Choosing between electric and gas patio heaters comes down to where you will use it, how much heat you need and how you feel about fuel.
We compare them and recommend the best electric heaters.
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Quick Picks
- Best high-power electric: Dr. Infrared DR-239 3000W
- Best portable electric: Dr. Infrared Portable Patio Heater
- Best overhead electric: Hanging Wi-Fi Ceiling Patio Heater
- Best versatile: Briza Infrared Patio Heater
- Most powerful electric: Dr. Infrared 4500W Patio Heater
- Best IP65 plug-in: VAGKRI Infrared Patio Heater
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Type | Standout feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Infrared DR-239 3000W | Best high-power electric | 3000W, 240V | Wall or ceiling mount | View |
| Dr. Infrared Portable Patio Heater | Best portable electric | 1500W, IP55 | Indoor/outdoor, portable | View |
| Hanging Wi-Fi Ceiling Patio Heater | Best overhead electric | 1500W | 9 levels, Wi-Fi | View |
| Briza Infrared Patio Heater | Best versatile | 1500W | Tripod stand + wall/ceiling | View |
| Dr. Infrared 4500W Patio Heater | Most powerful electric | 4500W | Commercial-grade output | View |
| VAGKRI Infrared Patio Heater | Best IP65 plug-in | 1500W, IP65 | 700/1000/1500W, 12H timer | View |
Detailed Reviews
1The DR-239 delivers 3,000 watts (about 10,260 BTU) of carbon infrared heat. It runs on 220 to 240 volts and mounts on a wall or ceiling, with an IP55 weather rating.
Because it needs a 240V circuit, plan on an electrician. In return you get noticeably stronger heat than any plug-in model.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Twice the power of plug-in models
- IP55 rated
- Wall or ceiling mount
Watch out for
- Needs 240V wiring
- Fixed installation
Key Specs
- Power: 3000W (10,260 BTU)
- Voltage: 220-240V
- Rating: IP55
- Mount: wall/ceiling
2Dr. Infrared’s portable heater is one of the most reviewed electric patio heaters on Amazon. It is IP55 rated for indoor and outdoor use and gives clean, instant infrared heat.
It moves easily between the patio, garage and workshop, and runs on a standard outlet. It is our go-to recommendation for a first electric patio heater.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Huge owner base
- IP55 rated
- Portable
Watch out for
- Covers a small area
- Basic styling
Key Specs
- Power: 1500W (120V)
- Rating: IP55
- Use: patio, garage, deck
3This hanging ceiling heater uses carbon fiber tubes with nine heat levels, a 24-hour timer and Wi-Fi control.
Hanging the heater over a table keeps the floor clear and spreads warmth over the whole seating area.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Ceiling hanging
- Wi-Fi control
- 9 levels
Watch out for
- Needs a sturdy ceiling
- Newer brand
Key Specs
- Power: 1500W
- Mount: hanging ceiling
- Control: Wi-Fi, timer
4Briza’s heater comes with hardware for walls or ceilings and an adjustable tripod stand. A remote controls power, timer and heat levels.
It has built-in safety features and a large owner base, which makes it a reliable all-round pick.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Tripod and mounting kit
- Remote
- Large owner base
Watch out for
- Tripod takes floor space
- Modest range
Key Specs
- Power: 1500W
- Mount: tripod, wall, ceiling
- Control: remote, timer
5Dr. Infrared’s 4,500-watt model is built for large patios, restaurants and workshops. It mounts on a wall or ceiling and is rated IPX2.
It is the most powerful heater in our lineup. It needs a dedicated high-voltage circuit and professional installation, and the IPX2 rating means it should go under a roof.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Very powerful
- Good for large covered spaces
- Wall/ceiling mount
Watch out for
- Needs professional wiring
- Lower water rating (IPX2)
Key Specs
- Power: 4500W
- Rating: IPX2
- Mount: wall/ceiling
6VAGKRI’s heater gives instant infrared warmth with three output levels (700, 1,000 and 1,500 watts), a remote and a 12-hour timer. It is rated IP65.
