Hanging Patio Heater: Top 9 Outdoor Ceiling Heater Models (Reviews)
Are you thinking about getting an outdoor heater? Do you think that a hanging patio heater may be the best choice for you?
In the guide below, I’ll give you a quick run-down on hanging patio heaters, and list the top nine products on the market today.
What Are Hanging Patio Heaters?
Patio heaters are a delightful addition to your outdoor area. Depending on your patio configuration, hanging may be the best mounting option for an outdoor heater.
A hanging patio heater is mounted to the ceiling of your gazebo or garage, to a beam on your patio, inside a tent, or under an umbrella or parasol. By radiating heat from above, hanging patio heaters offer a great way to feel more comfortable when staying outside during the colder moments.
Hanging patio heaters are often designed to look like a regular lamp that you would hang over a table. That said, some designs resemble a fan; these variants easily fit under an umbrella, and you can handily fold them down the sides of the pole.
Most hanging patio heaters use infrared technology, as they are meant to warm whatever you direct them at – most often, the people sitting below.
ALSO READ: Best Pyramid Patio Heater Reviewed
About Infrared Patio Heaters
Infrared light is the light at the red end of the spectrum. Humans cannot see infrared light, but they can definitely feel the radiant heat it provides. If that doesn’t make much sense, just think of it this way: infrared patio heaters create heat that gets absorbed by your skin and clothing, therefore warming you up instantly.
In fact, infrared heaters work much like the Sun, without the harmful UV radiation. If you’re sitting under an infrared heater, you will feel intense and instant warmth.
The great thing about infrared patio heaters is that they are very efficient compared to a gas heater or a traditional electric patio heater. Because they emit direct rays from halogen or other heating elements, these outdoor heaters only warm up what is directly in front of them, without oozing heat into the surrounding air.
With almost no heat loss, infrared patio heaters will save you a substantial amount of money in the long run.
What’s more, infrared heat does not produce direct emissions or odours, nor does it change your home’s humidity or oxygen levels if used indoors.
Infrared patio heaters come in various shapes and sizes. The most common ones are hanging or wall-mounted and relatively small. That said, you can also find floor standing, ceiling hanging, or table-top versions.
What Is the Best Hanging Patio Heater in 2021?
Hanging patio heaters come in all shapes, sizes, and heat types. But ultimately, there will only be one to fit your heating, aesthetic, and budgetary needs. Below, we review the 9 best outdoor hanging patio heaters on the market to help you out.
1. La Hacienda Silver Series – Best Hanging Electric Patio Heater
La Hacienda’s Silver Series is by all accounts an exceptional hanging patio heater. Featuring smart halogen heating elements that emit infrared light, you get a natural, slow warmth that reaches straight to your frigid bones on chilly evenings. Rather than spewing heat wastefully into the surrounding air, the Silver Springs’ directed heat path ensures you get more out what you pay for.
There are three handy heat settings to further refine your usage of the La Hacienda hanging patio heater. Pick the setting that best fits the day, and worry little over outrageous power bills. Further boosting value for money is the more-than 5,000-hour lifespan of the halogen lamp, ensuring stress-free operation when you’re just trying to relax on the patio.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 60 cm
- Height: 35 cm
- Material: Brushed stainless steel, aluminium.
- Weight: 5.4 kg
- Power source: Electricity
- Heat method and output: halogen, 2.1 kW
- Cord Length: 2 metres
- Water resistance: IP 24 – protected against water splashed in all directions
What do people say about it?
Power output from the Silver Series hanging patio heater is consistent and generous, easily compensating for a 15° temperature drop on drizzly days. While the lead could be longer, it’s the only real complaint over what is otherwise an affordable, attractive, and efficient design.
The light emitted by the lamp is sufficient to provide mood lighting of its own, though isn’t so brilliant to be overpowering in conjunction with other lighting.
Pros:
- All-weather safe
- Sturdy frame
- Gentle heat
Cons:
- Power lead on the short side
To summarise
If you’re looking for the top all-round hanging patio heater, the Silver Series from La Hacienda is a strong pick. Durable stainless steel and aluminium construction, a rustic hanging chain, and a long-lived halogen lamp offer an incredible return on value, not to mention a hassle-free experience free from maintenance.
Aesthetically, structurally, and functionally, this hanging patio heater is well-suited to stand against the elements, keeping you warm all the while with gentle but consistent infrared heat.
