At a Glance:
What is an Electric Patio Heater
Benefits of Buying an Electric Patio Heater
What To Know Before Installing an Electric Patio Heater
Electric Patio Heaters to Elevate Your Outdoor Home Design
Spending time outdoors, whether it's in your backyard or on a walking trail, just makes sense when you live in sunny San Diego. But even California can sometimes get too cold to grill, chill, and gather out on your patio. But by adding an electric patio heater to your kitchen or patio design — big or small, you no longer have to let the cold temperatures take the party indoors. In this guide, our Aztec team will tell you everything you need to know about a patio heater with electric elements and offer some of our best models on the market to help keep the good times from rolling in your backyard.
What is an Electric Patio Heater?
Electric patio heaters are powerful lamps that emit radiant heat, warming those within their range. They are common additions to outdoor spaces in homes, restaurants, and community areas. Electric patio heaters are very efficient and are available in numerous sizes and designs. They are effective appliances that extend the use of outdoor spaces affected by cold weather.
Electric Patio Heater Styles
There are many different types of electric patio heaters. They can be mounted as permanent fixtures, while others are designed as freestanding portable units. Buyers can select which model of electric patio heater to purchase based on the size of the outdoor space it needs to warm.
Mounted
Mounted outdoor electric heaters are permanent solutions to heating your backyard patio. They are usually attached to deck roofs and emit heat downwards. These electric patio heaters are available in different shapes and sizes.
Electric patio heaters that require mounting installation are more expensive than their portable or tabletop counterparts. As a result, these are primarily chosen for use in commercial spaces like restaurant patios. However, homeowners with large backyards might install one on their covered deck to make sitting outside more comfortable in cooler seasons.
Portable
Portable electric patio heaters are easily moved around. These are also called outdoor heat lamps. They usually resemble columns or metal umbrellas. The heater base sits on the ground and can be pushed or carried from one area to another.
Tabletop
Do you have a small balcony or deck? Tabletop electric patio heaters are very effective in warming up small spaces. They do not have specific electrical requirements and are easily stored when not in use. Tabletop electric heat lamps come in lots of different decorative styles. Compared to the portable and mounted models, these are the most inexpensive option for customers looking to warm their spaces on a budget.
Benefits of Buying an Electric Patio Heater
If you aren't entirely sold on electric patio heaters, here are 14 additional reasons why you should incorporate one into your patio space for the ultimate backyard hangout spot.
- Over 90 percent efficient. Outdoor electric heaters are highly efficient. Unlike gas or propane patio heaters, electric heaters emit radiant heat. The electric heater's heat continuously warms everything within its range rather than blowing hot air that can mix with the already cool temperatures.
- Fast heat. A simple switch can turn on electric patio heaters. Once on, these heaters begin to emit radiant heat almost immediately. You don't have to worry about long warm-up times.
- No toxic fumes. Electric outdoor heaters do not emit poisonous fumes. They are safe to be around. Because of this, electric heaters are also more environmentally friendly than gas or propane heaters.
- Odorless. Electric patio heaters do not smell when used. Wood-burning heaters give off a distinct smell that can stick to clothing and hair.
- Noiseless. Electric patio heaters are very quiet. Enjoy a relaxing evening outside without the annoying buzzing or crackling of the heater as it runs.
- Easy to use. Outdoor electric heaters are extremely easy to use. Gas and propane heaters require valves to be opened, ignitors to be set, and vents to be opened. In comparison, electric patio heaters are turned on by a switch or a press of a button.
- Simple installation. As long as your outdoor space has the proper electrical outlets, all you need to do to set up an electric patio heater is plug it in. Some models do offer options for permanent installation and remote connectivity. However, several models available only need to be plugged into work.
- Remote accessibility. Manufacturers include remotes in some electric patio heaters. This means you can turn it on from nearly anywhere in your home. If you permanently mount the outdoor electric patio heater, an electrician can connect it to a switch in your home for even easier access.
- Lots of options. Electric patio heaters are available in a wide variety of sizes and styles. It is easy to find one that complements the aesthetics of your outdoor space. Check how large your patio is before buying an electric heater. You want to ensure you get one big enough to warm the space.
- Decorative element. There are several different styles of electric outdoor heaters. You can even find ones that look like fireplaces. Not only are electric heaters functional, but they can serve as decorative accent pieces as well.
- Easy to clean. When your electric heater is off, wipe down the exterior of the appliance. You do not need to disassemble the heater or clean out any vents.
- No ventilation. Electric patio heaters do not give off smoke or fumes. There are no open flames either. Therefore, they do not require any ventilation. In fact, you can even use outdoor electric heaters in enclosed spaces like tents.
- Flexible uses & location. There are several restrictions on the use of gas, propane, and wood-burning heaters. Electric patio heaters are much more flexible. You can use them under covered decks, on screened-in porches, and even in tents.
- Less expensive. On average, electric outdoor heaters are less costly than gas or propane outdoor heaters. As they require fewer installation requirements, it is also cheaper to set up electric patio heaters than ones that are powered by gas or propane.
What To Know Before Installing an Electric Patio Heater
Before purchasing an electric patio heater for your home, here are some things you need to consider in order to take the best model home.
