All You Need to Know About Infrared Electric Outdoor Heaters

"Chase away the chill and let the good times linger with the glow of outdoor heaters."

As the crisp air of autumn and the chilly nights of winter approach, spending time outdoors might seem less inviting. However, you can extend your outdoor enjoyment year-round with the right outdoor heater. These heaters emit heat to keep patios, decks, or outdoor dining areas warm and cozy. Outdoor heaters not only enhance the overall outdoor experience but also allow individuals to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors year-round, whether for entertaining guests or simply relaxing in the fresh air. That’s not all!

Read this all-inclusive blog to learn the ins and outs of patio outdoor heaters from their features to the importance of wattage and voltage, different types of outdoor heaters, and a lot more. So, without further ado, let’s get started. 

When searching for the best outdoor patio heater, it's essential to consider the features that meet your specific needs. Some key features to look for include:

1. Adjustable Heat Settings: Choose heaters with adjustable heat settings to control the warmth and heat range based on the weather conditions and your preferences.

2. Safety Features: Look for safety features like tip-over protection and overheat protection to ensure a secure outdoor environment.

3. Weather Resistance: Opt for heaters designed to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring longevity and reliability.

4. Remote Control: Some heaters for outdoor use come with remote controls, making it convenient to adjust the temperature from a distance.

5. Style and Aesthetics: Consider the design and aesthetics of the heater to ensure it complements your outdoor living space.

Wattage and voltage are important considerations when selecting outdoor heaters as they directly impact the heater's performance, efficiency, and safety. Here's why wattage and voltage are significant factors to take into account:

1. Heating Capacity (Wattage):

Warmth Output: The wattage of a patio outdoor heater determines how much heat it can generate. Higher-wattage heaters generally produce more heat and are suitable for larger outdoor spaces or areas with colder climates.

Heating Efficiency: The wattage also affects the heating efficiency. A higher-wattage heater can warm up an area more quickly and maintain a comfortable temperature, reducing the need to run the heater continuously.

2. Electrical Compatibility (Voltage):

Voltage Requirement: Different heaters may operate on different voltage levels, such as 120V or 240V. It's crucial to ensure that the voltage of the heater matches the voltage available in your outdoor area. Using a heater with the wrong voltage can lead to performance issues and safety hazards.

Amperage: Voltage and amperage are related. Lower-voltage heaters typically draw higher amperage to produce the same amount of heat as a higher-voltage heater with a lower amperage draw. Ensure that your electrical system can handle the amperage requirements of the heater without overloading the circuit.

3. Safety:

Overloading Circuits: Using a heater with wattage that exceeds the capacity of your electrical circuit can lead to tripped circuit breakers or, in extreme cases, electrical fires. Proper voltage and wattage matching help prevent these safety risks.

4. Energy Efficiency:

Energy Consumption: Higher-wattage heaters generally consume more electricity. If energy efficiency is a concern, you may want to choose a heater with an appropriate wattage for your needs to avoid excessive energy costs.

The mounting options for outdoor heaters can greatly impact their functionality and aesthetics. Their designs range from freestanding models to wall-mounted or tabletop versions, making them adaptable to different outdoor settings. Some of the common mounting options are listed below.

1. Wall-Mounted Heaters: Wall-mounted outdoor heaters are designed to be affixed to a wall or a sturdy vertical surface. They often come with mounting brackets and hardware for secure installation. This type of heater is a great space-saving option and can be strategically placed to provide heat to specific areas.

2. Ceiling-Mounted or Hanging Heaters: Ceiling-mounted or hanging heaters are designed to be suspended from an overhead structure, such as a pergola, canopy, or ceiling. They come with chains, hooks, or brackets for secure attachment to the ceiling. These heaters are versatile and can provide heat from above, which can be particularly useful in open outdoor spaces.

3. Pole-Mounted or Freestanding Patio Heaters: Freestanding outdoor heaters do not require mounting to a wall or ceiling. Instead, they come with a base or stand that provides stability. Some models allow you to attach them to a weighted base or floor anchors for added stability, especially in windy conditions.

4. Tabletop Heaters: Tabletop patio heaters are small and portable patio heaters, so they do not require mounting. You simply place them on a table or a flat surface, and they can provide localized heat for small outdoor seating areas.

Outdoor heaters come in various types, each with its own advantages and fuel type. The most common types of outdoor heaters include:

1. Propane Patio Heaters: Propane patio heaters are one of the most popular types of patio outdoor heaters. They use propane gas as a fuel source and often have a freestanding design. Propane heaters provide efficient and instant heat, making them suitable for outdoor spaces where you want to quickly warm up a specific area.

2. Natural Gas Patio Heaters: Natural gas patio heaters are similar in design to propane heaters but use natural gas from a utility line as their fuel source. They are a convenient option if you have access to a natural gas line in your outdoor area, as they eliminate the need for propane tanks.

3. Electric Patio Heaters: Electric patio heaters are typically wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or freestanding units that use electricity as their power source. They are easy to install and provide consistent, radiant heat. Electric heaters are often used in smaller outdoor spaces or as supplemental heating.