2. Blumfeldt Heatbell
A relative newcomer to the UK heating market, Blumfeldt has established itself as a worthy contender to bigger names with quality models, such as the Heatbell hanging patio heater.
While it offers a basic aesthetic, it’s not without its charms–the bell-shaped body hearkens back to a classic pub feel that is as warm and inviting as the infrared heat it produces.
Three heating settings at 800, 1200, and 2000W enable you to dial in the proper setting for the use-case. Even on a particularly cold and damp night, the Heatbell hanging patio heater can comfortably accommodate up to 3 people around a table.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 42 cm
- Height: 30 cm
- Material: Aluminium
- Weight: 1.4 kg
- Power source: Electric
- Heat method and output: carbon infrared, 2000W
- Cord Length: 180 cm
- Water resistance: IP 24 – protected against water splashed in all directions
What do people say about it?
Praise is rather forthcoming for Blumfeldt’s Heatbell, primarily for performance. The aesthetics are workmanlike, but the heat is reliable and efficient–and well justifies its price. Sadly, stock has fluctuated due to coronavirus, and prices aren’t as low as they once were, but the Heatbell is still hard to beat on its own merits.
Pros:
- Corrosion-free construction
- Rounded bell body offers a classic style
- Lightweight
- Generous heating
Cons:
- Not as cheap as it once was
- Power cable on the short side
- Chain not as overly robust as others
To summarise
The Heatbell from Blumfeldt is at its essence a no-frills modern hanging lamp that takes style cues from the past. It produces an efficient heat that won’t degrade fast due to the superior weather-proofed material choice in its construction.
While the cable is a bit short, you’ll find it’s quite easy to hang at just 1.4kg, yet sturdy enough not to buffet about in gusts of wind.
3. Blumfeldt Camden
Another entry from Blumfeldt, their Camden hanging patio heater is a step up in terms of both heat output and style. Featuring a truly chic design drawing inspiration from pubs in this patio heater’s namesake Camden, you’ll find it adds a touch of class to your outdoor sitting area.
It’s intentionally quaint, which these days equates to cutting-edge chic as heritage designs are increasingly in vogue.
There’s nothing quaint about its 2500W max output, though. You can easily warm 4 people beneath its welcoming heat.
Moreover, Blumfeldt’s best engineering is on display with their IR ComfortHeat system, which doesn’t dry out the air or emit odour. And, as opposed to blown heat, the slow infrared warmth cuts through humidity to provide a truly cosy scene.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 44 cm
- Height: 40 cm
- Material: Unspecified metal
- Weight: 3.5 kg
- Power source: Electric
- Heat method and output: carbon infrared, 2500W max
- Cord Length: 180 cm
- Water resistance: IP 24 – protected against water splashed in all directions
What do people say about it?
There are very few complains over Blumfeldt’s Camden hanging patio heater, though once again the short cable lead proves an Achilles’ heel. Still, the pull cord which allows you to easily switch between 2500W and 1000W is a nice, ergonomic touch.
Pros:
- Retro-chic styling
- Generous heat output
- Efficient, safe, allergy-friendly heating tech
Cons:
- Often out of stock
- Short cable
To summarise
If you are already a fan of Blumfeldt’s utilitarian offerings, you’ll appreciate they’ve stepped up the aesthetics in their Camden. It can easily act as a centrepiece beyond its virtue as an outdoor heater, and offers flexible styling to most any outdoor decor.
While there are only two heat settings, the IR ComfortHeat carbon element is exceptionally efficient.
4. Outsunny 1500W Patio Heater
The Outsunny hanging halogen heater provides both light and heat for a small area. It hangs off a chain and is perfect for keeping warm when working in your garage or spending a chilly evening on the patio. This outdoor heater relies on efficient halogen heating technology to distribute the heat exactly where you want it.
You can mount the heater to the ceiling, or hang it inside a tent or gazebo for both indoor and outdoor use. It is CE-certified with a waterproof plug for added safety.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 42 cm
- Height: 26 cm
- Material: Aluminium/metal/plastic
- Weight: 3 kg
- Power source: Electricity
- Heat output: 1.5 kW
- Cord Length: 1.55 metres
- Water Resistance: IP 24 – protected against water splashed in all directions
What do people say about it?
The general verdict is that Outsunny 1.5kW is a good hanging patio heater that can deliver a substantial amount of heat to a fair amount of people. One reviewer even adds that it keeps her food warm at the table (what a great idea!).
