{"id":26867,"date":"2026-04-15T07:21:23","date_gmt":"2026-04-15T07:21:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tentest.ee\/gas-heater-vs-infrared-heater\/"},"modified":"2026-04-28T22:23:49","modified_gmt":"2026-04-28T22:23:49","slug":"gas-heater-vs-infrared-heater","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.tentest.ee\/en\/gas-heater-vs-infrared-heater\/","title":{"rendered":"Gas heater vs infrared heater \u2014 which patio heater to choose?"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\n
Quick summary<\/div>\n
\n
\n
Infrared heater<\/div>\n

Electric radiant heaters<\/h3>\n

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. <\/p>\n

\u2713 Best choice for: patio, HoReCa, tent, indoor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
Gas heater<\/div>\n

Propane gas heater<\/h3>\n

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. <\/p>\n

\u2713 Best choice: events, party tent, large open area without electricity<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
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In-depth comparison<\/div>\n

Infrared heater vs gas heater – side by side<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Feature<\/th>\nInfrared radiator<\/th>\nGas heater<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Energy Source<\/td>\nElectricity (230V socket)<\/td>\nPropane\/butane gas (cylinder)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How it works<\/td>\nHeats objects and people directly<\/td>\nHeats the surrounding air<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Feeling the heat<\/td>\nImmediately on switch on<\/td>\nA few minutes for the air to warm up<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Wind resistance<\/td>\nWind does not carry heat away<\/td>\nWind carries warm air away<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Odour and emissions<\/td>\nNone – odour and emission free<\/td>\nMinimal gas odour, CO2 emissions<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Indoor use<\/td>\nYes – emission free<\/td>\nNo – Requires access to fresh air<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Electricity<\/td>\nRequired (230V)<\/td>\nNot required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Mobility<\/td>\nFixed (wall\/ceiling) or on foot<\/td>\nFully mobile<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Installation<\/td>\nOn wall, ceiling, base, tent frame<\/td>\nNo installation required – you put it in place<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Power (typical)<\/td>\n500W – 3000W<\/td>\n5000W – 15000W (5-15 kW)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
LED lighting<\/td>\nBuilt-in on some models<\/td>\nNo – decorative light effect<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
IP protection class<\/td>\nIP44-IP65 (rainproof and dustproof)<\/td>\nMostly without IP class<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nose slicing<\/td>\nYes – infrared radiation scares away mosquitoes<\/td>\nNo<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Livingiga<\/td>\nHeating element ~5000 hours<\/td>\nDepends on maintenance, ~10 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Maintenance<\/td>\nMinimal – dust removal<\/td>\nReplacement of gas cylinders, ventilation control<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
\n
\n
Costs<\/div>\n

How much does it cost to use a patio heater?<\/h2>\n

Comparison of electricity consumption and gas consumption in a real-life example – sitting on a terrace for 3 hours on a cool evening.<\/p>\n

\n

Cost per 3 hours<\/h3>\n
\n
\n
Infrared radiator 2 kW<\/div>\n
~0.78 EUR<\/div>\n
2 kW \u00d7 3h \u00d7 0.13 EUR\/kWh = 0.78 EUR<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
Gas heater 13 kW<\/div>\n
~3.60 EUR<\/div>\n
~300g\/h \u00d7 3h \u00d7 4 EUR\/kg propane = 3.60 EUR<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

* 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. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

Seasonal expenditure example<\/h4>\n

If you use an infrared heater 3 evenings a week, 3 hours at a time, from April to October (~28 weeks) = 84 times \u00d7 0,78 EUR = ~65 EUR. With a gas heater, same usage: 84 \u00d7 3,60 EUR = ~302 EUR. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n

\n
\n
Advantages and disadvantages<\/div>\n

Pros and cons of infrared radiators and gas heaters<\/h2>\n
\n
\n
Infrared heater<\/div>\n
\n
Low electricity costs (~0.26 EUR\/hour 2 kW)<\/div>\n
Immediate warmth – felt immediately on switch-on<\/div>\n
Odourless – also suitable for indoor use<\/div>\n
Windproof – heats objects, not the air<\/div>\n
Peletab mosquito<\/div>\n
LED lighting on some models<\/div>\n
Requires electrical connection (230V)<\/div>\n
Fixed location (wall\/ceiling mounted)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
Gas heater<\/div>\n
\n
No electricity needed – total mobility<\/div>\n
Decorative living will effect<\/div>\n
Higher power (up to 15 kW)<\/div>\n
Easy to set up – no installation required<\/div>\n
Higher running costs (~1,20 EUR\/hour)<\/div>\n
The wind takes the warm air away<\/div>\n
Not suitable for indoor use (CO2)<\/div>\n
Changing and storing gas cylinders<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
\n
\n
Recommendations<\/div>\n

Which heater is right for you?<\/h2>\n

Choose a patio heater according to where it will be used and what you need.<\/p>\n

\n
\ud83c\udfe0<\/div>\n

Home Terrace<\/h4>\n

Wall or ceiling mounted infrared radiator 1,5-3 kW. Low consumption, instant heat, remote controlled. <\/p>\n

