Gas heater vs infrared heater — which patio heater to choose?
A patio heater extends the season from March to November. But which type should you choose? A gas heater runs on propane and creates a live flame effect. An infrared heater runs on electricity and heats objects directly — just like the warmth of the sun. In this guide, we compare both types honestly, with figures and facts.
Electric radiant heaters
Warms objects and people directly - like the heat of the sun. Odourless, economical, also suitable for indoor use. Can be mounted on a wall, ceiling, tent frame or sunshade.Propane gas heater
Self-contained, does not require electricity. Creates a decorative lighting effect. Warms the surrounding air. Mobile - move wherever you need. More powerful, covers a larger area.Infrared heater vs gas heater - side by side
Let's look at both types of patio heater side by side in all the important categories - from how they work to how much they cost.
| Feature | Infrared radiator | Gas heater |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Source | Electricity (230V socket) | Propane/butane gas (cylinder) |
| How it works | Heats objects and people directly | Heats the surrounding air |
| Feeling the heat | Immediately on switch on | A few minutes for the air to warm up |
| Wind resistance | Wind does not carry heat away | Wind carries warm air away |
| Odour and emissions | None - odour and emission free | Minimal gas odour, CO2 emissions |
| Indoor use | Yes - emission free | No - Requires access to fresh air |
| Electricity | Required (230V) | Not required |
| Mobility | Fixed (wall/ceiling) or on foot | Fully mobile |
| Installation | On wall, ceiling, base, tent frame | No installation required - you put it in place |
| Power (typical) | 500W - 3000W | 5000W - 15000W (5-15 kW) |
| LED lighting | Built-in on some models | No - decorative light effect |
| IP protection class | IP44-IP65 (rainproof and dustproof) | Mostly without IP class |
| Nose slicing | Yes - infrared radiation scares away mosquitoes | No |
| Livingiga | Heating element ~5000 hours | Depends on maintenance, ~10 years |
| Maintenance | Minimal - dust removal | Replacement of gas cylinders, ventilation control |
How much does it cost to use a patio heater?
Comparison of electricity consumption and gas consumption in a real-life example - sitting on a terrace for 3 hours on a cool evening.
Cost per 3 hours
* Price of electricity: ~0.13 EUR/kWh (Estonian average 2026). Propane price: ~4 EUR/kg. Actual cost will depend on the capacity of the model, electricity and gas prices and the level of use.
Seasonal expenditure example
If you use an infrared heater 3 evenings a week, 3 hours at a time, from April to October (~28 weeks) = 84 times × 0,78 EUR = ~65 EUR. With a gas heater, same usage: 84 × 3,60 EUR = ~302 EUR.Pros and cons of infrared radiators and gas heaters
Which heater is right for you?
Choose a patio heater according to where it will be used and what you need.
Home terrace
Wall- or ceiling-mounted infrared heater 1.5-3 kW. Low consumption, instant heat, remote controlled.
Restaurant terrace
Multiple infrared heaters in a row on the wall. Calculation: 200-300 W/m². Remote controlled, with LED lighting.
Party tent / event
Gas heater does not require electricity. Quick to set up, heats a large area. Decorative effect.
Pop Up tent
Infrared heater 3×500W attaches to the tent frame with a velcro strap. Suitable for all Scandipro tents.
Under a parasol
Infrared heater attaches to the Premium center-pole parasol frame. Enjoy warmth on cool evenings.
Large open area
Gas heater 13-15 kW covers a larger area. No electricity required. Ideal for garden parties and grilling.
How powerful a radiant heater do you need for your terrace?
Estimated formula: ~100 W/m² indoors, ~200 W/m² on covered terrace, ~300 W/m² on open terrace.
| Where to use | Area | Recommended capacity | Suitable Tentest product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small balcony | 4-6 m² | 1-1,5 kW | Infrared radiator 1500W |
| Home terrace (covered) | 8-12 m² | 2-2,5 kW | Infrared heater 2000W |
| Home terrace (open) | 8-12 m² | 2,5-3 kW | Infrared heater 3000W |
| Restaurant terrace | 20+ m² | Several × 2-3 kW | Multiple infrared radiators in rows |
| Pop up tent 3×3m | 9 m² | 1,5 kW | Infrared lamp 3×500W |
| Large open area / event | 15+ m² | 13-15 kW | Gas heater Veltron |
Expert Recommendation
On a large terrace, it is more effective to install several smaller infrared radiators in different corners than one very powerful unit in the centre. This ensures a more even heat distribution and reduces the number of 'hot' and 'cold' zones.Safety rules when using a patio heater
Gas heater - open area only!
The gas heater consumes oxygen and emits CO2. Use in an enclosed space (glazed balcony, summer veranda) is life-threatening. Always ensure unobstructed access to fresh air. A CO2 sensor is recommended.Infrared - keep your distance
Keep at least 1-2m away from the infrared radiator (depending on the model). Do not cover the radiant heater - do not place blankets, clothing, etc. on the radiant heater. For outdoor use, check the IP protection class (recommended minimum IP44).Tentest helps
Our experts will help you choose the right model and recommend an installation location based on the specific features of your terrace. Ask for advice →Frequently asked questions
Is an infrared heater also suitable for glazed balconies?
How much electricity does an infrared heater use?
Is a gas heater dangerous?
Does infrared really scare off mosquitoes?
Is a gas heater more powerful than an infrared heater?
Where to buy a radiant heater in Estonia?
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