Patio Heater Accessories - Other

Upgrade Your Outdoor Space: The Best Patio Heater Accessories and Where to Find Them in the UK

Overview: Why Patio Heater Accessories Matter

Want to get more nights out on the patio without turning into an icicle? Patio heater accessories are the unsung heroes that turn a basic heater into a reliable, safe and stylish outdoor comfort system. They help you mount, protect, aim and extend the life of your heaters—so you get more warmth, less fuss, and a patio that feels like an extra room. Think of accessories as the toolbox and wardrobe that lets your heater perform at its best while matching your outdoor décor.

Who Sells Patio Heater Accessories in the UK?

If you’re hunting down stands, brackets or replacement tubular heaters, a few retailers stand out for selection and availability. The HTML data highlights Expert Electrical and Downlights as sources that list specific parts like tubular heaters and floor stands. Beyond those, big-box DIY and specialist retailers such as B&Q, Screwfix, Wickes, Toolstation and major marketplaces like Amazon UK are worth checking. Each venue has pros and cons depending on price, delivery, and product range.

Expert Electrical — Specialist Electrical Parts

Expert Electrical tends to offer dedicated heater components and tubular heater elements aimed at people who want replacement parts or upgrade options. If you need specific sizes—like the Hyco tubular heaters listed below—this kind of specialist outlet can be a good first stop. They often carry branded parts and technical specs geared to installers.

Downlights — Lighting and Complementary Accessories

Downlights and similar lighting retailers sometimes stock outdoor heating accessories as a complementary product line. If you’re pairing lighting with heating—say, under a pergola or integrated into a canopy—these shops can provide matching finishes and mounts for a cohesive setup.

B&Q, Screwfix, Wickes, Toolstation, Amazon UK

Big DIY chains and online marketplaces are great for breadth and competitive pricing. B&Q and Wickes are ideal for homeowners who want to shop in-store and see finishes and sizes firsthand. Screwfix and Toolstation cater well to tradespeople and often have more industrial or commercial-grade mounting options. Amazon UK gives the widest variety and fast delivery, though you’ll want to vet sellers and read reviews carefully.

Must-Have Accessories for Patio Heaters

Not all accessories are created equal. Some are essential for safe and flexible use, while others are purely about looks. Here are the categories that matter most—and products highlighted in the dataset that exemplify each.

Floor Stands: Freedom to Move

The Forum Blaze Floor Stand for wall mounted patio heaters is a perfect example of a game-changing accessory. Want a wall-mounted heater to stand freely in the middle of your patio? A heavy-duty floor stand converts it from a fixed unit into a portable heat source. Floor stands let you rearrange seating or temporarily relocate the heater to where guests gather—like moving a lamp to brighten a corner. They’re ideal for rental terraces or parties where flexibility matters.

Tubular Heaters: Direct Replacement Elements

Tubular heaters are the radiant elements inside many electric patio heaters. The Hyco series from the data—TH04b (4 ft), TH03b (3 ft), and TH02b (2 ft)—are clear examples of size-specific replacements. These tubular heaters matter because a worn element reduces heat output and efficiency. Swapping in the correct length and wattage restores original performance. Knowing the right length—2 ft, 3 ft, or 4 ft—is key when ordering.

Mounting Kits and Wall Brackets

If you’ve chosen a fixed installation, a sturdy mounting kit is non-negotiable. Brackets vary by heater model and surface type: brick, wood, or metal structures need different anchors. Good kits allow angle adjustment so you can aim warmth where it’s needed most—over a dining table or seating zone—rather than wasting it on empty space.

Covers and Weatherproofing

Rain and frost are brutal on heating units. Purpose-made covers protect finishes and electrical connections when heaters are not in use. A breathable cover prevents condensation build-up, while a water-resistant one keeps moisture out during short showers. Think of a cover as a raincoat for your heater: not glamorous, but essential for longevity.

Thermostats, Timers and Smart Controls

Want to run your patio heater like a modern appliance? Thermostats and smart timers cut running costs and boost convenience. A thermostat keeps a steady warmth so your heater doesn’t cycle on and off inefficiently, while a timer or smart plug lets you warm the space before guests arrive. These accessories are the brain that makes heat delivery smarter and cheaper.

How to Choose the Right Size and Type

Picking the wrong size is like buying shoes a full size too small—uncomfortable and inefficient. A heater’s physical length (like the 4 ft Hyco TH04b) often correlates with its heat output. Shorter elements suit a small table area, while 4 ft tubular elements cover broader zones. To estimate coverage, think in feet: a single mid-range electric patio heater typically covers 80 to 120 square feet comfortably, depending on wind and ambient temperature.