It works well as a light too and arrives fully assembled. The only catch is that you have to sit fairly close to it to feel the warmth. Oh, and the cord is really short, so in most cases, you’d have to use an extension.
Pros:
- No assembly needed
- Decent heat at a short distance (like most infrared heaters)
Cons:
- Short power cord
- No remote control
To summarise
Buyers of Outsunny 1500 patio heaters are generally pleased with their purchase and find that it offers good value for the money. With 2 of these devices hanging over a table, the output is strong enough to keep a small group of guests comfortable and warm. Its orange light also creates a nice ambience.
5. Mill 99499 Hanging Carbon Heater
Mill Heat is the brand behind this modern-looking hanging Carbon Patio Heater. Fashioned as an elegant lamp, this outdoor heater will naturally blend in with your patio’s design, and look lovely over your outdoor dining table. You can mount it to the ceiling with an adjustable cable (included with the purchase).
What’s more, this hanging patio heater comes with an IR remote control that lets you switch between 2 heat settings – 750W and 1.5kW – and turn the heater on and off. The Hanging Mill Patio Heater has an infrared carbon heating element that produces comfortable warmth for up to 5,000 hours. The heater also functions as a light.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 40 cm
- Height: 32 cm
- Weight: 5 kg
- Material: Not specified
- Power source: electricity
- Heating method and output: carbon infrared, 1.5kW
- Cord length: 1.9 meters
- Water resistance: IP25 – protected against water jets from all directions
What do people say about it?
The vast majority of consumer feedback praises the patio heater’s design and durability, as well as the cosiness it adds to any space. Apparently, it looks great and heats as advertised.
The lower setting of 750W doesn’t do much, but the 1.5kW maximum is warm and comfortable. The cable is a bit short for a unit you’d want to hang from the ceiling, as few homes have an outlet up there.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Remote control
- Sufficient heat at max setting
Cons:
- Short power cable
- Lower heat setting not very useful
To summarise
The design of the Mill Hanging Carbon patio heater is pleasing for the eye. This is naturally an important factor given the heater’s prominent place above a dining table.
It’s not industrial-looking like many of its peers on the market; instead, the device resembles an ordinary lamp. It works as advertised, and the remote control is a convenient add-on.
6. Duramaxx Heizsporn
Duramaxx Heizsporn’s infrared patio heater has switchable LED lighting, so it can double as a cosy light while keeping you and your company warm.
The heater has two carbon heating elements that can produce 3 heating outputs: 700W, 1.3kW, and 2.0kW, and heat an area up to 9 m². It is sold with a steel chain and practical snap hooks for hanging, making the installation process that much easier.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 60.5 cm
- Height: 29 cm
- Weight: 2.9 kg
- Material: Metal
- Power source: Electric, 240V,
- Heating method and output: Infrared 2.0kW
- Cord length: 2 metres
- Water resistance: IP34 – protected against water splashed in all directions
What do people say about it?
It seems that this hanging patio heater is quite powerful on its maximum output. It can radiate heat up to a radius of 3 metres when hanging 2.5 metres above the ground and aimed directly down.
Despite the unit’s size, it takes a while to heat the area. That said, patience is rewarded with a robust but pleasant warmth. Some buyers mentioned that the remote control does not work too well, and has a short reach. On the upside, this patio heater is easy to install.
Pros:
- 3 heat output options
- Can heat a large surface area
- Reasonable power cord length
Cons:
- Remote control doesn’t reach far enough
- Takes a while to generate heat
To summarise
With its substantial circumference, the Heizsporn heating range is more extensive than that of similar but smaller products, and its heat is more intense.
If you have a large patio or a sizeable commercial space to heat, the Heizsporn is the right choice. Despite the size of this hanging electric patio heater, the weight is a meagre 3 kg.
7. ATR ARTTOREAL Electric Patio Parasol Umbrella Heater
The ATR ARTTOREAL is a parasol heater, so it’s designed a bit differently than its ceiling-hung counterparts. This device is meant to be suspended from a standard-sized umbrella or parasol. When not in use, the heater collapses as you fold the umbrella. That said, it can also be mounted to a beam on your gazebo or patio.
This parasol heater produces infrared heat, which creates instant and quiet warmth with 3 different heat settings. The ATR ARTTOREAL comes with a Built-in tip over and over-heat safety shut-off. An anti-heat carbon fibre cover protects against scalding.
