Best Patio Heaters Australia

For covered alfresco areas (pergolas, verandas), an electric infrared heater like the Heatstrip Classic 2400W is recommended — it's RCM certified, works during Total Fire Bans and is more efficient under a roof than gas heaters which waste heat upward.

A 13kW LPG mushroom patio heater uses approximately 0.9 kg of LPG per hour. At AU$25–AU$30 for a 9 kg cylinder, that's about AU$2.50–AU$3.00 per hour. Electric infrared at 2400W costs approximately AU$0.72 per hour at AU$0.30/kWh.

Gas patio heaters require adequate ventilation — they are not safe in enclosed spaces. Under an open pergola or roofed outdoor area with open sides, they are safe when used with the manufacturer's minimum clearance requirements. Check AU RCM certification on any gas heater.

As a guide: 2400W electric infrared covers approximately 4–6m² effectively; 11–13kW gas mushroom covers up to 20–25m² of open outdoor space. Match heater output to your patio size and note that larger open areas lose heat rapidly in Australian wind.

Harvey Norman, Bunnings, Barbeques Galore, JB Hi-Fi and Temple & Webster online all stock patio heaters. Barbeques Galore has the most specialist range and knowledgeable staff for gas models. Bunnings stocks entry-level electric options.