Patio Heaters

Best Patio Heaters in the UK: Where to Buy, What to Choose, and How to Stay Cozy Outdoors

Why a patio heater is one of the smartest outdoor buys

If you love spending time in your garden, on the balcony, or under a pergola, a patio heater is like bringing a little sun with you on chilly evenings. Rather than retreating indoors when the temperature drops, a good heater extends your outdoor season by weeks or even months. Think of it as a cozy blanket that hangs above you — it turns an otherwise short summer into a long, relaxed social season.

Key UK stores and specialist sellers to consider

When hunting for a patio heater in the UK, you’ll want options, reliable stock, and decent technical information. Several names stand out from specialist electrical suppliers to lighting and heating retailers. These include Expert Electrical and niche lighting specialists often grouped under "Downlights" and Forum Lighting ranges. You’ll also find established brand suppliers like Hyco, Consort by Claudgen, and Opal products stocked through various outlets. For wider availability and competitive prices, mainstream DIY retailers such as B&Q, Screwfix, Wickes, and Homebase remain useful, while department stores like John Lewis and online marketplaces carry designer or branded models.

Expert Electrical — specialist electrical and heating range

Expert Electrical is known for stocking commercial-grade and domestic heating solutions, including pedestal and wall-mounted models. If you want practical advice on mounting options, electrical connections, or wiring, this kind of specialist is a solid stop-off. They often list models suitable for covered patios and indoor-outdoor spaces.

Forum Lighting and Downlights specialists — style and variety

Brands such as Forum Lighting (and retailers described simply as Downlights) focus on the aesthetics of outdoor heating. Expect pendant heaters, wall-mounted "blaze" models with integrated lights, and more design-led pieces that double as feature lighting. These are perfect if you want your heater to blend into a stylish outdoor entertaining area.

Hyco and Consort by Claudgen — sturdy, performance-led options

Hyco models and Consort Claudgen units are often recommended where heat output and reliability matter, like for larger terraces or semi-commercial spaces. These names crop up for heavier-duty radiant models that deliver higher BTU outputs and robust mounting kits.

Opal and other branded choices — balanced mid-range picks

Opal outdoor/indoor pedestal heaters tend to offer a good mix of price and features. They suit homeowners who want simple, plug-in comfort without complicated installation. You’ll often find them in stores that stock a broad range of domestic appliances and outdoor equipment.

Types of patio heaters and where each excels

Not all patio heaters are the same. Picking the right type depends on how you use your space: a small balcony, a covered patio, or an open garden. The most common types are electric infrared (great for close-range warmth), gas-fired freestanding heaters (good for open-air coverage), and hardwired electric options like wall or ceiling-mounted radiant units that integrate into dedicated outdoor rooms.

Electric infrared heaters — quick, clean, and neat

Electric infrared heaters deliver heat directly to people and objects rather than heating the air, which is ideal for windy or semi-open spaces. These are often measured in BTU per hour for output — a 5,100 BTU/hr model will warm a small dining area, while higher outputs around 10,000 BTU/hr cover larger seating groups. Brands like Forum and Hyco make a range of electric infrared models in pedestal, wall, and ceiling styles.

Gas patio heaters — strong coverage for open areas

Gas heaters, typically fueled by propane, are a staple for open terraces and bigger gatherings because they put out high heat and cover wide areas. They’re great for when you want a standing heater that can warm a 6 ft to 10 ft radius easily. However, they need safe ventilation space and a stable base, so they’re best for truly open-air spots.

Hardwired and built-in options — discreet and powerful

If you’re designing a permanent outdoor living area, consider ceiling or wall-mounted radiant heaters. These are often IP-rated for outdoor use and are available in outputs ranging from mid to high BTU figures. They look tidy, stay out of the way, and can be paired with lighting for an integrated feel — something to look for with Forum Blaze or Coral pendant style units.

How to choose the right heater for your space

Choosing the right heater is more than picking the shiniest model on the shelf. Think about how you use the space, how many people you typically entertain, whether the area is open or covered, and how permanent you want the setup to be. A quick checklist makes the decision easier and avoids buyer’s remorse.

Match heat output to coverage

Estimate the seating area in feet — a compact heater producing around 5,000 BTU/hr will warm a small 6 ft by 6 ft dining spot, while larger needs for a 10 ft patio might require 10,000 BTU/hr or more. Always size up a little to compensate for wind or partial cover.

Think about mounting and placement

Pedestal heaters are flexible and portable, perfect for rental homes or frequent rearrangement. Wall and ceiling heaters are tidier and often safer for busy spaces or where floor space is tight. If you have a pergola, a pendant model can hang neatly overhead and act as a design centerpiece.

Consider energy type and running cost

Electric infrared heaters are efficient for spot heating because they focus warmth, whereas gas can be cost-effective for large, open areas where keeping ambient air warm isn’t practical. Look at BTU and estimated run times for real-world cost comparison rather than headline power numbers alone.