It is durable and can withstand most weather; its placement beneath the surface helps with weather resistance, too. The ARTTOREAL requires minimal installation.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 100cm x 45cm
- Weight: 3,5 kg
- Material: Cast aluminium
- Power source: Electricity 120V/60Hz
- Heating method: Infrared 1.50 kW
- Cord length: 2 metres
- Water resistance: IP65 – protected against low-pressure jets of water in all directions
What do people say about it?
Per most reviews, this parasol patio heater seems to be a reliable product, and the range of options for installing the unit is undoubtedly convenient.
It is silent, easy to use, and the heat output and range are both sufficient. During the colder evenings, though, you really need all three sections ON to benefit.
It has a high IP rating of 65, meaning you don’t have to be as concerned during rains. You will need some help to install this patio heater, as it is quite large and heavy, making it challenging to handle on your own. The cord is too short, so be sure to plan for this before starting the installation process.
Pros:
- Versatile installation options
- Heats a large surface area
- Solid water resistance
- Ease to set up and take down with your umbrella or parasol
Cons:
- The cord too short
To summarise
The ATR ARTTOREAL Electric Patio Parasol Umbrella Heater has versatile installation options, which is always a good thing. It can be hung from just about anywhere. It is a silent, and odour-free heating source that will serve you and your company when the Sun sets, or the weather turns cold.
The high IP rating is also an excellent reason to choose the ATR ARTTOREAL if you plan to leave your heater outdoors.
8. Outsunny 600W
Outsunny 600W Electric Heater is a smaller-sized ceiling-hung infrared halogen unit made of black aluminium.
The Outsunny hanging infrared patio heater is a beautiful addition to your outdoor space, as it provides both light and heat. With halogen technology, the device distributes efficient, even heat precisely where you want it. It is lightweight, which makes it easy to carry, set up, and change locations.
This outdoor patio heater has a waterproof plug for added safety and a pull switch so you can quickly turn it on or off.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 30.5 cm
- Height: 26.5 cm.
- Weight: 2.2 kg
- Material: Aluminium/metal/plastic
- Power source: Electricity, 240V
- Heating method and output: Radiant infrared halogen 600w
- Cord length: 2 metres
- Water resistance: N/A
What do people say about it?
Although a few buyers find the 600w output insufficient, most reviews agree that the Outsunny 600 is a very efficient little outdoor heater, adequate for a 3 x 3 m gazebo.
The heater’s small size and light weight make it versatile in use, as it can hang from places that larger units cannot. It is easy to use, but the cord is way too short, and the on/off button is positioned too close to the heating element.
Pros:
- The small size makes it flexible in use.
- Has a waterproof power plug
Cons:
- The cord is too short
- No remote control
To summarise
The Outsunny 600 hanging patio heater is a fitting choice if you are looking for a compact heater with a gentle heat output to cover a smaller area.
The low wattage, lightweight, and small size make it versatile and easy to handle. No matter where you want to hang it, the Outsunny 600 will not be in the way.
9. Firefly Ceiling Hanging Halogen Heater
The Firefly hanging patio heater is a durable and long-lasting heating unit, built with a stainless steel casing. The halogen heating elements are made to operate for up to 3000 hours with a low running cost.
It comes with a 50-centimetre chain, so you can hang it wherever you like – under an awning, a gazebo, or a marquee. You can control the heater remotely, and switch between 3 heating levels: 900kW, 1.2kW, and 2.1kW.
The heating area coverage is about 9 square meters, and the device can be used both as a heating unit and a light.
Specifications:
- Diameter: 41cm
- Height: 31 cm
- Weight: 2.5 kg
- Material: Stainless steel
- Power source: Electricity 240V
- Heating method and output: Infrared 1.5kW
- Cord length: 1.5 metres
- Water resistance: IP34 – protected against water splashed in all directions
What do people say about it?
Most people who bought the Firefly hanging patio heater are generally content with their purchase. The direct heat is adequate when sitting around a table, and warms an area as promised. It also functions as a lovely light, adding to the ambience and sparing you the need to buy a lamp.
Oddly (this is truly a first for me), the length of the heater’s cable doesn’t seem to be consistent for everyone. Some folks lucked out with a substantial 4-5 metre cord – wow! Others, on the other hand, were less fortunate and had to make do with a meagre 1 metre of cord, which creates some apparent challenges when hanging the heater from the ceiling.
It’s the same story with the remote control. Some buyers got one; others didn’t.
These differences could stem from a newer model getting released, and the manufacturer not updating its description.
