Choosing outdoor heating for your space and usage
Choosing outdoor heating starts with the area you want to equip: covered terrace, pergola, balcony, veranda, open terrace or professional outdoor space. Wind exposure, mounting height, useful heated area, expected comfort and budget all influence the right solution.
This page is a decision guide. To go straight to products, visit the electric patio heating page. To understand how infrared works and how to size a project, read the infrared patio heating guide.
1) Understand your needs and the space itself
Climate and exposure
Wind, humidity, perceived temperature and shelter level strongly affect the choice. An exposed terrace needs more intense heat than a covered area.
Usage and heated area
A dining corner, restaurant terrace, balcony or pergola is not sized in the same way. Think in terms of useful occupied zone, not only total surface area.
Integration and design
Wall, ceiling or freestanding installation depends on the available structure, the desired visual result and the real distance from users.
2) Estimate the required power
Sizing must take account of height, distance, exposure and expected comfort. For a more precise approach, read the infrared patio heating guide.
3) Choose the right product family
- Covered terrace or pergola: choose a discreet wall or ceiling mounted radiant heater.
- Open or exposed terrace: prioritise stronger, well-directed heat.
- Restaurant, bar, hotel or professional terrace: see the restaurant terrace heating page.
- Mobile or complementary solution:cordless heated cushions can complement a fixed installation.
To compare product families, also see the Heatstrip heating and Heatscope heating pages.
4) Practical advice for a durable choice
Check the protection rating, electrical compatibility, control type, maintenance requirements and real usage. If you are hesitating between gas and infrared, read the gas patio heater or infrared comparison.