4. Infrared Patio Heaters: Infrared heaters use infrared technology to emit heat, which warms objects and people directly rather than heating the surrounding air. They are available in both electric and natural gas/propane options and are known for their energy efficiency and effectiveness in providing targeted warmth.

Now that we've discussed the types of outdoor heating solutions, let's delve into the advantages of the combined infrared electric patio heaters, which make them a preferred choice for many outdoor spaces:

1. Environmental Friendliness: Electric heaters produce no emissions, making them an eco-friendly choice that won't harm the environment or your health.

2. Ease of Use: Electric heaters are easy to operate. Some can simply be plugged in, and they're ready to provide warmth, with no need for fuel storage or venting.

3. Energy Efficiency: Infrared Electric heaters are highly energy-efficient, converting nearly all the electricity they consume into heat.

4. Low Maintenance: Infrared Electric heaters require minimal maintenance compared to gas heaters, which may need regular servicing.

5. Safety: Infrared Electric heaters come equipped with safety features like tip-over protection and overheat protection, ensuring a safe outdoor environment.

Hardwire heaters and plug-in heaters are two different types of electric outdoor heaters, each with its own advantages and use cases. Here's a difference between the two:

Hardwire Heaters: These heaters are permanently connected to your electrical system, offering a seamless look and uninterrupted heating. They require professional installation. Once installed, hardwired heaters are stable and secure. They are less prone to accidental disconnection or damage, making them a reliable heating solution.

Plug-In Heaters: Plug-in outdoor heaters are more convenient and easy to install portable outdoor heaters. They offer flexibility as they can be moved and plugged into different outlets as needed. No professional installation is required for plug-in heaters. You can simply plug them into an outlet, and they are ready to use.

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of outdoor heaters, let's explore five product suggestions from Del Mar Fans & Lighting to help you find the best outdoor infrared electric heater for your needs:

The Eurofase EF15120S1 is one of the best patio heaters designed for convenience and ease of use. With its plug-in design, this electric heater can be easily connected to a standard electrical outlet, making it a portable and flexible option for heating various outdoor spaces. While specific specifications may vary, Eurofase is known for producing reliable heating products. 

This 1500 Watts & 120 Volts infrared heater is likely to offer adjustable heat settings and user-friendly controls for customized comfort. Whether used in a bedroom, office, or any outdoor area requiring extra warmth, this portable outdoor heater is a practical and efficient choice for heating any space having a heat coverage area of 5’x6’ (30 sq.ft.) during colder seasons. As with all heating appliances, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines and ensure proper ventilation for safe operation.

The Eurofase EF40480S is a dependable heating solution suitable for various indoor and outdoor applications. With a powerful 4000-watt heating capacity and operating at 480 Volts, this infrared electric heater ensures a seamless connection to your electrical system for efficient and consistent heating. 

This outdoor electric heater is known for its reliable performance and durability. Whether used in a patio, workshop, or commercial space, the Eurofase EF40480S provides warmth and comfort while maintaining a sleek and unobtrusive design. It is one of the best choices to heat any space having a heat coverage area of 8’x10’ (80 sq.ft.). It is essential to follow the manufacturer's installation and safety guidelines for optimal operation and peace of mind.

The Eurofase EF50277S1 is a robust infrared heating solution designed for outdoor spaces with a heat coverage area of 9’x10’ (90 sq.ft.). With a powerful 5000-watt heating capacity and operating at 277 volts, this stainless steel unit delivers efficient warmth and heat output for larger outdoor areas and commercial settings. 

Its durable construction makes it both resilient to the elements and visually appealing. Ideal for hardwired installation, it should be professionally set up by an electrician to ensure safety and compliance with electrical codes. Whether used to extend outdoor gatherings during cooler months or provide comfort in commercial spaces, this Eurofase infrared electric heater offers reliable performance and durability.

The Eurofase EF60240W2 is a powerful and reliable infrared heating solution designed for various indoor and outdoor applications. With a robust heating capacity of 6000 watts and a voltage rating of 240 volts, this stainless steel unit delivers efficient and consistent warmth. Its white finish offers a clean and modern aesthetic, making it suitable for a wide range of spaces. 

As a hardwired electric heater, professional installation by a licensed electrician is recommended to ensure safety and proper functionality. Whether used in commercial settings, workshops, or outdoor patios, the Eurofase EF60240W2 is built for durability and performance, providing reliable heating to spaces with an infrared heat coverage area of 11’x11’ (121 sq.ft.). Be sure to follow the manufacturer's installation and safety guidelines for optimal operation.  

Outdoor heaters are a fantastic addition to any outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air year-round. Just like fire pits, outdoor heaters also create a cozy and inviting atmosphere with the mesmerizing sight of flames. By considering factors like features, mounting options, hardwired vs. plug-in heaters, wattage and voltage, and the advantages of infrared electric heaters, you can make an informed choice to keep your outdoor gatherings warm and cozy.  Explore the product suggestions mentioned above and turn your outdoor space into a warm and inviting haven for the cold season.