Popular models and lines to check (and what they mean)

Certain model lines keep appearing across specialist retailers and lighting stores. You’ll see Hyco quartz heaters and Forum ranges like the Blaze and Coral series listed repeatedly. These vary by mounting type, output, and whether they include extras such as integrated lights or speakers.

Hyco quartz series — compact radiant choices

Hyco quartz units are often used as quick spot heaters. They’re compact and simple: think of a focused beam of warmth that hits you like a sunny patch on a cloudy day. They’re ideal for a small table or a couple sitting on a balcony.

Forum Blaze — wall-mounted design with options

The Blaze wall-mounted line offers mid-range outputs and sometimes includes built-in lighting. That dual role — heat and light — is handy for evening entertaining and helps cut down on additional fixtures. It’s a smart pick if you want tidy aesthetics and practical function.

Consort Claudgen — commercial-grade performance

Consort by Claudgen tends toward higher output units and is commonly found in settings where consistent, powerful heat is needed. If you’re warming a larger covered area or a semi-outdoor workspace, these robust models deliver steady warmth in a way a small pedestal unit can’t match.

Installation, positioning, and safety tips

Proper installation and sensible positioning make a huge difference to comfort and safety. Whether you buy from a specialist electrical store or a lighting retailer, pay attention to clearances, mountings, and manufacturer guidance. If you’re unsure, consult a qualified electrician for hardwired or ceiling-mounted options.

Clearances and mounting height

Wall or ceiling heaters usually require a minimum clearance to combustible materials and should be mounted high enough to distribute heat without causing burn risks. Aim for at least 6 ft clearance above a wall-mounted radiant unit for safe operation, and follow any specific clearance guidance included with the product.

Position for people, not air

Place heaters where people sit, not where the coldest wind blows. Infrared models shine warmth directly onto chairs and tables, so mounting at an angle toward seating areas maximizes efficiency. For freestanding gas units, center them where the group gathers and ensure they’re on a stable surface.

Mind the weather and IP ratings

Look for models with IP ratings when buying for semi-exposed areas. An IP55 or higher rating is a good indicator the unit can handle splash and dust — crucial if your patio faces changing UK weather. Specialist lighting sellers typically include IP ratings for outdoor fixtures.

Energy costs, efficiency and real-world running tips

Understanding running costs keeps your warm evenings from turning into nasty surprises on the energy bill. Instead of fixating on sticker prices, consider how you’ll use the heater. Spot heating for a 6 ft dining table for a couple of hours will cost a lot less than leaving a big gas heater on all night to warm a whole terrace.

Use timers, dimmers, and zoning

Timers and thermostats save money by delivering warmth only when needed. Infrared heaters paired with motion or presence sensors, or simple timers, reduce wasted runtime. If you have a bigger space, heating zones with smaller, strategically placed units is more efficient than one massive heater.

Maintenance keeps efficiency high

Clean reflectors and change quartz bulbs if used. For gas units, keep burners clear of debris and schedule a safety check annually if used often. Well-maintained heaters perform better and last longer, which saves money over the long haul.

Where to get the best advice and aftercare

Buy from retailers who offer clear installation guidance and technical specs. Specialist stores like Expert Electrical or lighting suppliers listing Forum and Coral ranges usually provide better technical support than general discount outlets. If in doubt, ask about warranty length, spare parts availability, and whether the store can recommend local installers for hardwired options.

Look for retailers that list product specs and IP ratings

Retailers that show BTU output, recommended mounting heights, and IP ratings are easier to compare and safer to buy from. This detail helps you match a model to your space and avoid returns or unsafe installations.

Final tips before you buy

Test the heater where possible or buy from places with fair exchange terms so you can trial placement in your space. Consider the visual impact as much as the heat output — a beautifully integrated pendant or wall-mounted heater can transform a patio into a go-to room for evenings. Lastly, think about long-term value: a slightly pricier, higher-output model that’s weatherproof and well-made will likely outlast several cheap alternatives.

Ready to cozy up your outdoor space? Start by measuring the seating area in feet, decide whether portability or permanence is more important, and then compare BTU outputs and IP ratings across specialist sellers like Expert Electrical and lighting-focused retailers carrying Forum, Hyco, Opal, and Consort models. With the right match, you’ll be hosting in the garden well into autumn — and maybe beyond.

Conclusion

Choosing the right patio heater in the UK comes down to matching type, output, and installation to your space and lifestyle. Specialist retailers and lighting suppliers are great for stylish, hardwired or integrated units, while broader DIY outlets provide portable and budget-friendly options. Focus on BTU coverage, mounting needs, safety clearances in feet, and weather-proofing. With the right selection, you’ll turn chilly evenings into comfortable, long-lasting outdoor gatherings.