Weather?

Gas patio heaters can be used summer or winter, rain or sunshine, frost, damp and even snow.  Severe storms are just about the only time to avoid the use of a gas patio heater.

Electricity and water do not mix.  If in doubt avoid using an electric patio heater on cold damp days, in rain, snow and frost can be a risky business.

Mobility?

For optimum mobility a gas heater can be sited anywhere in the garden or taken to remote outdoor locations.

Electric patio heaters are fixed via an electric cable either to a wall or sited near an electrical socket.  If using the free standing type remember that the flex will be connected to the mains and care needs to be taken not to trip over the flex and knock the unit over.

Heat?

Heat from a gas patio heater is radiant heat and feels the same as the natural heat from the sun.  The power output averages around 40,000BTU/h's, enough to warm a group of 15 people or a table of 8.

Electric patio heaters have an output of around 2KW or 7,000BTU/h's (about 1/4 of the heat of gas).

Running costs?

Electric patio heaters burning 2KW will cost approx 9p per KW per hour.  A gas patio heater running at maximum heat costs less than 8p per KW per hour, turn the temperature down to the lower levels of an electric patio heater (i.e. around 2KW, gas is 7KW) and the cost reduces to 6p per KW per hour with 3 times the heat output.

Is electric greener than gas?

No, electricity carbon burden is 2.3 times greater than that of LPG.

Maintenance?

Gas patio heaters have been around for many years, the technology on is tried and tested and will last many years.

Electric patio heaters will need the element regularly replaced, these are specific to models manufactured, a replacement must be like for like.

Installation?

Gas patio heaters are quick to set up, the instructions take approx 20 minutes and ready to go.  Gas cylinders are readily available from garages, DIY stores, garden centres or direct from the gas depots.  Just connect the gas cylinder to the regulator and switch on for instant heat. 

Electric outdoor patio heaters must be installed in accordance with electrical regulations.  If wall mounted a qualified electrician will be needed.  Heaters over 2KW must be fitted by a qualified electrician. For free standing models always use a circuit breaker and check the path of the cable for any water, obstructions, sharp objects and avoid high traffic areas - never place near water i.e. swimming pool or pond.