What does a patio heater consume?
, 10 min reading time
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Enjoy sitting outside late into the evening thanks to a patio heater — but what does it actually cost in energy? The consumption of a patio heater depends on several factors: the type of heater, the power output, the duration of use and the environment in which it is placed. Whether you choose an electric patio heater, an infrared heater or a gas model, each type has its own consumption profile. In this article we explain step by step what a patio heater consumes, how to calculate the costs and how to keep consumption as low as possible.
What is a patio heater?
A patio heater is a heating device specially designed for outdoor use on a terrace, veranda or under a canopy. Patio heaters are available in various versions: electric, gas-powered or infrared-based. They ensure you can sit comfortably outside even in cooler weather. The choice of the right type of patio heater has a direct impact on energy consumption and running costs.
Advantages and disadvantages of different patio heaters
Electric patio heater
- Advantages: Easy to use, no gas cylinders required, instant heat, low CO₂ emissions.
- Disadvantages: Electricity costs increase with intensive use, less suitable for large open spaces without shelter.
Infrared patio heater
- Advantages: Heats objects and people directly rather than the air, highly energy-efficient, no heat loss from wind.
- Disadvantages: Higher purchase price, heat is directional and limited to a specific zone.
Gas patio heater
- Advantages: Powerful heat output, suitable for large outdoor spaces, no power connection required.
- Disadvantages: Higher energy demand, gas cylinder must be refilled regularly, higher CO₂ emissions.
What does an electric patio heater consume?
The consumption of an electric patio heater is expressed in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). Common power ratings range between 1,000 W (1 kW) and 3,000 W (3 kW), depending on the model. The higher the power rating, the more electricity the heater uses — but also the faster and more powerfully it heats.
To calculate the costs, use the following formula:
Consumption (kWh) = Power (kW) × Duration of use (hours)
Cost = Consumption (kWh) × Electricity price per kWh
Calculation examples electric patio heater
| Power | Use per day | Consumption per day (kWh) | Cost per day (€0.40/kWh) | Cost per month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 W (1 kW) | 2 hours | 2 kWh | €0.80 | ±€24 |
| 2,000 W (2 kW) | 2 hours | 4 kWh | €1.60 | ±€48 |
| 3,000 W (3 kW) | 2 hours | 6 kWh | €2.40 | ±€72 |
The electricity price varies by tariff. Adjust the calculation based on your current rate per kWh.
What does a gas patio heater consume?
A gas-powered patio heater typically requires three times as much energy as an electric model to deliver a comparable heat output. Common gas heaters for the patio consume between 7 and 14 kW of gas energy per hour, depending on the model and the setting used.
A standard 5 kg gas cylinder contains approximately 67 kWh of energy. At a consumption of 10 kW per hour, such a cylinder lasts around 6 to 7 hours. The higher you set the patio heater, the faster the gas cylinder empties. Do not forget to refill or replace the gas cylinder in time.
Comparison table: electric vs gas patio heater
| Feature | Electric patio heater | Gas patio heater |
|---|---|---|
| Energy source | Electricity (kWh) | Gas (gas cylinder) |
| Average power | 1 – 3 kW | 7 – 14 kW |
| Energy efficiency | High | Low |
| CO₂ emissions | Low | High |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Refill/replace gas cylinder |
| Suitable for large spaces | Limited | Yes |
What is the most energy-efficient patio heater?
The most energy-efficient patio heater is the electric infrared patio heater. Unlike conventional electric heaters that warm the air, an infrared patio heater directly heats the objects and people within its range. This means the generated energy is used immediately and virtually no heat is lost to the surrounding air or wind.
Infrared patio heaters typically require less power to achieve the same level of comfort as other types, which significantly reduces energy costs. They are therefore the most efficient choice for those who want to sit outside regularly without high energy bills.
How to reduce your patio heater's energy consumption
- Provide shelter: A canopy or windbreak keeps heat in the area longer, so the patio heater does not have to work as hard.
- Choose the right position: Mount the patio heater against a wall or dark surface. These absorb heat and radiate it back, enhancing the effect.