Pros:
- Provides adequate heat
- Offers wide area coverage
- Works well as a light
- Decent water resistance rating
- Good portability
Cons:
- Some confusion about product specifications
To summarise
Firefly by Primrose is a well-designed unit, made of quality material. It provides a sound heat output and covers a relatively large area for an infrared heater.
Should I Choose a Hanging Patio Heater?
Hanging patio heaters are a suitable option when you sit around a table or perform stationary tasks. Unlike their gas-fuelled counterparts, these infrared heaters are silent and odour-free, so they won’t disturb your conversations or interrupt your focus.
Here are a few more notable advantages of hanging patio heaters.
Hanging patio heaters are versatile
As I mentioned, hanging heaters often use infrared technology, which gives you plenty of control over the direction of the radiating heat. These heaters produce a subtle, yet enjoyable heat that allows you to eat and socialize comfortably beneath the device.
Hanging infrared patio heaters can also be installed above a changing table to provide warmth to your baby. Most hospitals’ birthing suites rely on this technology to keep infants warm immediately after birth.
These patio heaters are also practical for heating stables while rearing young animals, or during cold winter months.
If you’re lucky enough to have a semi-enclosed space, such as a conservatory or greenhouse, a small patio heater that hangs could add much value without intruding on the decor of your place. That’s because these heaters are usually discreet in their design, and are tucked conveniently out of sight, so you almost don’t notice them at all. Which brings me to the next, important point.
Hanging patio heaters don’t take up any floor space
As they’re mounted to the ceiling, hanging heaters don’t clutter up your precious floor space. Unlike floor-standing gas heaters, hanging electric units do not need to have their fuel changed, so there’s no hassle with lugging gas bottles around, either. Once installed, the power cord is conveniently out of the way, so there are no trip hazards on your floor.
How do you anchor a hanging patio heater?
Most hanging patio heaters come with an adjustable metal chain that can hang from a hook in the ceiling. To facilitate mounting and un-mounting, some of these heaters are sold with a Carabiner or a spring hook.
To avoid creating a fire hazard, install the heater between 30 to 50 centimetres below an awning or gazebo. The metal chain provided for hanging should, therefore, always be at least 50 centimetres long. Hang the heater at least 2-3 metres from the ground for optimal heat.
Keep in mind that these general instructions may vary depending on the make and model of your outdoor heater.
Is it safe to leave a hanging patio heater outdoors?
Most electric outdoor heaters can safely hang beneath a roof or a canopy. That said, not every heater can be left out in the open air. This is why it is essential to look at the Ingress Protection (IP) certification of the patio heater you are about to purchase.
Ingress Protection is a classification system that shows the degree of protection a device has against intruding elements, such as dust, debris, or water. When choosing a hanging patio heater, we want to know its ability to resist water ingress.
Related Reading: Best Waterproof Electric Patio Heaters
Most of the heaters listed in this article will have a rating no lower than 24. The first number stands for the protection against solids, such as dust. The second number tells you the unit’s ability to withstand liquids. Here is a detailed chart for your reference:
| First Digit | Solids Protection | Second Digit | Liquids Protection |
| 0 | No protection | 0 | No protection |
| 1 | Protected against solid objects over 50mm, e.g. accidental touch by hands. | 1 | Protected against vertically falling drops of water, e.g. condensation. |
| 2 | Protected against solid objects over 12mm, e.g. fingers. | 2 | Protected against direct sprays of water up to 150 from the vertical. |
| 3 | Protected against solid objects over 2.5mm, e.g. tools & wires. | 3 | Protected against direct sprays of water up to 600 from the vertical. |
| 4 | Protected against solid objects over 1mm, e.g. wires & nails. | 4 | Protected against water splashed from all directions, limited ingress permitted. |
| 5 | Protected against dust limited ingress, no harmful deposits. | 5 | Protected against low-pressure jets of water from all directions, limited ingress permitted. |
| 6 | Totally protected against dust. | 6 | Protected against strong jets of water, e.g. on ships deck, limited ingress permitted. |
When we look at ’24’ the second number – 4 – informs you that the heater is water-resistant and can safely be hung outside.
Parting Words on Your Hanging Patio Heater
I hope that my guide answered your most pressing questions about hanging patio heaters, and my list of top products offered some decent options.
Have you used any of the heaters I’d listed in this post? Or any others you’d like to tell us about?
If so, please leave our readers and us a comment below!