Electrical Requirements
Your patio may need to be rewired to accommodate the amount of voltage required to power large electric patio heaters. It is best to consult with a licensed electrician before installing and using an outdoor electric heater.
Space Requirements
A significant advantage to purchasing electric outdoor heaters over gas heaters is that electric models can be used in covered areas. Therefore, they present much less of a fire hazard than gas or propane outdoor heaters. However, allowing proper clearance around an electric heater is still important. The frame of the unit gets very hot. You do not want to touch it accidentally. It is also wise to leave space between the electric patio heater and fabric, wood, and plastic.
Heater Size
Measure the size of the space you want to heat. Ensure that the electric patio heater you buy is adequate for that area. Choosing an electric heater that is too small will not provide enough heat. However, purchasing a large electric heater will make your patio too warm. It can also be unsafe if the heater is too close to the ceiling, walls, or furniture.
Electric Patio Heaters to Elevate Your Outdoor Home Design
Now that you know the ins and outs of electric patio heaters as well as how to shop for one, here are two of our top models for inspiration that our Aztec Appliance shoppers adore.
Outdoor Electric Heater Recommendation #1: Lynx® 39" Stainless Steel Dual Element Electric Heater
This electric patio heater is meant to be mounted to a wall or ceiling. Features of this outdoor electric heater include:
- 240V capacity
- 4,000 watts of heat emitted
- Dual element
- Up to 5,000 hours of use per element
- Heats 8'x10' area
- 39" total length
The suggested mounting height for this electric patio heater is 8’-12' off the ground. For safety purposes, Lynx recommends installing this outdoor electric heater at least 6" from the ceiling and at least 18" from an adjacent wall. For optimal heating, angle it at a 45-degree angle, facing the area you want to warm up. To lengthen the lifetime of this heater, install it under a covered area. However, these heaters are safe to be exposed to all weather.
Lynx also makes a 61" Stainless Steel Dual Element Electric Heater.[CN1] It has similar features as the 39" model but can heat an area up to 11'x11'. Based on its features and affordable price tag, this is considered one of the best electric patio heaters on the market.
Outdoor Electric Heater Recommendation #2: Lynx® Professional 48" Stainless Steel Eave Mounted Heater
This electric patio heater from Lynx is a high-end outdoor heater. This top-of-the-line model is one of the best electric heaters on the market. This model includes the following:
- Decorative safety grill that provides wind resistance
- Sleek, minimalist design
- Heats up to 10'x10' area
- Durable stainless steel welded construction
- Battery-operated starter
- Touch-screen remote control
- 48-inch overall width
- Adapted for use with gas or propane too
- Includes wireless on/off switch with options for high or low settings
- Infrared heat
You can adjust the mounting pivot on this outdoor heater between 0 and 30 degrees. Lynx recommends installing this heater at least 14" below the ceiling and 12" away from the walls. This unit does require access to fresh air and proper circulation.
Although California for being all sun and warm temperatures, considering that it is a desert state, those nights can get chilly. With an electric patio heater, family BBQs, friendly get-togethers with friends, and neighborhood hangouts don't have to end once the sun goes down. Instead, stop by Aztec Appliance today and speak with one of our specialists to help you find your perfect electric patio heater, or browse our online outdoor catalog!
FAQs: Electric Patio Heaters
We've given you quite a lot to think about when it comes to choosing an electric patio heater. If you are still on the fence, here are some questions we've answered from our Aztec customers to reassure them in the pursuit of a warm backyard space.
Do electric heaters last long?
Each model of an electric patio heater will state the average length of time the element will last. Higher-end models supply thousands of hours of heat before needing heating elements replaced.
Are electric patio heaters expensive?
Prices range depending on the type of unit. For example, you can purchase tabletop electric patio heaters for less than $100. On the other hand, mounted electric heaters are more expensive and can cost thousands of dollars for high-end models.
Can outdoor electric heaters be left on?
It would be best if you only used electric patio heaters when you are outside. Using them for extended lengths of time is safe; however, we advise against leaving them unattended or on overnight since it could pose a fire hazard.
Why Trust Aztec Appliance?
Since 1972, Aztec Appliance has been offering quality sales and service for name-brand appliances. Our mission is to not only help you achieve all your appliance dreams, but we also want to bring value to your home beyond materialistic amenities. Our team is an authentic group of people dedicated to our work, and we share the same undeniable passion for people and serving them the best we can. Suffice it to say, we know appliances.
Whether it's a first birthday, a backyard wedding, or a retirement celebration, our hope is to give you the opportunity to enjoy life's little moments. After all, memories are not consigned to the big moments — they exist within the little ones. And you can rest assured our inventory of top-performing kitchen, laundry, and outdoor appliances will help you spend less time keeping the home and more time with the people who make it home.
Shop Electric Patio Heaters at Aztec
Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop outdoor appliances online for the guaranteed lowest price at Aztec. Check out Aztec Appliance reviews, and if you have questions, our friendly product experts are always happy to help you warm your outdoor space with the perfect electric patio heater — whether you call us at 858-987-5777 or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by our Aztec Appliance San Diego showroom located at the heart of downtown. Visit us today!
Learn More: Small Outdoor Kitchen Ideas for Limited Space Patio