- Choose the right power rating: A patio heater with too high a power rating for a small space wastes energy. Match the power to the size of your patio.
- Use a timer or thermostat: Many modern patio heaters have an adjustable timer. This way the heater only operates when needed.
- Combine with dark paving: Dark tiles or paving absorb heat during the day and release it slowly in the evening, reducing the amount the patio heater needs to compensate.
- Use solar panels: Those with solar panels can significantly reduce or even eliminate the electricity costs of an electric patio heater.
Frequently asked questions about patio heater consumption
How much electricity does a patio heater use per hour?
An electric patio heater consumes as many kWh per hour as its power rating in kW. A 2 kW heater therefore uses 2 kWh per hour. At an electricity rate of €0.40 per kWh, that amounts to €0.80 per hour.
Is an infrared patio heater more efficient than a standard electric heater?
Yes. An infrared patio heater directly warms the people and objects within its range rather than the surrounding air. This means less energy is lost, resulting in lower consumption for the same level of comfort.
How long does a gas cylinder last with a patio heater?
A standard 5 kg gas cylinder lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours at an average consumption of 10 kW per hour. At a lower setting the cylinder lasts longer; at full power it runs out sooner.
What is the difference in consumption between gas and electric?
A gas-powered patio heater requires roughly three times as much energy as an electric model for a comparable heat output. Electric patio heaters are therefore more efficient and produce lower CO₂ emissions.
How do I calculate the cost of my patio heater?
Multiply the power in kW by the number of hours of use to calculate the consumption in kWh. Then multiply that figure by your electricity rate per kWh. Example: 2 kW × 3 hours × €0.40 = €2.40 per evening.
Which patio heater suits you?
When is an electric patio heater the best choice?
- You have a covered or sheltered patio
- You want a low-maintenance solution without gas cylinders
- You use the patio heater regularly but not intensively
- You want the lowest CO₂ emissions
When is a gas patio heater the better choice?
- You have a large, open outdoor terrace without shelter
- You have no power connection nearby
- You need high heat output for large groups
Common mistakes
- Choosing a patio heater with too high a power rating for a small space
- Placing the heater without shelter, causing heat to dissipate immediately
- Not accounting for the gas cylinder runtime with a gas model
- Not adjusting consumption to the actual duration of use
At Doika we help you find the patio heater that suits your situation, energy requirements and budget — without unnecessary extras.
Why Doika?
Doika specialises in high-quality patio heaters with a focus on quality, durability and ease of use. We deliver with short lead times and clear communication, from order to your door. For questions about consumption, power or installation, our customer service team is always on hand. Returns are straightforward.
Conclusion
The consumption of a patio heater depends on the type, the power rating and the duration of use. An electric infrared patio heater is the most energy-efficient choice; a gas model delivers more power but uses more energy. With the right positioning and adequate shelter you can reduce consumption further. Browse the full range of patio heaters at Doika and find the model that suits your outdoor space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much electricity does a patio heater use per hour?
An electric patio heater uses the same number of kWh per hour as its power rating in kW. A 2 kW heater therefore consumes 2 kWh per hour. With an electricity rate of €0.40 per kWh, that costs €0.80 per hour.
Is an infrared patio heater more energy-efficient than a regular electric heater?
Yes. An infrared patio heater directly warms people and objects within its range instead of heating the surrounding air. This reduces energy loss and results in lower consumption for the same comfort level.
How long does a gas bottle last with a patio heater?
A standard 5 kg gas bottle lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours with an average consumption of 10 kW per hour. At a lower setting the gas bottle lasts longer, while at full power it runs out faster.
What is the difference in energy consumption between gas and electric heaters?
A gas-powered patio heater generally requires about three times more energy than an electric model for a similar heat output. Electric patio heaters are therefore more energy-efficient and have lower CO₂ emissions.
How do I calculate the operating costs of my patio heater?
Multiply the power rating in kW by the number of hours used to calculate the consumption in kWh. Then multiply that by your electricity rate per kWh. Example: 2 kW × 3 hours × €0.40 = €2.40 per evening.
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