\u2192 Infrared radiator<\/div>\n
\ud83c\udf7d\ufe0f<\/div>\n

Restaurant terrace<\/h4>\n

Several infrared bulbs lined up on the wall. Calculation: 200-300 W\/m\u00b2. Remotely controlled, LED illuminated. <\/p>\n

\u2192 Infrared radiator<\/div>\n
\ud83c\udfaa<\/div>\n

Party\/event<\/h4>\n

The gas heater does not need electricity. Quick to set up, heats a large area. Decorative effect. <\/p>\n

\u2192 Gas heater<\/div>\n
\u26fa<\/div>\n

Pop up telk<\/h4>\n

The 3\u00d7500W infrared torch attaches to the tent frame with a velcro strap. Suitable for all Scandipro tents. <\/p>\n

\u2192 Infrared radiator<\/div>\n
\u2602\ufe0f<\/div>\n

Under the sun<\/h4>\n

The infrared heater mounts to the frame of the shade with a Premium centre post. Enjoy the warmth even on cool evenings. <\/p>\n

\u2192 Infrared radiator<\/div>\n
\ud83c\udf32<\/div>\n

Large open area<\/h4>\n

A gas heater of 13-15 kW covers a larger area. Does not require electricity. Ideal for garden parties and barbecues. <\/p>\n

\u2192 Gas heater<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
\n
\n
Power selection<\/div>\n

How powerful a radiant heater do you need for your terrace?<\/h2>\n

Estimated formula: ~100 W\/m\u00b2 indoors, ~200 W\/m\u00b2 on covered terrace, ~300 W\/m\u00b2 on open terrace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Where to use<\/th>\nArea<\/th>\nRecommended capacity<\/th>\nSuitable Tentest product<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Small balcony<\/td>\n4-6 m\u00b2<\/td>\n1-1,5 kW<\/td>\nInfrared radiator 1500W<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Home terrace (covered)<\/td>\n8-12 m\u00b2<\/td>\n2-2,5 kW<\/td>\nInfrared heater 2000W<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Home terrace (open)<\/td>\n8-12 m\u00b2<\/td>\n2,5-3 kW<\/td>\nInfrared heater 3000W<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Restaurant terrace<\/td>\n20+ m\u00b2<\/td>\nSeveral \u00d7 2-3 kW<\/td>\nMultiple infrared radiators in rows<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Pop up tent 3\u00d73m<\/td>\n9 m\u00b2<\/td>\n1,5 kW<\/td>\nInfrared lamp 3\u00d7500W<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Large open area \/ event<\/td>\n15+ m\u00b2<\/td>\n13-15 kW<\/td>\nGas heater Veltron<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\n

Expert Recommendation<\/h4>\n

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. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n

\n
\n
Safety<\/div>\n

Safety rules when using a patio heater<\/h2>\n
\n
\n

Gas heater – open area only!<\/h4>\n

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. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

Infrared – keep your distance<\/h4>\n

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). <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

Tentest helps<\/h4>\n

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 \u2192<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n

\n
\n
FAQ<\/div>\n

Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n
\n
\n
\n

Is an infrared heater also suitable for glazed balconies?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n
\n

Yes – the infrared heater is odourless and emission-free and is perfect for glazed balconies, verandas and indoors. The gas heater is NOT suitable for glazed balconies as it consumes oxygen and emits CO2. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

How much electricity does an infrared heater use?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n
\n

A 2 kW infrared lamp costs ~0.26 EUR per hour (electricity at 0.13 EUR\/kWh). 3 hours sitting on the terrace = ~0.78 EUR. Seasonal (April-October, 3 evenings per week) = ~65 EUR. This is about 4-5 times cheaper than a gas heater. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

Is a gas heater dangerous?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n
\n

Outdoors (patio, garden), the gas heater is safe if the instructions for use are followed. Indoors (glazed balcony, summer veranda) it is life-threatening – CO2 and oxygen deficiency. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

Does infrared really scare off mosquitoes?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n
\n

Yes – infrared radiation interferes with the sensory orientation of mosquitoes and scares them away. This is an added bonus for patio use, especially during summer evening sitting. Gas heaters do not have this effect. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

Is a gas heater more powerful than an infrared heater?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n
\n

Yes, a gas heater is typically more powerful (13-15 kW vs 1.5-3 kW). But that doesn’t mean it’s “better” – a gas heater heats the air that goes out with the wind. Infrared radiators heat objects directly and are more wind resistant. In a larger area, use several infrared radiators in a row. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

Where to buy a radiant heater in Estonia?<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n
\n

Tentest Trade O\u00dc offers both infrared heaters and gas heaters – over 30 models to choose from. You can see the products in our showroom in Peetri (L\u00e4ike tee 1). We also offer heaters as accessories for tents and parasols. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Quick summary Infrared heater 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. \u2713 Best choice for: patio, HoReCa, tent, indoor Gas heater Propane gas heater Self-contained, does not require electricity. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-guide-howto.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-26867","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nGas heater vs infrared heater \u2014 which patio heater to choose?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Gas heater vs infrared heater \u2014 a comprehensive comparison for patios, tents, and under parasols. 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