The lower settings save energy on mild evenings, and the higher water rating handles exposed patios better.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- IP65 rating
- Three wattage levels
- Remote and timer
Watch out for
- Smaller brand
- Freestanding stand sold in some versions only
Key Specs
- Power: 700/1000/1500W
- Rating: IP65
- Extras: remote, 12H timer
How We Chose
We compared materials, sizes, safety features and accessories across dozens of listings, then read verified owner feedback to find durability and usability problems that spec sheets miss. We did not receive free products, and we do not claim hands-on testing. TOR Scores combine published specs, verified owner feedback and overall value.
Electric vs Gas Patio Heaters
- Electric: no fuel tanks, no emissions at the point of use, instant heat and low maintenance. Best for covered patios and small, sheltered spaces. Range is limited, and higher-wattage models may need wiring.
- Propane: powerful and portable with no outlet needed, but tanks must be refilled and they must only be used in open, well-ventilated outdoor spaces because they produce carbon monoxide.
- Natural gas: endless fuel supply once plumbed in, lower running cost in many areas, but installation is permanent and needs a professional.
For a covered or semi-enclosed patio, electric is usually the safest choice. For large, open areas, gas heaters put out more heat.
How to Choose an Electric Patio Heater
Electric patio heaters use infrared elements to warm people and objects directly rather than heating the air. That makes them efficient outdoors, where warm air blows away quickly.
- Wattage. Most plug-in models are 1,500 watts, which runs on a standard 120V outlet and warms a small seating area. 3,000 to 4,500 watt models usually need a dedicated 240V circuit installed by an electrician.
- Mounting. Freestanding models move around; wall and ceiling models save floor space and are safer around kids and pets.
- Weather rating. Look for an IP rating such as IP55 or IP65 for outdoor exposure, and still protect the plug and cord from rain.
- Controls. Remotes, timers, multiple heat levels and app control make heaters easier to live with.
- Safety. Tip-over and overheat protection are essential on freestanding models.
Related guides: best electric patio heater vs natural gas, best electric patio heater vs propane, best electric patio heater vs., best electric patio heater. See every pick in our Patio Heaters category.
How Much Heat Do You Need?
Infrared heaters warm the people and objects they face, so think about seating zones rather than square footage. As a rough guide, one 1,500 watt heater comfortably warms one or two people sitting within a few feet, or a small table on a sheltered balcony. A 3,000 watt heater covers a larger table or lounge area, and 4,500 watt units suit big covered patios and restaurant seating. On wide patios, two smaller heaters aimed at different seating areas often work better than one large one.
Wind is the biggest factor. A heater that feels toasty on a still night may barely register on a breezy one. Screens, glass panels, outdoor curtains (kept well clear of the heater) and planters all help hold warmth near your seats.
Sources and further reading: NFPA: safety with heating equipment and CDC: carbon monoxide poisoning basics. Product details come from brand listings on Amazon. Follow the manufacturer’s installation and electrical instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 1500W patio heater run on a normal outlet?
Yes. Most 1,500 watt patio heaters plug into a standard 120V outlet. Use an outdoor GFCI outlet and avoid running other big loads on the same circuit.
Can electric patio heaters get wet?
Heaters with IP55 or IP65 ratings are designed to handle splashes and rain, but protect plugs and cords, and do not use them in standing water.
How far does an electric patio heater reach?
Most 1,500 watt models warm a seating area roughly 6 to 10 feet in front of the heater. Higher-wattage, hardwired models cover more.
Are electric patio heaters expensive to run?
A 1,500 watt heater uses 1.5 kWh per hour on high. Multiply that by your electricity rate to estimate the running cost.
Are electric patio heaters safe under a covered patio?
Electric heaters are well suited to covered patios because they do not burn fuel. Follow the clearance distances in the manual and keep them away from fabric.
Final Verdict
For covered and semi-enclosed patios, an electric heater like the Dr. Infrared DR-239 is the safer, cleaner choice. Gas makes sense for large, open areas.
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