Outdoor electric heaters Australia reviewed (Costs, pros, cons, more)

Make the most of your outdoor space, no matter the weather, with our ultimate guide to outdoor electric heaters in Australia. Read on for costs, pros, cons, and more.

Outdoor electric heaters, also known as mushroom heaters or umbrella heaters, generate thermal radiation for outdoor use.

Electric heaters generate heat using electricity to warm outdoor areas. They come in various shapes and sizes, from wall-mounted and flat to freestanding up to 2 metres tall. Some can also emit infrared and radiant heat.

Unlike traditional heaters that warm the air, advanced infrared electric heaters are not limited by wind and weather conditions to provide enhanced enjoyment of outdoor spaces such as verandas, decks, and patios.

In this article, you'll learn:

How do outdoor infrared electric heaters work?

Infrared patio heaters convert electricity into heat, which is then transmitted through the air via electromagnetic waves. When these waves reach an object, that object absorbs the heat, then warming it. This process is similar to the way heat is transferred from the sun, but infrared heat is less intense and does not come with harmful effects, like UV rays.

Infrared light behaves similarly to regular light, in that it travels in straight lines and dissipates over distance. Just like a heat lamp, being closer to an infrared source will make you feel warmer while being further away will make you feel cooler.

How many watts should an outdoor heater be?

The wattage required for a heater typically depends on the number of people and the size of the space you are heating.

For example, a heater with 2000W to 2970W of energy output is typically required for a large space with many people, while a heater with 1500W of energy output is typically required for a smaller space with fewer people.

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How much does an outdoor electric heater cost to run in Australia?

Electric outdoor heaters are a convenient option. The running cost of a 1500w radiant heater would be approximately 50 cents per hour. Keep in mind, however, that electric rates can vary depending on your location, so be sure to do your research beforehand. You can keep costs down by choosing an infrared heater connected to solar panels.

Infrared heating is efficient and can be less expensive to run. If you're looking for a way to enhance your backyard and create a focal point, a fire table or fire bowl may be the way to go. Not only do they provide ambience and warmth, but they also have a wow factor.

What is the best electric heater for outdoors?

The sheer number of outdoor heater options can be overwhelming if you're looking for one. The best heater won't be the same for everybody, as different people have different needs.

Styles and sizes for outdoor electric heaters vary widely, so it's important to find one that has both features and aesthetics you're looking for. For instance, you won't need the most powerful heater on the market if you're adding some warmth to a small porch. If

Families with small children might prefer infrared outdoor heaters since they don't emit physical flames. Many outdoor heaters are mounted up high, out of the way of young children’s inquisitive fingers. You can also look for safety features like cool-touch glass, automatic shut-off valves and tilt-over protection.

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Best outdoor electric heater in Australia review

To help you decide which one best suits your space, listed below, in no particular order are our top picks for outdoor electric heaters in Australia.

1800W Outdoor Electric Radiant Heater with Remote - Charcoal

The 1800W Outdoor Electric Radiant Heater could be the perfect match for your designer outdoor space. This heater uses aluminium alloy heating panels which warm up faster and provide more heat output than other heaters on the market.

Price

  • RRP Price - $399.00
  • Sale Price - $299.00 (Save 20%)

Top Features

  • Quick warm-up time (Maximum temperature reached within as little as 5 minutes*)
  • Comes with remote control for easy operation.
  • The surface temperature can reach up to 350 degrees, providing effective heat radiation up to 3 metres*

Pros:

  • Heats faster - Uses an aluminium alloy heating panel for faster, more even heat.
  • Highly Durable - Long-life surface with hard-wearing NANO paint
  • Easy to operate - Set your ideal temperature easily with the adjustable thermostat.
  • Doesn’t take up space - Since this type of outdoor heater is installed on walls, it can be a great choice for small spaces.

Cons:

  • No colour option - Offers single colour option (charcoal)
  • Not wifi-ready - This model is not wifi capable.

If you have a larger outdoor area, the 2400W Outdoor Heater with Remote Control might be the best option for you. It has the same features as the 1800W Outdoor Electric Radiant Heater but has higher wattage designed for larger outdoor spaces.

