air. Running costs depend on wattage and duration of use, but a typical 2kW heater costs approximately 68p per hour based on average UK electricity rates. Because infrared heat is felt instantly, you can often run them for shorter periods than conventional heaters.

Can patio heaters be left outside permanently?
IP65-rated patio heaters available from Tooled-Up are designed for permanent outdoor installation and can withstand typical UK weather conditions. However, using weatherproof covers during extended periods of non-use will help protect the units and extend their operational lifespan. Regular inspection and maintenance are recommended for permanently installed outdoor equipment.

How quickly do electric patio heaters warm up?
Infrared patio heaters, particularly those with quartz elements, provide almost instant heat, reaching maximum output within seconds of being switched on. This is a significant advantage over gas heaters and traditional convection systems, allowing you to enjoy warmth immediately without waiting for prolonged warm-up periods.

What size patio heater do I need for my outdoor space?
As a general guide, allow approximately 100 watts per square metre of outdoor space. A 2kW heater effectively covers around 15-20 square metres under typical conditions. However, coverage also depends on ceiling height (for covered areas), ambient temperature, wind exposure, and desired warmth level. Consider multiple units or higher wattage models for larger or more exposed spaces.

Are infrared patio heaters safe for use around children and pets?
When properly installed and supervised, infrared patio heaters are safe for family use. However, heating elements and surrounding surfaces become very hot during operation, so appropriate clearances and supervision are essential. Wall or ceiling-mounted units positioned out of reach are generally safer for households with young children or pets than floor-standing models.