Electric Patio Heater Buying Guide
Updated 25 Jun 2025 • Approx. 11 min read
Fast-Track: Expect $175–$900 per unit, choose 1,500 W for small patios or 3,000 W+ for dining areas, mount heaters at 6-8 ft high, and keep a 36″ front clearance. Scroll for a coverage calculator, wiring tips, and smart-control cheatsheet.
Table of Contents
- Heater Types & Wattage
- Coverage Area & Heat Output
- Mounting Height & Clearance (video)
- Electrical Requirements & Wiring
- Smart Features & Controls
- FAQ
1. Heater Types & Wattage
| Type | Typical Wattage | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wall / Ceiling Mount | 1,500 – 6,000 W | Pergolas, covered patios |
| Freestanding Infrared | 1,200 – 2,000 W | Move-around spot heating |
| Table-top Quartz | 750 – 1,500 W | Café tables, small balconies |
2. Coverage Area & Heat Output
A quick rule of thumb: 100 W ≈ 340 BTU. Multiply your heater wattage by 3.4 to estimate BTU-equivalent output.
- 1,500 W (≈5,100 BTU) → warms ~50 sq ft
- 3,000 W (≈10,200 BTU) → warms ~100 sq ft
3. Mounting Height & Clearance (5-min video)
Most infrared models mount 6–8 ft high. Maintain at least 6″ above the housing and 36″ in front of the element to avoid scorching soft furniture.
4. Electrical Requirements & Wiring
- 1,500 W models = 120 V / 12.5 A → standard GFCI outlet.
- 3,000 W+ models = 240 V / 12.5 A → requires dedicated 240 V GFCI breaker.
- Use outdoor-rated 12 AWG cable for runs over 50 ft.
5. Smart Features & Controls
- Wi-Fi + app schedules
- Multiple heat levels via remote dimmer
- Tip-over shutoff on freestanding units
- Smart-speaker compatibility (Alexa / Google)
FAQ
+− Do electric patio heaters use a lot of electricity?
A 1,500-W unit costs about 20¢ per hour at $0.13 /kWh. Higher-watt models scale proportionally.
+− Can I run an electric patio heater in an enclosed patio?
Yes, if the model is certified for enclosed spaces and you honor the clearance requirements.
+− What clearance is required above an electric patio heater?
Minimum 6″ above and 36″ in front; always defer to the manufacturer’s spec sheet.
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