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7 Best Infrared Patio Heater
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Infrared Heaters
Buying Guide for the Best Infrared Patio Heater
Choosing an infrared patio heater can make your outdoor space much more comfortable, especially in cooler months. Unlike traditional heaters, infrared models warm objects and people directly, similar to how the sun works, instead of just heating the air. This makes them efficient and quick to deliver warmth exactly where it’s needed. Before making a purchase, consider where you’ll use the heater (like a covered patio, open deck, or even a garage), how much space you want to warm up, and your personal habits, like how often and for how long you'll be outdoors.Heating Power (Wattage)Heating power, usually measured in watts, tells you how much warmth the heater will provide. A higher wattage means more intense heat and the ability to cover a larger area. For small patios or areas where you’re sitting close to the heater, lower wattage (around 1000-1500 watts) is usually enough. For bigger spaces or more open environments, heaters in the 2000 watts range or above are better. Think about the size of your patio and how exposed it is to the wind; if it's a large, open space, you’ll likely need a more powerful heater.
Mounting TypeInfrared patio heaters come in several mounting styles: free-standing, wall-mounted, and ceiling-mounted. Free-standing models offer flexibility to move the heater around, which is great if you want to change locations or store it away. Wall or ceiling mounts save on floor space and are often safer in areas with kids or pets, but are fixed in one spot. Your choice should depend on your outdoor setup and whether you need the heater to be portable or permanently installed.
Heating RangeThe heating range tells you how much area the heater can comfortably warm. This is usually described in square feet or meters. A small unit may heat up 50-100 square feet, while larger ones may cover 150 square feet or more. Consider how many people you want to keep warm and how spread out the seating is. Choose a heater with a range that matches or slightly exceeds your typical group size and layout.
Weatherproof Rating (IP Rating)The weatherproof or IP (Ingress Protection) rating shows how well the heater can withstand elements like rain, dust, and humidity. A higher IP rating means better protection and more reliability if the heater is used outdoors without cover. For instance, IPX4 and above are good for uncovered use, while a lower rating might be fine for covered patios. Think about your climate and whether the heater will be exposed to rain or moisture.
Control OptionsMany infrared patio heaters come with different ways to adjust the settings, such as remote controls, variable heat settings, or even app control. Remote controls and adjustable power levels make it easy to set the comfort level without getting up, especially useful when you have guests or want to avoid fiddling with switches. Choose the control options that suit your lifestyle and how hands-on you want to be while using it.
Safety FeaturesSafety features like tip-over protection, overheating shut-off, and cool-touch exteriors are very important, especially if kids or pets are around or the area gets busy. Tip-over shut-off turns the heater off if it falls, while overheating protection stops it if it gets too hot. If you’re using the heater in high-traffic areas, prioritize models with these safety protections.
Installation and Power SourceInfrared patio heaters can be electric or powered by gas, but most compact models are electric and require plugging in to operate. Some need professional installation, especially wall or ceiling mounts; others are plug-and-play. Think about where your power outlets are, whether you want a simple setup or don’t mind hiring someone for installation, and choose accordingly.