The best patio heater in Australia is the Heatstrip Classic 2400W wall-mounted infrared heater, which works during fire bans and covers roughly 6m². For large open areas, the freestanding Gasmate Roma 13kW LPG Patio Heater is a strong runner-up. Prices range from AU$100 – AU$1,000.
Editor's choice
HHeatstrip
Heatstrip
Heatstrip Classic 2400W Wall Patio Heater
Australia's favourite patio heater brand — wall-mounted infrared that works during fire bans and covers 6m² effectively.
Patio heaters are an Australian outdoor entertaining staple — they extend the season on Melbourne's cool autumn evenings, Sydney's winter nights and Canberra's year-round cold snaps. The choice between gas and electric depends heavily on your outdoor setup: gas provides more heat for open areas; electric is better under covered structures and during fire ban periods. We researched the top options for Australian patios and decks, covering safety certification, heat output and value. Gas bottle (LPG) mushroom heaters remain Australia's most popular choice for open-air entertaining, providing 360-degree heat for gathered groups. Wall-mounted electric radiant heaters suit covered alfresco areas and comply with body corporate rules where open flames aren't permitted. We compared models from Gasmate, Jumbuck and Bromic available at Bunnings, Harvey Norman and Amazon.com.au for BTU output, gas consumption rate, wind resistance and Australian safety certifications.
1Match heater type to your patio setup: electric infrared for covered patios and verandas; LPG mushroom or portable gas for open decks where power outlets aren't available.
2All gas patio heaters sold in Australia must carry RCM certification for LPG compliance — avoid uncertified imports.
3Electric infrared heaters should be at least 1200W for effective outdoor heating in Australian winter conditions; 2400W+ for open or windy areas.
4Wall-mounted electric heaters are more effective than freestanding models because they direct heat downward at occupant level rather than radiating in all directions.
5Check clearance requirements — gas heaters typically require 0.5–1m clearance from any structure; electric infrared varies by model but requires adequate mounting height.
Top 6 outdoor living picks for Australia
#1Top pick
HHeatstrip
No product image available
Heatstrip
Heatstrip Classic 2400W Wall Patio Heater
Top Pick
Australia's favourite patio heater brand — wall-mounted infrared that works during fire bans and covers 6m² effectively.
Low heat output — decorative more than functional heating
Bio-ethanol fuel cost adds up with regular use
Editor's note
Bunnings and Harvey Norman both stock a reasonable range of Australian-certified patio heaters. Barbeques Galore has the widest range of premium gas options. Heatstrip is the domestic specialist brand for electric infrared patio heaters with consistent quality and good AU warranty support. For commercial applications (restaurants, cafes), Bromic is the professional standard. Australian outdoor living spaces are used year-round in most regions, making quality furniture and equipment essential. The trend toward outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas drives demand for weather-resistant products that handle UV, rain, and temperature extremes. Coastal areas require marine-grade materials to resist salt corrosion, while inland areas need UV-stabilised products that won't degrade in direct sunlight.
Our take
For most Australian suburban homes, a Heatstrip or similar wall-mounted 2400W electric infrared heater is the practical choice under a pergola — no gas connection needed, fire-ban compliant and lower running costs per hour than gas for targeted personal heating. For large open decks, an 11kW–13kW LPG mushroom heater is still the most effective solution despite the fire ban limitation.
Honourable mentions
Rinnai Avenger 25 Gas Heater Outdoor
Rinnai's trusted Australian brand extends to outdoor heaters — strong dealer network and gas expertise.
Heatstrip 3600W Twin Element
Higher-power twin-element version for larger covered outdoor areas requiring more heat output.
Frequently asked questions
What patio heater is best for a covered Australian alfresco?
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.
How much does a gas patio heater cost to run in Australia?
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.
Are gas patio heaters safe under a patio in Australia?
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.
What size patio heater do I need for my Australian outdoor area?
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.
Where can I buy patio heaters in Australia?
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.
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Aussie availability
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Affiliate disclosure: AUPicks may earn a commission from links on this page at no extra cost to you. This never influences our rankings. Curated by Bikram Nath · Last updated 2026-06-30.