1800W Outdoor Infrared Heater with Remote and Wifi

If you’re looking for a minimalist outdoor infrared heater to complement your outdoor space’s contemporary style, the 1800W Outdoor Infrared Heater can be an excellent option. With its wifi capability, you can effortlessly adjust and set the temperature you desire with a few taps on your smartphone.

Price

  • RRP Price - $499.00
  • Sale Price - $399.00 (Save 20%)

Top Features

  • Wifi control via mobile App
  • Quick warm-up time (Maximum temperature reached within as little as 5 minutes*)
  • Comes with remote control for easy operation.
  • The surface temperature can reach up to 350 degrees, providing effective heat radiation up to 3 metres*

Pros:

  • Heats faster - Uses an aluminium alloy heating panel for faster, more even heat.
  • Highly Durable - Long-life surface with hard-wearing NANO paint
  • Easy to operate - Set your ideal temperature easily with the adjustable thermostat.
  • Doesn’t take up space - Since this type of outdoor heater is installed on walls, it can be a great choice for small spaces.
  • Easy installation, maintenance-free, slimline design

Cons:

  • No colour option - Offers single colour option (charcoal)

If you have a larger outdoor space, the 2400W Outdoor Radiant Infrared Electric Heater with Remote might be the best option for you. With a higher wattage designed for larger outdoor spaces, it offers the same features as the 1800W Outdoor Infrared Heater with Remote and Wifi.

What are the different types of outdoor heaters in Australia?

Apart from the outdoor electric heater, there are other popular outdoor heaters in Australia. Let’s look at each of these products and what they do.

  • Fire table - A fire table is a table with a flame centrepiece. It can be used for entertaining, as a drink holder, and to keep people warm. Most fire tables are portable.
  • Fire pit - A fire pit has the same function as a fire table, but you won't be able to place drinks on it. Fire pits can also come in a larger variety of sizes and styles - portable, on legs, freestanding, and some can be installed as a permanent in-ground fixture.
  • Fire bowl - A fire bowl is a type of fire pit that is usually bowl-shaped and doesn’t have a surface to place drinks. It is available in a variety of sizes.
  • Patio heater - An outdoor heater that uses gas or electricity to warm up an area. Patio heaters come in many designs, shapes, and sizes and are often made with stainless steel and have wheels for easy portability.
  • Outdoor gas heater - Outdoor gas heaters come in many shapes and sizes, from small tabletop heaters to freestanding or wall-mounted models around 2 meters tall.
  • Outdoor strip heater - Outdoor strip heaters use gas or electricity and infrared heating technology to heat a space. These outdoor heaters are versatile and can provide discreet heating. You can attach them to a ceiling, wall, and other outdoor furnishings like pergolas and umbrellas. Strip heaters are a great choice for families since they can be installed away from small children's reach.
  • Portable outdoor heater - A portable outdoor heater is fuelled by a variety of materials, including gas, electricity, and bioethanol, and they can also be described as patio heaters, fire pits, fire tables, and fire bowls.
  • Wood-fired fire pits & braziers - Braziers or fire pits are stand-alone outdoor fires. It uses wood or logs as fuel for warmth. Similar to indoor fireplaces, braziers or fire pits can create a stunning attraction in your outdoor sitting area. Especially when surrounded by benches or sofas.

Click the link below to learn more about the key differences between these outdoor heaters, including their pros and cons.

Are outdoor electric heaters worth it?

An outdoor electric heater can be an excellent addition to your patio, deck, porch, courtyard, or any outdoor living area. They can be a great investment provided that you choose the best one for your space. The initial cost is one of the important factors to consider, you can keep enjoying your outdoor space even when the weather gets chilly.

Many outdoor heater stores in Australia, including Spa Store®, offer quick, easy and low-interest financing, making it easier for you to purchase a higher-quality product that will save you money in the long run.

Although choosing an outdoor heater can be overwhelming, you can talk to the experts and help you determine the best what works best for your needs and budget. and consider the safety features, heating power, and maintenance requirements, as well as the style of heater you prefer.

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In Summary

In this article, we explained what is an outdoor electric heater, how it works, as well as the other popular outdoor heaters in Australia. We also shared our top picks for outdoor electric heaters, including their prices, and pros and cons.

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