Outdoor heaters extend the usable life of an alfresco area, patio, or deck into the cooler months by providing direct warmth in an open-air setting. This range includes wall-mounted and freestanding electric options from Forme and Thermogroup, with infrared and remote-controlled models available across a range of wattages.
Types of outdoor heaters
Infrared heaters
Infrared outdoor heaters warm people and objects directly rather than heating the surrounding air, which makes them effective in open or breezy outdoor spaces where a fan heater would lose most of its warmth to the air. They tend to produce a noticeable, immediate warmth close to the unit.
Wall-mounted heaters
Wall-mounted electric heaters are fixed to a wall or ceiling, which keeps them out of the way of foot traffic and furniture on a patio or deck. This makes them a practical choice for permanent outdoor entertaining areas where floor space is at a premium.
Freestanding heaters
Freestanding electric heaters can be moved around as needed, which suits spaces where you want flexibility, such as repositioning the heater depending on where guests are seated or moving it into storage during warmer months.
Choosing the right wattage
Outdoor heaters in this range span from around 1200W up to 2500W. Lower wattage heaters suit smaller, more sheltered spaces such as a covered balcony, while higher wattage units are better suited to larger or more exposed alfresco areas where heat dissipates more quickly. Consider the size of the area you want to heat and how exposed it is to wind when choosing wattage.
Remote control convenience
Several models in this range include remote control operation, which is particularly useful for wall or ceiling-mounted heaters that aren't within easy reach. Being able to adjust or turn off the heater without getting up is a practical feature for entertaining areas.
Where outdoor heaters are used
These heaters suit alfresco dining areas, patios, decks, and outdoor entertaining spaces where you want to extend comfortable use into autumn and winter evenings. They're commonly installed near seating areas so the direct warmth of infrared heating can be felt where people are sitting.
Buying considerations
Match wattage to the size and exposure of your outdoor space rather than choosing the highest available option by default
Decide between wall-mounted and freestanding based on how much floor space you have and whether you need to move the heater seasonally
Check whether remote control operation is important for your installation location
Confirm the heater is rated for outdoor use and installed by a licensed electrician where hardwiring is required
Installation and safety
Wall-mounted outdoor heaters should be installed by a licensed electrician, particularly where hardwiring is involved, to ensure safe operation in an outdoor environment. Always maintain clearance from furniture, plants, and other flammable materials as specified in the manufacturer's instructions, and check the unit is rated for the level of weather exposure at its installation point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of outdoor heater for an alfresco area?
Infrared outdoor heaters tend to work well in alfresco areas because they warm people directly rather than the surrounding air, which suits open or breezy spaces. Wall-mounted infrared models are a common choice for permanent entertaining areas where floor space is limited.
What wattage outdoor heater do I need?
Outdoor heaters in this range span roughly 1200W to 2500W, with lower wattage suited to smaller or more sheltered spaces and higher wattage better for larger or more exposed areas. Consider both the size of your space and how much wind or open air it's exposed to.
Should I choose a wall-mounted or freestanding outdoor heater?
Wall-mounted heaters keep floor space clear and suit permanent outdoor entertaining areas, while freestanding heaters offer the flexibility to move the unit around or store it away in warmer months. The right choice depends on how much space you have and whether you need that flexibility.
Do outdoor heaters come with remote control?
Yes, several outdoor heaters in this range include remote control operation, which is especially useful for wall or ceiling-mounted units that are harder to reach. This makes it easy to adjust heat levels or turn the heater off without leaving your seat.
Do outdoor heaters need to be installed by an electrician?
Wall-mounted outdoor heaters, particularly hardwired models, should be installed by a licensed electrician to ensure they're safely connected and rated for outdoor use. Always check clearance requirements from furniture and flammable materials as outlined in the manufacturer's instructions.