Match Heater Length to Space

A 2 ft element is ideal for a snug seating bay or a small balcony, while a 3 ft or 4 ft element is better for wider terraces or commercial patios. If you have a dining table that’s about 6 ft long, a 4 ft heater aimed down the center will warm guests evenly. For fragmented spaces, multiple smaller units give more control than a single large heater.

Consider Heat Output and Wattage

Wattage determines how much energy the heater uses and, with it, how much heat it produces. Outdoors, you always need more wattage than you would indoors because heat disperses quickly in open air. When comparing replacement tubular elements or entire heaters, check wattage to ensure the accessory restores the unit to its intended output.

Installation Tips and Safety First

Installing heaters and accessories sounds straightforward until you’re up a ladder with a drill and a tangle of cables. Safety and correct electrical practice are paramount—both for longevity and to keep you out of trouble. Below are practical tips that save headaches.

Electrical Considerations

Always match the replacement element’s electrical rating to the original spec. If you’re swapping a tubular element, confirm the voltage and wattage match the unit’s rating. For hardwired heaters, have a qualified electrician do the job—especially if the installation requires new circuits or outdoor-rated wiring. Don’t improvise with indoor cables; outdoor fittings need proper weatherproofing and conduit where appropriate.

Placement and Clearance

Heaters need breathing room. Keep them away from flammable materials, awnings, and low-hanging branches. Manufacturers normally specify clearance distances; if you don’t have the manual, aim for at least 3 ft of clearance on all sides for most electric patio heaters and 6 ft above for overhead units. Floor stands should sit on a level surface and be weighted or anchored if they’re likely to be knocked or exposed to wind.

Energy Efficiency and Running Costs

Let’s be honest: heating the great outdoors isn’t cheap. But accessories can make it smarter. Thermostats, timers, and directional mounts reduce wasted heat by targeting people rather than empty air. Infrared tubular heaters tend to be more efficient than convector-style units because they heat objects first—like people and tables—so you feel warm faster without turning up the power.

Smart Controls Save Pounds

A timer or smart plug can cut running hours dramatically. Instead of leaving a heater on for three hours, schedule it to start 30 minutes before dinner. The result is the same cozy feeling with lower bills. Think of smart controls as a set of precise knobs that prevent accidental waste.

Style and Design: Make Heat Look Good

Patio heaters today aren’t just functional—they’re a statement. Stainless finishes, powder-coated black frames, and minimalist tubular elements integrate smoothly with modern decking and furniture. If you’ve got a designer pergola or an alfresco dining area, choose accessories that match the finish: a black floor stand, brushed metal tubular element, or an angular wall mount can complement your setup rather than stick out like a sore thumb.

Maintenance: Keep Your Heater Happy

Routine care is the easiest way to extend life. Clean elements gently with a soft brush, check brackets and screws for corrosion, and inspect cabling for wear. If your heater uses replaceable tubular elements—like the Hyco series—having spares on hand saves downtime. Covers and winter storage further protect sensitive parts and reduce long-term costs.

Where to Hunt for the Best Deals in the UK

Price-hunting for accessories can feel like chasing down a rare bird, but there are strategies that work. First, compare specialist suppliers like Expert Electrical for branded elements and parts; they often stock exact replacements. Next, check lighting-focused retailers such as Downlights when you want matching finishes or integrated solutions. For bargains, visit big retailers—B&Q, Screwfix, Wickes—and online marketplaces. Don’t forget seasonal sales (end of summer is a sweet spot) and trade discounts if you’re buying for business.

Use Comparison Sites to Speed Research

Comparison websites can show you different retailers’ offerings side-by-side. They won’t replace your judgment on fit and quality, but they’re excellent time-savers when you want to spot price differences and stock availability quickly.

Final Buying Checklist

Before you click buy, run through this quick checklist: 1) Confirm the accessory fits your heater model and size (2 ft, 3 ft, 4 ft elements); 2) Verify wattage and electrical specs; 3) Choose the right mounting or stand for your space; 4) Factor in weatherproofing and covers; 5) Check reviews and return terms from the retailer. A few minutes’ extra research now spares you the annoyance of an incompatible part later.

Conclusion

Patio heater accessories transform how you use and enjoy outdoor spaces—from practical replacements like 2 ft, 3 ft and 4 ft tubular elements to flexible floor stands and smart controls that save energy. Whether you source parts from specialists like Expert Electrical, lighting retailers such as Downlights, or broader UK retailers like B&Q and Screwfix, picking the right accessory is about matching size, wattage and installation type to your space. With careful choice and basic maintenance, your heater will keep your outdoor evenings warm, comfortable and stylish for seasons to come.